Figure of the Day: Day 85: Mace Windu

MACE WINDU Geonosian Rescue
Saga Collection Collection 1
Item No.: Asst. 84095 No. 84091
Number: 0228
Includes: Lightsaber
Action Feature: Push button for lightsaber-slashing action, magnet in hand to help hold weapon
Retail: $4.99
Availability: May 2002
Appearances: Attack of the Clones

Bio: Calm and controlled, Mace Windu is a noble Jedi Master and member of the Jedi High Council. Mace observes the widening divergence in the Republic with great fear, and he worries that there aren't enough Jedi to protect the galaxy during these critical times. Adding to the strife, a former Jedi and friend has resurfaced as leader of the very Separatist movement that threatens the Republic. When the Jedi Council is alerted to the location of the Separatists' armies, Mace assembles a league of Jedi to infiltrate the Separatists stronghold and subdue their massing forces. (Taken from the figure's cardback.)

Image: Adam Pawlus' floor.

Commentary: In 2002, Hasbro released two very unique Mace Windu figures with very unusual likenesses of Sam Jackson. One was a very happy smiling face, the other, this screaming, agony-ridden visage. This figure is a real oddity in that it has a face that doesn't seem to appear on screen, doesn't represent the character especially well, but yet, really does look like the actor. Odd as it looks, there's no mistaking this for anyone but Mr. Jackson himself, which may be the result of the use of 3D scanning for reference at this point in the toy line's history. The outfit was an improvement over the Episode I figures, but the pose and action pretty much negate its inner awesomeness. With seven points of articulation (the standard six plus an elbow), it's a nice step in a good direction, but not perfect. Also notable, the lightsaber can "plug" into the sleeve so he doesn't throw it as you employ his saber-slashing action.

Collector's Notes: This figure gets no love, and in 2005, it was rereleased with a new head. On the secondary market, it's common as it was a slow seller shortly after release. Like many modern figures, he can be had for a few dollars before shipping. To date, this is the only eyes-closed, mouth-open human figure in the line. Also, the facial expression was similar (but not identical) to the mini bust, released around the same time by Gentle Giant as one of the very first Star Wars mini busts.

Day 85: July 30, 2006