What's Your Obsession » Ask Sideshow

Ask Sideshow for April 18th

Dr_Teng — Mon, 18 Apr 2011 22:37:20 +0000

Another installment of Ask Sideshow, enjoy!

Ok, can we please get a roadblock? I know G.I. Joe had a shortage of brothas, but it took a whole year to get a stalker? And is their a specific order that you guys are doing? Or are you just re-sculpting the zombie figures that didn’t sell? It should have started with the original joes, and so on, but we get Dusty?? Red Ninjas?? Love the work, but come on now!

Roadblock is high on our list and will be developed, but he’s coming a bit later in the game, perhaps when we debut the next NEW body for GI Joe. Big, hulking body.

I’m curious as to why on some of the more recent Marvel PF’s like Cyclops and Rogue you did not give them cloth costumes (besides the jackets) like you’ve done on Thor, Wolverine, Sabertooth, your first Captain America, etc.? I’m just really disappointed b/c Cyclops is my favorite X-Men character, and yet he’s completely sculpted. I’m worried that if ya’ll ever get to my all time favorite Marvel Character, Daredevil, he will be completely sculpted as well. So I guess the real question is why did Cyclops and Rogues not get the spandex/cloth material costumes like most of the other Marvel PFs? They really don’t feel like mix-media statues when all we’re getting is a cloth jacket

Each character is thoroughly reviewed by our design and development team, and decisions are made for a few different reasons about the mixed material versus sculpt decisions. Aesthetics and price point considerations weigh in heavily, meaning that the team will usually attempt to balance the desire for a best-case appearance while still coming in at a price-point similar to other characters, so that we can maintain relatively similar retail pricing. Some costumes would be awfully difficult, or incredibly costly, to replicate exactly in 1:4 scale, and some simply do not translate well enough into fabric at 1:4 scale to satisfy the creative interest in the product.

Hey there Sideshow, I just finished reading X-23 issue #5 and realized that Mr. Sinister is back! I really love Sinister’s modern look with long hair. Will Sideshow have plans of making a Mr. Sinister PF with two head portraits-classic and modern? Gambit PF and Rogue PF need a bad guy to fight against on our shelves.

Mr. Sinister IS on our list of villains to tackle, and we love the goofy ol’ chump too. Errr, we mean that we despise that devious, evil menace! He’s SINISTER!

Okay guys. You need to start showing us something: Concept art or whatever. But we want our World of Warcraft products to come…Especially PF class status like Deathknight & Warlock. So, what’s happening with the WoW products? Will we see anything soon?

Yes, we want more WoW too! We are hard at work on the next WoW piece, and hope to share more with you in the coming months!

Hi guys! I love your 1/6 Star Wars figures! I mostly collect the main characters if you will, but lately you’ve had Greedo, Hammerhead, the Gamorrean Guard, the coming soon Cantina Band and the numerous clones. Are you going to go back and make main characters again? Such as Clone Wars CG animated series characters like that version of Obi-Wan as opposed to the previous one you’ve done. I know many want an Asoka Tano, AOTC Padme and Anakin, ESB Leia AND we’re STILL waiting on Count Dooku?! I love the clones and own quite a few, but when is Sideshow going to stop with the clones and get back to the main characters?

You’re right, we’ve taken a bit of a detour through the alien, droid, and trooper ranges of the Star Wars Universe. We are working on new versions of several main characters, but you won’t see them until a bit later in the year. In the meantime, there’s a very diverse and we believe impressive line-up of some genuinely ambitious products.

Juggernaut! I stare aimlessly at the Hulk Comiquette, and such a dynamic pose. And the Ironman Hulkbuster statue is massive. I hope SS has something in line for Juggernaut. Please don’t say you have it in mind, or that awful word “soon”. Say it is so! Tell me it is really happening.

Okay, NOT soon. We had a big ol’ Juggernaut in the works, but it just wasn’t big enough, so we’re going back to the drawing board. Your interest WILL be passed along to the design and development team!

Will there be a Gambit Comiquette in modern form to accompany the current X-Men comiquettes roster?

Likely yes at some point, but not in the immediate future.

With the preview out for the Angel Comiquette, is there any plans to make a PF version as well? Also, is there anything in the works for Archangel? The X-Men PF’s have been awesome. Keep them coming!

The Angel Comiquette will stand as the primary representation of the character for some time. Although the excited reaction to the piece does have us considering other Angel/Archangel versions for release in 1:4 scale sometime down the road.

Ask Sideshow update from April 11th

Dr_Teng — Mon, 11 Apr 2011 21:10:26 +0000

As usual, under the cut! That Jessica Rabbit PF better preview soon!

Any time frame as to when we can expect a general grievous 1/6 scale and any of the other droids like 3-p.o and r2? I love your work it`s awesome. I have almost all of the 1/6 scale figures in my collection, about 52 of them, and was just wondering on the grievous and the other droids that you are planning to release.

The Separatist Invasion is planned to begin mid 2011, and we think you’ll be very happy with the droid armies of the Trade Federation, and their cyberneticly enhanced leader. BIG thanks to you for supporting the line all these years!

The first Pred in the LSB line looks fantastic so far, but I have to wander, did you guys ever discuss adding a Bio as the Ex on this? I think most people agree, it would have been a home run, but instead you guys took the typical nameplate route. I think people would have plucked down a little more to get a swappable head or at least have a Bio to display next to it (as a nameplate does). Thoughts?

