End of the PF dream?

[Star Puffs]

Not two characters but they did make the Biker Scout on Speeder Bike. So it's not out of the question.

Especially if they do a good action pose and not just the Ring Wraith standing by a horse.

 

[Seaward]

The SS Freaks board is getting blocked at work for me again, but I just sent over four questions to "Ask Sideshow" regarding Boromir (will he come with his fur traveling cloak?), Gimli (any chance for multiple axe displays?), Sam (possible light up galadriel phial?), and Merry and Pippin (two characters on one base to help get these made?)

If you get a chance, Ask Sideshow some questions about the rest of the Fellowship in the Premium Format line, if you are interested! Thanks!

 

[DaveMac]

The SS Freaks board is getting blocked at work for me again, but I just sent over four questions to "Ask Sideshow" regarding Boromir (will he come with his fur traveling cloak?), Gimli (any chance for multiple axe displays?), Sam (possible light up galadriel phial?), and Merry and Pippin (two characters on one base to help get these made?)

If you get a chance, Ask Sideshow some questions about the rest of the Fellowship in the Premium Format line, if you are interested! Thanks!

I've managed to throw a couple more questions their way. Looking forward to the 'possibly, maybe' and 'refer to new line' answers, though I am still hopeful of a surprise 'yes!'

 

[The Josh]

Lets hope more good vibes come our way. Though being a smart ass probably isn't the best way to get your question answered.

 

[DaveMac]

Macaroni Gimli anyone?

 

[The Josh]

That was a joke. Read it again and you can tell its a joke.

 

[lerath666]

God Damnit Sideshow. Stop starting NEW projects and Finish one for ____s sake.

fnish the PF line.

finish the 1/6th figure line

THEN start something New.

Do BOTH as a Cash upfront Inclusive Pre-order, that can't be canceled, so you're not "unable to recoup financial investment"
And people WILL pay it.

 

[Seaward]

That was a joke. Read it again and you can tell its a joke.

Josh,

It may have been a joke, but it isn't a particularly funny one. I understand that Sideshow is very communicative about new product lines and that they are more in touch with their fanbase than many others in the industry, but to be so dismissive with their fans on this one is frustrating. It seems clear that there is an ardent fan base that has been very loyal to SS and Weta, and we would like to do what we can to help Sideshow understand the demand for figures that aren't getting produced, but to be tasked with making a macaroni Gimli to try and show love for the line is pretty insulting.

 

[The Josh]

Josh,

It may have been a joke, but it isn't a particularly funny one. I understand that Sideshow is very communicative about new product lines and that they are more in touch with their fanbase than many others in the industry, but to be so dismissive with their fans on this one is frustrating. It seems clear that there is an ardent fan base that has been very loyal to SS and Weta, and we would like to do what we can to help Sideshow understand the demand for figures that aren't getting produced, but to be tasked with making a macaroni Gimli to try and show love for the line is pretty insulting.

It wasnt meant as dismissive and they get all of that. Some of you are really taking this a bit more personally than ya need to.

 

[lerath666]

I'll say that if they're not going to make them, they should simply say " we're sorry, we know many of you do want these figures, but it's simply not financially viable to produce them for those of you that want them at a rate you would find affordable."

it would suck. but it would suck less than what they have said so far. we're getting strung along, and it's insulting.

If they're going to make the fellowship's missing members, be it in 1/6th scale, or PF. then tell us. if not, then also tell us so we can move on.

 

[Entropy]

I'll say that if they're not going to make them, they should simply say " we're sorry, we know many of you do want these figures, but it's simply not financially viable to produce them for those of you that want them at a rate you would find affordable."

it would suck. but it would suck less than what they have said so far. we're getting strung along, and it's insulting.

If they're going to make the fellowship's missing members, be it in 1/6th scale, or PF. then tell us. if not, then also tell us so we can move on.

A complete SS Fellowship is not likely to happen in any scale, unless you are one of those sad fools that counts Boromir in armor or King Elessar as part of the Fellowship ensemble.

