Review: Kotobukiya ARTFX+ 1/10 Avengers Marvel NOW! Iron Man

Character: Iron Man (Anthony Edward "Tony" Stark)

First Appearance: Tales of Suspense #39

Illustrator: Adi Granov

Sculptor: Abe Jun'nosuke

Manufacturer: Kotobukiya

Classification: ARTFX+

Scale: 1/10

Release: November 2014

Height: 6.5 inches

A KOTOBUKIYA Japanese import! Marvel comics is the next great property to get Kotobukiya's ARTFX+ statue treatment, and so of course the first series is none other than the Avengers, specifically the characters as they appear in Marvel NOW! In 2012 the comic book company relaunched several titles, shifting some characters into different books and updating some for modern audiences. More than anything, it provided a perfect jumping on point for new readers. Now the characters are brought to life as never before based on concept artwork by superstar artist Adi Granov. The latest Avenger to join the team is IRON MAN, who completes the lineup of Earth's defenders with his previously released allies Hulk, Black Widow, Captain America, Hawkeye and Thor!

Created in 1963 by a group of comic book luminaries (including Stan Lee and Jack Kirby), Tony Stark was a rich playboy whose capture during the Cold War led him to create a technologically advanced powered armor suit bristling with weapons and science-fiction gadgets. Best known for fighting enemies such as Mandarin and Crimson Dynamo, Stark would over the years combat his own personal demons as well, making him a very nuanced and interesting character popular the world over. While he would continue improve and upgrade his armors, the brilliant industrialist/hero would also help found the premiere Marvel superhero group the Avengers and fight with them all the way into the current Marvel Now! Universe.

With a fresh start Tony appeared there with a brand new suit of Iron Man armor featuring a sleek design and a bold black and gold color schemes! The Iron Avenger stands at the ready, turned to his side as he raises his right hand to aim a repulsor at the enemy. Iron Man's armor is intricately detailed with layers, panels, vents, and other technological components like secondary repulsors, and the metallic paint really makes it shine.

Scultpted by the same master who did the rest of this Avenger series, Junnosuke Abe (RESTORE), Iron Man stands just under 6.5 inches tall (in the ARTFX+ 1/10th scale) on his included magnetic display base, Add Iron Man to your collection and complete the full lineup of ARTFX+ Marvel NOW! Avengers.

Package No.33

Finally, to complete my ARTFX+ Marvel NOW! Avengers. Iron Man has arrived. I took it from the Courier last night before their Office closing time. This was actually ready from my supplier way back December 24, 2014 and I just had time settled it last Sunday.

How I Create my own Photography Lightbox

Here is what I have been to do since the start of 2014. But because of my work, I haven't got the chance to prepare what I need to do this Project. Now, before ending 2014 I just manage to finish it and today I had finalized it before posting it here.

Here are the things we need to do this Project:
1. 2pcs Unused Box (Must be sturdy - in my case, I used 2pcs of LBC Kilobox5 with the dimension of 14x10.5x7in)
2. Aluminum Foil (I bought a 15m by 30cm for future use)
3. 2pcs 23watt Fluorescent Spiral Light Bulb (You can buy a higher wattage depends on the size of your Lightbox)

4. Tapes (Masking, Packing, Double Sided - much better if you would buy the clear tapes)

5. 2pcs Bulb Socket (I bought the sockets with built-in Switches - if you can't find the one with built-in Switch, you need to buy a separate switch for your bulb)

6. 2pcs Plugs (Much better if color coded - Black/White)

7. Flat Wires (Be sure to buy the wire that is compatible for Bulb use - the length will depend on your preference)

8. Tools (Flat Cutters, Scissors, Screwdriver)
9. Tracing Paper (it will be the diffuser of the Light coming out from the Lightbox)

Review: Kaiyodo Yotsuba&! Revoltech "Danboard Mini (Yu-Pack Ver.)"

Origin: Yotsuba&!
Manufacturer: Kaiyodo
Classification: Revoltech
Material: PVC, ABS
Release Date: July 2014
Dimension: H=8cm

Front of the Box

Back of the Box

Sides of the Box

Back and Bottom of the Box are the same.