Yes, we do have some continuing conversations about how to best offer the Bio for the Legendary Scale Bust line. We considered making the Bio a swap out, but it would so very compromise the face of the predator – there’s some engineering that just wouldn’t work without closing the mandibles and dumbing down a lot of the facial spike detailing and other bits, and it felt like the priority needed to be on the Predator’s butt-ugly likeness. For folks that are die-hard Bio fans, we do have a plan, and we’ll reveal all in due time. It’s NOT a swappable head, though, and we think you’ll understand why after seeing this piece in person.

I’m loving your animated Disney line. The Evil Queen and Hook are absolute home runs. Can you give a hint what might be next on the list? We want more!!

Some girls aren’t bad they’re just drawn that way. Some are always drawn to apples, juicy delicious and dangerous apples.

I love your pieces, but I also like DC characters. Will Sideshow ever be producing DC Comic characters (e.g. Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, etc)?

Oh, we like DC too. A whole lot. Tons. With every ounce of our being.

When will you start to make female characters again for your Star Wars 1:6 scale line? And are you ever going to finish off the female Jedi`s like Barriss Offee and Shaak Ti some time down the road? How high up the list would they be with everyone wanting and needing the Leia`s and the Padme`s?

Yes, the Star Wars line will see a fair number of females in 1:6 scale in 2012, and continuing into the future. Barriss and Shaak Ti are on our list of potential characters to tackle, but not part of our immediate planning. We see them as neck and neck with Leia and Padme, perhaps even a bit above for Shaak Ti just because of the arresting visual design of the character.

I’m a big Terminator fan, and am very much looking forward to the new Terminator 1 PF when it hits. But will you ever release any of the other characters in premium format, like Kyle Reese from T1, Sarah Connor and T-1000 from T2, and the TX (in both forms) from T3? I think a lot of Terminator fans would like to expand their premium format collection beyond just Arnie. Also speaking of Arnie, how about a ‘Tech Noir’ version of him from Terminator 1 next time, just for a bit more variety? Thanks.

The Terminator Franchise is getting an extensive review from our product planning and design teams. We want more Terminator in the mix, and we’re interested in a bit more variety too. Some of the characters you mention will see life in the statue series. For the moment, we’re not involved with T3, so those characters are out – but that could change. Arnie and the Endoskeleton are the heart and soul of all things Terminator, and the line’s health depends on a steady release of Austrian or shiny things.

Hi, I’m a huge Conan fan(atic). The original Howard stories, the comics, and the movies, and the two Conan pieces that you guys have done so far are amongst your very best work in my opinion. Can we expect to see anymore Conan pieces from Sideshow this year? Last year’s The Prize was a masterpiece…even if Conan didn’t have blue eyes. By Crom, we need more Conan, Sideshow!

Absolutely, we have three Conan pieces currently in the sculpture phase, rather big and impressive compositions, including a new 1:4 scale piece. All are from the literature side, non-film.

Regarding your upcoming Sauron piece in collaboration with Jerry Vanderstelt, I was wondering if you could comment officially on whether it will fall into the Premium Format category (even if not officially 1/4 scale), or if it will in fact be one of the first (if not the first) baddie in the new maquette line? This is easily my most anticipated piece, and I know everyone is eager to know more!

It’s going to be BIG. It will be done in approximately 1:4 scale, true to the Premium Format line. If all goes according to plan, this will be a major centerpiece for the LOTR line, a very singularly impressive statement piece.

I am a huge iron man fan and have bought the Mark VI and War Machine maquette. One of my favourite favourite suits from the movie is the Mark II. Can you pleaaaasssseeee do a Mark II maquette? Any plans?

We would LOVE to get to each of the suits from the Iron Man films, including his upcoming appearances in Avengers and Iron Man 3. We currently have our eyes on the Mark V, but we agree on the Mark II.

Sideshow Collectibles “Ask Sideshow” for February 15th, 2011

Dr_Teng — Wed, 16 Feb 2011 02:13:34 +0000

Under the cut as usual! Some good stuff in there.

I saw a question about X-Factor and you guys said you were focusing on the X-Men right now, but said you were going to do Dark Avengers and Dark X-Men. My question is why? That story line was about a yearlong. These characters do not deserve their own line of statues. I ask this a lot, but with a whole universe why not pick out some classics ex. Nova, Dr. Strange, and Iron Fist? Characters Marvel legacy is built on not characters they made just to recently who have no following.

If all Marvel fans had the same wish lists our decisions would be much, much easier. While we don’t intend to go so very deep with Dark X-Men, we are interested in a bit of exploration of Dark Avengers. Iron Patriot, Sentry, Hercules, and the others are, from our perspective, on par with Nova, Dr. Strange, and Iron Fist in terms of merit for product consideration. Seniority, longevity, popularity, and aesthetic value all weigh on our decision-making.

When are we getting to ANGEL Sideshow?

If you mean Buffy’s Angel, the answer is soon. We’re finalizing sculpture on the product, and expect to make a full reveal by mid to late 2011. If you mean Marvel’s Angel, the answer is VERY soon. We’ve completed our prototype and it’s a winner. We’ll be revealing him sometime in the next couple of months.

Any plans for a 1/6 scale Tuskin Raider?

Nope, but we do have plans for a 1:6 scale Tusken Raider.

LOTR fans have begun a campaign in an attempt to convince Sideshow we want a complete Fellowship in Premium Format and that includes ALL REMAINING HOBBITS! What kind of response have you received? -AND- Is it enough for SS to finally relent and give us a complete Fellowship in PF?

Our Creative Director and design teams have heard you. We’ve received a very healthy response to our challenge, and the Shire has been heard. The Hobbits will see release in statue form, and we will be moving forward with designs for PF versions as well. We’ll be updating you from time to time as things become more concrete.

