The specials we are currently considering are -
MOJO
He's top of the polls and has a detail and uniqueness all of his own. Yes we understand there could be breakage problems, but hopefully we can improve the packaging somehow. We would have to use the biggest base size and cleverly attach a join between the base and his undercarriage (to achieve stability etc). Also his legs may have to curl around the sides of the base (because of his huge surface area). If done correctly this could be an awesome figurine.
GIANT-MAN
This is Kev Hopgood's sketch of how we could do him - The added Wall detail allows for his stance to be more dynamic. I think this choice would do well with non-CMFC collector's, yet still please the fanbase.
Both these figurines would be in the £18-20 range (don't quote me on that!). If our marketing department want a cheaper alternative then we might consider someone like Terrax (although popular with the fanbase, not so with the wider world.)
All these specials are still in the planning stage and I have previewed them much earlier than usual, just because I love you guys! (and we value your opinions!)
THESE ARE NOT THE OFFICIAL EM CHOICES FOR THE NEXT SPECIALS, JUST IDEAS AT THE MOMENT.
COMPETITION CHOICE...
CONSTRICTOR
Should make a fine addition.
One last thing. Trying to come up with a pose for Shaman that hasn't been done before and isn't boring, is proving pretty tricky - we did consider doing him crossed legs levitating in meditation (but he would have to have a clear peg up his bottom, so we ruled that out), so I came up with an image (badly drawn I know!) of him summoning up the ancient gods of Canada type thing - I'm sure the sculptors can give him more presence and bring it to life. Any haters?
Anyway must dash. Have a smashing weekend.
432 comments:
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Badoon on a baloon.
Attuma on a Conch
Just a few ideas fer ye there Dan, but ah cannae take aw the credit, night night......sleep tight
Great examples by Sed. Nice to see new members putting in some original and creative ideas to push this collection forward.
Ok, so EM want specials that will sell. This means either:
-collectors have not being buying specials
-casual buyers have not been buying specials
Since Dan said about capturing the casual buyers, you have to think what the everyday Marvel fan wants, what sort of merchandise they are more likely to buy.
-What characters are more likely to sell?
-How to you sell those characters, but change them enough so regular collectors buy them as well?
One answer points to revisiting characters previously done, like Hank Pym, and doing him as Giant-Man. It could be Ghost Rider on a bike. It could be a Hulkbuster Iron Man.
Is it the only answer? No, but so far, its the most obvious and simplest option.
People are suggesting certain characters or themes that simply wouldnt apply to a regular marvel fan who is only into the marvel core characters.
Other ideas could be a 'subset', as stated before by Thor8, a theme like the original Avengers or Jim Lee style X-Men on bases that spell out 'MARVEL'. Each figurine could fill out the special slot of the year, hoping that buyers would stick with it to complete the set.
Since they are specials, they are not necessarily part of the regular line-up, as someone previously stated, regarding himself as a 'completest', yet not buying all the specials.
The idea steps on some collector's toes who are totally against redos. So it is a risk to appeal to the casual buyers and collectors of these sorts of characters compared to the collectors of the CMFC.
What EM needs is the definitive figures of buyers who are totally against the idea, and those who are for it. And I dont mean the forums and the blog. Then they must make a decision whether they think that casual buyers will pull in the numbers that the regular buyers would normally fill.
If you think about it, but all biased opinions aside and think for the good of the collection. Think that this is a collection celebrating Marvel characters. No matter your thoughts or self imposed rules on what this collection is.
-There are fans out that there collect memorabilia of only one character.
-People out there only interested in Spider-man. Captain America. Wolverine. Thor. etc
There are probably more people out there who read and collect memorabilia of a tiny aspect of the Marvel universe, but yet, the most popular aspect, and couldnt care less about the thousands of characters Marvel have.
Thats what EM wants to aim for to help sell some stuff, and if it means getting more collectors, getting more retailers to supply the product, getting more exposure through media buzz, and essentially prolonging the life of this collection at the price of a handful of specials a year so you can have the diverse range of characters you want...isn't that worth it?
@CGJ:
Re-dos are not on the list because of 2 reasons.
1.) EM already ruled them out (see comp choice winner not being allowed to use 'em).
2.) Some of the collectors here are very very sensitive if it comes to re-done characters/costumes.
The thing is, though, that current characters are not as well-known as well-established characters. They are known by people who follow the comics, though (which in case of well-known characters like Venom is quite a bunch).
The most popular era in comics for most people is, in my experience the 90s. Partly because of the cartoon shows.
So, suggestion: Try a subset or re-dos with 90s-styled X-Men. Jim Lee design or something.
@Becquerel
"Re-dos are not on the list because of 2 reasons.
1.) EM already ruled them out (see comp choice winner not being allowed to use 'em)."
Ruled out of the regular line-up. Nothing about specials. Infact, we have had them already as specials, and are suggested even now with Giant-Man. So redos could be a special, maybe not in size, but still take up the spot.
"2.) Some of the collectors here are very very sensitive if it comes to re-done characters/costumes."
These collectors need to grow up. Throwing toys out the pram and threatening to quit just because a character is suggested. Ridiculous.
"The thing is, though, that current characters are not as well-known as well-established characters. They are known by people who follow the comics, though (which in case of well-known characters like Venom is quite a bunch)."
Sales are down presumably because these collectors either aint buying what they preach, or because what they preach isnt broad enough for the casual buyers to purchase.
"The most popular era in comics for most people is, in my experience the 90s. Partly because of the cartoon shows.
So, suggestion: Try a subset or re-dos with 90s-styled X-Men. Jim Lee design or something."
Think it makes sense. People still buy the dvds of it, merchandise is still made of these designs. EM should cash in. Subset/special, whatever you want to call it.
Well, I am totally for re-dos, don't get me wrong. :D
I am absolutely on your side here, I just am trying to explain why there seems to be a sour aftertaste when talking about these things.
Also, regarding having re-dos as specials... what about regular-sized guys? Like, say, Iron Patriot (yes I know I constantly bring him up, but he's amazing, I love his design, etc.). He'd basically be Iron Man's size. So a regular. What to do with these characters?
Congratulations Angelman.
Crap choice - Constrictor missed opportunity for Elsa Boobstone
Mojo - hell no to the lamest of lame assed characters.
Giantman hell yes.. make him really big - a double mega special
Shaman pose - cross legged floating with hands in the air surrounded by archs of blue resin lightning or mystic energy.
The resin energy could support him floating.
I would definately 100% subscribe to a Marvel variant collection - MAKE IT SO Mossmen.
Welcome back Sad Tellis ....
To continue your theme ... how about ...
Selene on a giant pogo stick shaped like a phallus.
Bye bye .. for now .... out of Africa in last week in October ..
PS the Shi-Devil informs me that the Newcastle FP have stopped getting new figures in and did not have the Odin Special.
She also did not see Odin in any of the News agents nor WH Smiths.
I told her to order me a second one through subscriptions.
Any reason for the lack of figurines in shops Dan?
Bye again....
Let me say again, I am completely against redos in terms of myself, but am fine with EM doing them if they think it will help the longevity of the collection. I won't buy them, and I'd hate to have a gap in my collection (like with the rooftop Spidey) but if the collection's longer, hey. Maybe I'll eventually get Sleepwalker.
So, subsets.
Subsets are generally viewed as being outside the main line, so completionists need not worry about a gap. They'd replace Specials during the time period, so those that get both won't feel it in their wallets (though main collectors would hate the lack of CMFC Specials.)
EM, just do a Jim Lee X-Men subset. This is the look of characters people wanted, the X-Men sell, it'll pull in MANY new customers (the likes of which Hank Pym can't do.)This from a guy who dislikes the X-Men, hates redos, and doesn't want to lose his Specials. But it. will. sell. New customers, more money for EM, longer collection.
Those that are against it, at the very least can pick and choose and finally get the Ape-Beast and White Dress Mystique they've been begging for.
This makes a hell of a lot more sense.
And to really sell it, you can release all of them on bikes.
I think the pose used for the Shaman heroclix figure would actually work really well.
I am totally for re-dos
Sigh.
It's like talking to a wall, nothing gets through and you can only do it so much before other people start to think you're crazy for trying. Probably best to just stop.
It's why I stopped logging on to the Super Hero Figurine forum. It's majority can be described as a collective stubborn old man, selfishly stuck in his ways with an overly thick skull.
I don't expect everyone to agree with me--that's just unrealistic--but I certainly do expect them to make sense and at least try to consider things from a slightly different perspective.
It just got to be far too annoying to put up with something relatively trivial. So rather than explain why it's important to have newer characters (even though 6-10 years isn't that new) yet again and be completely undermined and ignored--I'll just take my Wiccan and Nico Minoru and not bother.
the fundamental problem is LACK OF ADVERTISING, i only got into collecting these a few month back after randomly seeing one in my Ebay recommendation slot. You have a GREAT product EM at a good price. if its failing to sell good then maybe the big wigs need a kick up the butt.
Oh, and on the subject of Redos, I'd much rather get characters who haven't made it in the collection yet, but if EM would consider remaking that horrible creature they've mistaken for Emma Frost--I'd be ecstatic.
I can't bring myself to buy her, despite the fact she's one of my favorite X-Men characters. She looks horrible and quite frankly EM should be ashamed to think they could sell her at all. I wouldn't bludgeon my worst enemy with it.
