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'06 | #34 Garindan - A New Hope (Reviewed 07-03-2006) 

Includes:
• Blaster Pistol
• Removable Commlink
• Base 

Click thumbnail for large image Spice: On first glace it was almost a disappointment to see Garindan come around for what I believe is only the second time. However they couldn't have selected better background for this figure. What could be one of the most memorable snitches in the history of Star Wars, Garindan has received one of the more favorable makeovers in the history of action figures. It was very impressive to see the extra mile they incorporated in the latest version of "Long Snout". This is one of the rare cases where doing a sub-character again is very acceptable. This is accomplished only through delivering a product that is more than a mere repaint.

Click thumbnail for large image One of the more noticeable changes is the soft goods cape and hood. I do like it, while it is a bit too shiny and has a satin feel to it.  You have to question the accuracy. Perhaps they should have selected a different, more canvas like material. It is a little taller and more slender than the previous mold as well. The most appreciated aspect of the face is the extra lengths they took in the detail. Once again the older version was a solid color, where here the goggles and mask are two very different colors. The bronze really jumps out at you.  However much of this pales vs. the changes made to the accessories and weapons.

Click thumbnail for large image The fact you can pull back the hood and dig a little deeper into the mysterious Kubaz species is pretty cool. I'm sure we've all wondered about the background on this character, and why did such a good job leading the Sandtroopers to the Droids. The gun belt allows the holstering of the blaster, yet another improvement.  However the most remarkable aspect was the elbow articulation that allowed so many poses with the removable commlink. This really puts no limit to the variety of scenes a diorama builder could have in mind, and I'm sure loose collectors will really admire this attribute as well. The only drawback I see is I'm sure this is the very first thing a child would lose in this series, with exception to the detonator on the Sandtrooper!

Spice - Overall I don't think they could be any more proud on the homeworld of Kubindi as we are right here on earth with this very improved version. They flat out knocked me dead with the work they put into the figure. You can even see the wrinkles where the pants tuck into the boots! Top to bottom this figure rocks and I wish every rehash could be done with this type of quality and commitment.

(Figure '06 | #034, Asst. No. 86800, Item No. 85770, Backing Card P/N 6495802700, Window Insert P/N 6548480000) 

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