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MI6 Review: Pierce Brosnan Premium Format Figure - Sideshow Collectibles
In 2004, Sideshow Collectibles announced the release of
a new ¼ scale range of James Bond figures, starting
with the iconic Sean Connery. MI6 now takes a look at the
second figure to be released in the Premium Format range
based on Bond #5, Pierce Brosnan.
Pierce Brosnan was the last actor to be signed by Albert
Broccoli to play the role of Bond. Cubby was a master at
getting the press to do his publicity; and the announcement
of Brosnan landing the role was kept a mystery until the
final moment.
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Pierce Brosnan helped breath new life into the series. Brosnan
would appear in four consecutive Bond films (“GoldenEye”
– 1995, “Tomorrow Never Dies” – 1997,
“The World Is Not Enough” – 1999, “Die
Another Day” – 2002), and unlike past actors his likeness
would be used in two official video games.
Pierce
Brosnan Biography
MI6 reviews the Sideshow Collectibles figures...
James Bond - Pierce Brosnan (¼
Scale)
Item No: 7122
Size: 18 inch (456mm)
Weight: 11.00 lbs (4.75 Kg)
Units: 1250
Artist: Oluf W. Hartvigson
Fabrication by Greg Mowry
Order
Online - Sideshow Collectibles
Official Description
Pierce Brosnan has brought new vigor to the Bond franchise,
and this mixed-media 1:4 scale figure perfectly captures
his dashing portrayal of 007, the world's best known super-spy.
This semi-articulated figure includes an authentic Brosnan
likeness, expertly tailored clothing, and a hand-numbered
James Bond themed base.
Accessories
Not applicable.
Right: Front panel box art
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"We were more interested in a quintessential
pose and look for the 1/4 scale." - Oluf W. Hartvigson
Above: Gun detailing |
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First Impressions
There are a couple of things that surprise you when you
pick up this figure. First, the size. The second is the
weight. When Sideshow says approximately 11.00 lbs (4.75
Kg) they mean it! The figure is heavy and cold to the touch,
courtesy of the polystone material. Polystone is a mixture
of marble or porcelain powder that is blended with polyurethane
vinyl. Unlike a normal setting process, polystone is created
using a cold process, which enables it to retain greater
detail.
The Base
With a limited run of only 1,250 figures, the underside
of the base is individually identified, numerically. Each
one is printed with the sculptor’s name and signature,
Oluf W. Hartvigson, and the usual legal text. The silver
base is relatively light and the front sports a simple plate
with “James Bond 007” and “Pierce Brosnan”
underneath. The top of the base features the gun barrel
logo that has become synonymous with Bond. Three metal pegs
protrude from the logo, which allow the figure to stand
upright.
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Figure – Sculpting
The body has been formed from a single piece of polystone,
and this has resulted in all the detailing and casting being
carried out with extra care in this larger scale. Both arms
have been joined to the main piece that forms the body of
the figure.
Head – Sculpting
Oluf W. Hartvigson has been working with Sideshow long enough
to know how to sculpt a good figure, and it shows in the
¼ scale Brosnan. It's obvious that a lot of work
has gone into this figure, and it is most evident in the
figure’s head. Both contours and creases have been
worked into the design to give Brosnan the same look as
in later outings as Bond.
The features around the head have little to no flashing
or other manufacturing marks, even around the figure’s
ears, which is unusual for any figure. One point of small
contention with previous Sideshow figures was the hair and
the quality of the fixing. In the Premium Format series
this is not an issue, Sideshow has used the larger scale
to full advantage. The hair is part of the head and is painted
along with the rest of the features. Layers have been worked
into the hair giving additional detail. The parting’s
direction has been carefully considered and incorporated
into the look. The results are excellent and a credit to
Sideshow.
"The scale change gives it a more significant physical presence."
- Oluf W. Hartvigson
Gun & Hands – Sculpting
The sculpting of the hands is something that could be improved
upon. To Sideshow’s credit they have tried to add
a lot of detail, which is evident by the amount of crease
lines and veins that have been added to the hands. However,
the fingers and finger nails could do with a little more
attention. This figure could, however, be a one-off.
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Above: Brosnan is fixed in a classic
Bond pose. |
The Walther that Brosnan holds looks life-like and is held in
the classic Bond pose. One major difference between the ¼
and 1/6 scale figures is that the weapons are fixed into the Premium
Format figure’s hands; this simply adds to the realism of
the piece. The finishing in this area is good, and the weapon
has a painted matte finish, which gives it the look of a real
Walther.
Shoes – Sculpting
The shoes have been carefully and clearly molded, resulting in
lots of detailing. Pegs on the stand fit into three holes in the
shoes, and the fit is tight and allows for no movement. Detailing
can be seen on the seams of the shoes and laces, not to mention
the creases in the leather. The shoes have been molded out of
polystone and then painted, thus the figure has no socks like
the recent Sideshow Bond 1/6 scale figures. Detailing on the underside
of the shoe would have been a nice additional feature.
Above: Reverse panel box art
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Head – Painting
The hair is a single shade of dark brown with lighter highlights
throughout. These highlights are not actually seen from
a distance, but instead add to the overall color. The hairline
is clean, yet slightly ragged which adds to the realism.
Sideshow has done a top notch job in creating realistic
hair in this medium.
The skin bares a slightly tanned color almost identical
to the color of the well-tanned Brosnan. Creases and wrinkle
lines are slightly darker, adding to the figure’s
dimension. The lips, nostrils, and ears are all detailed
using slightly off skin tones.
The sculpted bushy eyebrows are the same color as the hair.
Combining the sculpting and paint appears to thicken and
add more coloration, which helps sell the figure’s
expression. Similar in appearance to the smaller 1/6 scale
Sideshow figures, the eyes are clear brown and the correct
size.
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Gun & Hands – Painting
A small amount of bleed is visible in between the fingers, however
this could be a one-off with this particular figure. Both hands
have lots of detailing, including the obscured palms. The Walther
itself is well painted and detailed, giving a true life-like image.
Tuxedo
The trousers (pants) fit perfectly for the pose, and the length
is down to the shoes on both legs. A gloss strip has been added
on both the outer seam lines, which helps create illusion of a
tuxedo rather than a suit.
The shirt is comprised of several smaller parts. The cuffs are
separated, and they feature gold-colored cufflinks, which adds
a nice touch to the figure.
The chest of the pleated shirt has a single visible white button
holding it fast to the body. Unlike previous Sideshow Premium
Format figures the shirt collar is securely fastened, ensuring
that it always stays in place. The jacket and breast pocket with
handkerchief are well placed and scaled. All the pockets are seamed,
and the lapels use the same gloss material as seen on the trousers
(pants).
Overall
This Pierce Brosnan Premium Format ¼ scale figure from
Sideshow captures his likeness throughout his era as 007, rather
than a specific film, and perfectly encapsulates his iconic image
as the Bond of the 90's. Overall, the figure is excellent and
of exceptional quality. There are a few small areas that could
be improved upon, however these do not detract too much from the
figure, which is a must for any Bond collector.
Abovet: Watch detailing |
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The ¼ scale Brosnan has certainly
built on the success of Sideshow' s ¼ scale Connery.
When comparing both models side by side, it’s obvious
that the creators have thought about working on improving
the Premium Format series rather than simply producing another
figure. As far as ¼ scales are concerned, Sideshow
is going from good to better. The high price tag may put
off some potential buyers, however it’s easy to see
where the money has gone with this figure.
MI6 Rating
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Pierce Brosnan - James Bond
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1998-2005.
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Artists. Bond trademarks ™ Danjaq.