Gunpla Builders World Cup 2014 World Championship

Venue: Tokyo Gundam Front
Date: December 21, 2014
Time: 1:00 PM (JST)

Judges

Review: Kotobukiya ARTFX+ 1/10 The Avengers Marvel NOW! Thor

Character: Thor Odinson

First Appearance: Venus #11

Illustrator: Adi Granov

Sculptor: Abe Jun'nosuke

Manufacturer: Kotobukiya

Classification: ARTFX+

Scale: 1/10

Release: October 2014

Height: 8.5 inches

A KOTOBUKIYA Japanese import! Marvel comics is the next great property to get Kotobukiya's ARTFX+ statue treatment, and so of course the first series is none other than the Avengers, specifically the characters as they appear in Marvel NOW! In 2012 the comic book company relaunched several titles, shifting some characters into different books and updating some for modern audiences. More than anything, it provided a perfect jumping on point for new readers. Now the characters are brought to life as never before based on concept artwork by superstar artist Adi Granov. Joining his previously released teammates the Hulk, Black Widow, Captain America, and Hawkeye is the Asgardian warrior THOR!

In 1962 comic book mastermind Stan Lee set out to create a new Super Hero, one who was incredibly powerful. He found such a character in Norse Mythology, the god of thunder. A true champion of good, Thor has fought beside many other Marvel Comics superheroes throughout the years, including several incarnations of the Avengers.

He has even starred in two feature films as well as the ensemble Avengers movie! In he Marvel NOW! Thor continues to fight the good fight in his own book as well as with his fellow Avengers that are gathered in this ARTFX+ series as Earth's Mightiest Heroes. Always eager for glorious combat, the Asgardian is captured in a relaxed battle stance, turned sideways and holding out his hammer Mjolnir in front of him. Thor wears his distinctive Marvel NOW! costume that combines a black tabard with silvery armor, an ornate helmet, and a sweeping red cape!

Sculpted by the same master artist who did the rest of this Avenger series, Junnosuke Abe. Thor stands nearly 8.5 inches talls (in the ARTFX+ 1/10th scale) on his included magnetic display base. Whether by himself or displayed alongside the other Avengers in the Marvel NOW! ARTFX+ collection Thor is ready to lead the fight!

Review: Kotobukiya ARTFX+ 1/10 The Avengers Marvel NOW! Hawkeye

Character: Hawkeye (Clinton "Clint" Barton)

First Appearance: Tales of Suspense #57

Illustrator: Adi Granov

Sculptor: Abe Jun'nosuke

Manufacturer: Kotobukiya

Classification: ARTFX+

Scale: 1/10

Release: September 2014

Height: 7.5 inches

A KOTOBUKIYA Japanese import! Marvel Comics is the next great property to get Kotobukiya's ARTFX+ statue treatment, and so of course the first series is none other than the Avengers, specifically the characters as they appear in Marvel NOW! In 2012 the comic book company re-launched several titles, shifting some characters into different books and updating some for a modern audience. More than anything, it provided a perfect jumping on point for new readers. Now the characters are brought to life as never before based on concept artwork by superstar artist Adi Granov. Joining his previously released teammates the Hulk, Black Widow, and Captain America is the expect archer HAWKEYE!

Created in 1964 by Stan Lee and artist Don Heck, Clint Barton was an orphan working in a carnival who learned archery to become a master marksman. After dabbling in crime he chose the path of righteousness and became a costumed Super Hero, working alongside the Avengers for years and even appearing in the blockbuster film celebrating the hero team.

In the Marvel NOW! Hawkeye stars in his on highly popular book, though he still finds time to defend the Earth alongside his allies as he does in this new ARTFX+ lineup! While some of the other Avengers stand at attention, Clint is prepared for anything with an arrow hooked on his bow as he leans back in an archer stance. Of course he wears his modern, sleek purple and black outfit that's perfect in every detail down to his cool glasses, pistol at his thigh, and quiver on his back.

