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Yodasnews Review: Star Wars “Stunt” Lightsaber Replicas
Review and Photography by
Mark Picirilli (Yoda027)
Review Date: March 12, 2010
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
Yodasnews is proud to present a very special review for our readers today: the first three “stunt” lightsaber replicas from eFX Collectibles.
Released under the “Precision Cast” banner, these lightsabers are accurate 1:1 scale replicas of the high quality resin lightsaber hilts used during the filming of Revenge of the Sith and Return of the Jedi. As those familiar with behind-the-scenes information are aware, there were two different kinds of lightsabers created for the major characters. The “Hero” versions were the more elaborate versions, constructed of higher-quality materials and crafted to exacting standards. “Hero” props are those seen in close-up shots and in publicity stills. The “stunt” versions were the workhorses, built specifically for filming the duels and other action scenes involving the lightsabers. Less attention was paid to their detail, and they were typically made of resin.
Without further ado, we present a look at the following “stunt” lightsabers: Anakin Skywalker (Episode III), Obi-Wan Kenobi (Episode III), and Luke Skywalker version 2 (Episode VI).
ACCURACY AND CRAFTSMANSHIP: Excellent (Bordering on Above Average)
It is absolutely vital to keep in mind that these are NOT replicas of the “Hero” sabers nor do they cost several hundred dollars, so do not expect the same level of quality.
That being said, these look far better than their $99 MSRP would lead one to expect. The sculpting is very true to the filming props and the level of detail is remarkable. This is exemplified in the smaller seemingly-insignificant details such as the circuit-board styled ignition switch on the Revenge of the Sith lightsabers and the rustic weathering on the emitter of Luke’s saber. Granted, the higher-end versions show even more detail, but the level found on these look more like a $200 replica than $100. Even the faux-chroming on Anakin’s saber looks just as good as Master Replica’s more expensive version at a casual glance.
Each of these lightsabers have a very nice weight to them. Clearly, the resin is lighter than the machined metal found on “hero” replicas, but they do not feel cheap at all. These aren’t Hasbro or Rubies toy version. These are well-constructed replicas that look beautiful either on their respective display stands or hanging at your hip for cosplay at fan conventions and special theatrical screenings. The comfortable weight distribution should not come as a surprise since these are replicas of props used in elaborately choreographed fight scenes. In fact, this is one area where the “stunt” props trump the “hero” props.
DISPLAY STAND: Excellent
This is another area where it’s important to remember these are not museum-quality replicas. Rather than a mirrored base anchored by eFX-etched screwheads, each lightsaber’s display stand is a single solid piece with the replica information not on a plaque but paint-stamped on the front similar to the method Master Replicas used for their scaled helmet line. The nicest feature of each stand though is the small layer of foam buffering the lightsaber and the plastic cradle. This makes it incredibly easy to pick up and replace the saber without worrying about scratching it on the plastic.
PACKAGING: Excellent
The outer packaging is a familiar sight, corresponding to the Lucasfilm-mandated “30th Anniversary” template which is still enjoying frequent use among higher-end licensees. Inside the box is a very secure styrofoam carton with “eFX Lightsaber” imprinted on the foam with the replica’s obligatory paperwork taped to the front. The paperwork includes a generic non-numbered Certificate of Authenticity, eFX stickers, and a small booklet showcasing current and future eFX products.
OVERALL RATING: Excellent
Given the better-than-expected craftsmanship, effective display stand, and accurate weight distribution, each one of these lightsabers is well worth their $99 price tag. For those who already collect the “hero” replicas from both Master Replicas and eFX Collectibles, these replicas will integrate beautifully into your current collection and complete the other half of the filming prop world—the workhorse “stunt” props. For collectors previously shut out by the higher prices of the “hero” props, these are a nice full-scale substitute (the previous .45 scale line from Master Replicas are still the most economical alternative). Finally, these are the ideal replicas for which costume enthusiasts have been waiting.
All in all, these lightsabers are definitely worth your hard-earned cash.