Saturday, July 29, 2006

Figure of the Day: Day 84: Rune Haako

RUNE HAAKO
Episode I Collection 2
Item No.:
Asst. 84095 No. 84091
Number: n/a
Includes: CommTech Chip
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $6.99
Availability: Summer 1999
Appearances: Episode I

Bio: A viceroy of the Trade Federation, Rune Haako plots with fellow Neimoidian, Nute Gunray, as they impose the iron-handed rule of Darth Sidious. (Taken from the figure's cardback.)

Image: Adam Pawlus' toy shelves.

Commentary: Upon first glance to the public, Rune Haako as an action figure was great-- a nicely painted alien, all-new, and with decent articulation. A few weeks later, people saw the movie, and opinions all went downhill from there. With little meaningful articulation below the waist, the extra arm joints do give this figure a little extra personality. His robes have a tremendous amount of detail and, for the day, represent a quantum leap forward for the look of a Star Wars figure. And his face? Well, the paint sucks-- but it does show Hasbro trying something new. The look of the face varies by figure, so be sure to get a good look at it before you buy one. If you need villains, if you like aliens, and you love the prequels, this is a must-own figure because, as of today, it's the only Rune Haako figure to see production.

Collector's Notes: Since the figure was released shortly after the film, some fans were sour on the Trade Federation rather early. As a great villain-- or at least a decent lackey-- this figure commanded little respect from fans, or on the big screen. Today, he can be had for less than $3 with next to no legwork needing to be done. He's pretty awesome if you like this sort of thing, and any time an alien is cheap and has a funny hat, it's hard not to love it.


Day 84: July 29, 2006

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