@1o3:
As mentioned. Newer characters and recently important character are, unfortunately most of the time, not as big hitters as well-established characters.
A Nico Minoru never ever will come close in terms of sales as a Spider-Man (of any kind). A Wiccan will never even come close to Captain America, etc.
You can attract people who like the newer characters, of course, but there's only so many who aren't already attracted due to the heavy-hitters.
I absolutely agree with you that modern characters are definitely worth adding to the collection - I think a Hulkling is more widely known than a, say, Count Nefaria or Constrictor (sorry, Angel, not to mock your choice, but it might as well have been part of the extension).
Marvel has started to cross-promote certain characters in other media, mostly going with something that works with their current universe. Might as well ask for their input which characters are going to be important for their stuff - or take the cartoons, movies and video games as leads.
Still, the 90s seem like the strongest period for merchandise sales. Jim Lee X-Men subset would be a real heavy hitter, so Dan, you really should consider it.
I want new characters as well,but I don't think they are going to sell as well now we haven't got the big characters in the collection.
EM could also target recent story lines ,most characters have made their name from it.
Also having the characters in the costume from that story line is important as well.
Drax from Anihilation,this is what EM needs to do more of.
@Becquerel
tbh, I started my post cos it seemed like you were against redos and the giant-man suggestion, then your comment at the bottom suggested otherwise, but I was to deep in my rant to simply ignore the issues. ^_^
@One-of-Three
"It's like talking to a wall, nothing gets through and you can only do it so much before other people start to think you're crazy for trying. Probably best to just stop.
I don't expect everyone to agree with me--that's just unrealistic--but I certainly do expect them to make sense and at least try to consider things from a slightly different perspective."
If your issues arent supported, then surely the ideas are not good enough buddy. On the discussion of boosting sales, modern characters are not gonna do it. EM will find otu though if Nico and Wiccan pull in impressive numbers, but talking about specials, EM want something bankable.
"Oh, and on the subject of Redos, I'd much rather get characters who haven't made it in the collection yet, but if EM would consider remaking that horrible creature they've mistaken for Emma Frost--I'd be ecstatic.
I can't bring myself to buy her, despite the fact she's one of my favorite X-Men characters. She looks horrible and quite frankly EM should be ashamed to think they could sell her at all. I wouldn't bludgeon my worst enemy with it."
Sigh. You dont support redos, and yet you refuse to buy your favourite character because she wasnt done right? The fact you dont buy every figurine means you dont really care what characters are made.
@JinxDealer
I dont think advertising is the problem. Its expensive. Marvel didnt advertise any of their kids comics, or uk publications. They dont advertise marvel universe or marvel legends and yet there are dozens of them, and dozens of series of them.
Word of mouth, collectors, and getting them in the right shops is important.
Someone mentioned that EM should give FP a display. Excellent idea. You wouldnt even know these things are sold in Cardiff FP unless you know which shoddy looking box to look in, which doesnt have any of the figurines to look at unless you ask a sales assistant.
I dont know a WH Smith that has stocked these things after the initial wave of popular big name characters.
Asda are now stocking specialist magazines that include models. EM should try getting in there as they already have a big stock of marvel products.
Maybe EM could even give out photos of their product to model, action figure and marvel websites to promote. As in 'EM announce new character ....' A reputable news site covers the story instead of some dedicated CMFC forum, and it spreads the news more.
Why the Emma Frost hate? I feel that's one of the prettiest figurines.
It's nice figure but nothing like the familiar Emma in the comics.
Well I don't care about Emma per say, so... :P
@ LAway , the ol' speculate to accumulate is a tried a tested method, your saying hasbro never advertised? they are known across the globe. you could have the best thing since sliced bread but if you dont tell no one.. you get the idea. ideas of advertising ie leaflets in comics. pre cinema quick videos before marvel movies etc etc
EM should go about that Hulk redo they considered months ago. A bigger Hulk. TBH Hulk is the only special sized character likely to bring in the sales that EM are after, and sculptors should be working on it now to time with the Avengers movie seeing as Hulk is actually in it and capitalise on that.
Releasing the Red Hulk at the same time so there is a new character and he seems popular in comics at the moment.
Yes characters that are popular in comics now please EM.
Dont miss the boat!
Warning Alert. Overly thick skulled (or skrulled) forum user here.
1 of 3. I really do not see where you are coming in regards to you comments in general tbh. The forum is a widespread collective of Marvel and DC fans from all generations and locations. Its a forum so not everyone is going to agree, but I find that there is equal appreciation for older characters as there is for modern, and that there is plenty of room for both, Cuckoos included.
FYI I want Whirlwind and Skurge equally as much as I want Rockslide and Anole. My comp pick was one of the regular sized guys i just mentioned.
You want people to take your character choices seriously, you have to start appreciating that not everyone is going to agree with you and take other peoples choices seriously as well. Bit of give and take. Throwing your barbie doll out of the pram is not going to help.
Right Dan, is there any change of THE EXECUTIONER appearing next year perhaps as a less expensive special before you release the bank busting Giant Man and Mojo combo.
DEADPOOL i got my Odin in fp Newcastle and they had at least one more copy
Hi Dan
Excellent Blog again, you're getting good at this : )
Mojo... Definately, maybe not everyones favourite but I think most will agree that he will look amazing!
Giantman... nahhh! yawn! Not when so many excellent large scale figures are still to be done!
Personally, I think that the collection ending at 200 and then starting a new series at issue 1 and then introducing some redos of the A listers is the best step forward... as long as it felt like the same collection, such as same bases, scale etc.
If I was new to the collection and saw it was on issue 150 would I start collecting... no. It would be incredibly expensive to start now and to try and catch up!
I appreciate that some collectors may use this as a chance to stop collecting, but I think the hard core loyal collectors would continue, the occational buyer would keep occationally buying and the newbies would far outway the leavers (as long as marketed well!)
Thanks to those kind people at www.comichron.com I have lifted the list of bestselling comics for Sept 2011 - it actually goes all the way back to the 60's, might be handy for you Dan - to find what people are buying when they go in the comic shops.
I have taken all the DC titles out, largely because all the new #1 occupy the first 20 or so slots
Comic-book Title Issue Price Publisher Order index
8 Fear Itself
9 Ultimate Comics Spider-Man
18 Amazing Spider-Man
22 Ultimate Comics X-Men 23 Avengers
25 Uncanny X-Men
26 New Avengers
27 Amazing Spider-Man
30 Captain America
32 Uncanny X-Force
34 FF
35 Ultimate Comics Spider-Man
36 X-Men Schism
37 New Avengers
43 New Avengers Annual
48 Mighty Thor
50 Secret Avengers
51 X-Men
53 Ultimate Comics Ultimates
55 X-Men
59 Invincible Iron
64 Daredevil
66 X-Men Legacy
67 X-Men Legacy
69 Wolverine
70 Wolverine
79 Captain America And Bucky
83 Venom
84 Astonishing X-Men
85 Fear Itself Uncanny X-Force
86 Avengers Childrens Crusade
87 Journey Into Mystery
88 Brilliant
89 Journey Into Mystery
90 Moon Knight
91 Punisher
92 Deadpool
93 Hulk
94 Hulk
95 New Mutants
96 Ultimate Comics Hawkeye
97 Thunderbolts
98 Avengers Academy
99 X-23
100 X-Factor
That's from the top 100 weekly comic sales, trades are on a seperate list.
A few talking points in there I am sure
Well done Angel Great choice with Constrictor,finaly a winner with taste
Mojo is a massive no from me but Giant man is a massive yes but without the rubble on the base,so thats ok on the specials,
just got Odin and i'm very happy with him.
as for redos,im for them as Captain America is abysmal,why was he done with his shield turned away so you can't see it it makes no sense at all plus the Human Torch is far to dull.
Took one from March 1995 for comparison. Not entirely accurate because Diamond where not the distributors of global dominance that they are today
1 The Amazing X-Men
2 The Astonishing X-Men
3 Weapon X
4 Mutants: Generation Next
6 Gambit & the X-Ternals
7 Factor-X
8 X-man
11 X-Calibre
12 X-Universe
20 Amazing Spider-Man
23 Spider-Man
25 Fantastic Four
26 Web of Spider-Man
27 Spectacular Spider-Man
33 X-Men 2099 AD
34 Incredible Hulk
40 Venom: Carnage Unleashed
51 Spider-Man Unlimited
52 Spider-Man 2099 AD
53 2099 AD
61 Elektra: Root of Evil
62 Silver Surfer
63 Dragon Blood & Guts 1
67 Avengers
71 Doom 2099
72 Captain America
76 Cosmic Powers Unlimited
77 Iron Man
84 Daredevil
88 Spider-Man: Funeral for an Octopus
89 Force Works
92 Ghost Rider 2099 AD
95 Thor
99 Ghost Rider 2099 AD
No wonder the 90's kids are all X-mad
Good choice with constrictor.
For shaman i like the pose but could you put a 2cm thick of lead behind him with the Canadian gods on it.
Mojo would be great I have wanted a special of him from day 1!. Mojo could be a spectacular looking special.
Giant Man no thanks, I would rather see Terrax, Warpath and Strong Guy.
Smiths have odin in stock up in Dundee. Maybe you should pop in your self dp instead of putting it on the wifes chore list :)
Hulk redo yeah bring that on. The one on the sculptors desk is amazing and would be more than suitable.
