This this has been postedone previously, sorry.
I am WAY too excited about this figure and wanted to
share.
http://www.megomuseum.com/first-look-8-inch-bela-lugosi-as-dracula/ (http://www.megomuseum.com/first-look-8-inch-bela-lugosi-as-dracula/)
Supposedly some Targets already have these in stock but the street date is 7/29. I saw someone posted the Sulu on Instagram today.
Quote from: MadCow on July 23, 2018, 06:33:23 PM
Supposedly some Targets already have these in stock but the street date is 7/29. I saw someone posted the Sulu on Instagram today.
Where are they stocking these? In toys or electronics (the Funko area)?
Are they doing any more monster figures, or just Dracula?
-Andy
Quote from: aura of foreboding on July 23, 2018, 07:51:27 PM
Where are they stocking these? In toys or electronics (the Funko area)?
I can't find any mention of where in the store they're being stocked. Though I did just come across this post of a full display:
https://www.instagram.com/p/BllZ3woDFgK/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link (https://www.instagram.com/p/BllZ3woDFgK/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link)
(https://scontent-iad3-1.cdninstagram.com/vp/74cc23dc336d1d829030f969760c8102/5BD6DA3A/t51.2885-15/e35/37254872_2136157150041630_1779065055610929152_n.jpg)
Hi All!
I've posted this in another spot, but I'm hoping this post will attract a few additional eyes who may have missed the other one.
I'm just wondering whether somebody here would be able to please help me out. I would really love to get my hands on a Bela Lugosi Dracula 8-inch Mego figure, but it unfortunately looks like it - not to mention many of the other Mego releases - are now sold out on the Target website. Would someone here in the UMA be able to please pick one of the figures for me, and I could pay for it (via PayPal), along with the postage and a few dollars more for their trouble. I am located in Toronto, Canada.
I had been checking the Target site for the past several days for it to be listed, and decided to click on the "Out of Stock" tab tonight, when the Dracula figure showed up as being out of stock. I have noticed the figures being listed for two to three times the money on eBay and had thought about purchasing one off there. But I would really hate to give in to the scalpers, whom I wish would leave these figures alone for the people who really want them, instead of just seeing them as something to profit from.
If anyone could please help me out, I would greatly appreciate it. Thank you very much for your time. Have a great Sunday!
-James
Went to two Targets this morning and not a single Mego figure anywhere on the pegs...but did have lots of empty/blank areas that toys should go...
I have wasted far more than the $25 worth of time so far looking (the average price scalpers are charging over the cost of the figure) already. So I am ebay bound. Not messing with this hoop jumping. These kind of things turn me off. When Super 7 releases their figures I hope its a little easier.
Why is Dracula (sold out) 17.99 on the website?
Hmmm....Bela Lugosi as Dracula or Alice from The Brady Bunch, I wonder which one is going to be more popular? Why do I have a uneasy feeling that Dracula is going to be the figure that is short-stocked! >:(
Quote from: aura of foreboding on July 29, 2018, 12:00:21 PM
Why is Dracula (sold out) 17.99 on the website?
What website ? Dont see it on target.com
Quote from: BRICK on July 29, 2018, 12:52:18 PM
Hmmm....Bela Lugosi as Dracula or Alice from The Brady Bunch, I wonder which one is going to be more popular? Why do I have a uneasy feeling that Dracula is going to be the figure that is short-stocked! >:(
Alice can warm the pegs til doomsday for all I care. monsters are where its at, baby. Bela! Bela! Bela!
Quote from: favoritemonsters on July 29, 2018, 01:54:50 PM
What website ? Dont see it on target.com
It is on the Target website. You have to click "show out of stock."
Went to my two local stores today. Neither had any. One store was just stocking today's toys. The other said that the Megos are in the rafters and may not be out until Friday. :(
Scalpers are already trying to sell the Bela mego for almost $60 now, its insane how much they try to get.
Has anyone tried a Target "Super-store"? That's where I found all the "Monstervile" stuff last year.
Yup. Me. I got nada. So, I am going to pay out the extra clams and buy from a scalper one state away. At some point, my time and gas have to come into the equation. I have already ran since Friday to three Targets ever day. I am done,lol. I don't wanna waste any more time or gas.
You and I have had this talk about chasing things down in order to have the "honor' or "privilege" of being able to buy a product. It's horrible on the nerves, I think we can agree lol. So I caved and went to ebay.
If the Wolfman and Frankenstein are simply re-releases with slight tweak of the EMCE figures, I can pass them by. But this Dracula will go quite nicely with DD's Dracula wave....so I had to have it. :angel:
Yeah, this is pretty dumb. Forcing us to run all over the place just to find these things, wasting time and gas. If they stocked plenty, we wouldn't be having this issue. Stock 10 or more, and we'd be okay. But if you only stock 2, if you don't get there early enough, some scalper will. It's insane. Not having them on the website on the release date... also dumb. Not a fan.
Checked two Targets and zilch. It's a wild goose chase.
Quote from: Anton Phibes on July 29, 2018, 03:36:09 PM
Yup. Me. I got nada. So, I am going to pay out the extra clams and buy from a scalper one state away. At some point, my time and gas have to come into the equation. I have already ran since Friday to three Targets ever day. I am done,lol. I don't wanna waste any more time or gas.
You and I have had this talk about chasing things down in order to have the "honor' or "privilege" of being able to buy a product. It's horrible on the nerves, I think we can agree lol. So I caved and went to ebay.
If the Wolfman and Frankenstein are simply re-releases with slight tweak of the EMCE figures, I can pass them by. But this Dracula will go quite nicely with DD's Dracula wave....so I had to have it. :angel:
I agree, I might just buy it on line. The fun has been taken out of it. I went back to one of the Targets and the girl that works there said they didn't even get any in and it was sold out on the Target site.
thm
Quote from: Sleepyhollowstudios on July 23, 2018, 10:53:58 PM
Are they doing any more monster figures, or just Dracula?
-Andy
Chaney Jr. Wolf Man and Frankenstein's Monster are upcoming. :o
Quote from: darkmonkeygod on July 29, 2018, 08:34:36 PM
Chaney Jr. Wolf Man and Frankenstein's Monster are upcoming. :o
Shannon, are the Wolfman and Frankie all new (like Lugosi) or are they re-releases of the EMCE figures (like Sulu and Checkov?) I have heard the latter, and I wish for the former.
Personally, if I ever find a Norm from Cheers figure on closeout, I might paint his hair white, dress him in lederhosen and turn him into the Burgomaster from Frankenstein! However, I'm not sure how feasible it would be to customize an Alice from The Brady Bunch into an Una O'Connor figure. :D
As of right now Dracula is in stock on target.com...17.99 limit of 3.
https://www.target.com/p/mego-universal-studios-monsters-bela-lugosi-dracula-action-figure-8/-/A-53475785 (https://www.target.com/p/mego-universal-studios-monsters-bela-lugosi-dracula-action-figure-8/-/A-53475785)
Well, get them while you can and avoid the scalpers peeps. I wish I had waited now,lol. oh well. :angel:
Quote from: favoritemonsters on July 30, 2018, 07:26:24 AM
As of right now Dracula is in stock on target.com...17.99 limit of 3.
https://www.target.com/p/mego-universal-studios-monsters-bela-lugosi-dracula-action-figure-8/-/A-53475785 (https://www.target.com/p/mego-universal-studios-monsters-bela-lugosi-dracula-action-figure-8/-/A-53475785)
Grabbed one for a reasonable price. Thanks for the heads-up! :)
Just got one of the Target site. In these cases, I usually like to see the item that I'm buying to see the condition. Hopefully, I'll get a good one.
thm
Looks like they're sold out online again.
Wow. Didn't get him online. How long was he up for? Heading back to the stores.