Just wanted to say I LOVE LOVE LOVE the idea of a second mini-base for the alternate likeness of the Gollum PF! This is a fantastic idea, and one I’ve been wishing you guys would tackle for ages now! My question: Is there a chance you’d consider doing mini bases for other PFs in the future so we can showcase alternate head sculpts? Or … and I know this one is HIGHLY unlikely … is there a chance you might consider making some “Alternate Portrait Mini-Bases” for PFs you’ve already released? (I’m actually in the process of making a few for myself. I guess you’d call them Premium Format Busts. Working on one for ROTLA Indy, Mola Ram and Gandalf the Grey, complete with fabric costume elements and bases that attempt to mirror the style of the ones on each statue.) I just hate the idea of these phenomenal alternate heads languishing away in a box in the attic! They deserve to be seen!

Yes, indeed. We hope to provide many more similar extra display options in future projects. Not only for PF’s but also for all statue or figure products in which there is a significant switch-out feature. It’s logistically difficult to backtrack to previously released products, so we’ll be focusing our efforts on newer products.

Ask Sideshow for February 7th, 2011

Dr_Teng — Tue, 08 Feb 2011 16:09:23 +0000

Another batch of questions and answers under the cut!


Is there any chance of Mattel working with Sideshow Collectibles to make a Masters of the Universe: The Motion Picture line? First I would LOVE to see a Comiquette of Frank Langella as Skeletor and a Comiquette of Dolph Lundgren as He-Man!   I loved this film as a kid and still do!   Thanks so much for your time Sideshow!   I have sent this message into Mattel also.  
Very good question, and it’s certainly something we would like to be a part of! Whether or not the new movie moves forward, MOTU is fertile ground, and we would love to pay a visit to Eternia.
Are there any plans to expand the TMNT license to the original film? And how about life-size busts(pref from the original film)?? I think they’d look great with some shell exposed on the back and a classy sewer cover base. Ya dig?!
At the moment, we’re focused on the comic versions of TMNT. We dig, but we’ve got to cover a bit more Eastman and Laird ground first.
Hey Hey Sideshow! Have you guys seen the new design for Venom from Rick Remender? The new Venom looks so awesome with the assault rifles and guns! I totally think that Sideshow should produce a Comiquette/PF for the new Black Ops Venom! I am sure it will be a hit!
Yes, we have seen it – and we’re in love too! There’s some significant enthusiasm within our design team, and it’s possible that the new Venom will jump into our planning sooner than later.
Concerning a future Samwise Gamgee maquette – would Sideshow consider a composition based on his encounter with Shelob with the phial of Galadriel in one hand and Sting in the other? Also, since the dio. line has been incorporated into the new maquette line could a Sam vs Shelob maquette be a possibility?
Current plans pair the hobbits as Frodo with Sam and Merry with Pippin. A Sam VS Shelob is possible, but not part of our current planning.



Ask Sideshow from January 12th/13th
Dr_Teng — Sat, 15 Jan 2011 17:56:30 +0000
Well that’s surprising, Sideshow Collectibles put up another Ask Sideshow batch of questions already!  Check below the cut to see what’s up.  