In the early days, they used to sell the CMFC in Glasgow branches of WH Smiths and John Menzies. The latter has ceased operation as a newsagent, of course, and the former stopped selling the CMFC after a few months. Only place I have seen it since then are very high shelves in the FP in Glasgow City Centre.
I would support a re-release of some of the original figures of high-profile characters like Spidey, Cap, etc. if it ran along the usual fortnightly releases. This would help hook new collectors.
From a personal point of view, I'd be keener on resculpts - Goblin with glider, larger Hulk, GH with bike, apeman Beast, etc. - running alongside the fortnightly releases.
@JinxDealer
A product like the CMFC has lasted so long because of word of mouth. As long as there are excited fans it has that going for it.
But it needs retail presence, and it needs all the geeky websites we buy from or read about up and coming products to highlight them.
I dont think TV advertising will help the product. Too expensive, and what time do you show it to appeal to the target audience? We mostly fast forward adverts nowadays anyway.
Print based advertising, but where? Could do it in model magazines, but how many are marvel fans that read those publications? Could do it in marvel uk comics, but it isnt a children's toy, and how many adults read them when they just buy the US versions? You could put in in higher end interest magazines like Total Film, but that ad space is expensive, and again, is it hitting the target audience?
Thye could try web based advertisement with banners and headers, again, on the types of websites that marvel fans/toy fans visit.
But if they had a good display in store, and got some more commercial shops selling the product, then it reaches a mass audience quicker.
But I think EM would prefer not spending money. I imagine they would prefer to take a risk with the product to aim at the casual buyer in shops, and if that proves unsuccessful, either specials will be off the agenda, or the line will be shut down, depending on how those sales affect the numbers.
Wrote two long posts, neither of which has appeared
Abridged version
rather than subsets, re-numberings or re-dos in the main line of figs, replace occasional Special fig with 'Special Edition' which can either be big name character in iconic costume or tie in to current comic event.
Had lots of justifications but Google binned them, can't be bothered doing it three times.
Bottom line is casual buyers are attracted by #1's and 'Big Events' going off comic sales figures.
Re numbering wont work on this collection, nobody has the energy to do it all again.
Special Editions could fit in to the 'Big Events' umbrella though, sat on the counter where they put the chocolates in supermarkets
...for impulse buys. Damn this computer
I agree with those ideas. I hope we can keep the regular line up going with no redos in the fortnightly slots.
lose a couple of current fan wants to allow EM to get some cash or new blood in from money spinners such as Giant Man or Red Hulk. Or whatever EM think will add value.
I 100% want 'some' regular redo's (when the time is right) but looking at Kirly's top 40 I hope there is plenty of life left for another couple of extensions at least.
Let EM choose 2 specials and see what the finances are like. If they get them wrong go back to the forum polls and keep our fingers crossed.
I watched season 2 disc 1 of X-Men with the nipper earlier....
I KNOW MUIR ISLAND !!
Do I win the Kewpie doll ?
And is it alright that I fancy Rogue ? :P
How odd we didnt get that version of her in the collection !
And what exactly is wrong with Emma guys ? is it the face or what ?
Yes you win Toon ;)
But in TAS X-Men were fighting with Shadow King in Africa, not at Muir Island :P
I'm gonna feel dumb asking but whats TAS ?
I googled Shadow King too Tomas and he looks awesome. Love him in the collection.
word verification 'budesty'
Don't know about X-Men but TAS in Star Trek parlance refers to The Animated Series.
Just googled it and it appears that the acronym means the same thing for the X-Men, Toon.
Obviously it's not as cool, though, as it doesn't have William Shatner.
it is always great to see new specials, but why do'nt you advertise them in the mags like you used to? the newsagent who gets the fortnightly figures for us cant get the specials as his supplier has trouble understanding that the specials are part of the same series and if it wasn't for a friendly assistant in our local wh smith we would have missed out on several of the recent ones.
ps how about howard the duck and the human fly.
"The fact you don't buy every figurine means you don't really care what characters are made."
LAway, Insufferable elitist has never looked good on you, yet you insist on wearing it constantly. Do find a change of character. Soon.
Again, I don't expect everyone to agree, but at least try to make sense with your points. This one for example makes very little sense. It's because I don't buy every single figure means that I ESPECIALLY care who makes it into the collection. Otherwise EM loses a sale and I have to pass up on another purchase. Saying that I don't care who makes it in because I'm not keen on tossing tons of money at EM for characters I don't care for is honestly just stupid. This of course leads into a larger debate that I don't care to explore in the foreseeable future.
The subscribers don't pick and choose and thus they can toss out literally anyone and many of the subscribers here aren't going to cancel because of it and EM never loses a sale regardless if the subscribers are happy with a particular choice or not.
Granted, it's still important to keep the subscribers as a whole happy, which I think is what EM focuses on a little too much.
@Paibok: Honestly, if you see the community that way it's probably because you have a higher BS tolerance than I do. Or you're a lot more like minded to them than I am. Congrats, your opinion of a certain community is different than mine.
My frustration actually has very little to do with the characters I'm interested in and more with the general mentality. Granted the more annoying members aren't the majority, but still numerous enough to spoil my experience.
Also, I can't subscribe even if I wanted to. I'm an American. Each figure is about 15-25 dollars (10-20 quid)depending on the characters and comic book store selling it. It's foolish to not pick and choose if you're on a budget.
And thus I only choose the best quality figurines of the character I like, because honestly not everything EM tosses out there is a work of art.
Same here I pick and choose the best figurines luckily my favourite teams like the Alpha Flight and Asgardians has all been consistent at the moment.
Okay guys it's time to face facts, if we want this collection to continue into the future we need to swallow some decisions and make big compromises.
Firstly let me say I'm against re-do's, however we need to reintroduce the big hitters (Spidey,Hulk,etc) to pull in the casuals and make the EM moneymen happy.
How about double pack specials with a big hitter coupled with a lessor known character.
For example: Spider-Man and Madame Web, Hulk and General Ross, Thing and Terrax, Thor and Volstagg.
They would bring in the casuals and help us continue this collection.
What I'm suggesting may seem unpalatable but it may be necessary. Let's keep an open mind.
What do you think Dan?
One of three I share your disdain for the forum.
I would bet money that it is run by cronies - for cronies.
No doubt there are quite a few non cronies there but it is the cronies that call the shots with their multiple accounts.
Down with the forum and all who sail on her.
Yes to redoing the big names: -
Spidey, Hulk, FF and classic Avengers - including Thor and Cap.
I think that Emma Frost looks like an insane Pig with a wig on.
I wanted her to be pretty and sexy - more like the gun toting mystique figurine.
Dan how about retiring CMFC for a year or so and replacing it with 2000 AD.
Pausing CMFC for a year gives the fans a rest, allows EM to focus on a new collection and then relaunch the CMFC in resin with redos and more dynamic poses.
The mossmen could even put a new slant on the collection and bring the figures out supported by the Marvel roleplaying game with scenarios, maps and scenery.
It's a good opportunity too to divorce Eaglemoss from the infernal forum and reinstate Ted Sallis as a full member of the blog.
The blog could continue during the down time to provide ideas for the new CMFC.
I had an Email from David Cameron yesterday.
Cya later guys ... I'm off to play with Theresa May's cat.
LOL @ the pig in a wig comment.. reminds me of a old girlfriend / stalker i had @ college. But your right its not the prettiest face.
'LAway, Insufferable elitist has never looked good on you, yet you insist on wearing it constantly. Do find a change of character. Soon.'
And the same can be said for unbearably arrogant part time collector. Try adopting a more people centred approach and don't assume that this whole collection is here for you to collect the half dozen characters that you do actually want
@Sed Tallis,
Marvel/Simpsons sub-set here's a start---
http://s850.photobucket.com/albums/a...e69/?start=all
and scroll down to THOMER!!!!
"Dan how about retiring CMFC for a year or so and replacing it with 2000 AD."
YEEESSSSSS!!! I would love to have both in all honesty but would eat Deadpools underpants to get 2000AD.
'LAway, Insufferable elitist has never looked good on you, yet you insist on wearing it constantly. Do find a change of character. Soon.'
"And the same can be said for unbearably arrogant part time collector. Try adopting a more people centred approach and don't assume that this whole collection is here for you to collect the half dozen characters that you do actually want"
Well said that man.
Not a flame just nice advice.
@Robert - Ta for the info on TAS and yes it would have benefited from a bit of Shatner...LEGEND !
And how sad is it to hear Jean-luc advertising Money Supermarket :(
After all the insults flying around this blog over the past couple of days ...
... I can now say something that should delight everyone, regardless of whether they are nostalgia buffs or modernists.
TEN MINUTES AGO THE AVENGERS TRAILER WAS POSTED ON WWW.MARVEL.COM !!!
I'm not going to say anything else since that will just slow you down. Get over there, check it out, and then post your thoughts below.
First comment....Making me dl/install Quicktime !! PAH !!
Back after I watch it.
Forgetting my manners...
Thanks for the news mate :)
ROFL word verification 'patchi'
You couldn't make it up :P
One word....WOW !
Thanks again for the link mate :)
You're very welcome, TooN.
I've seen it a few times now, and first impressions - it seems to have a really poweful, epic scale. Well-judged mix of spectacle, drama, humour and characterisation.
I particularly like the way that (unlike some previous trailers I could mention) they aren't giving away the entire storyline. I get the sense a lots being held back for future trailers plus the actual movie...
