Seeking Advice, Experience, Thoughts on Seeking Characters Not Yet Made

[ioFrostEminus]

I did do some searches, so apologies if I missed any relevant posts. There is a character I would like need, but a figure does not currently exist. The main character from their show does have one, and the show will get another season but not for a few years, so while the figure I'm after is possible, I'd like to explore all possible options in the meantime, or, just in case. I'm used to buying from Sideshow, where the 1:6 figures are around $300 give or take (praise flex payment plans), lifesize busts around $5000 and full lifesizes around $9000, so I am aware that trying to get a custom commission would be way more expensive, but would not have a clue of any kind of frame of reference. It may be that it would be well out of my means even if I saved a lifetime, but I really want to find out for sure. I'm at the point of being willing to make cutbacks on other things, I have some Hot Toys to sell at some point, and would also be prepared to sell other things. I'd sell a kidney if it was legal.

The dream would be Hot Toys, but aside from them, I only have a robot from ThreeZero, so I don't know what other options there are (I am in UK but open to anywhere globally at this point). I also appreciate there may be the issue of the actor's likeness rights. The character comes fully covered and masked, which may make it easier, but eyes would be great or unmasked variations. I don't care! The ultimate would be a fully covered 1:1 lifesize statue (articulated may be too greedy!), more feasible a 1:1 lifesize bust (the Thor one blows my mind), masked or unmasked. Or a 1:4, or a 1:6 custom at the bottom of my list (if only because one may well be added eventually), but I'd really like to know people's thoughts, experiences or advice for any of those options from any company of any kind of character. Do companies like Hot Toys ever do commissions like this for a higher price? Do other companies have similar quality? I am very desperate but also for this character very obsessed with accuracy in every detail >_<;

Also if I was able to get one made, I'd still buy the Hot Toys one if/when it comes out. Cuz greeeeed >_< Thanks for your time!

Oh, also, if you think there is anything I should consider before committing so much money, that's welcome too. I may not listen, but, I should probably be open to it!

 

[kfcolt1911]

I did do some searches, so apologies if I missed any relevant posts. There is a character I would like need, but a figure does not currently exist. The main character from their show does have one, and the show will get another season but not for a few years, so while the figure I'm after is possible, I'd like to explore all possible options in the meantime, or, just in case. I'm used to buying from Sideshow, where the 1:6 figures are around $300 give or take (praise flex payment plans), lifesize busts around $5000 and full lifesizes around $9000, so I am aware that trying to get a custom commission would be way more expensive, but would not have a clue of any kind of frame of reference. It may be that it would be well out of my means even if I saved a lifetime, but I really want to find out for sure. I'm at the point of being willing to make cutbacks on other things, I have some Hot Toys to sell at some point, and would also be prepared to sell other things. I'd sell a kidney if it was legal.

The dream would be Hot Toys, but aside from them, I only have a robot from ThreeZero, so I don't know what other options there are (I am in UK but open to anywhere globally at this point). I also appreciate there may be the issue of the actor's likeness rights. The character comes fully covered and masked, which may make it easier, but eyes would be great or unmasked variations. I don't care! The ultimate would be a fully covered 1:1 lifesize statue (articulated may be too greedy!), more feasible a 1:1 lifesize bust (the Thor one blows my mind), masked or unmasked. Or a 1:4, or a 1:6 custom at the bottom of my list (if only because one may well be added eventually), but I'd really like to know people's thoughts, experiences or advice for any of those options from any company of any kind of character. Do companies like Hot Toys ever do commissions like this for a higher price? Do other companies have similar quality? I am very desperate but also for this character very obsessed with accuracy in every detail >_<;

Also if I was able to get one made, I'd still buy the Hot Toys one if/when it comes out. Cuz greeeeed >_< Thanks for your time!

Oh, also, if you think there is anything I should consider before committing so much money, that's welcome too. I may not listen, but, I should probably be open to it!

Curious what character are you looking to have made?? So I can look at some references and better advise… not that I know much

 

[ioFrostEminus]

Curious what character are you looking to have made?? So I can look at some references and better advise… not that I know much

Vigilante from Peacemaker. In my avatar, but I'll put an image of full body and close-up of the mask. Then just a normal human underneath with wireframe glasses. I've already learned from this website that DC won't allow guns on their figures, which is a shame because his whole deal is violence He also has a sword and knives, at least. Eyes and nose are visible through a lifting visor.

 

[kfcolt1911]

Can’t remember the show to well but vigilante was the best part. It’s a tricky figure to recommend for. Might be better off waiting since I think a 3rd party company will tackle it eventually. If you wanna go commission route, I’d start by looking through eBay and shops that part out figures for things like the boots, gloves and pistols + holsters… ect ( do as much as you can from existing parts) . And talk to some artists and get quotes from sculptors, tailors and 1/6 sword makers to see what’s possible. Try and find a couple sculptors just incase one is already working on a sculpt.