Hawkeye stands 7.5 inches tall (in the ARTFX+ 1/10th scale) on his included magnetic display base. Clint is ready to use his bow and arrow against enemies of justice all by himself or displayed alongside the other Avengers in the Marvel NOW! ARTFX+ collection!

Package No.31

Earlier today before going to work, I dropped by to the nearest courier just to check if my Items already arrived. Just so happen that only 1 Item is ready for Pick-up and the other 1 is still being checked on their hub. They advised me to comeback for the other Item later that afternoon.

Both Package are LBC Medium Size Box

Gunpla Builders World Cup 2014 Philippines

Venue: Mall Main Atrium Robinsons Magnolia
Address: Aurora Blvd., Quezon City, Philippines

Date: October 1-7, 2014
Judging: October 4, 2014, 4:00 PM
Awarding: October 5, 2014, 4:30PM

Criteria for Judging:
Painting skill, line paint and body decoration - 100
Modification, usage of other parts and remodeling - 100
Creativity, originality (Color, Pose & Concept) Total look of Diorama - 100
Total of 300

Review: Kotobukiya ARTFX+ 1/10 The Avengers Marvel NOW! Captain America

Character: Captain America (Steven "Steve" Rodgers)

First Appearance: Captain America Comics #1

Illustrator: Adi Granov

Sculptor: Abe Jun'nosuke

Manufacturer: Kotobukiya

Classification: ARTFX+

Scale: 1/10

Release: August 2014

Height: 7.5 inches

A KOTOBUKIYA Japanese import! Marvel Comics is the next great property to get Kotobukiya's ARTFX+ statue treatment, and so of course the first series is none other than the Avengers, specifically the characters as they appear in Marvel NOW! In 2012 the comic book company relaunched several titles, shifting some characters into different books and updating some for a modern audience. More than anything, it provided a perfect jumping on point for new readers. Now the characters are brought to life as never before based on concept artwork by superstar artist Adi Granov. Following the initial releases of the Incredible Hulk and Black Widow comes the team leader and patriotic American hero, CAPTAIN AMERICA!

Created in 1941 by Joe Simon and Jack Kirby to represent opposition to Nazi Germany, CAPTAIN AMERICA combined superhero stories with patriotism and the fight against oppression in the world. Recruited into a secret "Super-Soldier" program, Rogers was given a serum and radiation that transformed him into a paragon of human athleticism. Now Captain America steps up and joins this new lineup with a powerful intensity in his face and pose as he strides forward, shield at the ready! Steve wears his current armored version of his traditional red, white, and blue costume complete with tight-fitting cowl adorned with an "A" for America, intricate scale pattern across his upper chest, striped lower torso, and sturdy belt and boots. Of course It's the star spangled shield that really draws in your eye, worn on Cap's left forearm and ready for offense or defense as the situation requires.

Sculpted by Junnosuke Abe (RESTORE), Captain America stands 7.5 inches tall (in the ARTFX+ 1/10th scale) on his included magnetic display base. Display this new incarnation of the quintessential American hero on his own or alongside previously released Hulk and Black Widow statues as well as the upcoming Hawkeye, Iron Man, and Thor to round out your Avengers ARTFX+ collection!

Package No.30

Finally, my ARTFX+ Captain America has arrived! I was waiting for this on the first week of August since it was scheduled to be out of the Market by August 4. I checked some reviews online if there are, but I only encountered only one in Youtube. I think I am one of the few to have this as early as the others just like my ARTFX+ Black Widow. 

The package was delivered via Xend (which is a company covered by LBC Express).

The Box was covered by a thin paper they commonly call something like Jap Paper or so.

Review: Bandai MasColle Gundam Head Collection Volume 4 Possibility Gives Power to the Beast

Line Up: 1. Unicorn Gundam (Destroy Mode) Type: RX-0

              2. Sinanju Type: MSN-06S

              3. Strike Gundam Type: GAT-X105

              4. Re-GZ Type: RGZ-91

              5. Alpha Azieru Type: NZ-333

              6. Sinanju (Battle Damaged) Type: MSN-06S

Origin:    1. Mobile Suit Gundam Unicorn

              2. Mobile Suit Gundam Char's Counterattack
              3. Mobile Suit Gundam SEED

Manufacturer: Bandai
Release Date: November 2013

The box for volume 4 is all Black.

