I don't post very often here but after seeing the proto/production photo comparison I just had to throw my .02 in.
I'm convinced now that the uber perfect proto photo had a photoshopped Viggo face "stuck" in and then touched up to make it look like a sculpt. I'm sure someone with time and skills could find the actual original photo or film frame used for the reference. Doesn't this make sense? As the body and pose are the easy parts and Sideshow just saved the facial likeness for last. I can't really blame them for it. We're making these comparisons with pre-production advertising so I guess we could only hope for the best.
What's disappointing is the lack of any explanation from the Sideshow production staff (If there has been and I missed it in this thread or on the site I apologize). I think being more up front and communicative with the design decisions would ease the acceptance of any production presentations, regardless of the time they're given during development. The choice to remove the color richness Aragorn's outfit is also disappointing to me along with the weakness of the right hand sculpt on the hilt and the positioning of the exclusive left hand. Thanks Sideshow! At least I'll have the option.
I won't be canceling my exclusive order. I'm still excited about the scale. It has so much potential!
I haven't received a piece from Sideshow's LOTR line since the poly Aragorn at the Black Gates.
CptCosmo