I try hard not to watch trailers for exactly that reason but couldn't resist this.
Waited 30 years to see a live action Avengers movie and it looks to be worth the wait.
Loved Iron Man I and II
Loved the last Hulk
Loved Thor
Cap.....cheese fest but all helps set the scene.
Missus cant believe its the bloke off Home and Away :)
Watched it with my nipper too and he was jumping around like a loon.
Its up here in lo def for those not wanting to install QT.
http://www.superherohype.com/news/articles/
168594-the-trailer-for-the-avengers-is-here
Lately I've been having a heck of a problem trying to post here. Sometimes my comments get through other times they are deleted. Why?, I just don't know. I don't believe it's EM's doing and my computer is fine. Well anyhow,I'll try once more to add my two bits on what EM can do to improve sales.
EM needs to expand it's advertising of this merchandise.This can be done by:
A)Advertising in Marvel(and DC)comic books.
B)Constantly updating their main site. This site should always be at least a month ahead of everyone else instead it is always behind the times.
C) Have eye catching display adds supplied to comic shops and dealers wherever this product is sold,so people can become aware of this product.
D) We the collectors should show our collections to fellow comic and figures fans and brag about them in order to recruit new followers. I've begun to do so and even sold a couple of repeats to some friends in order to get them started.
JinxDealer said:"The fundamental problem is LACK OF ADVERTISING, I only got into collecting these a few month back after randomly seeing one in my Ebay recommendation slot."
I totally agree with jinx since I discovered this collection by accident myself. I became aware of this product on Ebay while looking for new action figures to add to my collection. Tired of seeing the same figures up for sale time and again I decided to change the word 'figure' for 'figurine' and there they were. I couldn't believe this collection had been running for over 'TWO YEARS' and I was unaware it existed. I was lucky enough to get all the back issues,and here i am.
Just like Jinx and myself I'm more than sure there are hundreds(if not thousands) of collectors and fans whom remain unaware of this magnificent collection. I've been reading comics for decades and I would have started collecting this product way before I did,if an ad had been placed in a Marvel comic.So get with it EM ad dept.
All valid points Thor.
I discovered the collection at around issue 90 while looking for Squad toys on Ebay.
I started showing pics of my CMFC collection over at my usual haunt which is mostly American users collecting Super Hero Squad etc.
I have had lots of 'what are they Toon' comments. These are comic lovers too for the most part and buying Super Hero Squad, Legends and Marvel Universe.
I'm not sure on numbers but a few have started collecting since and I have sent 40+ figurines over the pond myself with another box ready to post from LA at the end of the month when I go on holiday.
One guy now has a full set all through word of mouth. (loose expression)
I dont know what it would cost to advertise in comics but surely EM would have done so if they were able to justify it. I wouldnt think Disney would let them now :P
Like many collectors in the UK, I saw the tv adverts in the weeks leading up to the launch in, what, 2004, 2005? I think even without those ads I would have noticed the figures in FP within a few months, although I can't be sure. I do know that if I was only discovering the collection now, I wouldn't start: too much expensive catching up to do.
"And the same can be said for unbearably arrogant part time collector. Try adopting a more people centered approach and don't assume that this whole collection is here for you to collect the half dozen characters that you do actually want"
I'd honestly take your advice if you weren't entirely wrong and if I didn't think you were being entirely hypocritical. Try to take your own advice before you give it, because honestly your attitude toward Mighty Marvel and his choice makes you one of the leading petty offenders I speak of. You may be a subscriber or whatever, but the fact you describe me as an "arrogant part time collector" only shows that you seem to believe you're entitled to something. Which is all rather silly, since your opinions are no more special or important than any "part time collector."
I never said the collection was entirely mine, and I never had any delusions that it was. It's quite obvious that my "demographic" isn't the one the Marvel Figurine Collection caters to. I don't treat my opinion as truth nor do I think what I have to say is any more or less important than what anyone else has to say.
Also, don't presume to know how much I've collected (or judge me based on it.) It's incredibly silly.
To be honestly, I don't know why I'm still responding to this, perhaps I'm equally petty engaging in an argument over tiny lead figurines, but I also can't back down. lol
Finally managed to see the Avengers trailer (thanks, Larry). Really can't wait to see this.
Just one thing that bothers me:
Why
Don't
They
Fix
Thor's
Costume
(Especially
The
Trousers)?
'LAway, Insufferable elitist has never looked good on you, yet you insist on wearing it constantly. Do find a change of character. Soon.
Again, I don't expect everyone to agree, but at least try to make sense with your points. This one for example makes very little sense. It's because I don't buy every single figure means that I ESPECIALLY care who makes it into the collection. Otherwise EM loses a sale and I have to pass up on another purchase. Saying that I don't care who makes it in because I'm not keen on tossing tons of money at EM for characters I don't care for is honestly just stupid. This of course leads into a larger debate that I don't care to explore in the foreseeable future.
The subscribers don't pick and choose and thus they can toss out literally anyone and many of the subscribers here aren't going to cancel because of it and EM never loses a sale regardless if the subscribers are happy with a particular choice or not.
Granted, it's still important to keep the subscribers as a whole happy, which I think is what EM focuses on a little too much.
@Paibok: Honestly, if you see the community that way it's probably because you have a higher BS tolerance than I do. Or you're a lot more like minded to them than I am. Congrats, your opinion of a certain community is different than mine.
My frustration actually has very little to do with the characters I'm interested in and more with the general mentality. Granted the more annoying members aren't the majority, but still numerous enough to spoil my experience.'
You're quite right, where on Earth did I get 'unbearably arrogant part time collector' from in that post?
My apologies
They need to have Goliath in the Purple and yellow costume. That is my favorite one. Also waiting for a Hulkbuster and a bigger Savage Hulk, I don't mind if he will be partially resin. The first Hulk is smaller than Odin. And if they make the Executioner, it would be even larger than the Hulk figure as we now have him.
Did I understand right, you want break? One year without CMFC? It's very bad idea.
Keep the collection and confirm next characters, by the way Dan can You confirm Mojo this Friday, as we see he's most wanted special at now. Of course not as next special, because sculptor will need much time to create Mojo. The guy who did Odin sculpt should make it.
So who is next after twins? For sure it should be regular size special.
I don't want the collection to stop, but... the thought of a 2000AD collection is just... zarjaz!
I would like Golath also Bob,but since most likely only one of the two will be made,I prefer it be Giant-Man since it is easier to customize him into Goliath than t would be to customize Goliath into Giant-man.
@One-of-Three
You're a joke mate. You won't even buy figurines of characters you LIKE!
You dont buy every figurine, and yet you have the solution for EM. All well and good, but then there is no guarantee that you would actually buy these characters you want.
Elitist mentality? I suggested ideas like EM asked for. I am open to ideas and support them too. If modern characters work and the sales are good, I would support EM's direction.
@ Thor8. glad someone agrees with me. :)
whats the point of making these new 2 character fighting specials to atract new collectors when new collectors wont know they exist... its a good idea & i would buy them but its only going to be existing customers ( mainly ) who know about them.
Avengers trailer is cool!
Although, dont like Thor sleeveless, but he has action figures to sell dammit! lol
Glad we finally had a sneak peek of Hulk, cant wait to see more.
After seeing some set pictures, cant believe the stuff the HAVENT shown! The film will be truly epic and the trailer hardly shows anything. I cant wait!
Oh, and like Robert, I did see the TV advert, only once. It was like a dream. I only caught the end of it and wasnt sure if it was real.
Then, low and behold, I see the spider-man special in WH Smith.
Why? Because it was on display, lifted above some magazines on some sort of glass pedestal, glistening in the tungsten light. It was set apart, standing proud. 'I am Spider-Man number one, and I am only £2.99' it said to me. I clutched one of the few remaining magazines. I had chosen it and it had chosen me, as we began this adventure together...
WH Smith quite regularly had crappy looking cardboard 'displays', that basically looked like cardboard bins with the magazines in them. Go back to a proper display and let that do the advertising for you.
I dont think EM could afford to advertise in the comics, cinemas or whatever. Just because its a marvel product doesnt mean its a freebie.
However, EM SHOULD invest in going to comic cons around the UK. Around £100-£200 a table. Get some leaflets printed out, get a nice display, possibly talking £500-£600 spending, max £1000 even if you included a wage for yourselves. I'd imagine it would be a similar cost throwing out magazine advertisements which could prove fruitless, and at least this way, you get people seeing the figurines, probably buying a bunch while there, picking up leaflets to find out more etc.
And then, once you have your display made and paid for, leaflets done, you can go to the next con just paying for the table as you already have everything you needed to promote the brand.
Going to a US con would probably be most beneficial, or just having a US representative do it for you, as I imagine, from what I hear, our across the sea brothers have a hard time finding out about the product.
@LAway: I really don't get what's so hard to understand about not throwing away 20 dollars on a poorly made figurine. I thought quality of a product was an obviously critical factor in business that all consumers should consider before making a purchase. Maybe I was wrong?
@CCJ: lol. You managed to avoid or miss the entire point of my post and instead decided to devote your full attention to the obviously confrontational tone of it. Good job. Well, if anything that just made this post very short, so I'll just thank you instead and move on.
Dan,
Have a word with the upper Mossmen and see if they can get the licence to do a "Worlds of Aspen" figurine collection.
