SUMMARY:
It was initially released by Hasbro as a “Star Wars – Black Series” exclusive at the 2018 San Diego Comic Con (SDCC). This six-inch Bespin Han Solo recaptures actor Harrison Ford’s look from 1980’s Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back. It’s barely distinguishable from the figure’s subsequent mass-market release; specifically, there’s a subtle change made to Han’s left hand.
This SDCC version allows Han to grip his blaster with either hand. The mass release version allows him to grip the blaster accessory with his right hand only, with his left hand changed to more of a finger-posing pose. Either rendition is the first-ever Bespin Han Solo action figure with a close resemblance to Ford’s likeness.
REVIEW:
Including a commendable paint job, this figure’s sculpting faithfully recreates Harrison Ford’s Empire look. The distinctive part down the middle of his sculpted brown hair and even a few creases in his forehead add welcome touches of realism. This sturdily-built Han Solo figure has better-than-expected articulation. Specifically: 1. His head nods and turns a full 360-degrees. 2. His arms rotate 360-degrees and bend at the elbows and the full-rotating wrists. 3. The figure can bend into a bowing position. 4. Though his knees bend, the articulation itself is minimal. 5. His booted ankles bend and move the feet more than expected. 6. Han’s legs are remarkably spry to simulate walking; running; kicking; and action-pose shooting. Even better, it’s easy to position Han in a standing display pose without a base.
To Hasbro’s credit, this Han Solo figure (along with its “Black Series” Star Wars IV: A New Hope counterpart) presents Han’s finest-ever depiction in six-inch form. All that’s missing is a carbonite-encased version.
ADDITIONAL CONTENT:
While his air mask and/or some extra hands would have been appreciated, Han’s trusty blaster is the sole extra. This pistol snugly fits in his right-leg holster. Despite foot pegs in his boot heels, a display base isn’t included.
PACKAGING:
Hasbro does a superb job displaying the figure. Everything inside the product box a consumer needs to see is readily visible.
BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 9 Stars
Notes: In 2020, Kenner has re-released the mass-market figure as part of its own six-inch Star Wars merchandise. Its packaging features a photo image of Ford posed as Solo in The Empire Strikes Back. Also, a six-inch ‘Han Solo in Carbonite’ figure exists, but this reviewer hasn’t seen it in person.