 

[Seaward]

It wasnt meant as dismissive and they get all of that. Some of you are really taking this a bit more personally than ya need to.

They get all of that? Where did you read that in a Q&A? Or a chat transcript? Can you show me a thread where Dusty responded? I am not trying to be a jerk, but I am really trying to find out more information about this issue.

I know that the joke about macaroni Gimli was meant to be just that, but if we could actually be constructive and show Sideshow the interest out there for the complete fellowship, that would be great. We have listed polls on the issue, several people have asked questions about the missing Fellowship members making a possible PF appearance, and are trying to let Sideshow know how some of the fans feel on the issue.

I've really enjoyed your discussion on this matter (and other collectibles/etc...) here on the board, but I am asking for clarification to see if this is something you know and have read or if you are making assumptions about Sideshow's opinions on these matters. I don't think that they meant that response with any malice or snottiness, but intent and outcome are sometimes not coincident, and sarcasm or a jesting tone rarely come across as type-written text on the internet.

 

[The Josh]

A complete SS Fellowship is not likely to happen in any scale, unless you are one of those sad fools that counts Boromir in armor or King Elessar as part of the Fellowship ensemble.

Its gonna happen in this maquette line. As I've said I really have no doubts about it. As far as sad fools counting those as members of the fellowship. Well, I guess I'm one cause I would. They're members of the fellowship no matter what they wore. Those characters are forever tied to that role as a member. Going back to something that was discussed I think really its more how you look at it than anything. Anytime I look at a piece thats of one of those characters I think member of the fellowship.

They get all of that? Where did you read that in a Q&A? Or a chat transcript? Can you show me a thread where Dusty responded? I am not trying to be a jerk, but I am really trying to find out more information about this issue.

I know that the joke about macaroni Gimli was meant to be just that, but if we could actually be constructive and show Sideshow the interest out there for the complete fellowship, that would be great. We have listed polls on the issue, several people have asked questions about the missing Fellowship members making a possible PF appearance, and are trying to let Sideshow know how some of the fans feel on the issue.

I've really enjoyed your discussion on this matter (and other collectibles/etc...) here on the board, but I am asking for clarification to see if this is something you know and have read or if you are making assumptions about Sideshow's opinions on these matters. I don't think that they meant that response with any malice or snottiness, but intent and outcome are sometimes not coincident, and sarcasm or a jesting tone rarely come across as type-written text on the internet.

I believe Sideshow gets we want to see them and that some of us would buy them if made. I truly believe that talking to them about how much we'd love to see them. That being said they I think they would do it if it would sell well enough to make it worth selling it.

I appreciate that. I enjoy a good discussion with you or anyone really.

 

[Seaward]

I think that you identified two areas that are a sticking point for a lot of collectors Josh.

First and foremost, I think a lot of people started buying the PF line (and the 1:6 line) thinking that it would be the definitive line for the characters from the films. While I don't know for others, I know for my own taste, the definitive portrayals of the nine main heroes from the films are captured during the "Fellowship of the Ring" and the outfits and costuming worn during this film. I don't want to assume, but it seems like a lot of other people share this sentiment.

The maquette line may be on track to capture the nine main characters from the Lord of the Rings Trilogy, and I hope that it does. The production drawings and maquettes that have been shown thus far though illustrate a different direction for a lot of characters though. Legolas will have his Helm's Deep armor, and Boromir will be in his Gondorian Armor. We haven't seen a single hobbit production sketch yet, but they could provide an alternate take on these character as well. I would be happy to see Merry in his Rohan Armor or Pippin in his Steward of Gondor costume in the maquette line, provided that Pippin looks at least somewhat heroic. Having owned the SSW Pippin, the costume was fine, the pose and face certainly left a lot to be desired. I just hope that these alternate portrayals of these characters come into the maquette line, as I think they would nicely compliment the "fellowship" versions of the same characters in the PF line. I like that the PF of Aragorn is more of his warrior persona, and the maquette captures his more mysterious, weary wanderer aspects. Same with Legolas, as the maquette appears to be more action-oriented and dynamic and will look nice with the PF side by side.

