The Dark Knight Rises continues it’s assault on toy shelves with a wide range of action figure tie-in product. And, we continue to bring you our opinions on it. Our special feature now continues with a look at the Mez-itz 2 inch vinyl figures from Mezco.

FIGURES AND MORE ACTION FIGURE REVIEW

SPECIAL FEATURE: The Toys of The Dark Knight Rises

Figure: Batman & Bane 2inch two-pack

Line: The Dark Knight Rises Mez-itz

UPC: 696198377118

Here is our first look at Mezco’s take on the big bad on the new film, Bane. The new menace is brought to life by Tom hardy in the film. Here, Mezco’s take on him is brought to life in a two pack with Batman. So, is it worth it? Let’s find out.

Look: Anyone who has seen Mez-itz before knows what to expect here. Mez-itz are 2 inch stylized vinyl semi-articulated figures. They are primarily sold to the collector’s market, though with a property as large as The Dark Knight Rises, there will be some mainstream crossover. These particular Mez-Itz are being sold in a wide variety of stores, including Toys R Us and Barnes and Noble. This particular two-pack contains both the new villain Bane and Batman himself. As I said in my earlier review of the Mezco Tumbler, I really have to compliment the Mezco design team on these figures. I have said it before, but it bears repeating, the paint job on these figures is remarkable. This is especially true of the Bane figure, which has great detail on his mask and some what complicated outfit. Batman also has an impressive paint jod, with grey shading used to give the Batsuit some depth. In a departure from the figure that comes with the Tumbler, this Batman Mez-it has a vinyl cape instead of cloth.

Articulation: Like most Mez-Itz, these figures only have the most basic of articulation. Their arms rotate at the shoulder. Their heads turn 360°. And, their legs rotate outward at about a 45° angle. Other than that, unfortunately, there is none.

Accessories: NONE

IS IT WORTH IT?: It honestly depends on what you are looking for. I hesitate to call these toys or figures, because they have no real “action figure” quality to them. They don’t have many points of articulation, and they have no accessories to speak of. But, they are fantastic collectibles. Again, I must say that the paint jobs are extraordinary. I just wish they did more. I wish they had open hands and came with some sort of accessory, like a Batarang. So, is it worth it? It costs around $13.00 for this two pack, so in my opinion, if you are looking for action figures that offer a large amount of play options, no, these are not for you. But, if you are looking for a great looking collectible featuring the main characters of the new film, this is one of the least expensive, well realized pieces you could possibly pick up. Just don’t expect them to do much.

FINAL SCORE: 3 out of 5

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Figure: Batman & Catwoman

Line: The Dark Knight Rises Mez-Itz

UPC: 696198377125

Next we come to a two-pack featuring another new face from The Dark Knight Rises: Catwoman. Selina, as portrayed by Anne Hathaway, is encapsulated in 2 inches of vinyl. In a very novel twist to this figure, her hair is arranged in a ponytail. But again, the question we’re here to answer is: Is it worth it? Let’s find out.

Look: The Batman figure is exactly the same as the one in the previous review, so I won’t talk about it again here. However, I am going to talk about the Catwoman figure. In a decision that I’m sure will be the source of some debate, her face has been painted in what is now known as the “goggles down” variant. This means that her high tech “spy goggles” are painted over her eyes. They are painted on, so you cannot see her eyes. The whole “goggles down” variant issue will be discussed in a future review. For now, just know that I’m fine with this look, and you should be too. Her body suit, much like Batman’s is black, with shadings in grey. Her hair flows into a ponytail. the bottom of which is painted onto the back and right shoulder of her suit. She has painted red lips and her goggles are painted all the around her head. This figure is unusual, as it is a juxtaposition of the “traditional” Catwoman look, which is tall, thin and statuesque. This figure is short and squat, but still recognizable.

Articulation: The same as the previous Mez-Itz. Head turns. Arms rotate. And, legs rotate outward at a 45° angle.

Accessories: NONE

IS IT WORTH IT?: Again. it boils down to what you want. If you’re looking for an action figure, no. If you’re looking for a cool collectible piece, yes. It really just that simple.

FINAL SCORE: 3 out of 5

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Here are the 3 main characters together. Remember, to recreate thsi image, you have to buy BOTH two-packs.