July 4, 2004
On a recent visit to the local Kmart I found one of the new Van Helsing
action figures on sale for under $20,00. Naturally I could not resist and
before I knew it it was in the cart and on the way home. The figure is
produced by Jacks Pacific under licensed from Universal Studios. The
packaging for the Van Helsing figure is very nice, it is a full window box
that provides a complete view of the figure while adding the needed
protection. If you intent is to display this figure the box makes a nice
display case.
The head sculpt is quite nice and looks just like Huge Jackman. However,
there was some serious overspray and paint defects in our test figure.
The figure is a little bit of a letdown the top half is a normal figure but
the legs are the bendy type.
The costume is the best part of this figure, He comes
with a large leather (vinyl) jacket, simulated leather vest, Grey shirt,
pants, belt, scarf, and knee high boots. The only thing missing with this
costume is a hat, and for the life of me I can figure out why they did not
include one. If there is one thing to by this figure for it is the costume its great for
Kit bashing.
Accessories:
The figure comes equipped with two spinning Tojo blades that look like they
would make formidable weapons.
Summary:
After discounts the Van Helsing figure cost $17 and
change, and for this price it is worth buying for the kids or Kit bashing.
As a collectible display piece I would recommend Sideshow collectables
version of Van Helsing. The lack of quality and the bendy legs are the death
of this figure but I do have to admit it looks great on the shelf and its
only when you take it out of the box and give it the once over do you notice
its short comings.