Josh has said this in other threads, and in other aspects of collecting, I entirely agree with this idea. Being a completist collector can be a very narrow-minded view of either seeking a collection or enjoying what you have. Years ago, I used to be a completist as a comic collector, toy collector, dvd collector, etc, and moving away from this to a space where I buy what I truly enjoy and appreciate has led me to a much smaller collection, but a much nicer view of the collectibles that I truly appreciate for what they mean to me. For the Lord of the Rings though, the Fellowship representation of these characters is more than being completist. The Fellowship is more than a movie title, and the bonds forged by the characters in the book are really inspiring to me. Each character has his role to play, no matter how big or small, and a collection that might omit Gimli because he is a challenge to produce or Merry and Pippin because they might not sell as well will always feel like a collection that has some holes in it. That being said, I really appreciate your perspective on getting away from the completist mentality, it is some really good advice!

I just want to be careful to not put words into Sideshow's mouth or assume their intentions. They are super collector friendly, and we all appreciate that, but they also run a business and have to make difficult financial decisions. They have to walk that line often when communicating with their fan base too, and I would think every line would lead to some disappointment. Someone's favorite character won't get made, or a pose or sculpt might not be what was in mind when it was announced that a character would be coming to production.

I understand that some people are upset about the possibility that the PF line may not represent the full "Fellowship," as I am one of them, but I'd rather try to find ways to let Sideshow know how important it is that these characters get made, and work together to show our support for this line, rather than just _____ about the issue. I think that Sideshow is open to their fanbase, and they are willing to try new things, and I am always interested to see where they might go with their collectibles lines, even stuff I have no interest in collecting. I would rather keep trying to let them know how cool a PF fellowship would be as that is the focus of my collection (for now!) I've thought about polls here and on other boards (Thanks Geb!) and the continued questions to Sideshow to show support for Merry, Pippin, Sam, Boromir and Gimli to make an appearance in the PF line. If other people have ideas or suggestions though, I'd love to hear them and try to work together on some new tactics! Thanks!

 

[LOTRFan]

First and foremost, I think a lot of people started buying the PF line (and the 1:6 line) thinking that it would be the definitive line for the characters from the films. While I don't know for others, I know for my own taste, the definitive portrayals of the nine main heroes from the films are captured during the "Fellowship of the Ring" and the outfits and costuming worn during this film. I don't want to assume, but it seems like a lot of other people share this sentiment.

The PFs are definitive for me, while I enjoy fully sculpted pieces I much prefer the realism achieved in the PF - esp with how far SS has progressed in producing them. The current lineup of Gandalf, Legolas and Frodo in Moria is awesome (my fave moment from the entire trilogy); as is Aragorn at Amon Hen, a Boromir from the same scene would be amazing. Of course Gimli should be incorported into Moria, and that leaves the remaining hobbits left to produce. My personal feeling is that they should be depicted as they were at Amon Hen, when Frodo decided to leave while Merry and Pippin created a diversion and of course who can forget the scene with Sam?

 

[The Josh]

First and foremost, I think a lot of people started buying the PF line (and the 1:6 line) thinking that it would be the definitive line for the characters from the films. While I don't know for others, I know for my own taste, the definitive portrayals of the nine main heroes from the films are captured during the "Fellowship of the Ring" and the outfits and costuming worn during this film. I don't want to assume, but it seems like a lot of other people share this sentiment.

I agree people bought them thinking they would be able to collect the characters from the films they love. I don't look at anyone line "better" than others though some I do think take that approach to collecting. That to me is one portrayal of the characters. Yes, many including myself would love to have them all in just that outfit.