Quote from: the_last_gunslinger on July 30, 2018, 10:53:02 AM
Looks like they're sold out online again.
AGGGHHH!!!!! I swear, is Target in business to sell things and make a profit or is their goal just to torment fans???
Quote from: BRICK on July 30, 2018, 05:23:52 PM
AGGGHHH!!!!! I swear, is Target in business to sell things and make a profit or is their goal just to torment fans???
I know! They have more Megos online than ever before, but I have been refreshing every 10 minutes, and no Dracula! So irritating.
Quote from: BRICK on July 30, 2018, 05:23:52 PM
AGGGHHH!!!!! I swear, is Target in business to sell things and make a profit or is their goal just to torment fans???
I'm going with the latter.lol
JP
Two more Target stops today. Nada. Nothing.
Got up early to check Target.com. Nada. Nothing. Been refreshing frequently. Nothing.
Good luck peeps. Even the scalpers are cheaping out. I bought one from a scalper one state away. I could've drove there and picked it up. Instead of paying for priority shipping (he charged me $10 to ship it to me), he must've sent it parcel post. Cause it is in Chicago now and is not expected to be here til Friday. I think its about time for me to quit collecting this crap,lol. :laugh:
Quote from: Anton Phibes on July 30, 2018, 05:00:29 AM
Shannon, are the Wolfman and Frankie all new (like Lugosi) or are they re-releases of the EMCE figures (like Sulu and Checkov?) I have heard the latter, and I wish for the former.
Paul hasn't stated anything about the sculpts, but I would be surprised if these aren't new. The ones he released last time aren't Chaney likenesses. Where did you hear that they are re-releases from the old line?
Quote from: darkmonkeygod on July 31, 2018, 03:38:25 PM
Paul hasn't stated anything about the sculpts, but I would be surprised if these aren't new. The ones he released last time aren't Chaney likenesses. Where did you hear that they are re-releases from the old line?
Either here, or perhaps at Mego forums. All speculation of course on the part of posting parties I'm sure. That's why I asked. The Wolfman I could see them possibly doing a re-release/re-paint kind of thing....but EMCE's Frankie was Glenn Strange to beat the band.
Do you think it's within the realm of possibility that Mego might venture into Dark Shadows territory....picked up where Specter left off?
Quote from: Anton Phibes on July 31, 2018, 05:09:59 PM
Do you think it's within the realm of possibility that Mego might venture into Dark Shadows territory....picked up where Specter left off?
I hadn't even thought of that. Interesting idea!
Quote from: Anton Phibes on July 31, 2018, 05:09:59 PM
Do you think it's within the realm of possibility that Mego might venture into Dark Shadows territory....picked up where Specter left off?
I second the motion. We never got Josette's Ghost, Quentin's Ghost, Vampire Angelique, Stokes, Willie, Liz, Roger... Lots of great options there!
Quote from: aura of foreboding on July 31, 2018, 06:23:46 PM
I second the motion. We never got Josette's Ghost, Quentin's Ghost, Vampire Angelique, Stokes, Willie, Liz, Roger... Lots of great options there!
Maybe Martin will do it. Fingers crossed
Day Five. My soul grows weary. I am running low on food, supplies... If I make it through this day, it will be a miracle. So exhausted, I almost fall asleep, but I am awakened by the sound of savage beasts -- a reminder that I must stay alert if I am to accomplish my mission. At times, I almost forget what that mission is, but the sight of unopened boxes in the toy aisles reminds me. It is true that I have spent the last five days of my life in this unforgiving jungle filled with wild white animals with blazing red markings over their eyes. But, I cannot give up. Soon, they will stock the Megos. I know it.
Meanwhile, my scalper supplied edition is hanging on my wall with the Distinctive Dummie sDracula Wave awaiting the eventual announcement and arrival of the Jourdan Dracula figure to finish the display.
The mego is nice. I am glad I got it. But there's no way in hades I would spend 5 days of my time running around trying to get one. Just easier to lose $20-25 for a scalper so he or she can buy a pizza. :angel:
Eh... It's kind of fun since I have time off work. At least it will be if I find one. The really irritating thing is the online component. If someone knew when Target was going to stock them online, or they made an announcement, it would make everything easier. At least I can see what is happening in the stores.
With only 10K of these things they'll all be on the secondary market before you know it. Someone stated in one of these Mego-Drac threads (why 2 threads?) that everyone will end up with one that wants one, but the way things are now with this rampant scalping most people will have to pay 2 or 3 times retail. The only thing worse than throwing money at a scalper is driving yourself crazy trying to buy from Target. Buying toys used to be fun. Now it's too much aggravation. Honestly, if I hadn't gotten lucky and ordered during the slim window of opportunity from the Target website I would just tap out on this one.
Maybe the manufacturers and retailers will finally get a clue at some point about the large demand for classic monster merch with the disappearing Draculas and good sales last Halloween with some of the Monsterville items. There is profit to be made if they just put out the merch and make enough of it. It seems like they had rather just frustrate collectors than actually make money. Yeah, great marketing... make it aggravating to buy your product at a reasonable price and sour your customers.
I'm still wondering if my Drac will arrive from Target crushed in a padded envelope instead of being shipped properly in a box. Most retailers are either ignorant or just don't care about the condition of packaging. Fingers crossed and all that.
I guarantee you I would be on the same boat as the rest of you if I were working this week. I would be ticked off beyond belief. But, you know, Mike's got his Creech, Anton's got his Wolf Man, M4S's got his Frank... Bela's my favorite, so I make it as fun as possible giving it a scavenger type spin. And I wouldn't be going every day if this were the Bride of Frankenstein or the Invisible Man. haha
The sad thing is that when people ask about Dracula on FB, MEGO just says keep checking back. Wish they could give a definite future release day/time.
I got mine today. No Target I've been to has them on the floor yet, but they are in the backroom. Brickseek shows the box with Dracula(and two other characters) specifically in stock at literally every Target around me. I checked my local one and people had already pulled the Draculas from the back. So, I went to the next closest Target. And after talking to a lady who clearly didn't want to help(going so far as saying they didn't even have the box in the back when the first store told me they did) a different employee went to the back and bright back a Dracula for me. Don't be turned away by terrible employees. They have the figures. Though, there is the chance that people like me may have already snagged the Draculas.
But moving past all of that, it's a really great figure. I thought the pictures looked a little rough. But the clothes are well tailored, and the head and hands are really well sculpted(and the same skin tone!). This thing puts Diamonds version to absolute shame. I saw a guy on the Mego Museum forums say that he put his Mego Dracula in the Diamond Dracula's outfit. Which I've also considered doing. But I kind of like having both of Lugosi Dracula's looks in figure form.
Thanks for the heads-up. Got the disappointing news today that no stores in my area (within 75 miles) will be carrying the Dracula. If they had the 8 inch figures, they are all gone. Managed to get a Batman and a Kirk/Spock gift set. Willing to trade Batman for the Lugosi.
The more stories of this nature I hear, the happier I am I bit the bullet and gave in to a scalper. yeesh. I am also happy there were not 5 or 10 different figures I wanted out of this first round up. Just Bela. Mission accomplished. Now all i ahve to do is wait for the next wave of nervous breakdowns, er....uhm.....figures... to be released. :angel: 8) ;)
That's so weird. I can't even understand why every Target wouldn't get at least one of each box. Because the boxes come packed six figures, two of each figure. And there's only four different boxes of 8" figures. And the one with Dracula in it also comes with Sulu and Action Jackson.
I read that the DPCI for Dracula won't pull up anything, so it's better to use the DPCI for the entire box. You run the risk that someone may have already bought the Draculas, but it will let you know that a store did get them in. And the employees can look it up to see if they have that exact box.
