Figure of the Day: Day 503: Joh Yowza

JOH YOWZA Max Rebo Band Pairs
Power of the Force Wal-Mart Exclusive
Item No.: Asst. 69670 No. 84018
Number: n/a
Includes: Sy Snootles figure
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $11.86
Availability: Fall 1998
Appearances: Return of the Jedi: Special Edition

Bio: Joh Yowza, was a Yuzzum performer for the Max Rebo Band, originally hailing from Endor. (Stolen from Wookieepedia.)

Image: Adam Pawlus' toy shelves.

Commentary: I'm a huge fan of the Max Rebo Band, so you can imagine my excitement/rage at the announcement of these being a Wal-Mart exclusive in 1998. Joh Yowza was part of the second of three two-packs, and the least exciting of the six figures. The two new hornplayers looked more at home in Jabba's Palace, but this guy looked like he came from some other movie, with his spindly arms, rubbery face, and overly animated style. If his performance were a little more subtle, and the figure weren't quite as cartoony (big eyes, big open mouth, etc.) it might be easier to like this figure. He's not bad-- I mean, he can stand, he has a furry texture on his person, he has five points of articulation, and he more or less looks like he did on the big screen. It's just that I didn't like how he looked on the big screen so much.

Since you no doubt want to collect the whole band, you'll probably want to get this one. If nothing else, he's great diorama filler, but in and of himself there's not a lot to him. He can stand, and occupy space. So if you like the character, he's a must-buy. If you're a fan of Jabba's palace, musical aliens, or creatures from Endor, buy one. If you look at this and shrug, well, why are you even reading this?

Collector's Notes: In 1998, this Wal-Mart exclusive was either rare or common, depending on your local stores. Today, it can be had for the original price or a little more, meaning that it's something fans actually seem to like. Also, a new Max Rebo Band set is coming out again, in a few months, a Wal-Mart exclusive. Two big $19.99 boxes of 5 figures each-- and since they're expected to be straight reissues, you might want to pass on them. (Of course we've heard this before and are eager to see if any changes will be made.)

Early test shots of this figure showed a guitar, which was ultimately not included because it didn't appear in the movie. Fan-made accessories do exist, though, so you may wish to buy those if you absolutely must have something for this guy to carry around.

Day 503: September 21, 2007