Forum member Dwalin has returned again this year to give us a thorough review of the second wave of figures from The Bridge Direct. These figures are pretty awesome and, I believe, after reading Dwalin’s review you’ll see why fans are so fond of these figures. Thanks to Dwalin for helping us out with this review.
First, I want to thank TORN and Elessar in particular for having me back. I also want to thank all of you fellow Tolkien fans, whether you be Hobbits, Dwarves, Elves, Men, Women, Goblins, Orcs, and so on for taking the time to read this article. With that being said, here is a review of The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug figures released via The Bridge Direct. For the 3.75” line, the majority of figures created to date have ball joints at the neck, shoulders, elbows, legs, and knees, along with swivel waists, hips, and wrists. Please assume this is the case unless otherwise stated. Those in the 6” line have the same forms of articulation with added joints at the ankles. In this case, as I find it typically to be, the 6” line does have better detail overall.
It is important to note that some of the figures released for the The Hobbit: The Desolation Smaug wave in 2013 are identical to those released in the The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey wave in 2012. They are 3.75” Fili, Kili, Legolas, Tauriel, and 6” Legolas. With the exception of 6” Legolas, I hope that you will find my review (posted last year) for the repeats produced in the DOS line and several other figures found in the The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey line both helpful and informative. Also, the 6” version of Radagast has already been reviewed by my dear friend, Elessar.
Starting with the 3.75” line, we have the “Mirkwood Hero Pack,” which consists of pre-released Fili, Kili, Legolas, Tauriel, and the new Thranduil. I know that some of you enthusiasts may be asking yourselves, “Was it worth it to purchase the 5 figures only to get 1 that is brand new?” For my part, it definitely was. For all of you who haven’t invested in The Hobbit action figures yet, the average price of this item is $29.99 including tax, you’re paying a little over $5 per figure for characters who stem from an epic tale that will live on and on. Not to mention that the Elven king looks as elegant as ever, complete with a fancy green robe, fine crown, shiny sword, and sturdy staff (the sword and staff both with elven markings). The crown and robe are not removable, which limits Thranduil’s movement, but the figure does give justice to the firm and cold performance of Lee Pace in the films. Clearly, this elf makes a superb addition to the 3.75” line.
Orlando Bloom returns to the Middle-earth for the role of Legolas. This handsome 6” Elven prince does have quite remarkable detail on him. His clothing goes green and brown with some gold here and there. However, the clothing does limit movement. There are elven markings on his forearm and leg armor. Legolas comes with a quiver that comfortably holds 5 removable arrows and both of his daggers. Yet, what would an archer be without a bow? His daggers and bow are covered in more golden elven markings, and they do look like they belong to someone of royal descent. Even his hair is a golden blonde and is situated in such a way that it’s easy for the archer to reach his weapons, if need be. Any goblin that crosses this elf should be warned, and for good reason! No offense to you goblins, of course.
Finally, we come to Azog the Defiler. This figure is massive when compared to others in the 6” line! He bares the many scars of battle along with the makeshift left hand, and we all know how he got that beauty. His clothing does show the faces of defeated Dwarves to intimidate any foe. The ruler’s gigantic mace is also included. This figure has the most mobility in the 6” line and is (in my opinion) the best item made in the The Hobbit: The Desolation of Smaug wave thus far. Though the Azog at SDCC had more accessories, this is an excellent opportunity for those of you who missed out on that exclusive to purchase a major villain in the journey, and at a much less expensive price! Even those of you who have the Azog from SDCC, but don’t want to open it, I would highly suggest picking up Azog the Defiler. Your orc armies do need a leader, no doubt.
From what I have read and seen, there has been a lot of back and forth aimed at The Bridge Direct line of figures for The Hobbit. Many collectors often compare old lines to new ones and naturally try to find pros and cons of both. I’ll gladly admit that I do this myself. Though, it has come to my attention that if these figures do not do well in the market, that the production of The Hobbit figures may be postponed or even cancelled. The last thing I would ever do is ask others to spend money products that they did not deem desirable or necessary. However, as believers in Tolkien and his works, I would ask that fans and consumers show support for these action figures. Rather through purchases directly or simply leaving a comment below, all help is appreciated. Let’s keep The Hobbit action figures alive and hopefully, we can see more of them in the future.
If you have any questions or comments, I shall do my best to answer them. Please address me (Dwalin) directly if you do want a response. Thanks again for taking the time to read my review. I would like to dedicate this article to my sister, Jaclyn, for facing dangers directly and with courage. I know Thorin Oakenshield would be proud of you. Many of us are as well. We love you.