For anyone that's interested, the DPCI for the Dracula/Sulu/AJ box is 087-16-3112
If you type that into the box that says DPCI and enter your area, it'll tell you if your local Targets have/had them.
https://brickseek.com/target-inventory-checker/ (https://brickseek.com/target-inventory-checker/)
Quote from: Anton Phibes on August 02, 2018, 08:33:36 PM
The more stories of this nature I hear, the happier I am I bit the bullet and gave in to a scalper. yeesh. I am also happy there were not 5 or 10 different figures I wanted out of this first round up. Just Bela. Mission accomplished. Now all i ahve to do is wait for the next wave of nervous breakdowns, er....uhm.....figures... to be released. :angel: 8) ;)
Honestly, you had me considering just going to eBay and paying some dud $30 for one. After I failed at the first store, I looked it up on eBay and decided if the second store didn't have it I was just gonna bite the bullet. But the second store payed off and I got to use it as an excuse to swing by Barnes and Noble and pick up the new issue of The Creeps, too!
Was anyone else disappointed in the Jimi Hendrix figure? That figure could have been so much better.
thm
Quote from: comixzombie on August 02, 2018, 08:36:01 PM
That's so weird. I can't even understand why every Target wouldn't get at least one of each box. Because the boxes come packed six figures, two of each figure. And there's only four different boxes of 8" figures. And the one with Dracula in it also comes with Sulu and Action Jackson.
I read that the DPCI for Dracula won't pull up anything, so it's better to use the DPCI for the entire box. You run the risk that someone may have already bought the Draculas, but it will let you know that a store did get them in. And the employees can look it up to see if they have that exact box.
For anyone that's interested, the DPCI for the Dracula/Sulu/AJ box is 087-16-3112
If you type that into the box that says DPCI and enter your area, it'll tell you if your local Targets have/had them.
https://brickseek.com/target-inventory-checker/ (https://brickseek.com/target-inventory-checker/)
So, it looks like they got them in using that code. I believe that someone bought the entire line at my stores before it even hit the shelves. One man, who was not very helpful because he kept changing his story, mentioned that they pulled out the boxes from the back earlier in the week and someone bought all of them. Employees at both stores were adamant that they only had the 12" figures and the gift sets in the back. It was confirmed when they brought them out. Really interesting and really sad.
After going to Target after Target for the last four days, I hit paydirt.
I got there about 1PM and found a minty freshly stocked display that had been untouched since they finished it a half hour before I arrived. FOUR Dracula figures to choose from, and three had some black gunk on his face. Two were sequential serial numbers, and one was pristine.
They were fairly well hidden, and the local contributor to the Mego Museum completely missed them. They were along the back side of the toy aisle. After I sent the pic of the display he asked where they were. He was not amused because he had been there about 2:30 PM and walked all over looking.
Quote from: the_horror_man on August 02, 2018, 08:45:35 PM
Was anyone else disappointed in the Jimi Hendrix figure? That figure could have been so much better.
thm
I laughed and laughed when I saw it.
"As far as I know they might try to wrap me in cellophane and sell me..." Jimi Hendrix lyrics to Somewhere
At least it says "scuse me while I kiss the sky" on the packaging for those who never explored his later work.
What needs to happen, if they continue to release like this, is if someone here finds them or is able to get them online, he/she should buy all he/she can and sell them here at cost. I'd be willing to do that because this whole situation was generally disappointing, and I'd rather not have anyone else go through it.
Quote from: the_horror_man on August 02, 2018, 08:45:35 PM
Was anyone else disappointed in the Jimi Hendrix figure? That figure could have been so much better.
thm
Nope...it is by far THE BEST RICHARD PRYOR SUPERMAN 3 FIGURE EVER PRODUCED. Oh wait....that's supposed to be Jimi Hendrix. In that case, it sucks. ;D
Forgive the ignorance... but has there been any mention that there will be future UM characters after Bela here?
DMG mentioned a Chaney Wolf Man and Monster!
Quote from: the_horror_man on August 02, 2018, 08:45:35 PM
Was anyone else disappointed in the Jimi Hendrix figure? That figure could have been so much better.
thm
First time I saw the picture, I thought it was Richard Pryor - then I saw the guitar.
Quote from: Anton Phibes on August 02, 2018, 11:07:05 PM
Nope...it is by far THE BEST RICHARD PRYOR SUPERMAN 3 FIGURE EVER PRODUCED. Oh wait....that's supposed to be Jimi Hendrix. In that case, it sucks. ;D
Quote from: Jimi Bat on August 02, 2018, 09:07:17 PM
I laughed and laughed when I saw it.
"As far as I know they might try to wrap me in cellophane and sell me..." Jimi Hendrix lyrics to Somewhere
At least it says "scuse me while I kiss the sky" on the packaging for those who never explored his later work.
Yup, so disappointing. Would have been so cool to have an accurate Mego Hendrix.
thm
I received my Mego Dracs today from Target and decided to post how it went. I ordered two for the free shipping and TBH I expected the worst regarding packing. I've had to return several DVDs to the store for refunds because they were packed in padded envelopes and the cases were badly damaged by mail carriers, and it's been my experience that big retailers usually seem oblivious to collectors' desire for nice packaging. Man, I was pleasantly surprised when I saw the mailman bringing a huge box to the door with the Target logo. They packed each figure in separate large boxes that fit perfectly inside a very large box. Each figure was wrapped carefully in bubble wrap and the figures arrived safely with excellent condition blister cards. Paint apps and clothing look good on each figure. I gotta say, this Lugosi Dracula looks great in person. For less than 20 bucks it's a real steal in this day when figures of this quality commonly sell for much more. The serial numbers are very far apart for the same order- #5662 and #9068. Very happy with the purchase. Since they only made 10K of these I suspect they may fetch a good deal more in a few years.
I find it a bit strange that a Lugosi Dracula was included in the "TV Favorites" line. I know Dracula (1931) has been shown on TV countless times since the release of the original Shock Theater package of '57 (which is why were all here), but it's better classified as a classic Horror film than something to do specifically with TV. Besides, someone pointed out that with the exclusion of the medallion it more closely resembles Lugosi's stage version of the character. But, whatever the reason it was included in this line I'm just glad we got another great Lugosi Drac at such an affordable price.
Because they can't use Lugosi as Dracula in a movie for rights reasons, I'd imagine that, since they aren't doing a Favorites of Stage series, this was the only one that made sense and one reason they included a picture of Count Mora since Lugosi did frequently appear on TV as various vampires.
A nice Bela Dracula has flown under the radar to release. Nyuk Nyuk Nyuk. Sorry. 8) ;)
Quote from: the_horror_man on August 02, 2018, 08:45:35 PM
Was anyone else disappointed in the Jimi Hendrix figure? That figure could have been so much better.
thm
Might make a good base for a custom Apollo Creed or Dillon from Predator (both played by Carl Weathers).
(https://target.scene7.com/is/image/Target/53476144_Alt03?wid=1400)
(https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/8/81/Apollo_creed_promo.jpg)
(http://www.scified.com/media/Dillon.jpg)
After reading this thread and checking online for my local store (which said none were available) I was about to skip even checking for Dracula but my wife said she was going for school supplies anyway; and low and behold, one Bela Dracula. The lower left corner was a little bent (I usually do MIP) but given the fact that these are about the ugliest cards I've ever seen I wasn't to worried about it...and I had little choice if I wanted the damn thing. So the moral is, keep checking those stores and you might get lucky.
My Target has nothing of anything related to Mego. they suck.
Quote from: aura of foreboding on August 04, 2018, 04:56:51 PM
Because they can't use Lugosi as Dracula in a movie for rights reasons, I'd imagine that, since they aren't doing a Favorites of Stage series, this was the only one that made sense and one reason they included a picture of Count Mora since Lugosi did frequently appear on TV as various vampires.
What other vampires did Lugosi play on TV aside from movie reruns?