I've created a Lady Mechanika mod but would love some licenced sculpts.
Fathom, Iris and the other Apen girlies would indeed be a treat.
I've sure there must be at least a couple of other straight guys who blog here that would subscribe too.
I know that this blog is mainly visited by "Luvvies" who want hunks.
But come on ... bring on the girls and ride the current wave of cult success that is Lady Mechanika.
I think if you are going to do mojo push him back to the end of the year so your sculptor can take his time. I will not buy him but many seem to want him & since his silly design will be tricky take your time & do it right.
After big figures ODIN & MODOK then you have the Northstar & Sis two-pack do a TERRAX regular Special since he is the second most wanted. Then do the GIANT-MAN special you want to try & see how he will sell. The drawing with building rubble looks good to me & since you are going with his original look & not his GOLIATH look I ask again that you put the Wasp in her original pointy head outfit standing on his shoulder.
Then do a few regular Specials before mojo. I of would hope TITANIUM MAN &/or ATTUMA would be picked as both will make awesome figures. I know others want BLASTAAR & THE EXECUTIONER & LOCKJAW & THUNDRA & WARPATH & THE SUPER ADAPTOID.
"@LAway: I really don't get what's so hard to understand about not throwing away 20 dollars on a poorly made figurine. I thought quality of a product was an obviously critical factor in business that all consumers should consider before making a purchase. Maybe I was wrong? "
I totally understand what you are saying man, and it is a good line of thought for the casual buyer for sure. Thats how I am/was with the DC Collection.
However, I dont throw in my 2 cents about the DC collection about how to improve it and what I want from it because I hardly buy it.
You seemed like you had solutions to EM's problems for boosting sales, but like I said, character wise, no matter who YOU suggest, you ain't going to buy them anyway unless they look good.
Had you argued as your key point that the look of the figurine was first and foremost, and solutions on how to get better looking figurines that collectors like yourselves would buy, then it would be a totally different discussion, something that others could get involved in.
But instead you shot down other people's ideas and complained you werent getting listened to about being against redos and in favour of modern characters.
I don't believe putting an ad in Marvel comics would be that costly,and the benefits that EM would most likely reap afterward would be more that worthwhile.
Speaking of good advertisement and their results,I wasn't planning on purchasing Magic or Shanna,but seeing their figurines displayed in your main site has totally changed my mind. If they are made as good as they look there I'm in for both. See what good advertisement can do! So if you update your main site more often and have it be ahead of the others in showing figurines to come,it will most likely help sales a bit.
"It was like a dream. ... I had chosen it and it had chosen me."
Not sure if you are posting about figurines or if this is a first draft of a Mills & Boons bodice-ripper, Leigh! Not having a go, honestly, just amused by your purple prose which I know was tongue-in-cheek. It made me laugh after a long day at work (where I still am). Thanks.
Well, if anything can be concluded from recent comments the collection is not nearly as well known as it could be. Problem is, most any solution to this involves money and if the folks at Eaglemoss are not prepared to speculate to accumulate, what next?
glad I could add abit of light hearted humour .
Yeh, seems like getting the product out there is an issue. Magazine advertisements depending on lots of things, the size of the advert and the amount of readers of the magazine.
I read somewhere that a full page advert in a magazine with just 5000 readers is £200. There are ALOT of comic titles out there...what 1 comic do you put it in? Or you put it in more and up the cost?
Indeed it could be a case of spending money to get money, but EM then have to look at how many readers will see it, know the percentage of their target audience that said said material, and the average amount of people that would then follow the advert and spend money etc and work out whether they would get a return on their investment.
Honestly, I dont have a clue on advertising but it would be a risk. EM could poor some money in marketing and not benefit it in the slightest, or reap the rewards.
But they probably want to play it safe with something they can definitely make money off of from the current collectors and hopefully catch the eye of others.
Loads of people came to the collection late. Some very late. After six or so years, though, you have to start thinkin that pretty much everyone who would like this collection now know about it. The only question from that is how many people heard of the collection after, say, fifty or more figures and thought: "This is a great collection. Wish I had known about it when it first came out because I am not interested in the hassle and expense of trying to get all the ones I missed."
Which brings us back to the idea of re-releasing the big hitters again, I suppose...
TooN,Jinx,and myself are samples of people who found out late about this collection and still decided to collect because of our love of these characters and due to the quality of the collection at a pretty modest price.
Since I don't know what EM's ad dept. budget is for advertising,and I don't know what their yearly profit has been I can't say for sure if they can invest in advertising in Marvel Comics,but I do think they should analyze the option and if possible give it a try. There are alot of fans out there than are possible recruits for this collection.
If you want to hit the comic buying public, and more importantly the people who stock the shelves in the comic stores, then surely an advert in Previews is the way to go?
I have bought loads of independent titles that were featured in Previews that I would have otherwise overlooked.
Of course, it would have to be a product that would garner interest...original appearance Xmen set for example....?
by the time i started collecting the CMFC it was already in the 120's & my original plan was to buy the well known characters only, BUT the o.c.d inside me kicked in & it was like a crazy addiction to me.. especially hunting down the variants :) . i just wish i'd seen them earlier but playing catch up isn't to hard thanks to ebay & a bit of patience.
I suppose if you were to walk into a shop and see, for instance, the CMFC Enchantress on a shelf, your eyes would meet hers, the light shimmering through her golden locks that fall like heavenly rain onto her alabaster shoulders and her slightly-parted ruby lips that speak of passionate trysts behind the Hall of Heroes in Asgard, well, I guess you would start collecting regardless of how late in the collection it was.
(Sorry, Leigh, your post earier has left me chuckling away tonight.)
@ robert . you could well write romantic novels :) i to had a chuckle
Thing is, Toon, I just can't reach the wonderfully overblown heights of "I had chosen it and it had chosen me". It's the work of a genius. A mad genius, perhaps, but with the silence of Smiffy9867/ Slapstick/ Mad Thinker this blog is often sadly bereft of comments that are, frankly, bananas. Maybe Eaglemoss Investigations could look into his absence? I have had a good laugh tonight; still, Leigh is just not bonkers enough to replace Mr. Smith.
A superb Blackheart that
confirms the greatness of the CMFC.
I received Blackheart, and it's an awesome figurine. It inspires an important reflection: EM can use this level of artistry to create equally awesome figs for the many other amazing Marvel characters left to cover. Just think about this: the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity we have to get the characters we love in CMFC format.
As a huge Marvel fan, it would be a dream for me to see Starhawk, Gargoyle, Hulkling, Hyperion or Blastaar (to name just a few) made into these beautiful figurines.
The CMFC must continue. It'd be a crime to stop it or reboot it. For me, its greatness is all in its mission to explore the Marvel Universe to cover as many diverse characters as possible. I'm sure most Marvel fans recognize that this is the uniqueness and greatness of the CMFC, and it's what they expect it to deliver. I know I do. Bring it on, EM!
Dan: Will you be listing the order in which the latest extension will be produced? I hope Swordsan won't be at the end of the list.
I'm a member of the forum and I love it over there. I don't think it's run by "cronies" or "elitists". If anything I now prefer it over there to on here. A few people (some more than others) have become bitter and bitchy in here and I bores me to read petty arguments between people when this blog is about CMFC. It seems some just come on here to pick arguments where as the forum has a great atmosphere and discussions and an overall love for the collection.
Simple brainwave.
We say that its hard to get into the collection, and probably the big hitters are the ones that would attract people to it.
Why don't EM make a catalogue and send that out to stores. Something that can either be purchased, or used for the shops to take orders for customers.
Simpler solution than advertising with an extra sales option, a visual impact in store that gets the whole collection across, can appeal to any audience rather than a specific one reading a specific title, and can be used for future marketing purposes.
Banshee is a typical forum loud mouth.
Pun intended ofcourse.
Just because you don't believe in cronies doesn't mean they don't exist.
The cronies are a lot like bigfoot.
Traces of Stool samples and the odour of sweaty feet.
When the DNA results are in ... we'll have our cronies.
You do realise that those that run the forum sell on your personal details to third parties and eat the first born child of new members.
Food for thought methinks.
Verification word - Pills
I need to take some of mine.
I think we need a blog vote.
Redo the big hitters to refresh the collection - yes or no.
refresh is not a reboot.
The big names would take up some of the next extension slots with new dynamic poses and even improved costumes.
Imagine....
A huge angry Hulk,
A web slinging Spidey,
A flying human Torch
A bendy Mr Funtastic
A chunkier Iron Man in the classic Golden Avenger Armour.
Yes... its what wet dreams are made of
On a Trans-World Airlines flight a few years ago a rather attractive flight attendant asked if I would like to try her TWA coffee.
I of course replied,
"No thanks, but I'd love to try your TWA Tea".
Nighty Night ...
I take it Deadpool's 'missus' is no longer posting his comments. ^_^
Nope I have access to do it myself at the moment.
So I'll vent my spleen.
I have copious amounts of venom and bile to vomit forth on the blog.
I must admit I was rather moved by your earlier comment.
Reminiscent of a Bronte novel.
You are indeed a sweet and delicate soul.
It brings a tear to my good eye - *sniff*
WORLDS OF ASPEN FIGURINE COLLECTION NOW!!!!!!!
Girls Girls Girls with Lady Mechanika as the Headline act.
Check out the aspen girlies Mossmen and dont forget that all important "Tummy WIpe" kit.