 

[ioFrostEminus]

Can’t remember the show to well but vigilante was the best part. It’s a tricky figure to recommend for. Might be better off waiting since I think a 3rd party company will tackle it eventually. If you wanna go commission route, I’d start by looking through eBay and shops that part out figures for things like the boots, gloves and pistols + holsters… ect ( do as much as you can from existing parts) . And talk to some artists and get quotes from sculptors, tailors and 1/6 sword makers to see what’s possible. Try and find a couple sculptors just incase one is already working on a sculpt.

Thanks so much! Hadn't thought of starting from parts and details. His style is mostly tactical so there is some hope there. I'll get onto eBay

 

[MyenShi]

I’m amused you wrote the whole first post with only a cryptic reference to the character. Like you’re talking about a crush and trying not to say their name.

Vigilante is great! One of the best parts of N already awesome show. Surprised a third party company hasn’t made one yet but they might.

I don’t know how active it is since I don’t venture over there but wouldn’t hurt to ask in the DC Customs section if anyone has any leads on a custom project.

https://www.collectorfreaks.com/forum/dc-comics-customs.58/
You could also try to piece one together for now. Toy Anxiety and Monkey Depot are the best part out sites. They’re both a bit low on stock at the moment.

You may need to think outside the box for some sorts. Like his helmet could be a repainted knight helmet with red plastic for the visor. Some Star Wars armor parts would be suitable for his knee, shin, and arm armor.

A Hot Toys or ThreeZero Snake Eyes would make a good starting point.

I feel like the Hot Toys version is most of the way there if you just put some blue and white paint and a red visor on him.

 

[ioFrostEminus]

I’m amused you wrote the whole first post with only a cryptic reference to the character. Like you’re talking about a crush and trying not to say their name.

Vigilante is great! One of the best parts of N already awesome show. Surprised a third party company hasn’t made one yet but they might.

I don’t know how active it is since I don’t venture over there but wouldn’t hurt to ask in the DC Customs section if anyone has any leads on a custom project.

https://www.collectorfreaks.com/forum/dc-comics-customs.58/
You could also try to piece one together for now. Toy Anxiety and Monkey Depot are the best part out sites. They’re both a bit low on stock at the moment.

You may need to think outside the box for some sorts. Like his helmet could be a repainted knight helmet with red plastic for the visor. Some Star Wars armor parts would be suitable for his knee, shin, and arm armor.

A Hot Toys or ThreeZero Snake Eyes would make a good starting point.

I feel like the Hot Toys version is most of the way there if you just put some blue and white paint and a red visor on him.

Thanks for your reply! I wanted to post and ask generally, initally, as I'm more after the processes, costs and retailers, etc, and didn't want to put people off by specifying any particular franchise, as my query is less about the character and more about how people go about getting any character. Also thought my avatar might give it away anyway. I have the DC section bookmarked - thank you. That Snake Eyes isn't quite what I'm looking for, but I see why you suggested it, so thank you. The most important thing for me is accuracy, so although it's a great suggestion, generally speaking, piecing one together isn't an option for me, as it would be too much of a Frankenstein's Monster, and I would rather go without if that should be the only option, because I would just never be able to look at it as the character. And my reaction to your suggestions has reinforced how much I'm willing to spend, which in itself is helpful. Instead of, oh... if that's the only option, maybe I shouldn't bother and give up, I'm instead thinking, I need to save, save, SAVE!! Anyway, the more knowledge, the better! Thanks so much again!

 

[kfcolt1911]

The most important thing is accuracy, but even the official 1/6 figures aren’t 100%. It also helps to have a specific pose in mind so you know where to focus. I’d start by assembling as much as I can from parted out figures first. Dam toys or easy & simple probably have the pistol holster your after. I’d go with deadpool 2 hands since they are close enough and come in unique poses. Cable from deadpool has vigilantes second pistol from when he dual wields, some decent looking chainsaws on eBay ect. If you’re not looking to use the sword I’d go for a parted out justice league desthstroke sword, if you wanted to use the sword commission a 1/6 metal sword maker Don’t recall seeing a headsculpt so you will have to look around and find the best sculptor for you. I would save any commission work to the end just incase a third party figure goes up for order. Since vigilante is still a fairly new character I’d stay in research mode until atleast the hot toys peacemaker releases.