Set Box Art: Front (same with the back)

Set Box Art: Sides

Set Box Art: Top

Review: Kotobukiya ARTFX+ 1/10 The Avengers Marvel NOW! Hulk

Character: Hulk (Robert Bruce Banner)

First Appearance: Incredible Hulk #1

Illustrator: Adi Granov

Sculptor: Abe Jun'nosuke

Manufacturer: Kotobukiya

Classification: ARTFX+

Scale: 1/10

Release: February 2014

Height: 10 inches

A KOTOBUKIYA Japanes import! Marvel Comics is the next great property to get Kotobukiya's ARTFX+ statue treatment, and so of course the first series is none other than the Avengers specifically the characters as they appear in Marvel NOW! In 2012 the comic book company relaunched several titles, shifting some characters into different books and updating some for a modern audience. More than anything, it provided a perfect jumping on point for new readers. Now the characters are brought to life as never before based on concept artwork by superstar artist Adi Granov. For the very first Avengers ARTFX+ release... well, he's big, he's green, and he's always angry... it's the HULK!

Bruce Banner was a scientist studying the effects of gamma radiation when he was caught in an explosion. Rather than destroy him the energies transformed him into the massive green-skinned Hulk! The Avenger stands in a classic comic book page, angled to the side and leaning forward with his arms outstretched. The Hulk has his leading hand open as though to taunt his enemies, though his right hand behind is balled into a fist to deliver a might blow! The Hulk is fantastically detailed with intricate musculature down to his sinews and veins, and the harsh grimace on his face shows off the rage he can't keep bottled up in battle. Banner's alter ego wears his traditional tattered purple pants (no Hulk would be complete with them), and his skin in expertly painted with varying shades of green. 

The massive Hulk stands just barely under 10 inches tall (in the ARTFX+ 1/10th scale) on his included magnetic display base. Hulk will be joined by his fellow Angers with upcoming releases Hawkeye, Black Widow, Capatain America, Iron Man, and Thor, so get him to begin your collection!

Review: Kotobukiya ARTFX+ 1/10 The Avengers Marvel NOW! Black Widow

Character: Black Widow (Natalia Alianovna Romanova)

First Appearance:: Tales of Suspense #52

Illustrator: Adi Granov

Sculptor: Abe Jun'nosuke

Manufacturer: Kotobukiya

Classification: ARTFX+

Scale: 1/10

Release: April 2014

Height: 7.5 inches

A KOTOBUKIYA Japanese import! Marvel Comics is the next great properly to get Kotobukiya's ARTFX+ statue treatment, and so of course the first series is none other than the Avengers, specifically the characters as they appear in Marvel NOW! In 2012 the comic book company relaunched several titles, shifting some characters into different books and updating some for a modern audience. More than anything, it provided a perfect jumping on point for new readers. Now the characters are brought to life as never before based on concept artwork by superstar artist Adi Granov. Following the initial release of the Incredible Hulk comes the elite spy of the team BLACK WIDOW!

Created in 1964 by Stan Lee, Don Rico, and Don Heck, Natalia "Natasha" Romanova was an orphan in Russia who became a super spy and later superhero. Highly intelligent and a master of martial arts and nearly all weapons, she protects the Earth from its greatest threats alongside the Avengers as Black Widow! On a secret mission, the femme fatale joins the ARTFX+ team in her iconic black bodysuit sculpted with tons of details like seams, folds, and zippers, and adorned with gold belt and "Widow's Bite" bracelets. Natasha wields dual pistols, one lowered at her side and the other raised behind her hand, and the holsters for the weapons are accurately portrayed open at her lips. Turned at the waist to look at you, Black Widow regards you with smoldering eyes under her perfectly placed her hair.