Quote from: horrorhunter on August 04, 2018, 11:58:30 PM
What other vampires did Lugosi play on TV aside from movie reruns?
That's what I'm talking about. He was always on Saturday morning TV as Dracula, Mora, Armand Tesla. Always featured on the Horror Host programs. I mean TV is where I watched my first Lugosi movie.
Quote from: zombiehorror on August 04, 2018, 09:37:38 PM
After reading this thread and checking online for my local store (which said none were available) I was about to skip even checking for Dracula but my wife said she was going for school supplies anyway; and low and behold, one Bela Dracula. The lower left corner was a little bent (I usually do MIP) but given the fact that these are about the ugliest cards I've ever seen I wasn't to worried about it...and I had little choice if I wanted the damn thing. So the moral is, keep checking those stores and you might get lucky.
I don't think the card is that bad, aside from linking the figure to the "TV Favorites" line. I would have just released it as a stand alone figure unconnected with the new line officially. It could have still been released with the TV figures for distribution, just not considered officially part of that line. Linking it with the chaotic TV Favorites line strikes me as a bit clunky and out of place. While I don't think the card is terrible I do agree it could use some
monstering up with Horror fonts and appropriate background and colors. Still a good figure though.
BTW, I noticed these have settled down on eBay and can easily be had for around $30 including shipping. That isn't bad for this figure. During the next couple of months the prices may drop even more as scalpers unload, then around Halloween look for them to possibly creep back up a bit. I believe the figure stands a chance to increase in value substantially in the next few years since the retail on them is so low and 10K isn't really flooding the market with a figure of this quality and pedigree (Mego, albeit new) with such wide market appeal. In 5 years they may be trading for around $75-$100 MIP, which is around what a low production run figure of similar quality would sell for new (like Distinctive Dummies for example). Could be wrong but it's something to spark conversation.
Quote from: aura of foreboding on August 05, 2018, 12:12:54 AM
That's what I'm talking about. He was always on Saturday morning TV as Dracula, Mora, Armand Tesla. Always featured on the Horror Host programs. I mean TV is where I watched my first Lugosi movie.
I get what you're saying. Mego kind of swerved the whole Uni rights thing by implying the movies-on-TV connection, especially
Dracula (1931), but having an
out by falling back on the medallionless stage connection...but then advertising it as a "TV Favorite". I don't have a problem with the swerve. I think Universal and Toho are too aggressive in the so called "defense" of their properties. At least Toho treat theirs with respect, where Universal treat their poor monsters like caca. If someone does come up with a great Uni item (LUNCHBOX, BAGGED PLAYSET FIGURES) then Uni often strikes it down, but then they allow their monster characters to be disgraced with some of the worst items and artwork imaginable. I'm all about buying cool monster merch, and if the Uni suits can't serve the fans with appropriate items I have no problem buying unlicensed stuff all day. I care about the monsters, not the suits.
I think it was pretty ingenious, though I'm fine with just having "Bela Lugosi as Dracula" products and using images from the play.
I was really impressed with how this figure came without mention of the stage or Broadway like other products have in the past. Hopefully it's a sign that Universal realizes it can't possibly win in a lawsuit against a public domain property (Dracula - 1927) being tied to its star.
Quote from: Anton Phibes on August 04, 2018, 10:04:59 PM
My Target has nothing of anything related to Mego. they suck.
While I know mine has the 14 inchers, they refuse to even put them out. It's incredibly bizarre.
Quote from: horrorhunter on August 05, 2018, 12:31:40 AM
If someone does come up with a great Uni item (LUNCHBOX, BAGGED PLAYSET FIGURES) then Uni often strikes it down...
Why do so many of you continue to spread the falsehood that Universal cancelled these DST products? They were solicited to wholesale, the orders were low, and the products cancelled by Diamond. I know I keep saying it, but it's because the lies bother me: it wasn't Uni that killed these, it was the lack of market. I ordered them, did you? Did ANY of you?
I totally understand the need for retailers in a market such as the toy market. I get why MEGO needed Target. I get why DST needed TRU. I get why wholesalers are necessary for companies to commit to making products. I get all of it. What I wonder is if there isn't a better way for these buyers to make more informed decisions on products before turning them down. I know all about "the demo" from my time in the TV industry, and I would imagine buyers are targeting something similar. I imagine, like in TV, there is a lot of "research" that takes place. What I never cared about "the demo" was the fact that I didn't really buy "the research" that told me what "the demo" wanted. Are there focus groups/surveys? What goes into "the research" that helps buyers make their decisions? If so, how do I join these focus groups? haha
I'm kind of surprised that a toy company or producer looking to release a classic monster's item hasn't tried to either partner with or do some kind of market research on either the UMA or the CHFB before deciding to license or move ahead with the character. I think that would be a win/win/win for both the company, the fans and the web board. They could reach the fans directly and gauge their reaction. I realize that this may be a "pie-in-the-sky" idea but members could create aggregate buying circles or memberships, either within or linked to these monster discussion groups. That is, take tentative pre-orders for an item, if 100 people order it in a certain amount of time it will cost them $$$ each, if 500 people order= $$, 1000 people=$, etc. The more people who order, the lower the price per person. Make the process both interactive and fun. It would cut out the middleman, altogether!
Are these found in the regular toy aisle or in the area of collectibles by the dvds?
Quote from: Subatomic_Matt on August 05, 2018, 09:57:24 AM
Are these found in the regular toy aisle or in the area of collectibles by the dvds?
My local Target here in Mo. had an end cap display in the regular toy aisle.
Quote from: darkmonkeygod on August 05, 2018, 02:04:05 AM
Why do so many of you continue to spread the falsehood that Universal cancelled these DST products? They were solicited to wholesale, the orders were low, and the products cancelled by Diamond. I know I keep saying it, but it's because the lies bother me: it wasn't Uni that killed these, it was the lack of market. I ordered them, did you? Did ANY of you?
I only knew about them because of the posts on UMA. I would have bought them if given the chance at retail. If what you say is true then it's a misunderstanding, not a knowing perpetuation of "lies".
Didn't have a fit, did you? Seemed like you were having a fit there. :laugh: Maybe you're taking this stuff a bit too seriously. :-\
Quote from: horrorhunter on August 04, 2018, 11:58:30 PM
What other vampires did Lugosi play on TV aside from movie reruns?
I know you've probably all seen this before, but this was a TV Dracula Bela in "You asked for it". With medallion. It's public domain now I believe. So any number of products could be released I suppose, if it's released under "Master Illusionist Bela Lugosi". Universal could be side stepped forever.
https://youtu.be/nByiNGI3Dps
Quote from: darkmonkeygod on August 05, 2018, 02:04:05 AM
Why do so many of you continue to spread the falsehood that Universal cancelled these DST products? They were solicited to wholesale, the orders were low, and the products cancelled by Diamond. I know I keep saying it, but it's because the lies bother me: it wasn't Uni that killed these, it was the lack of market. I ordered them, did you? Did ANY of you?
Shannon, where the heck did this even appear for pre-order? I surely would've ordered several. I literally saw it nowhere. :'( :'(
Furthermore: when a products pre-orders determine if a product is produced or not; telling the fanbase up front that this is essential might remove procrastinating fans from being on the fence. If I had known Mrs. Bates would not be made if pre-orders werent put in, I wouldve jumped in. Same with lunchbox. Esp. since the items were extremely affordable. >:( >:( :-\ :-\ :'( :'( :'( :'(
Quote from: Anton Phibes on August 05, 2018, 11:52:07 AM
I know you've probably all seen this before, but this was a TV Dracula Bela in "You asked for it". With medallion. It's public domain now I believe. So any number of products could be released I suppose, if it's released under "Master Illusionist Bela Lugosi". Universal could be side stepped forever.
https://youtu.be/nByiNGI3Dps
Awesome!