APSEN GIRLIES ARE A FIGURINE COLLECTION WINNER.
I seem to recall that you once said you go to African on diplomatic missions, DP.
Well, now we all know why that continent is so stable and pacific. ;)
P.S. I have zero idea what the worlds of Aspen is.
,,refresh is not a reboot"
Exactly, that's why I say NO for redos. Just new charcaters in regular line, redos only in subset.
I love the Blog and the Forum equally and dont see the need for either side to argue or bitch in personal terms.
Both places are populated by fans. Some are good and some are bad same as anywhere else in life.
I do enjoy a 'bit' of bile and acid though so keep it coming :) And I loved the TWA..t joke :P
EM should make issues 1-10 available at retail again and see what sales it generates. Or maybe a selection of big hitters (in original form) Spidey/Gobbie , F4 , Cap/Thor/Hulk/Iron Man.
And bring on Giant Man please EM !!
Rubble base seems to be a big bone of contention from comments here and on the forum. I dont mind either way personally and dont hate Abominations base even though it stands out from the rest of the collection.
surely the blog is best.. after all its actually official. & it has the legend known as Dan!!!!!! :)
Heres a suggestion.
How about a redo, refresh, whatever you wanna call it.
But it is in addition to the regular line up and the specials.
Just a 'special edition' figurine, be it spidey in a cool pose (no wall please), bucky version of captain america, classic iron man, jim lee x-men etc.
Drip feed them, maybe 1 or 2 a year, 4 max. And get these special edition versions back in the big retailers for a 1 off and then hope people who buy it continue to invest in the collection if they dont already.
All those against redos, it wont effect the regular line-up, and wont take up a special slot.
For EM, it is only spending money on a couple of figurines which already have plenty of support, so should make their money back from regular sales anyway, so less risk?
i've read alot of good ideas over the past few months regarding distribution, sales strategies redo's, how to boost subscriptions etc but it seems the EM big wigs are just going to sit on their fat butts & expect dan & the team to pull off miracles.
i still stand by the ebay outlet solution.. before people start with why i wouldn't work i'l answer most your concerns in advance.
if a normal comic book store can sell them brand new at £5.99 using paypal & paying seller fees etc and make a profit then im sure EM could considering THEY actually make the things.
breakages.. not sure if you known how ebay works, BUYER PAYS POSTAGE, all items sold will be posted INSURED. then EM have no losses due to breakages. (kerching ££ ) !!!! they will offer realistic combined postage deals.
they already have a team who deals with online sales hence the fact they sell via their website. & their is software available that can practically do it for you.
has the ODIN price changed?? im pretty sure it said £12.99 subsriber price the other day now it say £14.99..
I really do not want to see this collection end just yet...maybe 250 if we can't make another 100 issues? There is still many characters I would like to see appear in the collection: Baron Mordo, Whirlwind, Silver Samurai, Tombstone, Jigsaw, Jackal, UA Agent, Crossbones, Maximus, Bastion, Callisto, Marrow, Magma I could go on. Most of these were villains you may also notice.
By the way Robert, I've done a quick sketch of Warlock, it's on my blog if you want to see it. It's nothing special as it was the first time I have attempted a character like Warlock but let me know what you guys think and I'll decide whether to start it again or continue with it and try to improve it.
SV
I thought that the price had jumped up too, presumably a website error because it will say on packaging what price is
@ CGJ. yeah just something about the price looked different to me too
I've spent the last six weeks on my hands and knees,doing a rugged cowboy, It's been hard, harder than i thought. Very satisfying tho. The missus even took pictures of me doing him. Should have them up in a couple o days.
Good call on the eBay store Jinx.
Only problem I see is paying eBay and having to register as a 'shop' with all the VAT added costs that EM would have to pay. But like you said, money straight to them as opposed to sending it out to shops or distributing it through other sites.
One big problem.
A company like Diamond, who are established as selling them, will see EM doing this selling internationally, and may pull the plug on the deal they have to distribute.
I wonder what delights Dan will bring us tomorrow. I'd love to see a Moonstone sculpt or a provisional Mojo drawing of what we can expect to see.
wonder if anything that we discussed hear about the special ideas will be raised.
We all know we love being listened too. :)
Just saw the EM DC chess set was at the New York Comic Con.
May be life in it yet....
I would like an explanation on Moondragon with assurances it was one off and wont happen again.
Here's a pic of my copy next to the back page image.
http://therumorbuster.com/board/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=234.0;attach=4244;image
http://www.eaglemoss.com/dc-chess/index.html
After all we have said about EM self-promoting, I find it incredible that we haven't had a link to this website posted up on here by Dan.
Saw it in Previews first, then googled it and lo and behold, EM have a website up and running for it already. I am on here every single day and this was a complete surprise to me.
Come on Danny Boy, if you need any hints on self promotion, just follow Kevin Smith on Twitter
Back to the chess set. yeah I will probably subscribe to it. It will have all of the big hitters I imagine (I dont read DC so have no clue who any of the last thirty or so figures in that collection are, so I cherry pick the ones I remember)
I would have preferred a chess board and some sort of case to store the pieces in as subscriber offers but never mind, Chess board and a binder will have to do.
Just had a look at the character list. Ugh.
Bat mite? Really?
i just looked at the dc chess website, they look ok but they aren't for me, plus couldn't stop laughing at the customer guarantee, & i quote " When you subscribe to the DC ChessCollection you'll receive 2 issues per month direct to your door. Each issue comes with easy-to-follow recipes,stories and much more, plus a gorgeous cookery and tea set to collect "
you may want to fix that EM before people subscribe & complain of false advertising.. unless this is your new strategy :)
@ LAway , hmm i never considered the diamond deal, fair & valid concern :)
My comments this week.
The 'digest' version:
1. Specials by Marvel saga.
New marketing concept for specials. Create a small subset of specials linked to a major Marvel event, classic or current, eg. the four Horsemen of Age of Apocalypse.
Or 4 Fear Itself specials. It'd stand out as an attractive standalone product for impulse buyers (likely to buy all four specials) as well as a fab way for regular collectors to get their hands on something that is truly 'special' not just in terms of special size of figs.
2. Re-runs from Issue One
in parallel with ongoing CMFC. Minimal production costs as you already have the scultps, the mags and all you need. You may improve paintwork. It will attract new collectors, who will be excited that they can get A-listers and combine them to a supporting cast of other interesting characters appearing in the ongoing series.
3. Exploration of all MU areas.. Continue to cover as many varied and interesting characters as possible. Collectors and new buyers recognise that the uniqueness and greatness of the CMFC is that it's creating the most complete series of Marvel figurines ever. A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see hundreds of Marvel characters in one consistent figurine format, many of which have never before been made into figurines. A dream for Marvel fans. The CMFC mission must continue. New extensions giving us more & more interesting, fascinating characters.
@CGJ
I have been going on about that chess set and the subsequent marvel one for months! lol Batmobile collection aswell.
The website is broken where buttons dont work on every page and the subscribe button doesnt work.
When I contacted them, they said that they are suspending the collection at this moment in time.
Although, good spot to see about the cookery and recipes. lol Very amateur.
So, since I saw the pics of them at the NYCC, did EM go themselves, or just ship out some pieces, and if so, what else did they send out, and if not, why didnt they send the CMFC?
just checked oot the DC chess set.Stunning,..I mean it's the crap we buy that we really don't need.I'm sure in years to come it will be a talking point at dinner parties, Frinstance "See that chess set you paid €400 for,what the f**ks the point?????"
If we redo the big hitters, we need to have the Classic X-Men in their CLASSIC costumes or even in the Jim Lee era costumes. A better 80's Cable with kneepads and all a huge blaster. We need a bigger Hulk, a correctly scaled Dr Strange with a different pose, a non-skinny Iron Man, preferably the movie version Mk IV or Mk VI armour. And yes, we need Mojo to go with that Longshot figure.
Loks like we might end up updateless this week. To bad.
If we redo the big hitters, we need to have the Classic X-Men in their CLASSIC costumes or even in the Jim Lee era costumes.
totally agree about jim lee era x-men. can't understand why they weren't done that way in the first place. i NEED a jim lee rogue. and having jean grey rather than phoenix would be nice too.
I knew that, I thought it was all at the discussion stage, I didn't realise EM were so far ahead with it.
Previews release date is 15th jan I think. Maybe website will come online sometime between now and then
I have faith in a late update...EM wont let us down...
me to
Roberto defiantly got to agree 2000ad collection would be awesome and I would take out a subscription day one!!!!!!
Sub sets would be a welcome addition my vote would be a run of WWHulk.
I Also like the idea of a larger hulk, perhaps two colours as per Anger, but red and green!!!!!
Nuff said off to see a film about boxing robots!
No not the Frank bruno story..........
Is it me or has Dan grown more distant and reserved ever since the big Gomora issue. I don't mean to open up old wounds,but ever since that sour incident I've noticed that his updates are shorter,he had never missed a week until that moment,and he hardly interacts in the blog comments like he used to. Seems as this is the price to be paid for having overdone ourselves in the critisizing dept.
Well anyhow,I was kinda expecting to see the order in which the latest extension is going to be produced in. Seems as if I'll have to wait another week to find out.
Disappointed we had no update. Not sure Dan was put off by a couple of hotheads over on the forum calling for his head over the Gamora controversy, Thor. I think he'd have said something if that were the case. And his updates have been substantial with lots of information and images, so no complaints there, either. I still believe Dan's just been very busy again. It happened to Rich a lot, too.
