AFRO SAMURAI ACTION FIGURES: A review

Isn’t the title AFRO SAMURAI just the best thing that has ever been thought of in the history of cool titles? I like to think so. It helps that the anime it accompanies it kicks a great deal of backside, but still, cool title. The Afro Samurai action figures have just arrived this past week, and they perfectly capture the atmosphere and stylized artwork of the series. Now, the show itself may be a slightly tough one to actually follow the story of (headbands? Whu?), but it does serve up some superb action and a great vision of martial arts adventure.

 

The first batch of action figures are a treat, they really are. There’s the Kuma figure, complete with giant bear head, Ninja Ninja (looking every bit as gangly and odd as onscreen), Justice, and of course, Afro Samurai himself. Each one stands a bit taller than regular action figures (thanks to Afro Samurai’s splendid mane), making them look even more imposing. Supplied in clamshell packages, they do look a tad bland when packed up, but once they are out of the clamshells they can be appreciated- these really are figures to take out of the packaging and display. Made by the guys at DC UNLIMITED, these are very nicely sculpted pieces that deserve some shelf space and some admiration. Each is supplied with weapon accessories and obligatory sneers, as well as individual display bases. Marvellous figures from a unique and thoroughly entertaining (if slightly bemusing) anime series.