Quote from: Anton Phibes on August 05, 2018, 11:52:07 AM
I know you've probably all seen this before, but this was a TV Dracula Bela in "You asked for it". With medallion. It's public domain now I believe. So any number of products could be released I suppose, if it's released under "Master Illusionist Bela Lugosi". Universal could be side stepped forever.
https://youtu.be/nByiNGI3Dps
Yep, first saw that clip on
Horrible Horror hosted by Zacherley. I discounted that since it was an extension of the Uni Dracula, but if the rights to that don't extend to Uni due to some legal finagling then it could be a gateway to getting a Bela Drac with medallion. I'm still often unsure about rights laws hashed out in courts by bloodsuckers (not the vampire type). The clip must be PD, and hopefully the image is as a result. Good observation.
Quote from: Anton Phibes on August 05, 2018, 11:55:30 AM
Shannon, where the heck did this even appear for pre-order? I surely would've ordered several. I literally saw it nowhere. :'( :'(
If it was offered I never saw it either. We made such a big deal in that thread griping about those products not getting released that info like that should have been made clear at some point. All this time I was given to understand Uni disallowed those products, as many of us were. I joke around sometimes but I'm not into knowingly perpetuating falsehoods as facts. I would like to hear his explanation as well, along with any proof he can supply to back up his assertions. I didn't even think they made it past the samples pitch stage.
Quote from: Anton Phibes on August 05, 2018, 11:55:30 AM
Shannon, where the heck did this even appear for pre-order? I surely would've ordered several. I literally saw it nowhere. :'( :'(
Never made available for public pre-order that I know of either; maybe it was distributed/dealer preorder?
i am sure if Mezco and or DST were going the "pre-order or bust" route, if they would've done something like Kickstarter or Gofund me, they would've not only got their pre-orders, but eliminated the need for a middle man.
Because that lunchbox and that Mrs. Bates roto plush figure many of us would've ordered. And we are a small niche forum. Imagine if advertised and exposure was given. The whole "Well, Previews didn't get us enough pre-orders" seems like throwing in the towel far too easily to me. Terrible. :'( :'( :'(
Currently IN STOCK so HURRY!!!!
https://www.target.com/p/mego-monsters-bela-lugosi-dracula-action-figure-8/-/A-53475785 (https://www.target.com/p/mego-monsters-bela-lugosi-dracula-action-figure-8/-/A-53475785)
Finally! After I already got one off eBay. haha
Quote from: glane21 on August 05, 2018, 04:24:37 PM
Currently IN STOCK so HURRY!!!!
https://www.target.com/p/mego-monsters-bela-lugosi-dracula-action-figure-8/-/A-53475785 (https://www.target.com/p/mego-monsters-bela-lugosi-dracula-action-figure-8/-/A-53475785)
Cool.
(Limit 3)
I don't see these ever going up in value. If you want one for your collection, then get it, but don't buy one hoping for a future profit. I disagree with some people here saying it's a limited edition. I do NOT consider 10,000 anywhere near limited. I don't consider 1,000 to be limited either. That's laughable to me.
JP
Quote from: glane21 on August 05, 2018, 04:24:37 PM
Currently IN STOCK so HURRY!!!!
https://www.target.com/p/mego-monsters-bela-lugosi-dracula-action-figure-8/-/A-53475785 (https://www.target.com/p/mego-monsters-bela-lugosi-dracula-action-figure-8/-/A-53475785)
Thanks, man, I just got 2 from Target. You're a lifesaver.
Quote from: Wolfman on August 05, 2018, 05:17:41 PM
I don't see these ever going up in value. If you want one for your collection, then get it, but don't buy one hoping for a future profit. I disagree with some people here saying it's a limited edition. I do NOT consider 10,000 anywhere near limited. I don't consider 1,000 to be limited either. That's laughable to me.
JP
I never buy things with hopes of turning a quick profit. This is a cool figure at a great price. I'm a happy fool. 10,000 is a large edition size, but I have a feeling that even non-horror fans will pick this up for their collections. Hell , some people will even pick up that dreadful Hendrix one ( no matter how bad it lloks).
Quote from: Wolfman on August 05, 2018, 05:17:41 PM
I don't see these ever going up in value. If you want one for your collection, then get it, but don't buy one hoping for a future profit. I disagree with some people here saying it's a limited edition. I do NOT consider 10,000 anywhere near limited. I don't consider 1,000 to be limited either. That's laughable to me.
JP
It all depends on how many people want one in a few years. The Sideshow figures and DST figures sold thousands of units and some of them are quite pricey these days, especially some of the Sideshows. I don't invest in new collectibles. I just buy what I enjoy having in my collection. As far as the Mego Drac goes I just ordered an extra one for free shipping, but for people who do invest in new figures this one looks like a good candidate.
A smart investment these days is older comic books/monster mags (pre '80s), especially keys and especially high grade. That's where crazy money has been made and will continue to be made for the foreseeable future. Original comic book art has soared in price as well.
I do see this figure appreciating in value, somewhat; but it will never come close to reaching the price of an original AHI Creature!
I do plan on snagging one at some point. But with 10,000 of these floating around, I'm in no rush.
JP
Quote from: Anton Phibes on August 05, 2018, 11:55:30 AM
Shannon, where the heck did this even appear for pre-order?
I don't know specifically which DST items everyone is referring to but the DST Creature and Frankenstein gelatin molds were available for preorder. I preordered all the molds in every size through Entertainment Earth (and they cancelled the order when they weren't produced). I know Universal wasn't the one that killed those, it was that no one except me apparently preordered them and DST decided not to produce it (which sucked because green Jello would taste even more amazing in the shape of Creech or Frank). Perhaps that was a sign for DST to kill the rest of the stuff but that's just an (educated) guess on my part.
This was the link for the large Creature mold:
https://www.entertainmentearth.com/product/universal-monsters-creature-gelatin-mold/dcl10642 (https://www.entertainmentearth.com/product/universal-monsters-creature-gelatin-mold/dcl10642)
I just went into the Target website and entered my zip code, and it told me what are the nearest Targets that have the Dracula in stock.
JP
Quote from: Wolfman on August 05, 2018, 09:09:55 PM
I just went into the Target website and entered my zip code, and it told me what are the nearest Targets that have the Dracula in stock.
JP
When I do that, all I get is this:
https://www.target.com/p/despicable-me-2-deluxe-action-figures/-/A-17064073 (https://www.target.com/p/despicable-me-2-deluxe-action-figures/-/A-17064073)
My Targets SUCK.
Where it says check other stores, put in your zip code. It will give you stores within 100 miles. Don't forget to bring up the Dracula first though.
JP
Quote from: aura of foreboding on August 05, 2018, 09:25:12 PM
When I do that, all I get is this:
https://www.target.com/p/despicable-me-2-deluxe-action-figures/-/A-17064073 (https://www.target.com/p/despicable-me-2-deluxe-action-figures/-/A-17064073)
My Targets SUCK.
Same thing was happening to me but I went to the store and they had a fully stocked Mego end cap; only one Dracula though.
Quote from: Wolfman on August 05, 2018, 10:16:35 PM
Where it says check other stores, put in your zip code. It will give you stores within 100 miles. Don't forget to bring up the Dracula first though.
JP
I did the "100 mile" search and it still showed nothing in my area but as I stated above found a Dracula anyway in a fully stocked Mego end cap.
Quote from: zombiehorror on August 05, 2018, 10:26:33 PM
Same thing was happening to me but I went to the store and they had a fully stocked Mego end cap; only one Dracula though.
I did the "100 mile" search and it still showed nothing in my area but as I stated above found a Dracula anyway in a fully stocked Mego end cap.
Okay, at least you got one.
JP
Quote from: aura of foreboding on August 05, 2018, 09:25:12 PM
When I do that, all I get is this:
https://www.target.com/p/despicable-me-2-deluxe-action-figures/-/A-17064073 (https://www.target.com/p/despicable-me-2-deluxe-action-figures/-/A-17064073)
My Targets SUCK.