 

[ioFrostEminus]

The most important thing is accuracy, but even the official 1/6 figures aren’t 100%. It also helps to have a specific pose in mind so you know where to focus. I’d start by assembling as much as I can from parted out figures first. Dam toys or easy & simple probably have the pistol holster your after. I’d go with deadpool 2 hands since they are close enough and come in unique poses. Cable from deadpool has vigilantes second pistol from when he dual wields, some decent looking chainsaws on eBay ect. If you’re not looking to use the sword I’d go for a parted out justice league desthstroke sword, if you wanted to use the sword commission a 1/6 metal sword maker Don’t recall seeing a headsculpt so you will have to look around and find the best sculptor for you. I would save any commission work to the end just incase a third party figure goes up for order. Since vigilante is still a fairly new character I’d stay in research mode until atleast the hot toys peacemaker releases.

Sure, but the official ones I have, I wouldn’t notice what wasn’t! Hadn’t thought about the pose. Good point, thanks! That’s also a good point about guns as apparently DC won’t allow them, so custom or official, I could at least get some elsewhere. That’s great to know. It is encouraging that the latest Peacemaker in production is attributed to the series instead of the film. I have been (playfully) bitter each time I see similarly new live-action characters like Moon Knight and She-Hulk getting official figures, and Black Adam got his before the film even released! But then, all bigger name stars or studios and probably not so different from the comics. Vigilante was pretty much rewritten. You know your weapons! This is all great information and I will make sure not to rush the research stage. Thanks so much.

 

[kfcolt1911]

Sure, but the official ones I have, I wouldn’t notice what wasn’t! Hadn’t thought about the pose. Good point, thanks! That’s also a good point about guns as apparently DC won’t allow them, so custom or official, I could at least get some elsewhere. That’s great to know. It is encouraging that the latest Peacemaker in production is attributed to the series instead of the film. I have been (playfully) bitter each time I see similarly new live-action characters like Moon Knight and She-Hulk getting official figures, and Black Adam got his before the film even released! But then, all bigger name stars or studios and probably not so different from the comics. Vigilante was pretty much rewritten. You know your weapons! This is all great information and I will make sure not to rush the research stage. Thanks so much.

Think they only attributed peacemaker to the show because the show is more recent. Hot toys only really makes stuff from the latest and moves on so unless vigilante shows up again I wouldn’t expect anything from hot toys. Wouldn’t rule out Soosoo doing an unofficial one tho.

 

[ioFrostEminus]

Think they only attributed peacemaker to the show because the show is more recent. Hot toys only really makes stuff from the latest and moves on so unless vigilante shows up again I wouldn’t expect anything from hot toys. Wouldn’t rule out Soosoo doing an unofficial one tho.

Initial reaction: *hopes deleted*
But no, this is appreciated. It’s far better to have realistic, well, lack of expectation. Not sure about only the latest though, pretty sure I’ve seen Clint Eastwood and Audrey Hepburn recently… possibly through Sideshow though, might not be Hot Toys. But once the new DC plans were announced that certainly pushed this desire to seek a commission because season 2 won’t be for a few years, and that’s without any guarantee any side characters would get figures. I can’t see any of the other characters getting one so it stands to reason that Vigilante is just as unlikely. I’ll add Soosoo to the research. Thanks again so much!

 

[ioFrostEminus]

Actually, @kfcolt1911 I wonder if you might have an opinion on something, as someone with more experience. I currently have the Peacemaker 1:6 on pre-order, but the payment plan hasn’t started just yet. I’ve been deliberating whether to cancel it to save money towards Vigilante, but I’m now wondering if maybe I should keep it. The initial reasoning was because an eventual Vigilante would need his best friend, but less delusional, could it have any bearing on the odds? I know one purchase won’t make a difference but if it’s another statistic/$ to prove interest in the show, maybe?

 

[kfcolt1911]

Initial reaction: *hopes deleted*
But no, this is appreciated. It’s far better to have realistic, well, lack of expectation. Not sure about only the latest though, pretty sure I’ve seen Clint Eastwood and Audrey Hepburn recently… possibly through Sideshow though, might not be Hot Toys. But once the new DC plans were announced that certainly pushed this desire to seek a commission because season 2 won’t be for a few years, and that’s without any guarantee any side characters would get figures. I can’t see any of the other characters getting one so it stands to reason that Vigilante is just as unlikely. I’ll add Soosoo to the research. Thanks again so much!

Clint Eastwood is by sideshow themselves… just got mine a couple days ago. Think the Aubrey Hepburn is star ace. Hot toys have all the big brands and licenses like marvel, DC and Star Wars with soo many new potential figures hot toys very rarely goes back to older movies and shows ( unless it’s Star Wars or iron man). Soosoo toys just released a bloodsport and they have done a bunch of other DC figures so maybe they will do a vigilante at some point.