Hi, Jacadoo. Think it was Toon who resurrected the 2000AD idea, so credit where credit's due. The idea won't get off the ground of course, as it would appeal to a small number of collectors (i.e., the Brits and a few others). Reading "Flesh" at the moment, incidentally. Not a high point but enjoyable nonsense. And who can resist Belardinelli on art?
Sorry for the lack of an update.Nah! only joking.
Reekinopiss sent me a vid that has convinced me a western character will be the first character confirmed if the 201-220 extension gets the green light, Pop over to youtube and search for "outlaw rough"
Gouranja
would welcome a western character. i'd go with two-gun kid as he has avengers ties as well as being a western character
I second MM's propisition for the western hero bieng Two Gun for his ties with the Avengers and because according to the mini series Matt's diary was the insperation for The golden age Angel to 'jump start' The Golden Age Hero Era. Another western hero could be Phantom Rider or Texas Twister (no one said it had to be an 'old west' cowboy)
Dan: If your reading this,when will we know the order in which the 180-200 extension will be released?
The outlaw Sed tallis. Will give me nightmares tonight
Two-Gun Kid for me as well. I definitely think we need a representative of the genre, and he seems the Perfect fit.
Western character?
Phantom Rider - 5 votes
Texas Twister - 3 votes
Two-Gun Kid - 2 votes
Is this a good idea?
Happy to see some cowboys in the collection. Just not yet. And certainly not before Hogun, Fandrall or Volstagg.
Rawhide Kid is really good idea. I didn't vote for him in forum poll but thats becouse I'm big x-fan. Thats no mean that westerrn characters don't intrested me.
If having western characters means the collection will keep going then by all means YES!
While I'm not really a massive fan of the western characters, I actually wouldn't mind Phantom Rider, I think I'd be happy with him.
SV
A cowboy?
Tell me you are joking.
Maybe its a different era thing. I have never read or seen a marvel western/cowboy comic. ever.
You are saying you want to make one...which will essentially be a generic cowboy design as thats what was popular in the olden days.
Come on! This is Marvel! We associate superheroes with Marvel. They have long forgotten about the things they created only because they were in fashion at the time, ie, horror characters and cowboys.
I am all for diverse characters, but lets get the superheroes out the way first.
You want to appeal to more collectors and fans? At least modern characters have a current fanbase.
Even when Ted isnt present, he is still trolling the collection with the suggestion of a western character. Curse you Ted!!!!
like bethrezen pointed out.
The forum vote...these guys were woefully supported.
No one wants them, not on the top of their want lists anyway.
And not at the bottom of them either.
Back to the drawing board Dan.
im not a fan of cowboy's to be honest would rather have say... rocket racoon
I'd rather have Rocket Raccoon than anyone, and we would have too, if not for that pesky Angel guy. ;)
I still hate this mentality of "the character's deserving... but not yet." Then when!? You take the most important characters and do them first, then we have a complete lack of A-listers to help sell the collection. We get the biggest B-characters out of the way, and there's not much holding it afloat.
...People are still LOOKING FORWARD TO High Evolutionary, Brother Voodoo, Silver Samurai, etc.
Imagine a collection where the Warriors Three, Destroyer, and Heimdall were completed. What pull would their be for an Asgardians fan?
Take your most popular characters, your middle characters and lesser characters and SPACE THEM OUT! THAT'S how you extend the collection.
Or we could have all the obscure characters at once, overwhelm the market with it, and have everybody dip out.
...Two-Gun Kid is a deserving representative and a huge genre and important era to Marvel. He's deserving now. In the future, he will be too niche and the collection won't be around.
I truly hate the regular bloggers' mentalities on almost everything... Dan, read some Forum comments. Please. At least for diversity's sake.
A western character, I hope that's a joke.
It's bad enough that spaces are wasted on Horror characters and I have no doubt there will be one in the next extension. Then there is the oh so popular Golden Age characters and you have said you will include one in the next extension if there is one.
so in one extension we could possible get a Horror, Golden Age and Western Character?. Thank god I don't have a Subscription.
How can you include a character now that will be too niche to include in the future?
If you have doubts, any doubts about whether or not a character will be wanted at any stage of the collection, then surely there is not enough confidence in the character.
I understand spacing out popular characters with some curveballs. But lets be honest, if you want cowboys and raccoons and to delve in marvel's archieves of characters, its safe to say that you'll be hanging on whatever.
So get the most wanted out the way and continue based on popularity with what people want. It would clear up future polls so it would be clean slates and new characters suggested instead of the same old names because people arent being listened too.
As if the forum has much different opinions. If they do, voice it on the official blog. Although the blog is smaller, in theory, it should be like the forum in opinion, especially if the forum vote is treated like a smaller example of the overall collectors. In theory, on average, our views should be similar.
PHANTOM RIDER please!
PHANTOM RIDER AKA THE ORIGINAL GHOST RIDER would make a striking figure.
i'll admit, Phantom Rider...ON A HORSE, would be cool.
not being a member of the forum i was wondering how many votes did the last forum choice winning character get ?
Shaman topped the poll with 61 votes.
I don't think having western characters is going to help with the sales.
thanks LAWay i was just curious, i honestly thought the winners would be in the hundreds... like four hundred or so. i just assumed the forum was this huge place :)
@ THE TOON, you know how i cant see links etc? :) .. what was the problem with moondragon if you dont mind me asking?
John: I hate to break the news to you so bluntly,but us "REGULAR BLOGGERS'are also members of your divine omnipotent forum.
A Western character could be pretty cool. It would be an interesting way to mix things up next extension. Western characters aren't high on my list of wants, but if the sculpt is a good one, I'd definitely be interested.
Two-Gun Kid would be my choice. I could display him with the Avengers for the time being until other Western characters like Rawhide Kid and Phantom Rider (if Two-Gun does well enough). I doubt it will spike sales, but I don't see a single cowboy in an extension hurting anything either.
From the old 'wild wild west' the big three with the longest running series were Two Gun Kid,Rawhide Kid,and Kid colt,they even had cross-over between their books like the superheroes now do. So I believe it could be one of them (or all three if the sales are good.
Modern western heroes we have; Texas Twister,Phantom/Ghost Rider,Red Wolf,and some other minor ones.
fantastic news Dan,and long overdue. Western characters played a huge part in Marvel/Atlas history.They helped keep the company afloat at a time when superheroes were about as popular as genital warts.Kid Colt would be awesome. all those of stunted imagination should watch the outlaw rough,once they behold a genuine rugged cowboy with his fully cocked weapon in his hand, I am sure they will gobble him up.
Well, have to admit I was disappointed that you hate my opinions on "nearly everything", John. For what it's worth, John, I like you a lot and have a lot of time for you as you try to compromise on things when you can.
I can't retract what I wrote. I'm in agreement with Goth Prince in that I think there are enough worthwhile Silver/ Bronze/ Modern Age superheroes to do first before bothering with horror, Golden Age or cowboy characters. Don't get me wrong on this: I like the Western characters - they appeared in enjoyable Avengers tales in the '70s and I've read some of the 1950s cowboy comicbooks. That said, I would prefer to see other characters first.
Oh, and as for Asgardians, I'd like to see not only the Warriors Three and Heimdall, that you mentioned, John, but Skurge, Karnilla, Ulik, Malekith, and so on. All of these characters have more modern appearances and significance than any of the cowboys.
Please Dan the Man pick WHIRLWIND & ATTUMA & BARON MORDO & THE COBRA & MR. HYDE & STILT-MAN & THE MELTER & MR. FEAR & THE HIGH EVOLUTIONARY & MOLTEN MAN & TOMBSTONE & JACK O'LANTERN & THE UNICORN for the next extension which I hope the powers that be will agree to continue. If you let the forum vote for the first three it will more then likely be X-related like SILVER SAMURAI, SUNSPOT & sage stuff then pick your western guy (PHANTOM RIDER is my choice.) & a horror character (FRANKENSTEIN'S MONSTER would be my choice but would he be a Special? If so then BARON BLOOD.) & MANTIS of the AVENGERS & then let the villains rule!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Computer Generated Jelly said "The outlaw Sed Tallis will give me nightmares tonight. I know what your saying bro, I'm strictly hetrocecil,but after gazing upon Sed,??????
Couldn't be happier, Dan!
Here's what I posted on 25 September, when 'Hawkeye' asked bloggers to explain who they'd select, if they won the comp (which, history shows, I didn't)...
I'd chose a cowboy.
Kid Colt Outlaw ran for (I believe) over 200 issues from the late '40s to the late '70s. This makes it one of the longest-running series in Marvel history behind the 'big 9'. Rawhide Kid's been almost as prominent.
Cowboys represent the major corner of the MU that's completely absent from the Collection. An omission which, if asked to make my selection, I'd correct!
Think Dan had been out with Stella after work yesterday, hence the late post and crazy Ted love
How many pints does it take to put on beer goggles THAT size?
Will believe the cowboy fig when I see it
I was looking back at professor Deadpools posts,in which he suggested that a good many forum members are probably homocecils.I asked a. Scienctist friend of mine to verify this,So Dave the scientist conducted a thorough investigation,He discovered that between 75 -80% of the forum members are indeed homocecils.
In these difficult times such a potential avenue of revenue cannot be ignored.