When will we hear more about the Brown/Orange Wolverine costume Premium Format? PLEASE do not make it a low edition size piece because the demand for this will be VERY high.
The Brown costume Wolverine PF will be produced at a later date than originally anticipated, as other projects have taken priority in the short term.
The new LOTR maquette line looks promising but it currently supports only good heroes. Do you have any plans to produce villains like Saruman, Nazgul, Mouth of Sauron, or even some monsters like Balrog, Fell Beast, Troll, etc?
Yes, most definitely, but the larger size of many of those characters will require us to invent some new ‘rules’ about size and format. For now, we’re most focused on the core characters and villains in more or less human scale.
I must say I was somewhat disappointed after seeing the Comic-Con 2010 video for the Disney Premium Format line. I was really hoping to hear word about a classic Princess line being in development, starting with Belle, the Beast and Snow White, to match up with our villains. Or, failing that, at least seeing some initial drawings/sculpting of a Jessica Rabbit PF. All of these appeared in the very first Disney video to announce the line and was always what I was most excited to see. How much longer of a wait will it be till my wish is fulfilled?
We’ve been toying with design ideas for bringing Princesses into our portfolio, but have yet to lock onto a satisfying design tact. Jessica Rabbit has moved into sculpture, and looks…stunning. We’ll share more with you soon!
Will you guys ever make a new Darth Vader Premium Format figure? You’ve got 3 Lukes and 2 Leias, so why not a Vader from Empire or Jedi? I can’t get the first one now, and I need a Vader PF!
So very true, and we’ll take it to heart. It’s DEFINITELY coming.
In Comic-Con 2009 you introduced the Commander Cody Legendary Scale Bust. It’s been over a year now, and we have only seen one other: Obi-Wan. How often are you going to offer the Star Wars Legendary Scale Busts? Only once per year?
You’ve also seen Darth Sidious now, and we’ll be picking up the pace a bit over 2011 and 2012, although the roll will continue at a measured pace for now. Thanks for the interest though; we’re eager to show you more of what we have planned.
Will we ever see Momaw Nadon (Hammerhead) in another format such as Premium Format or life-size bust?
Yes. Ithorians for all.
This year you announced plans to release Han Solo in Carbonite as a Life-Size statue at some point in the future. I’ve been saving ever since! Any word on a more specific date? 2011, or 2012? Also, please PLEASE include working lights in the side panels!
Nope, no definitive date yet – we’ll have to sort out more of the production planning before we can make a definite statement about it. Rest assured, we would want to include all sorts of features in a life-size piece.
With the popularity of Iron Man 2, will there be a life-size bust of War Machine this year?
Indeed, indeed. Prepare yourself.
Wow. $235 for the new Aragorn maquette? That’s just slightly less than a 1/4 scale premium format figure. Also almost twice as much the previous 1/6 scale statues. What gives?
Time. Costs. Materials. Complexity – the new Aragorn statues offers quite a bit more depth and detail than earlier offerings. We believe the fans want intricate, amazing detail, and that demand outweighs the demands of holding to specific pricepoints. We create with the final product’s outlook in mind, rarely confied to a set price (which would require uncomfortable compromise). Trust us, the increase in costs allow us deliver better and better product, not an inflation of Sideshow’s margin. And the world moves on, and forward, and manufacturing will never return to the same costs as 1995, 2000, or 2005.
I’m very excited for the Sideshow 1/6 scale R2-D2 and C-3PO that have been announced to be in development. Since making unique droid molds just to use once would be expensive, is it likely that we’ll see the molds used for some of the other popular Star Wars droids, such as R5-D4, 4-LOM, TC-14, and R4-P17? After spending over a year filled out our clone ranks, will 2011 be the year to build an astromech and protocol droid army?
Once the molds for R2 and C-3PO exist, we’ll definitely be moving ahead with other droid characters that share parts, and you’ve got a pretty seminal list there. 4-LOM is the top of the list, as we’ll be wanting to complete the ESB bounty hunter set sooner rather than later.
I’d like to know when/how much is the Angel Comiquette?
The Angel Comiquette will debut very soon, and it’s incredible. The wingspan is simply stunning. It’s a 1:5 scale piece, which will display very well with the other X-men Comiquette pieces (Nightcrawler, Colossus, the original Wolverine Comiquette, and more).
Any chance of another life-size Iron Man bust to go along with the Iron Man 2 film? I missed the original release as I’m a new Sideshow convert. I’d really like a new “clean” version.
Oh, it’s a definite. We’re nearly ready to reveal the next life-size collaboration with Legacy Effects from Iron Man 2. It will be a killer companion to the existing Iron Man bust. Eventually, we’d like to see the Mark V in Life-Size as well.



Ask Sideshow for January 11th
Dr_Teng — Wed, 12 Jan 2011 17:16:52 +0000
It’s been a while since I did one of these, let’s see what Sideshow’s been answering lately!  Check it out under the cut.

Sideshow, in two of your 2009 “Ask Sideshow’ segments [July 9th & Sept. 9th] you confirmed that a Ringwraith Premium Format was in the works. We have heard nothing about this project since then. We have however, seen the Morgul Lord Premium Format. Are we to assume the Ringwraith PF you confirmed last year is, in fact, the Morgul Lord PF? Or is there a Ringwraith PF still in the works. Hopeful Sideshow knows the difference between a Morgul Lord and Ringwraith….
No, the Morgul Lord PF and Ringwraith PF are separate projects. We haven’t been able to share about the Ringwraith PF yet, because we’re still rather early in the sculpture process. It’s a BIG, ambitious project, and will be phenomenal if all goes according to plan.
I think your creative team should really be commended in the way they have approached the new LOTR maquette line. Obviously a lot of thought and consideration has gone into the execution of this line! We can’t wait to see what’s next after first 6 or so that we’ve seen in progress – any hints? Or even more photos of Arwen, Gimli & Boromir would be appreciated! – AND – Has Sideshow decided which characters will be produced as part of a “second wave” of LOTR statues? And if so, do they include any of the following characters: Faramir, Eomer, Denethor,or Haldir? And whichever characters are in the planning stage? I think I can speak for all LOTR fans when I say none of us will be upset should you decide to post more conceptual drawings for us to drool over!
Major, major thanks. We’ll share your feedback with all involved! You’ll see more of Arwen and Gimli soon, and Boromir shortly after. Faramir and Eomer have been designed (and they look great). Denethor and Haldir will wait for further down the road. We’ll see about sharing more of the design work with you soon!

