Kotobukiya Classic Avengers Hulk Review

[JP Sarri]

Throughout all our history, Mankind has been fascinated with powerful beings, raging monsters and their supernatural origin. We are not only fearful of their powers but also we are attracted to their extraordinary nature. Deep inside we feel connected to them, because after all, we also have experienced the same feelings and emotions of frustration, disappointment, rage and anger. Undoubtedly, "The Hulk"'has been one of those mirror characters in which we see ourselves reflected.




For more than 50 years, the beloved green monster has been a staple of our daily lives and the pop culture. From collectibles to toys, movies to video games, his image has been exposed to us in all sort of ways, adding success to his never ending popularity. It is rare to find someone around the globe nowadays, that has never seen or heard of the Incredible Hulk.



With that knowledge in hand, Kotobukiya is releasing another representation of the character as the fifth entry of its 1/6 scale "Classic Avengers Fine Art Statue" line. Sculpted by superstar artist Erick Sosa, this new Hulk arrives eager to take down the competition. But can this monster inflict the final blow to win the all out war? Or will it succumb in the middle against all the heavy weights? - Well, there is only one way to find out. And for that, we need to enter into the gamma zone.




Note:With 4000 units worldwide (the largest edition size for the Japanese company yet), this piece comes well packaged in a standard Kotobukiya box. As always, let me remind you that the packaging is not taken into consideration for our final score.

[JP Sarri]

Sculpt:

The head sculpt on this piece is fantastic. The facial expression is very realistic and it clearly conveys the character's emotions. The body language is tense with every muscle and vein popping out. The broad back and humongous arms are a clear reminder than the Hulk is a force to be reckoned with.





In close inspection you can see the magnificent detail in hands and feet. Finger and toe nails are not perfect but they are clearly defined. The anatomy is quite natural and well executed. The stretched out pants are simple, showing tears all around.



Although the sculpt is phenomenal, there are a couple of things that could have been done better. A larger head would have created a more dramatic visual look; and better texture on the pants would have added a higher level of refinement.

Sculpt: 9.0

[JP Sarri]

Base:

The base design follows the same rocky terrain theme of previously released statues on this line. It is small, light and it has the shape of a number eight. There are two holes at the top of the base for the sculpted peg and the rod under Hulk's left foot to be inserted in. Also, there is a depression for the right foot to sit securely.




One issue that I noticed, is that the base does not offer the best stability possible. The size and leaning position of the statue may be at play, but the lack of weight and width at the base contributes to the problem. Seasoned collectors may know how to tackle this, but I recommend caution to everyone.




Although the artist signs his work proudly, it seems to me that the same amount of love, care and attention provided for the statue, were completely neglected for the base. The work done here is less than ideal and sadly unimpressive.

Base: 5.5

[JP Sarri]

Paint:

Much has been said over the years about Kotobukiya's poor paint application and quality control. This piece leaves me with a lot of mixed feelings and half answered questions. For starters, I like the darker green color used on Hulk versus the version used on the prototype. It gives the statue a more mature look all around. Now, besides the arms and the back there is no much shading elsewhere. This hurts the piece because it hides all the wonderful sculpted detail.




Although I like the color tone, I dislike its quality and the lack of an overall glossiness. In my experience with Koto, this kind of paint tends to peel off or to develop cracks quick. In some areas the lines were not defined or properly painted, exposing some sloppiness. The base showcases a two tone gray color scheme, but it is fairly simple and does not match the paint used on the other bases of this collection.




There are some highlights of green on the hair and that creates a nice contrast. On his mouth, the badly painted lines between the teeth and the dull pink of the gums do not translate the detail very well. The greatest point of contention is that the eyes are not properly centered. The cross-eyed effect is not visible at certain angles, but in others is quite clear and bothersome. Some might argue that this was the intention of the artist, but looking at photos of the prototype is easy to conclude that this was a production defect.




For the most part, the paint application is not bad but not beyond reproach. It seems to me, that Kotobukiya is still not able to leave the reputation behind of its own making. The job here is average.

Paint: 6.5

[JP Sarri]

Accuracy:

Recently, Hollywood has created a more modern image of the Hulk with summer blockbuster movies. The green monster has been portrayed by physically endowed and good looking men. This is not necessarily a bad thing but a reflection of our times. Without a doubt, Sosa took inspiration from the large screen and expressed it in statue form.




The size and symmetry of this piece are impressive. Bulky and muscular, the statue is definitely an eye-catcher. When compared side by side with other pieces, you are left in awe of the mastery of the artist. What I like about this hulk the most, is the semi-dynamic pose that allows you to try multiple display options. All you need is a little bit of imagination to make it work.




If there is a nitpick on this piece is the fact that Hulk is looking down instead of looking up. Also, his crouching position makes him look shorter than what he really is. The illusion is accentuated when displayed with large pieces of the same scale.

Accuracy: 9.0

[JP Sarri]

Since this statue was first hinted back in February, there has been a lot of hype built around it. Over the past few months, many collectors have expressed their desire to add this piece to their personal displays. Including those that are rather collectors of larger scale pieces. In a time when competition is fierce among companies, Koto finally appeared to have the upper hand.





Unfortunately at the end, the product released to the public did not deliver as promised or as expected. The final result seems to be rather unpolished and unfinished. This is one of those rare occasions in which I would have preferred for the statue to be delayed, to allow time for improvement. This Hulk had the potential to dethrone Sideshow and Bowen's best, but fell short on the mission. A bittersweet reminder that having an artist as talented as Erick Sosa, cannot guarantee you total success.

Final score: 7.5 - Very Good




You can also find a video review of this piece on my youtube channel:

Kotobukiya Classic Avengers Hulk Video Review



Kotobukiya Classic Avengers Hulk Video Review

[gomur]

Excellent review, jpsarri. Keep them coming! I can't wait to see Hulk pitted against the Juggernaut. Now THAT statue will have an impressive base! Almost like Magneto and his half-brother are laying waste to the Xavier Institute.

A more impressive base and sharper paints would've made this THE definitive Hulk for many. I'm still plenty pleased with it! Great review again.

[JP Sarri]

Originally Posted by gomur

Excellent review, jpsarri. Keep them coming! I can't wait to see Hulk pitted against the Juggernaut. Now THAT statue will have an impressive base! Almost like Magneto and his half-brother are laying waste to the Xavier Institute.

A more impressive base and sharper paints would've made this THE definitive Hulk for many. I'm still plenty pleased with it! Great review again.

Definetely, my friend. And yes, Juggernaut is going to be another killer piece by Erick. I can't wait to pair it with the Hulk!

Thanks for your support.

[Force of Nature]

Thanks for this amazing review of a very impressive statue my friend!
You have a very entertaining way of reviewing which makes your reviews interesting and very much fun to read.
Besides that your pictures are very clear and simply amazing!

Congrats and kudos with the Incredible Hulk and let's wait together for the arrival of the Unstoppable Juggernaut!

Keep up the good work!

Rainer

*************************************
Nothing can stop The Juggernaut... NOTHING!

[dajuice]

Thanks for taking the time to write a very informative review. I really want to buy the piece but the eyes, the boring pose, and the rushed base makes it hard to click on the buy button.