Dave also discovered that almost 80% of all cowboys are gay. The one from Village People, Those guys in Brokeback Montain , Kal Etc.
It may well be that the pink pound or diamonte dollar could be the deciding factor in the survival of this collection.
So surely a fig of The Rawhide Kid ( for I believe him to be openly homocecil ? ) Would be a big hit in the gay forum .
Most of the western characters look like cliche version of western characters.
Sure, they were popular at the time, in the 19402-50s when everyone loved cowboy movies and whatever.
But since then they have been dropped. No-one cares, and havent cared for around 60 years.
Dont give me 'or, it will make the collection so diverse and refreshing'. No one is making toys of these guys. No one is making movie cameo of these guys. No one is making computer game cameos of these guys.
Lets keep it marvel that everyone knows and loves and what is the established brand/world of superheroes.
People wont even accept the ultimate universe, and yet want cowboys?
Come on, see sense. Leave the cowboys to their own collection when CMFC finishes, and then do its own line and watch it fail miserably when I am long gone.
Cowboys. Ridiculous.
@Jinx - Moondragon was just a real mess tbh mate.
I'm not sure how much resin there is in her or if lead has the same issues with the molding process ?
The inside of both arms and her right leg have awful raised lines which look rough as hell.
Her left hand looks like some sort of mutation, excess material or possibly left over brush hairs ? plus too much paint make it look horrible.
Paint to her costume's sculpt lines have been missed by miles. Her headband varies in thickness and is miles off where it should be.
She has awful cauliflower ears.
Her upper thighs are glued together due to excess paint. Other areas of her thighs have some kind of varnish making them shiny in places.
All in all a terrible waste of one of my favourite ladies.
I have heard others have pretty good examples without these issues but not seen any pics.
One of the guys mentioned that different factories may be responsible.
I'll be pestering Archangel to repaint her for me, get rid of the headband and add the Mind Gem instead.
I love the CMFC to bits but when something this bad turns up I think it needs to be talked about.
And are we sure that was really Dan's post ? Seems a little odd.
And the forum thought it had problems with multiple accounts...
I'm not against Cowboys, Two Gun would be a fine representation of the genre and he was an Avenger.
If the next extension was 'the last' I would prefer no Horror, no Golden age and no Cowboys.
If we get up towards 260/300 then fair play but there are too many real superheroes/supervillains that I would prefer first.
2000AD EM !
I'd happily pay double the price of the CMFC for the chance of owning those. I would even buy a chess set :P
@ TOON, wow it sounds like a real botched job, i'd personally send it to marvel to show them what their name has been put on.. sure they'd soon kick butts & probably improve quality control, theirs no excuse EM !!! i must admit i thought the dan post was a hoax too considering he swore in it... "reekin-of-p*ss"
It sounds as if the guy who did Toon's figure was responsible for the messy Moondragon I bought, too. All the faults he described are there with my figure. It is quite startling the variation in standards of finished paint job. The last figure I bought was Odin last week and he looks stunning.
I started redoing Moonie and then got caught up with other stuff, so she's presently incomplete. Let's face it, even my sub-standard painting skills can only improve what the original looked like...
'If' EM intend to investigate and respond it might be helpful to provide the serial numbers so the exact source can be pinned down.
It would be interesting to see if batches are similarly good or bad.
Moondragon BML/5818 (Stinker)
Pleased your All Father was good Robert. One of my faves in the whole collection.
My Moondragon number is BML4957, Toon.
Yep, also agree Odin is one of the best figures - regular or special - in the collection. Very impressive.
HELP
The previous comment was just a test. I have had to re enlist to this blog 5 times this week. For some reason i keep getting block out after a time.
Anyhow what I wanted to say(for the fifth time) is that Jinx may just have hit the nail right on the head about 'DAN's' last post being fake. If you click onto his logo you will see that it states he joined on 'OCTOBER 2011',and if you click on older post made by Dan it's another story.
Could Dan have been abducted by Skrulls???
"John: I hate to break the news to you so bluntly,but us "REGULAR BLOGGERS'are also members of your divine omnipotent forum."
Guys, I just wanted to come back on to apologize. I think I found out where my problem came from... well, I pretty much know for sure. There's really just one regular blogger that's not on the forum and I think just one person is really making all the difference.
The way unsaid person makes his arguments, is enough to really rile me up, and apparently make generalizations (as I think many other forumers do about the blog, probably for the same reason.)
So those of you with a different opinion, its not you. Again, the forum's high with that. I welcome that. Those of you that are blunt? Sometimes it can hurt, but I don't take it personally. Those that call characters a waste, ridiculous, or tell Dan to go back to the drawing board... I obviously can't be around arrogance like this or I, you know, generalize and put down people I really like.
So I'll try heading off again. Robert and everyone else, sorry again.
John: You're a good man and a good fellow blogger,and by posting your apology you prove this. Not everyone is willing to say "hey I made a mistake or I acted hastily." I was the one whom wrote the 'blunt' comment you quoted,so if I offended you in any way I too apologize,and hope things are set aright. I know how you feel when someone comes on here and expresses themselves as if their word were law and that their wants and needs are the best and only,it's enough to make ICEMAN"S blood boil,but I guess we just have to count to ten(THOUSAND) and keep marching on like good Mighty Marvel Madmen(Stan would say that). Peace!
Cowboys or Cow Manure?
So a simple mention of cowboys has sparked quite a controversy, and quite unnecessarily in my opinion. Should we see Marvel's Western characters as classics or as stinky, throw-away duds?
But how is a cowboy different from a gun-brandishing gangster in a pinstripe suit, or a shaman in native indian attire, or a villain in Victorian clothes?
History of Marvel ideas
The historian in me feels the CMFC should include a representative. We're representing an idea, not a genre. The idea that the MU is a place where mutants, gangsters, mythological heroes, secret agents, medieval knights, aliens, shamans, technology geniuses and - yes - also cowboys are seen interacting in the most imaginative fictional world ever.
A cowboy character is not less interesting and not less Marvel than any of the other variations we see in the MU. I must admit, Western characters would not usually thrill me per se. But I know that seeing a cowboy in the midst of all the other Marvel figs will thrill my imagination, as the weird & wonderful mix is one of the aspects I love the most in the Marvel Universe. In fact, it is the essence of the MU.
Phantom Rider would look amazing. Two Gun Kid is also a good candidate for inclusion, for his ties with the Avengers. Visually, I think Phantom Rider would enrich the CMFC overall.
Having said that, I think Phantom Rider on a horse would be an amazing special. Perhaps this is the best way of representing and celebrating the Western area: in a special, leaving the main CMFC to cover all the other long-overdue and much wanted characters from core Marvel areas and titles.
Since Phantom Rider has existed both in the old wild west and in modern times I believe he is a good candidate. Red Wolf has also been portrayed in both eras.
I agree that Phantom Rider would look great on his horse,but would collector's be willing to pay 'special price for a western character?(just asking).
Western, Modern or Cosmic, I don't care, I know Phantom Rider only from GR movie and I would buy him.
Not interested in other cowboys at now.
All for a nod to Marvels western heritage, The spandex fetishists are well served , a solitary nod to Marvel's past is quite in order, boo hoo western character made collection look silly blub,blub. Me not buy poopy cowboy fig......not that i buy most things i just like demanding stuff....i don't even buy the stuff i demand....listen to me EM me important....
@Robert & Toon
Yea, I just got Moondragon and her paint job is messy indeed! Whoever painted her needs to be more meticulous or fired! >.< Very disappointed!
Sorry to hear that, Ken. Not just the painter is responsible, though. Someone in quality control okayed it, so at least two people need their backsides kicked.
Boarding Toon's train of thought from earlier, what was the figure's serial number?
Word verification is, I kid you not, "carlesse". That is just spooky beyond words! Most appropriate word verification ever?
Thats a good one Robert. :)
My best so far was when I went to watch the avengers trailer I commented what a pain to have to dl/install Quicktime.
Word verification was 'patchi'
I dont know Phantom Rider from Adam so had a quick google.
If/When EM think the time is right something similar to this would undoubtedly make a stunning piece.
http://i284.photobucket.com/albums/
ll24/rowdycustoms/PR8.jpg
I remember commenting on the work of the late great Fred Quimby, my word verification was quimy, utterly spooksville.
This posts verification is LOKI
I can't get very enthusiastic about Phantom Rider. He was in a time travel story in an early West Coast Avengers story by Englehart. Apart from the part of the story that dealt with Mockingbird letting PR "die", the story was largely uninvolving. Phantom Rider apparent ability to make his disembodied head float was revealed to be him riding into a cave and wrapping the dark inside of his cloak around him while he stood on stilts!!! Yes, you read that right: stilts! Awful, terrible stuff worthy of 1950s DC.
My usual 'disadvantage' becomes an advantage there Robert, I dont read much and dont really care about history.
If a figurine looks visually appealing its a winner with me.
Not saying I would want a PR special instead of a Giant Man one but would love him instead of MOJO :P
I would gladly endure a bout of shingles if it meant no mofo..sorry mojo
Thing is, Toon, I ALWAYS have appearances and stories in my head when I think of or see a character. Whether something looks good or not as a figure is almost immaterial to me.
Oddly, just read the final comics in Essential Defenders Vol.6 and Moondragon is wearing that headband Odin gave her to limit her powers. For once, the All-Father's actions make sense...
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