Figure of the Day: Day 39: Mace Windu

MACE WINDU Episode I Sneak Preview
Power of the Force Episode I Sneak Preview Collection
Item No.: No. 84138
Number: n/a
Includes: Lightsaber
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $2.99-$5.99 + 6 UPCs and a recepit
Availability: Fall 1998
Appearances: Primarily Star Wars: The Phantom Menace

Bio: In the days before Palpatine's Empire began its reign of terror, the Galactic Republic governed the affairs of the galaxy from the capital of Couruscant. In addition, the city-planet was also the seat of the legendary 12-member Jedi Council. Wisdom and experience were equally as important as abilities in the Force among the Jedi Council members. For this reason, Mace Windu, a senior member of the Jedi Council, was especially honored and revered throughout the Galactic Republic. (Taken from the figure's box.)

Image: This one was shot in front of an in-progress custom project of mine.

Commentary: According to Sam Jackson, this is the best Mace Windu figure-- numerous interviews have him lauding this one above all others. While it was made long before actors were scanned for the merchandising, I tend to agree it's one of the best, even if the goofier, screaming head was more authentic. With a mere 6 points of articulation, this figure was loved, but it isn't exactly great. It's good, though. The detail is nicely done and has very subtle muddy boots-- a nice detail. One thing weird, though, is the lightsaber. According to the comics, Mace Windu (and all Jedi) occasionally trade lightsabers with other Jedi as a sort of bonding activity, which is why Mace's weapon in Episode I-related merchandise and photography is, by and large, "wrong." All of the Episode I Jedi were given lightsabers in all sorts of wacky colors, all of which were approved by Lucasfilm, until the "blue, green, red, or purple" rule came into play around Episode II. So, this figure is more or less accurate to the film and true to the merchandising rules of when he was made.

Collector's Notes: While more Mace figures were made, none have been as good as this one, overall. Some have goofy poses, ridiculous arms, silly facial expressions, or some other problem you wouldn't like. This is by and large the best one, the only way it could be better is with a new-and-improved scanned head and a purple lightsaber, a reissue, I'm sure, is on the books somewhere in Hasbro HQ. For the time being, though, buy this one. You can get it on eBay for about five bucks, much better than the 6 UPCs + recepit + $3 Kenner was asking back in 1998. If you think you can do better than that as far as pricing goes, I daresay you're wrong.

Day 39: June 14, 2006