The Black Widow stands 7.5 inches tall (in he ARTFX+ 1/10th scale) on her included magnetic display base. The sultry super spy is the perfect centerpiece for any Black Widow fan an she'll look great alongside the previously released Hulk and upcoming Hawkeye, Captain America, Iron Man, and Thor in the Avengers collection!

WIP Part 8: Bandai MG 1/100 Wing Gundam Proto Zero EW [Finished]

Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 | Part 5 | Part 6 | Part 7 |

So here is the final part of this Month long Project that I have surely loved. I have uploaded these images awhile ago in Facebook and now I am officially posting it in my blog too. 

What I did in this last part was applying all the Stickers and Decals based on the manual (I often not follow the Manual for positioning most of the Marking stickers). I took like 2 sessions before finishing the application of marking stickers. After that I Sprayed it with Flat Clear to seal all what I have done to the Kit. Here are some photos for us to enjoy which I did earlier today:

WIP Part 7: Bandai MG 1/100 Wing Gundam Proto Zero EW: Enamel Wash and Weathering

Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 | Part 5 | Part 6 | Part 8 |

I finished this progress last Saturday and I only have the time to post this update now because of busy and tight schedule. Lets proceed directly to what I have done in this progress.

First I sprayed Gloss Coat to all the parts I will be applying the Enamel Wash. I waited like 2-3 days to finish spraying and letting it dry. I made it in 2 batch of spray works. 

After that, I started doing the Enamel wash. I hope I can do a bit of tutorial on how I do my Enamel Wash but I am not that confident with it now because I only use cheap Enamel Paint and Lighter Fluid which most of the time fails me. I am still not closing my mind in doing a tutorial for this so we will look forward to that Tutorial in the Future.

And finally, I continued on weathering it using my handy Weathering Master from Tamiya. Note that when I did the Enamel Wash it is also my initial weathering. Here are some photos I took once done this Progress.

WIP Part 6: Bandai MG 1/100 Wing Gundam Proto Zero EW: Dry Brush and Details

Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 | Part 5 | Part 7 | Part 8 |

After almost 2 weeks of doing this process, finally I have done it and I am pretty satisfied with the outcome. I had fun playing around with the articulation but I am kinda hesitant of moving them all the way because of the material they used in the inner frames (which I have mentioned in the WIP Part 5). 

I also liked the way the Buster Rifle looks without the yellow parts. I looks nice with the hollowed part in the middle of the barrel. The hand manipulator for the Buster Rifle holds it tight and nicely which perfectly carrying and supports the heaviness of the Rifle itself. I haven't yet tested the Twin Buster Rifle on hand whether the arm can still handle the weight of it when combined. 

I haven't yet assembled the Action Base that comes with this kit. I will try to play around using my extra Action Base 1 that I also used in my Tallgeese. Here are some pictures I took in different angles of the finished inner frames:

WIP Part 5: Bandai MG 1/100 Wing Gundam Proto Zero EW: Parts Preparation

Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 | Part 6 | Part 7 | Part 8 |

Before I do my usual dry brushing with the inner frames. I jump ahead in preparing the armor parts first to familiarize it more and see if there are adjustments I need to do before completely assembling it. Here they are:

Head parts

WIP Part 4: Bandai MG 1/100 Wing Gundam Proto Zero EW: Inner Frames Articulation Review

Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 5 | Part 6 | Part 7 | Part 8 |

So here is another series of Inner Frames Articulation Review that I have been doing for a few times already. 

WIP Part 3: Bandai MG 1/100 Wing Gundam Proto Zero EW: Inner Frame Assemble

Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 4 | Part 5 | Part 6 | Part 7 | Part 8 |

This has been my progress throughout the week. I've done this in 2 sessions because I am making my work as neat as possible. I also check the the construction carefully to lessen mistake when assembling the inner frames because I often interchange pieces specially for the Arm and Leg units since they are built in the same manner. So here goes the batch of photos I took while building the inner frames.

Body Inner Frame Parts

The gatling on the shoulders cannot be installed yet since it needs the container first before it can be mounted.