Crom's Review of BD's Beta Ray Bill Mini-Bust

Crom · 01-09-2006, 04:30 PM

Last man standing. These three words sums up the existence of Beta Ray Bill. Or Beta Ray Thor, as he is known in some circles. The only member of his race to survive a radical genetic and bio-engineering process to turn him into their ultimate defender, upon lifting the Hammer of Thor, his power was at a cosmic scale only matched by his honor. Now, Bowen Designs completely captures the alien and warrior aspects of this powerful Asgardian champion.

Randy Bowen sculpted this piece and his love of the character, and all things Thor, shines through. The real quality of this piece is discovered in the details. Whether it is the huge, flowing cape or the exceptionally accurate depiction of Bill’s horse-like face, fans will be pleased with this mini-bust.

This piece is an excellent example of what I find most appealing and exceptional about the Bowen line. Walter Simonson, the creator of Beta Ray Bill, has an artistic style that leaves much to the imagination, but also is so distinct that it offers up what I can only imagine is a tough challenge for a three-dimensional translation. Yet, Bowen seems to know what to keep and what to let go. The pose is classic Simonson, and the costume details are all there, down to the half-curve/dent in BRB’s helmet.

With added touches like a leather strap for his hammer, a handsome nordic-esque base and a paint application better than most, this piece is a must-have for any collector. But what truly makes this a fan-boy grail, is the fact that it matches up so perfectly with the recently released Battle Armor Thor, and hopefully with the potential re-sculpt of Thor himself.

Once you get beyond the sculpt itself, the history of this bust is a great example of a company that listens to its fans. When Beta Ray Bill was initially suggested, there was not a universal cry for its creation. Yet over time it gained fans and supporters. As an odd sign of cosmic kismet, the Beta Ray Bill bust was released at what could arguably be considered his most high-profile moment in comics for the past 15 years, after a new mini-series. Sometimes these things just work out for the best.

JDH · 01-09-2006, 04:41 PM

Great work Crom.

Crom · 01-09-2006, 04:44 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by jdh.goodgrief

Great work Crom.

Thanks. It is a really cool bust. Did I mention in the review he has arms?

**Bullseye** · 01-09-2006, 04:55 PM

Very nice Crom. This is one of the best from P2 no doubt. Looking forward to the new Thor FS.

Kirk Durfey · 01-09-2006, 07:35 PM

Good review, Crom. This is a beautiful sculpt. My only critique of it is that it is 'back heavy', not much of a bump and it will fall over backwards. That is an important issue here in earthquake country...

abarron · 01-09-2006, 08:28 PM

Can't wait for mine to arrive

**wktf** · 01-10-2006, 04:25 PM

I'm hoping for mine this week. Thanks Crom but, in my case, you're preaching to the converted!

**wktf** · 01-13-2006, 12:20 AM

Got mine the other day. A work of art. Anyone know why the helmet wings are part of the resin statue while BAT's wings are rubber attachments? Not a biggie, just curious.

Primal · 01-20-2006, 12:28 AM

Great write-up Crom! I especially like your intro paragraph.

<----We need more Asgardians.

C. Bormann · 01-20-2006, 12:42 AM

Crom,

Great review!!! You covered the topic perfectly from every angle.