Is there a chance of seeing a Twilight Wraith in Premium Format, whether the Witchking or one of the other Ringwraiths? Same thing for the maquette line – could it appear in that form?
Yes, the Twilight Ringwraith is a real possibility for the PF line, but not an actively planned product. He’s more likely to appear in the statue series first.
Is the Lord of the Rings diorama line still active? Collectors have had no new releases or previews for a very long time. – AND – I’m a huge fan of the LOTR Diorama line.Do you plan on continuing this line, and what can we expect to see, if so? – AND – I think it safe to say with three of your last five LOTR dioramas still available a significant amount of time after they first went up for pre-order Sideshow must be somewhat disappointed in the overall sales of this specific line. Is it going to be the third LOTR line to “bite the dust”? If so, how long before that axing occurs?
The diorama line has more or less transitioned into the LOTR statue series, which currently has excellent momentum. Our designers and sculptors are greatly enjoying the freedom of working on statues, where they can really design for iconic presentations of ALL characters, rather than working from scene specific events and related limitations.
Are you ever planning to release the standard “white” version of the clone trooper from Episode III? I would prefer to purchase this version from Sideshow instead of from Medicom, which is more expensive and somewhat fragile.
Yes, and we have something big in mind to make the release ‘feel’ legit. We’ve been holding out because you never, never see white clones in the phase 2 armor on screen. So the big idea we’re kicking around is a sort of deluxe offering, with a fair amount of display potential, as either phase 1, phase 2, or perhaps even something more Clone Wars relevant, but all in white. Customizers should get some incredible uses out of it.
I read the recent comment for 12″ Star Wars Bounty Hunters coming up in 2011. Awesome news and highly anticipated! One of my favorite bounty hunters happens to be IG-88. Although he had a very small part in ESB, his character as a whole appears quite menacing. Will he see some Sideshow love in the 2011 lineup, as well as the Clone Wars version IG-86? Sideshow, I deeply appreciate the love you give all your Star Wars characters, and I highly value each and every one of them. I’ve been waiting a long time for movie accurate 1/6 scale figures and now the wait is over.
Oh yah, the wait is over. IG-88 has been in the development process for well over a year, and we’ve been flexing all sorts of muscles in digital and traditional methods to accomplish everything we want to accomplish with IG-88 and other robotic characters. We think you’ll be happy with the final results; he’s looking KILLER for a killer robot. Yes, we definitely want to bring the Clone Wars versions of the IG robots to life too, especially Cad Bane’s two colorful enforcers.
This question pertains to the new 1/6 scale Gamorrean Guard. I have 2 on pre-order, and I’m wondering about the articulation on this particular figure. The summary states the figure has a new articulated body, but with the photos, I’m failing to see where the articulation is. Can you help point me, and other customers, in the right direction on this one? Much appreciated and can’t wait to see what he looks like in his new box  
Yes, we are overdue with clarification about the articulation on the figure, which was finalized shortly before starting final production. The figure is very, very articulated, and poses really well for such a big boned bulky brute. To summarize, the figure has ball joints in the neck, shoulders, wrists, hips, and ankles, and swivel joints at the biceps. Knees and elbows do not articulate because the design team felt that the sculpture would be too compromised by any type of joint. We’ll be posting additional photos soon that better demonstrate his impressive range of motion, and we expect folks to have him in hand soon and taking their own photos.
I have the Sideshow Red Skull Premium Format, and it just looks absolutely evil! The head sculpt is filled with amazing details (loved those tiny cracks on the skull itself). But to be honest, I am a bigger fan of Comiquettes, and I am wondering do you guys have plans of making a Comiquette for the Red Skull?
Red Skull is always lurking on our list of candidates for various formats, and in fact will see announcement soon in the Legendary Scale Bust line. With the new Captain America movie coming, we’ve been reluctant to commit to another full-bodied comic-based version, in case the movie version knocks our socks off and we want to launch a new PF immediately.
I don’t get it. The size and format are perfect for mixed media, so why are you going with SCULPTED fur for the boots/gloves/neck line on the Black Cat Premium Format? Even though I don’t like the “long” face look, I think that if it didn’t have that off-putting look of the sculpted fur I still would’ve pre-ordered it.
The use of real fur, or faux fur, is rather controversial around the office. On some applications, it can look GREAT. On others, it can look rather cheap. The neckline on the Black Cat piece was hotly debated, whether to go sculpted or faux fur. Ultimately, construction issues and a desire for the fur trim to taper a bit, gave us greater confidence in the final product’s best outlook coming from a sculpture solution. In order for all elements to match well, the trim on the boots and gloves was sculpted so that all fur bits matched. We hope that images of the final product, in hand, may persuade you to change your mind. The Black Cat PF is a lovely piece.
I plan on collecting the X-Men in Premium Format; after seeing the Comiquette how long will I have to wait for a PF Colossus?
You can count on a PF Colossus and may in fact have an opportunity to order in later 2011…but perhaps early 2012.
Is there any possibility of a Sauron Premium Format and/or a Saruman? I was unfortunate enough to miss all of your previous Sauron products because I just recently discovered Sideshow.
Yup. Saruman and Sauron have just officially graduated from the candidate list to the confirmed, planned, product line-up for 2012. We’ll be collaborating with Jerry Vanderstelt on Sauron, who may or may not end up “officially” in the PF classification, but will be BIG.
Any chance to see these Comiquettes soon – Doctor Doom, Galactus, Apocalypse, Iron Patriot… please? Need bad guys! – AND – I love your Marvel comiquettes, but we need some more villains! Any chance of Spidey’s rogues such as Doc Ock, Sandman, Electro, or Hobgoblin? How about some of the newer villains such as my personal fave, the Hood? Any other villains you could tease for us, please?
To the first question… no, we have BIGGER plans for Dr. Doom! Galactus, Apocalypse, and Iron Patriot are all on the short list for initiation in either Comiquette or PF form, and likely in 1:4 scale either way.
To the second question, no, we’re not actively engaged with Doc Ock, Sandman, or Electro. We do have the Hobgoblin Comiquette in production, and we do have a few other Spidey villains in the process of sculpture. We’ll counter your Hood suggestion with an Anti-Venom, a really striking design. Or perhaps one of Spider-Man’s newer looks; does anyone like his Noir design?
Since you are not changing the Hulk comiquette’s hair, is there any chance for a new, true 1/4 scale modern Hulk to be produced down the line to go with the other 1/4 scale pieces? He is a very popular character, and I would love to see him with longer hair in 1/4 scale version.
Certainly. Our love affair with the not so jolly jade giant will continue, and we definitely have more Hulk planned. Perhaps something even a bit bigger than 1:4…
I am holding out on the Yellow/Blue Wolverine Premium Format simply because it is not my favorite Wolverine costume. Any chance that we will see an Astonishing X-Men Wolverine PF/Comiquette from Sideshow? I like the newer Wolverine costume designs more than the old ones. – AND – Will we see a modern Wolverine Comiquette soon?
Wolverine is a great character, and we have designs banked for at least four distinctly different versions of Logan to come to life in Comiquette and Premium Format. We will take your questions as good incentive to start sculpting on one of those designs sooner rather than later. Thanks, Bub.