Sure you typed MEGO Dracula and not ME Dracula?
Quote from: Wolfman on August 05, 2018, 10:16:35 PM
Where it says check other stores, put in your zip code. It will give you stores within 100 miles. Don't forget to bring up the Dracula first though.
JP
Quote from: Monsters For Sale on August 05, 2018, 11:30:10 PM
Sure you typed MEGO Dracula and not ME Dracula?
Trust me, guys. Trust me. I know exactly what I am doing. I knew exactly what I was doing when I visited every Target store within a 50 mile radius, when I asked them to bring out every box marked MEGO, when I had Target put me on the mailing list to tell me when Dracula came back in stock, only to be told that it wasn't in stock (three separate times).
My stores have told me they will NOT be carrying the 8 inch individual figures. My search for MEGO returns nothing in any zip code in my state. When I type in another state's zip code, I get a ton of hits. Them's the breaks.
Quote from: zombiehorror on August 05, 2018, 10:26:33 PM
Same thing was happening to me but I went to the store and they had a fully stocked Mego end cap; only one Dracula though.
I did the "100 mile" search and it still showed nothing in my area but as I stated above found a Dracula anyway in a fully stocked Mego end cap.
That would have been nice. I didn't believe the employees at my store, even after they told me they wouldn't carry them, so I went back this weekend. Again, nothing. Not even the 14" ones, which I know they have, are out. I have never had such a horrible experience trying to get something as I have with this figure. But I have it now. It's not here yet, but I will have it. That's all the matters now. :)
Anyone at Target familiar with the concpt of providing advertised product (i.e. Mego Dracula), then charging the loyal customer the customary$14.99. The world would almost start to make sense again
Dracula is back in stock. Here is the link if anyone needs it.
https://www.target.com/p/mego-monsters-bela-lugosi-dracula-action-figure-8/-/A-53475785 (https://www.target.com/p/mego-monsters-bela-lugosi-dracula-action-figure-8/-/A-53475785)
I don't understand the concept of chasing these all over the place by going from Target to Target. I checked my local Target twice since I got back from SDCC because I was there for something else and there was absolutely nothing even remotely Mego related. The website kept listing the same 8 figures and I'd check it maybe once a day-- last night-- Bingo-- Bela in stock-- I ordered two of them (one for me and one for one of my sons) and got free shipping.
I'm also designing a Kresge card to display him on because I think the card art on all of these is awful.
I almost bought a Sulu because I have the Star Trek EMCE figures on Kresge Cards I made, but decided against it. Never liked Chekov so he was never in the equation.
The rest of the figures can warm pegs as far as I care. I'm amazed at the compliments I'm hearing on Norm from CHEERS, not only don't I think he looks anything like him, who wants a Norm figure?
Quote from: AndyFish on August 06, 2018, 10:37:06 AM
... I'm amazed at the compliments I'm hearing on Norm from CHEERS, not only don't I think he looks anything like him, who wants a Norm figure?
Yeah.
It would be totally different if it were a Cliff figure.
Since most people ordering the Dracs off of the Target website are getting 2 to take advantage of the free shipping most of them should be sold before long. The scalpers bought up a crapload of them too. Mego and Target should get a clue that monsters sell. Some (maybe most) of the other TV Favorites are probably just peg warming fodder. Anyway, maybe with the high demand for the Drac maybe we'll get more Mego monsters.
The card art isn't good. I was optimistic about it at first but in reality it's really bland. Part of the problem is that it's too generic to fit with the other TV favorites. Must be part of Mego's swerve to duck Universal by putting the character in with the TV Favorites (when, in reality, it's tied to the stage Bela).
If they do a Chaney Wolfman they can tie it to the Mexi flick he did which is probably PD, La Casa Del Terror (1960). He was also in that Route 66 episode- Lizard's Leg And Owlet's Wing.
Quote from: zombiehorror on August 05, 2018, 09:59:46 AM
My local Target here in Mo. had an end cap display in the regular toy aisle.
Found Dracula at the 2nd (and final) Target I went to! Thanks!
Quote from: AndyFish on August 06, 2018, 10:37:06 AM
I don't understand the concept of chasing these all over the place by going from Target to Target.
It all starts when you visit one Target out of town and find all the MEGOs but Bela. Paranoia strikes deep.
Oh, and also the fact that it is BELA freaking LUGOSI, my obsession. Any questions?
I'm turning mine into a Count Mora figure, since I've purchased many Mego sized Bela Dracs over the years and the card art has Mora's picture on it.
Quote from: Joseph_Baeza on August 06, 2018, 12:13:45 PM
I'm turning mine into a Count Mora figure, since I've purchased many Mego sized Bela Dracs over the years and the card art has Mora's picture on it.
Cool. I think MEGO should see if they can do that and Luna!
The Armand Tesla idea is great!
I wonder how to make a medallion and ring for this guy. Any ideas?
Quote from: Subatomic_Matt on August 06, 2018, 01:10:48 PM
The Armand Tesla idea is great!
I wonder how to make a medallion and ring for this guy. Any ideas?
Armand Tesla nor Count Mora had medallions, so if you are shooting for one of them, no need. As for medallions or rings: super sculpy or green putty can be used to make your own. Or you could always butcher a Flattworld Dracula.
I think part of the Mego - Target store availability problem may be that Mego calculated number of figures (10,000) to number of stores and figured every store would get them when in reality some Target stores have much higher volume than others and receive more product hence not enough stock to cover all stores. Plus they're stocked on their site, taking away what could've gone to their brick and mortar stores.
The entire wave 1 had limited interest for me. Solely Dracula. I will get their monsters. I do like Mego Star Trek figures though. So if they venture into untouched areas (Janice Rand, Nurse Chapel, The Keeper, etc) I will look at those as well.
Yeah, I thought they picked some weird shows/characters. Star Trek makes sense for obvious reasons. Jeannie would have been nice if it looked better. Bewitched would have been a good choice. Dark Shadows would have provided a lot of character possibilities. You kind of want characters that look cool or have interesting costumes.
Quote from: aura of foreboding on August 06, 2018, 04:30:27 PM
Yeah, I thought they picked some weird shows/characters. Star Trek makes sense for obvious reasons. Jeannie would have been nice if it looked better. Bewitched would have been a good choice. Dark Shadows would have provided a lot of character possibilities. You kind of want characters that look cool or have interesting costumes.
Good characters, great ideas. The only way this will work, is if they get consistent with their sculpting quality. No matter how much I want a character, I won't buy it if they pull another Hendrix/Jeannie mess. They should also try to find better choices for their figure selection. Norm from Cheers looks great, but who's been asking for one? Anyone? Anyone! Beuller?
On the subject of the various canceled Diamond Select items, let me state for the record that they were offered to the direct market as part of the March 2014 solicitations. The UNIVERSAL MONSTERS V VILLAGERS ARMY BUILDER 35CT BAG order code was MAR148280, the UNIVERSAL MONSTERS CASKET SLIME TOY 12CT DISPLAY was MAR148283, and the UNIVERSAL MONSTERS LUNCH BOX W/THERMOS was MAR148287. The similarly-canceled Frankenstein and Creature silicon molds were solicited in the May 2016 catalog. I ordered all of these for the shop, but I was in the minority. Never doubt Shannon! He deals in facts, not wishful thinking and conjecture. And he's obsessive about it in a good way (for the most part)!
So I cannibalized my DST Retro Cloth Drac for that medallion. What do you all think?
