Background

One of the major publishing events of this year is the re-presentation of a long-lost jewel, Roald Dahl's The Gremlins. Purchased by Disney in the 1940s, and only published once as a book, Dark Horse is bringing it back in October and also creating new Gremlins stories.

Dark Horse has decided to launch a line of figures that revolve around The Gremlins story.  (It has nothing to do with Chris Columbus’ Gremlins films of the 80’s and 90’s)  In addition to plastic miniatures and statues, Dark Horse has produced a set of Gremlins vinyl figures.

Packaging

The window-front box is fine for displaying.  The figures are packaged with ties, and are simply snapped into the plastic tray.  The box has pictures of the two figures on the sides and a little information about the book on the rear.

The Figures

The first two-pack includes Gremlin Gus and Fifinella.  Both figures are approximately 7" tall and made of rotocast vinyl. The characters are the primary male and female characters from the book, with plans for other characters to follow.  Both Gus and Fifinella have no points of articulation.

Our Opinion

Disney commissioned Dahl to write the book (his first children’s short story) for a film – that was never made.  Some of Dahl’s more recognizable works include the books - James and the Giant Peach, Matilda and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory – as well as the movie script for Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. 

Personally, I am a big fan of classic Walt Disney animated shorts.  And I realize why a story about Hitler, Nazis, the Royal Air Force and little mischievous creatures didn’t fit into Disney’s blueprint.  It’s nice that Dark Horse has decided to release a piece of our past.

The figures are normal Dark Horse vinyl.  No articulation and rotocast.  (The black goggles are a nice touch.)  Of the two, Gremlin Gus is the better constructed.  The reason is that Fifinella might have some balance issues.  It’s nothing huge, but with soft vinyl and her small feet, there might be balance problems down the road.  Gus’ feet are below his shoulders and his shoes are large, making for a solid base.

You can pick one up at the following:

3DRetro: $33.50

The Gremlins Grades:

Quality: 8/10
Paint: 8/10
Durability: 8/10
Hype: 5/10
Fun Factor: 8/10
Value: 7/10
Overall: 8.2/10

Related Posts

1. Flocked Snoopy Series from Dark Horse
2. REVIEW: Skullboy Vinyl
3. NYCC Exclusive Marvel Syrocos Spider-Man