Background
Dick Tracy is a long running comic strip that was created by cartoonist Chester Gould in 1931. The character and strip have since evolved into radio shows, film serials, feature films, cartoons and a live-action television series. But the height of popularity for the detective was probably the 1990 film starring Warren Beatty in the title role.
While not based on the film, Tonner Doll Company has produced several Tonner Character Figures based on Dick Tracy comic strip. So we’ll be looking at their take on the famous detective – Dick Tracy.
Packaging
The figure is packaged in a box straight out of the comics. The bright yellow box features the Dick Tracy logo with the well-known font and illustration of the character. Inside, the figure is packaged similar to all TCFs - tied in and well protected.
The Figure
The Dick Tracy Tonner Character Figure stands approximately 17” tall and has 14 points of articulation (neck, shoulders, elbows, wrists, chest, hips, knees and ankles). He comes dressed in the iconic yellow detective’s outfit.
That outfit includes: yellow fedora, white button down shirt, black tie with red and gray stripes, black pants, black socks, black plastic molded shoes, and the yellow trench coat with a matching yellow belt.
This is one of the first Tonner figures that we’ve seen with sculpted and molded hair. With all of the TCFs, Dick Tracy includes a display stand. This figure is limited to a run of 1,500 pieces.
Our Opinion
Tonner’s first try at sculpted hair on one of their character figures was a good attempt. While there are some paintwork issues on the hairline across the brow, it’s a great first try from a company known for rooted and wigged hair.
But here’s where there might be a problem. The yellow fedora is made of plastic, so you have to be very careful to avoid paint exchange when placing it on Dick Tracy’s head. An option would have been to use cloth and cardboard for the hat.
With that said, I like the face sculpt on this figure. It’s the look of a grizzled detective and features a furrowed brow and lines on his cheeks. And while it’s difficult to compare with the stylized comic version, it’s pretty much how you’d envision a Chicago cop from the 30’s.
You can pick one up at the following:
Panik's Toy Box: $112.49
Dick Tracy TCF Grades:
Quality: 8/10
Paint: 7/10
Packaging: 8/10
Durability: 9/10
Hype: 7/10
Fun Factor: 7/10
Value: 8/10
Overall: 8.5/10
What do you rate this figure?
