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By Julian H. Betancourt |
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BLACK & WHITE C-3PO and JAWA ANIMATED MAQUETTE
Continuing
with the series of Black & White Animated Maquettes, exclusive versions of
regulars releases of this popular style of collectibles inspired by the
films and the style of the Clone Wars animated series, Gentle Giant offered
in 2007 the C-3PO and Jawa Maquette as an exclusive to the Blister store in
Japan, having a very limited run of just 500 units.
Just
as done with previous exclusives in this Line, 250 of these maquettes were
made available in the United States and worldwide to Gentle Giant's website
Guild members. Through an already dislikable yet familiar raffle
system, paying members were given a chance to sign in and have a chance at
winning the right to purchase the Maquette. The lucky winners were able to
ship home this very limited piece for around $90.00, a lot less than prices
demanded in the secondary market by eBay scalpers.
Unlike
its colored version, presented in truly dramatic colors such as a the
luminous mustard-like yellow painted Threepio, the Black and White maquette
offered a more subtle look of the sculpture in shades of gray an white. A
bit more relaxing approach to the starring eye.
A
LOOK AT HE SCULPT
The
maquette is approximately 8.5" tall at its highest point, being it of course
the top of Threepio's head. As typical of animated style renderings, C3PO
gets depicted in a simplified manner using bold, smooth lines yet precise
enough to bring out the most significant elements of its structure. The
witted droid's frozen pose reflects surprise and dismay, easily noticeable
on its huge bug-like eyes, slightly slanted head and raised left arm. Of
course Threepio has plenty of reasons to feel uneased; its right arm was
severed below the elbow by its diminutive companion, a Jawa.
Concealed
in robes and wearing painted eyes attempting to reflect glow from within the
darkness of its hood, this scavenger creature is equipped with a Droid
Caller transmitter carelessly being pointed at a now disarmed Threepio.
Within the grasp of the Jawa's left hand, pressed against its bandolier,
rests C-3po's unattached arm. Even the wires that once helped moved the
droid's arm are exposed as proof of the sudden yank by the nomadic scrap
metal dealer.
As a
clear depiction of Tatooine's environment, both characters permanently
stand on a wavy tract of sand, placed on the center of a smooth, irregularly
shaped beveled black mate base. Stamped on the bottom of the base, as
characteristic of GG products, is the company's name, title of the piece and
written limited edition number. Included in the box is the Certificate of
Authenticity shaped in the size and style of a collectible card.
FINAL THOUGHT
The
Animated Line of Maquettes has proven to be a refreshing departure from
common sculpts, offering a "caricaturistique" yet authentic look of our most
beloved characters. C-3PO is not an exception. Our all time favorite
Protocol Droid as well as the eerily looking Jawa lend themselves very well
to the Animated look.
Whether
deciding on paying the higher price and going for the exclusive Black and
White version of this Maquette or simply getting a hold of its flashy yet
dynamic colored version, the gracious pose of the characters and overall
look of the set do not leave room for deception. The duo's well accomplished
perennial comedic interaction surely is a sweet treat to the scrutinizing
eye. A great maquette not to be missed.
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