Black Series Darth Vader (Kenobi) review
One Black Series figure I always wanted to pick up was Darth Vader. At a six inch scale I find Black Series figures lend themselves to characters that are armoured and physically imposing, and generally that have helmets instead of face sculpts. I just think they look cooler, and faces at this bigger scale are unforgiving! Vader ticks both of those boxes in spades, so I pulled the trigger on the Obi-Wan Kenobi series version and was excited to break it out of the box!
The figure immediately captures Vader’s stature and intimidating jet black silhouette. These are the key elements of his character that have resonated with audiences since 1977, and they’re delivered at a satisfying scale. The armour looks very well sculpted and accurate. There’s a glossy black finish contrasting the matte textured cape which feels high quality, accurate, and enhances his overall menacing appearance.
The figure’s articulation allows for a range of poses that demonstrate Vader’s signature intimidating presence, and look of superiority and dread. Its sculpted to allow positioning in the most iconic stances we’re all familiar with. Whether standing with arms on his belt or deep in thought, ready to ignite his lightsaber, or reaching out to dress somebody down…or choke them. I found it easy to position the figure stably, making for good display or dynamic action possibilities.
I was surprised how detailed the saber is too. Its not generic and has the details of Vader’s screen accurate hilt. I do find the blade drops out a bit more easily than I’d like, particularly while trying to get it into Vader’s hands. The hands themselves are fairly limited, Vader’s left hand is in a sort of point come force choke position, with his right hand making an open fist, primarily to hold his saber. This what makes the iconic poses possible but it does mean it isn’t quite right if you look closely for the hands on hips and holding his belt, or if you want both hands on his saber.
I really enjoy that this figure is his design from the Obi-Wan Kenobi series where we saw Hayden Christensen reprise his role and get longer in the armour. I met both Hayden and Ewan at Celebration London, so this is a nice reminder of that for me too. I’ll probably be pairing it opposite my Obi Wan figure from the show.
Overall I’d say Hasbro has has done an excellent job on this Black Series version of Vader, of not just creating a figure but something that captures the essence of Darth Vader’s character and on screen gravitas. It feels like a really true representation of one of cinema's greatest villains. Its physical design, size, and imposing stature make it a great desk toy or for display, and I’m sure it is be brilliant for both collectors and toy photographers too.
MTFBWY