More Ask Sideshow Question answered
Dr_Teng — Sat, 06 Nov 2010 16:49:54 +0000
Here’s a bunch more upcoming info : 

Is there a chance that, in the near future, there may be a Yoda real Bronze figure?
Yes, Yoda is top contender for a real bronze piece.
I know it may be the least favorite movie of the entire series, and maybe that’s why we don’t see many collectibles from it, but why no characters from The Phantom Menace in 1/6th scale? Being an absolute Vader fan, I would love to see all incarnations of the character, including Episode I “little Anakin” complete with podracing outfit, helmet and goggles. How about Nute Gunray, Padawan Obi, Queen Amidala, Droidekas, and JarJar. Yes JarJar. I don’t want to cause the end of the SW line for you with the outcry of angry fanboys about a JarJar release, but please consider. Thanks!
Yes, we will bring more to life from ‘Phantom Menace’ – including some of the characters that you mention. We’re going on a little bit of a ‘Separatist’ adventure, beginning late 2011 and continuing into 2012.
I know you guys are planning to release the red/blue comic Spider-Man soon, but I’m wondering if you guys plan on releasing a Spider-Man in every suit? I love the Scarlet Spider-Man, a Premium Format or a Comiquette will do nicely   In my opinion, you guys should release a different costume every year!
Spidey in every suit? Sure, why not? Scarlet Spider-Man is a great pick. What do you think of the Spider-Man Noir version? It’s featured prominently in the newest Spider-Man video game (Dimensions) – and it’s pretty striking.
Is there any chance Sideshow will re-make the Captain America or Thor statues? Because I believe so many people missed the Premium Format, and they will be pleased if there are any more Captain America and Thor upcoming.
Captain America and Thor will both see release in 2011 thanks to the new movie versions, and it’s very possible that we’ll return to both characters in comic form at a future date.
I’ve seen rumors about Sideshow working on a Cable piece. With the recent success of the Bowen Designs Cable Statue, when can we expect Sideshow to release their take on this “unsung” hero?
Cable has been on and off our planning for years now. He’s a favorite for several of our designers, and is a definite – we just have to decide on a design and get going.
I’ve been collecting Sideshow’s Marvel comiquettes but was thinking of getting into my other love, Horror. Last year in November someone asked about a Hellraiser line. How soon are we to see this? I couldn’t resist a Sideshow Hellraiser statue!
It’s fact, not fiction – you’ll see Hellraiser in the near future, if all goes as planned!
Are you pretty much done with producing figures or accessories to go with your Jabba the Hutt w/ throne environment? It’s been a long time since we had anything that could specifically go with him. He isn’t complete without a 1/6th scale Oola to dance near him or a 1/6th scale Slave Leia (preferably with an alternate “lounging” lower torso like Hasbro’s recent Slave Leia figure).
Nope, we plan to make additions to the Jabba set on a yearly basis, although some will be characters that work well in or out of Jabba’s Palace (Jawas, Fett, Bossk, etc). The next piece you’ll be seeing is a second Gamorrean Guard, with a little more ‘unique’ detail to his portrait and the ‘missing’ axe that fans have been asking for. We’re calling him Gartogg, with some serious affection for the old ‘Tales from…’ novel.
Will any small vehicles be made for 1/6th scale Star Wars, like the barc speeder, at-at, speeder bike, or any other vehicles?
We may disagree on which vehicles can be described as ’small’ – but yes, we do have plans for the Speeder Bike.
I like your Star Wars Premium Format line. I want to know if you will be doing something else like the Speeder Bike. Like, a Taun-Taun Premium Format, or a Dewback, or Droid on Stap?
No, we’re not currently planning any of the mega-mondo pieces that you mention (our 1:6 Dewback is going to be HUGE enough, it would be frighteningly huge at 1:4!). We do have a couple of MAJOR pieces in development for 2011, one of which is the Emperor on his throne. Your Jedi Luke PF is going to have some company very, very soon.
Is it possible to create a new line focusing on Spider-Man dioramas? As we know, Spider-Man has one of the best-known rogue galleries in comics.
The focus for upcoming dioramas is shifting to ‘team-ups’ – similar to the X-Force diorama, but could possibly including some of the villain pairings and teams too.
I would love to see Charles Xavier (with wheel chair: exclusive could be the helmet). When will you be making him because he is such an iconic character? I would also love to see Polaris, Goblin Queen and Kitty Pride in comiquette form.
Agreed on all of your character choices. Goblin Queen and Kitty Pride are probably the two nearest the top of our list, but we are thinking similarly.
Any chance we will see anything from the video game “Dead Space”? An Isaac Clarke Premium Format, perhaps?
Isaac Clarke is currently sculpted (but not quite ready to be officially debuted), in a format that will match well with our Kratos.



Ask Sideshow from the past few days
Dr_Teng — Mon, 12 Jul 2010 16:50:51 +0000
Sideshow’s been updating this feature on a regular basis, here’s some of the recent highlights.


