Toy Review: MIYA-SAN by Martin Hsu x Bigshot Toyworks
QUICK PRODUCT RECAP: "Based on the artwork of Martin Hsu, the 6-inch resin Miya-San figure is a tribute to Japanese writer/director Hayao Miyazaki.
300 of these whimsical figures were produced by Bigshot Toyworks. Net proceeds from the sale of these figures will be donated to Karakuwa-Maru, a community building organization in the town of Karakuwa, Japan. Karakuwa-Maru is involved with rebuilding after the devastating earthquake and tsunami that hit Japan in 2011." (Purchase online here for US$95 / CLICK TO READ all coverage of this collectible on TOYSREVIL)
[ Individual images viewable HERE on Facebook ]
The packaging is pretty impressive, featuring an extremely sturdy hard box, with protective foam all around holding the collectible, with a white foam topper (which made the box unable to lose fully, but which allowed for easier opening of said box, so it all worked out). This box is as much the whole package as the figure itself, and the effort is highly commendable, and as well pushes this piece beyond a "novelty merchandize".
Removing the figure itself from it's extremely snug housing, might take a slight effort though - I was so in fear of breaking anything! Do not do a straight-up "pull", but shimmy the guy out slowly, and you'll be fine :)
[ Individual images viewable HERE on Facebook ]
The figure itself stands 6-inches tall, with the character standing upright, "hands" behind his back, and adhered to a base. This resin statuette features no articulation.
Besides the figure's proportions, this is not a "bobble-head", thankfully, otherwise it would have been quite the tacky novelty item, IMHO. Sometimes the lack of articulation does provide another level of "class" to a piece, and this collectible has it in spades.
Mind you, this piece has a heft to it too, and you'd hardly feel this statuette is in any way a "toy", and is wholly a collectible worthy of any Studio Ghibli-fan, IMHO.
[ Individual images viewable HERE on Facebook ]
The sculpt is pretty sweet, and is based off the designs of Martin Hsu - a Sa Franciso-based artist - who himself is a fan of Miyazaki and as well the Chairman of the Miyazaki Club on Facebook. Saying this is a "labour of love", might well be an understatement.
The lensless spectacle frames might not be perfectly smooth, but the facial dimples are adorable, so it is still a "WIN" for me. "Interesting" that there are no markings or creator & producer names printed on the figure itself though, most notably on the base bottom, but that is not a "deal-breaker" for me whatsoever.
Paint Application on my piece works well, considering the eye-brows and beard are sculpted details, and not a paint-on. The color choices were pleasant and non-confrontational, and there's nothing more negative I can say about this piece!
[ Individual images viewable HERE on Facebook ]
While it is arguable the likeness of "Hayao Miyazaki" might not be immediately recognizable for some folks who relate to the director's animated movies for Studio Ghibli more instead, "true(er)" fans of the anime legend would be proud to have this piece in their collection - we've had tons of Ghibli-animated character toys and sculpts produced through the years, and now their "creator" can stand and be displayed amongst/beside them, and your and DVD collection! Overall a superior piece to own, and recommended to represent your devotion and loyalty LOL
Cheers and have a swell toy-day!
Andy TOYSREVIL