 

[kfcolt1911]

Actually, @kfcolt1911 I wonder if you might have an opinion on something, as someone with more experience. I currently have the Peacemaker 1:6 on pre-order, but the payment plan hasn’t started just yet. I’ve been deliberating whether to cancel it to save money towards Vigilante, but I’m now wondering if maybe I should keep it. The initial reasoning was because an eventual Vigilante would need his best friend, but less delusional, could it have any bearing on the odds? I know one purchase won’t make a difference but if it’s another statistic/$ to prove interest in the show, maybe?

I’ve heard it said that hot toys only cares about their sales in Hong Kong where their stores are located and that’s why they don’t have global stores. So don’t think it will have any bearing on hot toys. Third party companies might look at how well the figure sells tho. As for if you should keep your peacemaker order I can’t say.

 

[MeatHookGekko]

Vigilante from Peacemaker.

If I was in your shoes, I'd email every major brand, especially the "knock off" brands like Redman Toys and try to lobby to get Vigilante made. Since there is going to be a HT Peacemaker, it would stand to reason that there might be some market for a 'companion' type figure.

Over the 1/6th military side of the hobby, a former OSW Staff member successfully lobbied BBI to make a French Foreign Legion figure. With certain suggestions for specifications that got made. Another regular member gave input into what amounted to a BBI Exclusive two pack set. Another member lobbied and sent photos/schematics to get a Russian figure made. I lobbied a small brand to make black BDUs that ended up coming to market. I submitted some ideas that made it to the prototype stage for 21st Century Toys ( a "villain" with a torture kit with jumper cables and another with a baseball bat with nails in it. ) To be fair, lots of people submitted ideas when TUS had an official message board and asked for fan ideas for new potential product.

A few people in the hobby had their headsculpt likeness end up on a figure over the years.

The point being, you never know until you ask. And the worst that can happen is someone says "No" to you.

I'd contact everyone. Make a pitch. Be consistent in following up. Try to get on a first name basis with people at the various companies.

If it was me, I'd wait for a third party brand to make what amounts to an unlicensed figure for mass release. It will be cheaper in terms of cost against a custom, and the quality will likely be better and you'll have the safety factor of operating with hopefully an established dealer. I've been in this hobby a long time, even despite all the years I was gone. Private customizers for hire are not, against the entire aggregate, reliable. There are good ones and I'm not here to besmirch any known brand name customizer here who takes commissions, but the delivery rate across the board is just not very good.

That's my take. I agree with some comments above that an existing Snake Eyes figure would be a good starting base if you did decide to go a custom route.

Good luck.

 

[ioFrostEminus]

I’ve heard it said that hot toys only cares about their sales in Hong Kong where their stores are located and that’s why they don’t have global stores. So don’t think it will have any bearing on hot toys. Third party companies might look at how well the figure sells tho. As for if you should keep your peacemaker order I can’t say.

That's a shame, especially given how big they are on Sideshow. Thanks though, I still have a couple of days to decide.

 

[ioFrostEminus]

If I was in your shoes, I'd email every major brand, especially the "knock off" brands like Redman Toys and try to lobby to get Vigilante made. Since there is going to be a HT Peacemaker, it would stand to reason that there might be some market for a 'companion' type figure.

Over the 1/6th military side of the hobby, a former OSW Staff member successfully lobbied BBI to make a French Foreign Legion figure. With certain suggestions for specifications that got made. Another regular member gave input into what amounted to a BBI Exclusive two pack set. Another member lobbied and sent photos/schematics to get a Russian figure made. I lobbied a small brand to make black BDUs that ended up coming to market. I submitted some ideas that made it to the prototype stage for 21st Century Toys ( a "villain" with a torture kit with jumper cables and another with a baseball bat with nails in it. ) To be fair, lots of people submitted ideas when TUS had an official message board and asked for fan ideas for new potential product.

A few people in the hobby had their headsculpt likeness end up on a figure over the years.

The point being, you never know until you ask. And the worst that can happen is someone says "No" to you.

I'd contact everyone. Make a pitch. Be consistent in following up. Try to get on a first name basis with people at the various companies.

If it was me, I'd wait for a third party brand to make what amounts to an unlicensed figure for mass release. It will be cheaper in terms of cost against a custom, and the quality will likely be better and you'll have the safety factor of operating with hopefully an established dealer. I've been in this hobby a long time, even despite all the years I was gone. Private customizers for hire are not, against the entire aggregate, reliable. There are good ones and I'm not here to besmirch any known brand name customizer here who takes commissions, but the delivery rate across the board is just not very good.

That's my take. I agree with some comments above that an existing Snake Eyes figure would be a good starting base if you did decide to go a custom route.

Good luck.

Thanks so much! I did email Hot Toys about it last Summer, but it does sound like a good idea to gather all the possible sources and options. It's an excuse to make a project of it and use some of my long-hoarded stationery! And more time for me to save while researching and exploring. And trying to be patient. Very glad I found this forum and thanks again for your time