Have you considered pursuing the new Clash of the Titans license? If so, please let there be a Bubo… I would kill for a 1:1 metal, mechanized robot owl! -AND- With the remake of The Clash of the Titans movie in theaters, are there any plans for a Medusa Premium Format or 1:1 life-size head bust? Please?
Stay tuned – you may indeed see if Titans will clash at Sideshow…
I’m a big Obi-Wan Kenobi fan, and was wondering if you were planning on offering at some point a Premium Format Obi-Wan Kenobi from Episode I: The Phantom Menace? I know that others have asked about an Episode III version (that would also be welcome), but I am interested in the Episode 1 version – the Exclusive Edition might have interchangeable hands: one holding Obi-Wan’s own lightsaber, and the other holding Qui-Gon Jinn’s lightsaber? Thanks, and keep up the great work! (Can’t wait to get my Jedi Luke PF!)
Yes, we are indeed developing an Ep 1 Obi-Wan for release in 2011, but in 12-inch form. Of all the Obi versions due for release in Premium Format, we’re most likely to capture his look from Ep 3.
I am a massive fan of your 12-inch Star War line and have a few questions. I am wondering if there are any plans for Episode 1 figures of Anakin, Obi-Wan and Queen Amidala (possibly with several changes of clothes as the accessories and exclusive). I also think it would be great to have a line consisting of the separatist council such as Nute Gunray, Passel Argente, Tikkes, Wat Tambor, Poggle the Lesser, San Hill, Po Nudo and Shu Mai. I think this line would bring huge variety of interesting characters to the line!
Obi-Wan is a sure bet from Ep 1, and Anakin and Amidala are possibilities but far from definite at this stage. We’re fairly fond of Nute and Wat, although we’ve ranked them a bit lower in our priority and planning for the moment.
Any plans for a Premium Format version of Han Solo in Carbonite?
Yes!
Are there plans to release more Premium Formats of Jedi characters originating from the new trilogy? Aayla Secura and Kit Fisto were both from the movies and made many interesting appearances in the Clone Wars TV series. It would be very nice to see them being done in the Premium Format.
Aayla is a near definite, and Shaak Ti is a definite definite.
I have many of your Marvel pieces and they are awesome. However, I missed out on the Hulk Premium Format and was wondering if there is any chance that we might see a Red Hulk in PF (or any format for that matter) anytime soon?
Red Hulk has divided the Sideshow offices. Some love him, some think he’s a poor imitation of the real Hulk. It’s going to take a little more time to convince all key staffers that we should jump on the bandwagon and bring Red Hulk to life as a PF.
Just wondering; would it be at all possible for Sideshow to complete 1 or 2 lines in you’re “The Lord of the Rings” range? There are so many different lines in production, some active, some stalled – it’s a nightmare for me as a collector, as I have bits and pieces of all the lines but don’t seem to ever get a complete set! By the rate Sideshow is going, I be dead before I ever complete a single LOTR product line. So my question, why is it so hard for Sideshow to finish one line (at least The Fellowship members) before releasing another line? I love all the LOTR products you guys have made so far, but I have to be honest, it seems to me that Sideshow is in a big mess, and you’re only digging yourselves deeper by releasing yet another LOTR line.
Fair enough, and as LOTR fans, we understand where you’re coming from. Many factors influence our decision making, including fan feedback, sales support, design quality, developer availability, and sometimes even resource competition from other licenses. In our LOTR history, all of these factors have contributed to the untimely ‘pauses’ or demises of lines before we’re able to complete the Fellowship. We’ve been eager for a fresh start, and a format in which we’re most likely to be able to make good on the potential of a full Fellowship, and believe the new statue line IS that opportunity. Gimli is sort of a mascot for the potential of the line, as the complexity of the character & costume design poses significant challenges in other formats (especially 12-inch and PF), but he was the first design approved for the new statue line.
The Snake Eyes diorama is amazing!!! However I don’t collect dioramas anymore. When can we expect to see the first G.I. Joe comiquette/statue?
The first G.I. Joe statue is still a bit of a ways off, but the first Premium Format figure is likely to be unveiled before 2010 is over.
Things have been kind of quiet on the Alien front. Would Sideshow ever consider making life-size figures of the various alien creatures from the Alien films? What about the Predator for that matter?
Certainly; possibly continuing in the life-size bust line. We’ve had the ambition of making full-size creatures for a long, long time, and eventually will devote our energies to make it happen.
Can we expect tons of newer product from the upcoming Predators movie?!
Yes, certainly. Roughly a metric ton of it. We’ve partnered with KNB EFX Group (the effects company who worked on the film) to create a very large range of products from Predators, and we’re eager to share them with you!
With the final Harry Potter coming out this November, are we likely to see any HP products from Sideshow released this Christmas or next year with the 2nd part of The Deathly Hallows?
We would very much like to dig into Harry Potter and hope that we will have the opportunity in the near future.
Is there a possibility that we’ll see a Watcher in Water and a Cave Troll in your new 1/6th scale LOTR statue/maquette collection?
The Cave Troll is likely, but Watcher in the Water will require some very clever design work.
I have the Premium Format Emma Frost and can’t wait for the PF Cyclops. I’m wondering if the visor that comes with the PF Emma is somehow connected to the PF Cyclops? Will you be able to attach the visor to the exclusive PF Cyclops??
The PF Cyclops will be more in the style of Gambit, and less in the style of Emma Frost. He’ll come with his own visor.
For the 30th Anniversary of Empire Strikes Back, we’d LOVE to finally get some bounty hunters in 12-inch form! What do you think?
Your wish is our command. Look for the Bounty Hunters to make a strong showing in 2011, starting off with the assassin who has the best head for bartending. You’ll get your first unveiling within 2010, shipping 2011.
What are the current thoughts and/or plans for a 1/6 scale Mara Jade?
Mara Jade is going to get some attention in one or more of our lines for 2011 or 2012. We’re especially fond of Adam Hughes’ recent take on the character…



Ask Sideshow from July 4th
Dr_Teng — Wed, 07 Jul 2010 16:00:04 +0000
As if the daily preorders weren’t enough, Sideshow keeps dropping promising info for how they’ll drain our wallets next year.  This one is quite long but has some great bits of news, so keep reading.

