Figure of the Day: Day 1,066: Padme Amidala

PADME AMIDALA Evolutions - Episode III
The Legacy Collection Evolutions
Item No.: Asst. 87874 No. 87601
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: n/a
Includes: Crappy birthing gown
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $24.99
Availability: July 2009
Appearances: Revenge of the Sith

Bio: Padme devoted her life to the people of Naboo and became a key figure in the dramatic events that changed the galaxy. Her courage and compassion deeply affected those around her, and was the pivotal legacy she gave to her children, Luke and Leia. While Queen of Naboo, Padme stood up against the Trade Federation’s siege of her planet. As a Senator, Padme fought to keep the Republic from falling into war. Her last act was to give birth to the twins who would fulfill her legacy by restoring peace to the galaxy. (Taken from the figure's cardback.)

Image: TV tray.

Commentary: When I first got this Padme Amidala boxed set I wasn't sure who the gown was for because it didn't seem like it would easily fit on any of them. Turns out it was for this one. Ah well.

So now you've finally got a Padme from the final prequel that isn't from the last chunk of the movie. Congratulations! While she does have very ornate hair and a decent likeness (although the paint could use some work), and the costume is pretty good compared to the film, there is one big problem. And that problem? She's big. Like, fat. Those are some meaty arms there. The advent of the fan demand for insane articulation has resulted in some figures getting joints where fewer joints would be ideal, this figure would probably be a heck of a lot better (with thinner arms) if she dropped the elbow and forearm movement. It's just short of being a great release because, well, she's as big as a house. Since she's pregnant it's not entirely inappropriate, but geez, look at those meaty paws.

Since we'll probably never see a second version of this figure, you can either buy this one or go through life without it. Since getting it last year, mine has basically spent her whole life in a box. I'm not going to say you should never get it, but depending on the kinds of dioramas you crank out, odds are this is going to be a toy best left on the shelf. Other than standing around, she can't do much.

Collector's Notes: You can probably still buy this one if you look hard enough. This wasn't a particularly strong seller, but it's a good set for fans looking to up their Natalie Portman quotient.

--Adam Pawlus

Day 1,066: July 15, 2009