Background
Dark Horse Deluxe recently released a rotocast vinyl version of Glenn Barr’s Hell’s Proprietor figure. While there was a wooden figure previously released (although not from Dark Horse), this rotocast version better reflects Barr’s character artwork.
So, what’s the story behind the character? This swarthy bug is top management and host to the urban netherworld called Eternah. The overseer to the Land of the Dead. He is quite the pleasant fellow and is fond of the carnivalesque. His main concern is see to it that everybody is comfortable and that all cares are met in this apocalyptic landscape of ruin and amusement.
Packaging
The oversized window box has the artist’s rendition of the Hell’s Proprietor character. The large figure is held into the plastic tray using two twist ties. The actual packaging is somewhat lacking in reading material and large, so I’d suggest displaying out of the box.
The Figure
Hell’s Proprietor was released in two different colorways – Brown and Blue. The 11” tall rotocast vinyl figure has two points of articulation (the neck – sorta – and the left arm). Each figure comes with a removable pitchfork accessory that is held in the left hand. The right hand is holding a rather fashionable flame…maybe representing the flames of hell.
So, which color do you like better? Well, the Brown colorway is the standard version and limited to a run of 1,000 pieces. The more limited Blue colorway has been limited to 500 units.
Our Opinion
We like big toys. We like big toys that stand even better. And you shouldn’t have any problems with Hell’s Proprietor falling over and starting a toy chain reaction of destruction. Since the figure holds a pitchfork in it’s left hand, it helps to steady any problems that could occur.
The quality of the figure is great as well. While Dark Horse has been known for producing inexpensive products that might sacrifice some quality to keep the piece affordable, Hell’s Proprietor does not skimp on quality. There are some minor paint blemishes, but overall, the figure is well done.
It’s a great representation of Glenn Barr’s work. I might have liked a detachable hat, however that’s not a deal-breaker. And the shading on both the blue and brown paints is interesting, making it appear that a light is shining on the figure’s back. What really draws me in is the flame…could it be calling to my inner pyromaniac? Not sure, but it does look cool.
You can pick one up at the following:
Frozen Empire: Brown - $69.95 Blue - $69.95 SOLD OUT
Ningyoushi: Brown - $74.00 Blue - $74.00
Panik's Toy Box: Brown - $74.99 Blue - $74.99
3DRetro: Brown - $64.99 Blue - $64.99
Hell's Proprietor Grades:
Quality: 8/10
Paint: 8/10
Durability: 7/10
Hype: 9/10
Fun Factor: 9/10
Value: 8/10
Overall: 9.0/10