Any chance that we will see a Predator – from any movie – in the Premium Format line?
That’s tough to answer. Yes, we are likely to bring a new Predator to life in roughly 1:4 scale, but we don’t know whether it would be a fit for Premium Format, or remain a Maquette sort of special release.
Has Sideshow ever thought of getting the license for the Mass Effect videogame? It has great characters.
Hmmm… perhaps you’ll be interested in our panel announcements at SDCC this year…
(this above news is super exciting for me, I cannot wait to see Sideshow’s take on their designs)
When will we see Metal Gear Solid Premium Format figures?
Sadly, we have not been able to convince all of The Powers That Be that Sideshow should produce MGS products, despite good will and intentions on all fronts. It remains a grail license for Sideshow.
I am a big fan of your Indiana Jones 12-inch line. I know you decided to take a little pause before presenting the next figure. But please, please, please answer me this question: Will you make these characters in 1/6th scale in the next years? … Mola Ram (perhaps with Godess Khali Statue as an Exclusive), Col. Vogel, Sallah, Marion, Oberst Dietrich, and Marcus Brody? I am a fanatic fan of your 12-inch lines. Please continue in that high quality!
While we have been on pause with the 12-inch figures, we have committed to development of a mine-cart environment meant to pair with 1:6 scale products. That should help you to see where we’re likely to develop next, although we hope that the remainder of Indy 12-inch isn’t all Doom and gloom.
Will there be another Balrog statue made?
Ultimately, inevitably, the answer is yes. When exactly, we can’t say for certain at this time.
Will Gollum make to the Premium Format LOTR line in 2010 or 2011?
Yes, he will indeed, my Precious.
Can you PLEASE confirm one way or another whether the upcoming Olivetti Hulk Comiquette is 1/4th or 1/5th scale?
It’s truly a hard question to answer. We think it looks perfectly proportioned with the Hulkbuster Comiquette, which means it’s somewhere between 1:6 and 1:5 scale, but it wouldn’t look small at all compared with your 1:4 scale collection. It’s BIG, and it’s Incredible. We’ve tried to provide a good number of group shots on his product page during Comic-Con, so you can be the judge.
Hope my favorite, Thanos Comiquette, will get some more sneak peak updates – it’s been a while. Is he still going into production? And, if so, when will he be available for pre-order?
The Thanos piece that we teased earlier is indeed the same as the Thanos and Mistress Death Diorama recently announced. We have read a lot of interest in an even bigger representation of Thanos, which is hard to believe since the diorama is already a pretty MASSIVE piece, but it has inspired our design team to give some real thought to another BIG Thanos project down the road.
Any word on when an Attack of the Clones, Anakin vs Tusken Raiders diorama is coming out? And, will it be in the same scale as the other ones? (EX: Obi-Wan vs. Anakin, Diplomatic Mission, Qui-Gon/Obi/Maul, etc) I HOPE!
The sculpture for the diorama is done, and it’s tentatively titled ‘Revenge of the Jedi.’ It is in the same scale, approximately 1:9, as the previous diorama entries, making it a pretty big, and pretty complex!



Ask Sideshow from July 2nd 2010
Dr_Teng — Sun, 04 Jul 2010 16:29:29 +0000
Any chance of seeing a T-800 Premium Format figure from the 1st Terminator movie anytime soon?
Hasta la vista, baby! Most definitely in the semi-near future…
In all reality, so we can put this to rest, could, would, will there ever, be a day when Sideshow will produce a 1:1 or even a 1:2 scale Queen Alien Bust from James Cameron’s Aliens?
It’s difficult to imagine that many collectors have the space for a true 1:1 Queen Alien bust, or that we could safely ship one, so we’ll go ahead and say no, it’s VERY unlikely. A 1:2 scale piece could be very interesting, and it’s something we’ll give more serious consideration moving forward.
I’m wondering in what direction you will be going with the Predator species in the near future…I have to say that I have been very disappointed that you guys have only released one true Predator maquette so far, and only two Predator busts (Predalien is more alien). Will you guys be producing more Maquettes and Life-Size busts at a steadier pace any time soon? Also, is there any chance you guys will visit the Lost Hunters from Predator 2?
Very good question. We’re very keen on bringing some new visions of the Predator species to life, both film-accurate and more imaginative. The new Predators film will have us busy for the remainder of 2010 and into 2011, but we’ve also started work with Steve Wang on some very interesting work. In short, you will see much more of the Predator species from Sideshow moving forward.
I was wondering if there are any more plans for more statues from World of Warcraft, or some Premium Format figures?
We are developing new product based on World of Warcraft, but like Blizzard’s game titles, the development can’t be rushed. We hope to have a new statue to show you in early 2011.
Fantastic job on the latest Snake Eyes diorama! How often can we anticipate the G.I. Joe Dioramas to be released? I think Zartan on his Chameleon Swamp Skier with sunlight shining on part of him showing off his “blue” skin would be a great way to show off his uniqueness as an action figure!
We’re likely to announce new G.I. Joe dioramas roughly once every three months or so, and the next will be Zartan vs Flint, and should be ready to unveil at during our Comic-Con celebration in July!