(http://i1112.photobucket.com/albums/k487/gigantus/Mobile%20Uploads/DD0E6CFA-D401-4E05-B02B-A23E428ABB46_zpspbuox0dg.jpg) (http://s1112.photobucket.com/user/gigantus/media/Mobile%20Uploads/DD0E6CFA-D401-4E05-B02B-A23E428ABB46_zpspbuox0dg.jpg.html)
Quote from: Subatomic_Matt on August 06, 2018, 06:47:35 PM
So I cannibalized my DST Retro Cloth Drac for that medallion. What do you all think?
Looks FANTASTIC!
Quote from: Devlin on August 06, 2018, 06:44:05 PM
Never doubt Shannon!
This is very good advice. DMG knows pretty much everything.
I dont really have a problem with the missing medallion. Bela only wore it in the first 20 minutes of the film. The other 55 minutes were medallion-free. Mine will stay in its blister-pak tomb. Though, I would like to see what Dirty Horse would do with this beauty. Anton could also do a wonderful touch up on the paint.
Quote from: Devlin on August 06, 2018, 06:44:05 PM
On the subject of the various canceled Diamond Select items, let me state for the record that they were offered to the direct market as part of the March 2014 solicitations. The UNIVERSAL MONSTERS V VILLAGERS ARMY BUILDER 35CT BAG order code was MAR148280, the UNIVERSAL MONSTERS CASKET SLIME TOY 12CT DISPLAY was MAR148283, and the UNIVERSAL MONSTERS LUNCH BOX W/THERMOS was MAR148287. The similarly-canceled Frankenstein and Creature silicon molds were solicited in the May 2016 catalog. I ordered all of these for the shop, but I was in the minority. Never doubt Shannon! He deals in facts, not wishful thinking and conjecture. And he's obsessive about it in a good way (for the most part)!
Hah! Thanks Devin!
No luck with Dracula at my local Target, but they did have a cool Mego Star Trek two pack of Kirk and Spock from "Mirror, Mirror".
Quote from: Devlin on August 06, 2018, 06:44:05 PM
On the subject of the various canceled Diamond Select items, let me state for the record that they were offered to the direct market as part of the March 2014 solicitations. The UNIVERSAL MONSTERS V VILLAGERS ARMY BUILDER 35CT BAG order code was MAR148280, the UNIVERSAL MONSTERS CASKET SLIME TOY 12CT DISPLAY was MAR148283, and the UNIVERSAL MONSTERS LUNCH BOX W/THERMOS was MAR148287. The similarly-canceled Frankenstein and Creature silicon molds were solicited in the May 2016 catalog.
So these were never offered as preorder online? Just a catalog? The design wasn't even approved as of April 2015 according to an EMCE email response posted here. Joe Sena (EMCE) was even posting about the products here on the board and I don't think he ever mentioned for people to get out to comic shops and preorder these products. Seems like poor information caused the cancellation; I (as well as probably most here) never knew there was a place to sign up for these items.
Target.com shows all of the Megos in stock as of this morning-- so if your dream was to do a doll size adventure where the B-Team members of Star Trek meet Bela Lugosi and a bunch of washed up 60s, 70s and 80s TV stars now's your chance. Special guest stars giant small headed Batman and Jimmi Hendrix as played by Carl Weathers.
I guess this teaches us all that patience is something to use when it comes to these collectibles lest you pay scalper prices.
The Target I stopped in yesterday had 6 Bela's on the rack.
Quote from: jesse heywood on August 07, 2018, 09:00:09 AM
The Target I stopped in yesterday had 6 Bela's on the rack.
Welcome, New Blood! (Be sure to check out our SEARCH feature for years of discussion about toys and movies, etc.)
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Poughkeepsie NY
Quote from: zombiehorror on August 07, 2018, 07:44:07 AM
So these were never offered as preorder online? Just a catalog? The design wasn't even approved as of April 2015 according to an EMCE email response posted here. Joe Sena (EMCE) was even posting about the products here on the board and I don't think he ever mentioned for people to get out to comic shops and preorder these products. Seems like poor information caused the cancellation; I (as well as probably most here) never knew there was a place to sign up for these items.
I don't get the Diamond catalog, just as many prospective buyers of those products don't. Poor information indeed. This is an inadequate way to gauge demand for a new product. If the lunchbox and bagged playset figures had actually been made available in a better advertised way then many people would have ordered them. I would have.
This was a case of people just not knowing the cause of the cancellation. I'm not sure where the Uni cancellation idea got started, but there was no conspiracy to spread "lies" about this. I guess people just got aggravated at the cancellation of nice looking items and the obvious scapegoat was Uni judging by some of the poor marketing decisions they made in the past. No need for anyone to get bent out of shape over this. Many of us just didn't know.
I just found out about this figure yesterday through this thread. I went to my local Target and they did indeed have this line of Mego figures, but no Lugosi Dracula! I did kind of like the boxed set of evil, alternate dimension Kirk and Spock. I'm not a "Star Trek" collector, but bearded Spock and savage Kirk have a certain appeal.
Quote from: Radioactive Rod Whitenack on August 07, 2018, 10:01:06 AM
I just found out about this figure yesterday through this thread. I went to my local Target and they did indeed have this line of Mego figures, but no Lugosi Dracula! I did kind of like the boxed set of evil, alternate dimension Kirk and Spock. I'm not a "Star Trek" collector, but bearded Spock and savage Kirk have a certain appeal.
Still available on the website: https://www.target.com/p/mego-monsters-bela-lugosi-dracula-action-figure-8/-/A-53475785 (https://www.target.com/p/mego-monsters-bela-lugosi-dracula-action-figure-8/-/A-53475785)
And, the price is back down to $14.99. They were $17.99 when I ordered mine.
Quote from: horrorhunter on August 07, 2018, 10:06:20 AM
And, the price is back down to $14.99. They were $17.99 when I ordered mine.
I ordered one YESTERDAY for $17.99! Grrrrr!
Oh well. It's only $3 difference.
I did too and they just dropped to 14.99 today
I contacted Target through their chat line and they reimbursed the difference.
Quote from: ilikemonsters on August 07, 2018, 02:01:54 PM
I contacted Target through their chat line and they reimbursed the difference.
I did too and success !
Quote from: horrorhunter on August 07, 2018, 10:06:20 AM
Still available on the website: https://www.target.com/p/mego-monsters-bela-lugosi-dracula-action-figure-8/-/A-53475785 (https://www.target.com/p/mego-monsters-bela-lugosi-dracula-action-figure-8/-/A-53475785)
And, the price is back down to $14.99. They were $17.99 when I ordered mine.
I contacted Target through the chat and got my $6 refunded. According to the email they sent it will be a gift card since I paid with PayPal. Don't know why they won't just partially refund the PayPal payment, but at least I'll have $6 extra to spend on Halloween stuff. I asked the chat person why the price was inflated to $17.99 instead of the correct $14.99 and she gave me some head spinning answer about "promotions constantly changing on the website". ::) Actually this worked out okay because I got the figs without going to evilBay and ended up getting free shipping and getting the difference in cost back to boot. Win/win. Now, onward to HALLOWEEN. tynhrt
Quote from: horrorhunter on August 07, 2018, 09:51:27 AM
I'm not sure where the Uni cancellation idea got started,...
Apparently from the folks at EMCE according to posts from the EMCE lunchbox thread or at the very least one could see the line drawn to the conclusion;
This one from August 5th, 2015~
Quote from: Radioactive Rod Whitenack on August 05, 2015, 06:27:12 PM
EMCE Toys did respond to my Facebook inquiry. They're having trouble with Universal's approval process and licensing department, which shouldn't be much of a surprise to anyone here. The prototypes are complete, but they need to be approved before moving to the next stage and apparently Universal is just dragging its feet. It's a waiting game right now. At least, that's my understanding.
And this August 6th post~
Quote from: Gaira on August 06, 2015, 03:48:36 PM
Their facebook page now has this post...
