"There is so much writing in English on Japanese cinema that can't be accepted at face value — not because the writers are careless, but because the differences in culture and language are just too intricate. When I see August Ragone's name on a piece of writing, it gives me permission to place my faith in it completely. Among Japanese fantasy film historians, he's the best working in English." —Tim Lucas, Video Watchdog

Friday, April 15, 2016

BEHOLD! FIRST "SHIN GODZILLA" RETAIL FIGURE
Banpresto's Big Sofubi Figure Lottery Prize Toy!

シン・ゴジラ ビッグソフビフィギュア、ニッポン上陸!


Yuji Sakai's sculpt for the first Shin Godzilla figure, revealed!

Banpresto, a subsidiary of the toy juggernaut, Bandai, has revealed the first figurine based on the new version of the Big G appearing in Toho's upcoming release of GODZILLA RESURGENCE, bowing in Japan on July 29th. And while this Big G is somewhat frightening, the retail price is the complete opposite of most Japanese Godzilla figures on the market.

This 13.4" soft vinyl beauty has been meticulously created by Yuji Sakai, the foremost Big G sculptor in the world, and according to the Banpresto press release, will be released in late July, and sold in "bookstores, hobby shops, game centers, movie theaters, etc.".

So, what's the non-monstrous price for this figure? ¥620 (including tax) — that's only $5.70 USD — how could anyone go wrong with this figure at that price? There's one caveat... This is a lottery ticket price — so, while that's an amazing price on one hand, there's no guarantee you'll get one. But, as with many Banpresto products, you will see them flooding the market in no time.

Banpresto's press release also notes these disclaimers: "Release date may differ on a case-by-case basis depending on individual retailers. Will supplies last. Actual product may differ from photograph. Details are subject to change without notice."

This is our first look at the new Big G's lower legs and feet — overall, I like the way this is looking. Of course, I reserve final judgement until after I see GODZILLA RESURGENCE, itself. Crossing fingers, but not holding my breath...

Meanwhile, as part of the on-going promotions for the upcoming film, cross-promoting two big properties under director Hideaki Anno's belt is "Godzilla x Evangelion". As a bonus in the same press release, this image was included, a mock movie poster illustrated by famed Big G artist and designer, Shinji Nishikawa, for "Godzilla vs. Evangelion".


Nishikawa's fake "movie poster" for "Godzilla vs. Evangelion"!

It is not known as of this writing, if Nishikawa's mock poster, featuring the hyperbolic tagline: "Godzilla Invades!", will be sold on the retail market (Banpresto's press release also mentions two different prize posters, but no specific details), but I'm sure it will be in some form. Still, we are finally seeing the first retail products for the upcoming film, and so far, they look... monstrous.

The Banpresto Lottery Prizes are (not all are pictured):

○ A Prize: Shin Godzilla Big Soft Vinyl Figure
○ B Prize: Godzilla Head Magnet
○ C Prize: Silhouette Ruler
○ D Prize: Clear File Set
○ E Prize: Rubber Strap
○ F Prize: Mini Figure Collection
○ Final Prize: Original Poster
○ Double Chance Campaign: Shin Godzilla Big Soft Vinyl Figure

(Special thanks to Andy Perry, Stephan Lapin, and Paul Haberman for their assistance.)

Stay tuned to this blog for further news on GODZILLA RESURGENCE as it develops! Official website (Japanese only): shin-godzilla.jp

Here are my previous reports on GODZILLA RESURGENCE:
April 13, 2016: Toho's Upcoming "Shin Godzilla" Revealed
January 3, 2016: Toho's New "Godzilla Resurgence" Exposed
December 11, 2015: Meet the"Godzilla Resurgence" Composer
December 10, 2015: The "Godzilla Resurgence" English Poster!
December 9, 2015: Japanese Press Reveals Shin Godzilla's Size
December 9, 2015: Scoop! Teaser for "Godzilla Resurgence"
December 9, 2015: Here's Your Big G in "Godzilla Resurgence"!
November 12, 2015: "Shin Godzilla" Promo Reel Screens at AFM!"
September 22, 2015: Toho Announces Three Principal Cast Members!
September 6, 2015: Shooting Begins on Toho's "Godzilla 2016"!
August 1, 2015: Did These Men Design Toho's New Big G?
April 1, 2015: The Directors of "Godzilla 2016" Speak!
March 31, 2015: "Evangelion" Creator Helms New "Godzilla"!
December 7, 2014: The "Japanese Godzilla" Will Rise Again!

2 comments:

Lloyd L. Corricelli said...

I didn't see a date when the merchandise would start showing up. I'm spending two weeks over there next month...probably a bit early, huh?

August Ragone said...

Lloyd,
Yes, I did mention dates — late July and early August — which will be in conjunction with the Japanese release of the film. Sorry if you didn't see that mentioned in either article on the upcoming figure releases.

All the best,
August