review by justin anderson

the desription: The Spider-Man movie, while not yet in theaters, is already pouring merchandise out to store shelves. Including an action figure line. And by series 1, does that mean we'll end up with more? Of course, being movie tie-ins, these figures also run about $1 more than the Classics stuff.

NOTE: These toys could provide a potential to spoil certain elements of the film. I will try not to give away anything that hasn't been revealed so far, but be aware that spoilers can still exist.

the articulation: The figure is packed with joints, 38 in total (the package claims 30). The same joints as seen on Classics Spidey, with the addition of bicep swivels (added in Classics 2), and side swivels in the ankles.

the design: The classics body seems to have some staying power for the Spider-Man line. With extra joints, the design is basically the same. However, the figure is a new sculpt. The web lines are raised, and the blue areas are covered in a basic "scale" pattern. The eyes and spider designs are also etched in. Also, being based on the movie, this figure has certain "realistic" elements the comic versions lack (more detailed muscles and bone ridges). Not one piece appears to be reused.

The paint job is much better than earlier waves, and joints seem to be improved(for the most part). The figure is also slightly taller than Classics Spidey.

The figure comes with a large stone bird head statue, whih can mount to the wall, or to a shelf by the vise clip. The bottom of the beak has a string hanging down, with a hook on the end. Pulling out and pressing the button reels the string in. But, the reeling mechanism seems to be too strong for it's own good. And there are no foot pegs to hold the figure in place with.

the review: It's interesting to see how this single design has evolved over a year. It's been used for at least 5 other figures, just in Classics alone. It also goves a first-hand look at the new costume, in detail. ***** out of *****

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