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By Hervé St-Louis
December 16, 2003 - 13:19
I have never collected "animated" toys before and that may have to change because of Mattel's Justice League Flash action figure. This is a beautiful action figure that does justice to the character.
Likeness
This figure is based on the same streamline design from the Justice League cartoon series from the Cartoon network. Its shapes are angular, shoulders wide.
Sculpt
This figure has a plain non action pose. Apparently, DC Comics gave Mattel moulds of the maquettes used by the Justice League animators and character designers. DC Direct released similar statues with the same sculpt. The Flash stands with both arms down, one hand opened, one closed. He has a large grin on his face.
Paint
The paint job is very simple. The figure's plastic is red. Designers painted yellow areas. The paint is not opaque enough to cover all areas and the Flash logo on the character's chest does not stand out enough. A black lining around would have reinforced it. There are lots of smudges on the figure. The paint on the character's face is also sloppy.
Scale
This figure measures about four and 3/4 inch. It is the same size as the Super Powers action figures, although it is slimmer. Putting the old Super Power Flash next to the Mattel Justice League version is one of my favourite thrills. They just look good side by side. Mattel's Justice League action figures do not fit with Hasbro's DC Comics' animated action figures.
Stability
This is a stable figure, although it comes with a large action figure stand. It also has two peg holes.
Articulation
Articulation is where this figure suffers. The figure is as articulated as a young kid's toy. There are only five points of articulation at the neck, shoulders and hips. This figure is more useful as a display piece than real action figure.
Plastic
The plastic used by Mattel is very sturdy. Don't squeeze the Flash ‘s head too much when twisting his neck, to avoid damaging the little wings on his ears.
Diorama
The stand forms a complete diorama with other Justice League action figures from this wave. Assembled, they spell the word "Justice League." Flash's stand contains the letters "U" and "E." A paper sticker with a circle surrounding a bolt similar to Flash's logo is on the included. The bright blue is a bummer as it's the type of thing that will appeal more to kids, than adult collectors. A card with a picture of the Flash completes the diorama.
Packaging
The figure is packed in a blister card.
Cost
The price of these figures is not reasonable. I have seen some for twelve dollars in Canadian stores. Considering the lack of props, articulation and the small size of the figures, this is not right. Six inch Toy Biz action figures have more articulations, larger more intricate sculpts, props and more complex paint schemes for the same price.
Availability
Many Justice League action figures are difficult to find. Right now, the Hawkgirl and Martian Manhunter figures seem the rarest. Prior, I saw much demand and requests for the Flash action figure. Comparatively, far more Superman and Batman figures from this line were created. Having started late this collecting animated Justice League figures, I may not go further because of the availability problems.
There is much speculation on these figures. Mattel has also introduced a short packing policy for some figures such as Hawkgirl. There are many inflated prices on auction sites and web stores. These policies will only help stop me and several real fans and collectors who appreciate these figures from completing their collections.
Read related reviews and articles such as:
Read about the design of the animated Flash versus the comic book version.