The maquette line may be on track to capture the nine main characters from the Lord of the Rings Trilogy, and I hope that it does. The production drawings and maquettes that have been shown thus far though illustrate a different direction for a lot of characters though. Legolas will have his Helm's Deep armor, and Boromir will be in his Gondorian Armor. We haven't seen a single hobbit production sketch yet, but they could provide an alternate take on these character as well. I would be happy to see Merry in his Rohan Armor or Pippin in his Steward of Gondor costume in the maquette line, provided that Pippin looks at least somewhat heroic. Having owned the SSW Pippin, the costume was fine, the pose and face certainly left a lot to be desired. I just hope that these alternate portrayals of these characters come into the maquette line, as I think they would nicely compliment the "fellowship" versions of the same characters in the PF line. I like that the PF of Aragorn is more of his warrior persona, and the maquette captures his more mysterious, weary wanderer aspects. Same with Legolas, as the maquette appears to be more action-oriented and dynamic and will look nice with the PF side by side.

The thing with seeing them just in the outfits from the Fellowship film is that its just a costume for me. The Fellowship is more than that to me its about the characters, what they stood for, and how they stood by each other even when not right next to each other. That to me is the Fellowship so it doesn't matter what they wore its what the characters stood for. Thats just me though.

Also one thing people mention a lot is that they want different something we haven't seen before. Yet, when they do a Boromir in Gondorian Armor, Merry in his Rohan Garb, etc. Then they complain that we don't have them in this or that outfit. You don't get to have your cake and eat it too something I think is lost for some folks. Will if this line goes deep enough see both versions? Yeah, I think so.

Josh has said this in other threads, and in other aspects of collecting, I entirely agree with this idea. Being a completist collector can be a very narrow-minded view of either seeking a collection or enjoying what you have. Years ago, I used to be a completist as a comic collector, toy collector, dvd collector, etc, and moving away from this to a space where I buy what I truly enjoy and appreciate has led me to a much smaller collection, but a much nicer view of the collectibles that I truly appreciate for what they mean to me. For the Lord of the Rings though, the Fellowship representation of these characters is more than being completist. The Fellowship is more than a movie title, and the bonds forged by the characters in the book are really inspiring to me. Each character has his role to play, no matter how big or small, and a collection that might omit Gimli because he is a challenge to produce or Merry and Pippin because they might not sell as well will always feel like a collection that has some holes in it. That being said, I really appreciate your perspective on getting away from the completist mentality, it is some really good advice!

No problem. Its just much easier to enjoy collecting when you realize you don't HAVE to get them all. You can if you choose but you don't have to.

I just want to be careful to not put words into Sideshow's mouth or assume their intentions. They are super collector friendly, and we all appreciate that, but they also run a business and have to make difficult financial decisions. They have to walk that line often when communicating with their fan base too, and I would think every line would lead to some disappointment. Someone's favorite character won't get made, or a pose or sculpt might not be what was in mind when it was announced that a character would be coming to production.

Right and that's why when people make comments towards me in that I've seen some kind of secret memos I remind them I'm just stating my two cents. I do know they care about us as collectors, want to give the best products (to all lines), and all that but thats as far as it goes.

I understand that some people are upset about the possibility that the PF line may not represent the full "Fellowship," as I am one of them, but I'd rather try to find ways to let Sideshow know how important it is that these characters get made, and work together to show our support for this line, rather than just _____ about the issue. I think that Sideshow is open to their fanbase, and they are willing to try new things, and I am always interested to see where they might go with their collectibles lines, even stuff I have no interest in collecting. I would rather keep trying to let them know how cool a PF fellowship would be as that is the focus of my collection (for now!) I've thought about polls here and on other boards (Thanks Geb!) and the continued questions to Sideshow to show support for Merry, Pippin, Sam, Boromir and Gimli to make an appearance in the PF line. If other people have ideas or suggestions though, I'd love to hear them and try to work together on some new tactics! Thanks!

Letting them know is great but several here have a negative or what I would call a disrespectful attitude. That will get them or what you want anyplace thats just a fact.

 

[Seaward]

I totally agree on your last point Josh, and that is why I'd rather focus on making a positive effort towards communicating to Sideshow the desire for these PF figures.

I understand the frustration that others feel, but I do agree that while it may be cathartic to vent one's feelings, if we can be constructive to change the situation, I'd rather take that route!

