I was just trying to imagine what it would really take to GET a company like JND to really build a fan driven piece - here are the steps that could make it happen.....assuming that a limited run of statues would need to be 1000 units, and assuming each unit cost to us (the customer) would be around $2000 (this must therefore cover license fees, development, manufacture and profit):
Step 1. Organise and run an initial poll to determine the character and franchise. First result to reach 1000 votes wins. Any ties would go down to a second majority vote.
Step 2. Put the money where the mouth is
- organise and collect 1000 deposits equal to 1/4 of the final price ($500)
Step 3. Present statue request, and advanced deposits to JND.
This would be a great way to get something actually done.....with the only risks being a) acquiring the license and approval, and b) the art direction (portrait expression, pose, etc.). The second risk could be reduced by having a second poll for the winning character, to select the reference art / photos.
Such an approach reduces the guess work, and investment risk for JND, as the deposits are already in place (something they don't normally have at the start of a project).
The whole thing could be done via kickstarter (for example) - what do you guys think?