I'll keep asking my weekly questions for the Sideshow Q&A and I encourage others to join in too. I am not sure if anybody else has any other ideas or suggestions, but I would be wiling to help if someone else has a good idea to let Sideshow know that the Fellowship PF would be well-received.

Unfortunately, I think that when Sideshow did not show an absolute commitment to make all nine members of the Fellowship in costumes from the "Fellowship of the Rings" time line, people have expressed reluctance to continue to support this line or other Lord of the Rings lines. Sideshow does have a track record of dropping a license before fans feel the line is complete, so I understand this frustration. This makes for a double-edged sword, in that Sideshow hasn't committed to completing one line (And past history suggests that they might not follow up with their current commitment to the maquette line), people don't commit to actually spending money with Sideshow, and a vicious circle is created. I am really open for suggestions to help avoid this dog chasing it's tail.

 

[The Josh]

It will make a difference especially to and with a company that cares about the very people here on this board.

Well, sometimes a line may not be complete by the fans eyes at anypoint though. Sometimes fans want characters that will never sell well enough to justify making them. With the LOTR stuff things haven't gone the way anyone wants. Sadly, you have had too many bandwagon fans with 10 second attention spans that come and go way to quickly with no movie. That leaves us high and dry and Sideshow without a chance to make the products that sell well enough.

Though, I do think the statue line will do well enough.

 

[DaveMac]

They get all of that? Where did you read that in a Q&A? Or a chat transcript? Can you show me a thread where Dusty responded? I am not trying to be a jerk, but I am really trying to find out more information about this issue.

I know that the joke about macaroni Gimli was meant to be just that, but if we could actually be constructive and show Sideshow the interest out there for the complete fellowship, that would be great. We have listed polls on the issue, several people have asked questions about the missing Fellowship members making a possible PF appearance, and are trying to let Sideshow know how some of the fans feel on the issue.
I've really enjoyed your discussion on this matter (and other collectibles/etc...) here on the board, but I am asking for clarification to see if this is something you know and have read or if you are making assumptions about Sideshow's opinions on these matters. I don't think that they meant that response with any malice or snottiness, but intent and outcome are sometimes not coincident, and sarcasm or a jesting tone rarely come across as type-written text on the internet.

That is the main 'gripe' as it were. Numerous people on numerous occassions have done exactly what you are advocating now and not managed to get a definative answer and some will keep trying like yourself. I know I will.

Macaroni Gimli was a PR gaff and not directed at the collector in general, more I think a quip about how they as artists would like to be able to meet the demand for characters but it will take a landslide of protests / petitions / pasta based artwork to move the real controllers of Sideshow, those who control the purse strings. It's easy to understand how it can be taken as an insult given that collectors have invested their money into the company and yet it seems no one is prepared to answer straight forward questions without marketing another line or fudging the answers because of the possibility some people may give up on staying with a line if it becomes clear where it is headed. But..how many more will stay with it if they knew in advance that the minimum you would get is the core characters from whichever line, in this case the Fellowship, and then everything else would be a possible and worth the fun of the 'hints and maybe's' to see if it's a character you would like to see? .
It's good to know that Sideshow has a sense of humour and they show it in lots of ways through their web site and product blogs. I am also sure that they appreciate honest comments and twists on their own brand of humour without taking their proverbial 'bat and ball' away', and may well stop with the hints, teases and avoidances and answer the simple enough question 'Do you intend to make available the full Fellowship in Premium Format?

Hobbits in Premium Format along with Boromir and Gimli pretty please Sideshow

 

[Seaward]

Thanks for the feedback over the last few days Dave and Josh. I am really just trying to find ways to be pro-active and positive about approaching Sideshow for this situation. We can all complain or vent about situations like this, but just being upset and angry seems impotent. I'd rather try to keep communicating with Sideshow, and maintaining a positive tone in my communications. If it doesn't work, so be it, but at least we tried, right?

I think I'll start a request in the Ask Sideshow subforum too, but I want to make sure that I've worded a request clearly that will garner positive feedback from other fans that might want to reply on this issue too.