"Getting lots of calls and messages about our Universal Monsters Lunchbox and "Monsters Vs. Villagers" army men and all we can say is that the prototypes are done but we are waiting for resolution of some kind of admin thing between our clients at Diamond and the studio. Any other news will appear here as it happens."
And this post from November 4th, 2015~
Quote from: Anton Phibes on November 04, 2015, 10:39:10 PM
Emce via their facebook page about 2 months ago posted this, so maybe there's hope? :
Universal Monsters update: So, we were at the Diamond Select Toys offices the other day on various business, and we brought up the fact that not a day goes by without someone emailing/PM'ing us on the status of the lunchbox and armymen toys. They are handling the aforementioned admin issue with the studio as best as they can, but we can attest to the fact that, depending on the property, some studios move faster than others. Continued patience on this is appreciated.
In 2015 post after post in that thread people are asking where to sign up/pre-order both the lunchbox and "army" figures but no one ever stated, "You're a year to late, they were in the catalog in 2014."; it still seems odd to me if that were the case when approval from Universal hadn't even been given as of August 2015?
Quote from: zombiehorror on August 07, 2018, 03:05:48 PM
Apparently from the folks at EMCE according to posts from the EMCE lunchbox thread or at the very least one could see the line drawn to the conclusion;
This one from August 5th, 2015~
And this August 6th post~
And this post from November 4th, 2015~
In 2015 post after post in that thread people are asking where to sign up/pre-order both the lunchbox and "army" figures but no one ever stated, "You're a year to late, they were in the catalog in 2014."; it still seems odd to me if that were the case when approval from Universal hadn't even been given as of August 2015?
Good detective work. Looks like the Uni suits were holding up the show. Hmmm...
Quote from: ilikemonsters on August 07, 2018, 02:01:54 PM
I contacted Target through their chat line and they reimbursed the difference.
I did too. Thanks for suggesting this!
Quote from: horrorhunter on August 07, 2018, 03:04:11 PM
I contacted Target through the chat and got my $6 refunded. According to the email they sent it will be a gift card since I paid with PayPal. Don't know why they won't just partially refund the PayPal payment, but at least I'll have $6 extra to spend on Halloween stuff. I asked the chat person why the price was inflated to $17.99 instead of the correct $14.99 and she gave me some head spinning answer about "promotions constantly changing on the website". ::) Actually this worked out okay because I got the figs without going to evilBay and ended up getting free shipping and getting the difference in cost back to boot. Win/win. Now, onward to HALLOWEEN. tynhrt
Quote from: ilikemonsters on August 07, 2018, 02:01:54 PM
I contacted Target through their chat line and they reimbursed the difference.
Thanks for the tip. I contacted Target and got my CC refunded.
Just got mine in the mail. Each figure was (carefully ) packed in an individual, sturdy box. The two boxes were enclosed in a huge box. I could see the disappointed face on my mailman, since there was no easy way to damage them. That's a sport for my local post office.
My uncle bought me one. I guess I'll get it when I go see him :D I have to pay him the 15 bucks back, but that's fine.
Waiting to get my figures. :)
Received mine today from a friend in the US. Really great figure in hand although I'll probably keep him in the packet as it's always hard to bust these things out of their tomb when they're sealed like this.
Really looking forward to seeing the other monster releases and it's just a shame that I can't buy them in the UK, at least I should now hopefully have a way around that problem.
Ian
Just came back from my local Target. They had FOUR Mego Draculas in stock.
Quote from: the_last_gunslinger on August 09, 2018, 02:21:19 PM
Just came back from my local Target. They had FOUR Mego Draculas in stock.
Maybe the scalpers have had their fill and customers can see them in store now. Great news. Bring on THE WOLFMAN!
My local Target sucks...ZERO Mego or NECA ..finally ordered online and must say the figure looks outstanding in person, really pleased especially for the price.
Seems like real uneven distribution of stores. I stopped at local target in arizona and no Bela. Drove across country and stopped at a target in Texas---no Bela, St. Louis, and there i even asked about the figure and they had no idea what i was talking about. Yesterday stopped by a target near our new home in Michigan and not a Bela in sight. Four stores in four states and nothing. Pretty frustrating.
I am glad I am not the only one who encountered this ridiculousness. Next time, I wait for online.
Quote from: geezer butler on August 13, 2018, 11:36:12 AM
Seems like real uneven distribution of stores. I stopped at local target in arizona and no Bela. Drove across country and stopped at a target in Texas---no Bela, St. Louis, and there i even asked about the figure and they had no idea what i was talking about. Yesterday stopped by a target near our new home in Michigan and not a Bela in sight. Four stores in four states and nothing. Pretty frustrating.
I've had the same experience, though, not state-to-state. I understand living in a small, little-known city called Los Angeles would have it's drawbacks...but, this is ridiculous. I got mine online awhile back, but I stick check the stores for an extra or two (Not for profit).
Quote from: Mord on August 08, 2018, 06:32:38 PM
Just got mine in the mail. Each figure was (carefully ) packed in an individual, sturdy box. The two boxes were enclosed in a huge box. I could see the disappointed face on my mailman, since there was no easy way to damage them. That's a sport for my local post office.
I got mine delivered in the most protected double boxed with bubble wrap. Amazing packaging!
Quote from: Mord on August 13, 2018, 01:53:35 PM
I've had the same experience, though, not state-to-state. I understand living in a small, little-known city called Los Angeles would have it's drawbacks...but, this is ridiculous. I got mine online awhile back, but I stick check the stores for an extra or two (Not for profit).
Yeah, living near another major American city seemed to have the same effect. No Draculas in any of the stores in the area, "and we aren't going to get them," or so I've been told.
The interesting thing about this MEGO is that he is bigger than the "retro cloth" figures we got from EMCE and the scale doesn't quite work. I'm anxious to get the Lonster and the Wolf Man so he can have friends his own size. I'd also love a Kharis and a Creature... for those listening. ;)
Both Targets in my area (Central Ma) have Mego endcaps with Dracula's.
Quote from: geezer butler on August 13, 2018, 11:36:12 AM
Seems like real uneven distribution of stores. I stopped at local target in arizona and no Bela. Drove across country and stopped at a target in Texas---no Bela, St. Louis, and there i even asked about the figure and they had no idea what i was talking about. Yesterday stopped by a target near our new home in Michigan and not a Bela in sight. Four stores in four states and nothing. Pretty frustrating.
Lifelong Michiganian here. What part of the state were you looking?
Quote from: the_last_gunslinger on August 13, 2018, 07:54:42 PM
Lifelong Michiganian here. What part of the state were you looking?
Hey last gunslinger,
Sent you a pm. Thanks.
The target around me has nothing still, and currently to ill to drive about can anybody get one for me?
Quote from: Sir Spooks-A-Lot on August 14, 2018, 05:10:40 AM
The target around me has nothing still, and currently to ill to drive about can anybody get one for me?
Let the mailman bring you one. They're still available from the Target website. Here's the link: https://www.target.com/p/mego-monsters-bela-lugosi-dracula-action-figure-8/-/A-53475785 (https://www.target.com/p/mego-monsters-bela-lugosi-dracula-action-figure-8/-/A-53475785)
Quote from: horrorhunter on August 14, 2018, 11:13:18 AM
Let the mailman bring you one. They're still available from the Target website. Here's the link: https://www.target.com/p/mego-monsters-bela-lugosi-dracula-action-figure-8/-/A-53475785 (https://www.target.com/p/mego-monsters-bela-lugosi-dracula-action-figure-8/-/A-53475785)
Absolutely. These come so well packed, you don't have to worry about any damage. I got tired of playing Target's hide-and-seek game, too.
I have learned the best way to obtain is wait for an industrious UMA member to offer a link. Barring that, give the scalpers their beer money, i don't like the "thrill" of the hunt. These are brand new toys. Not 60's vintage items. I shouldn't have to play Pokemon go in order to buy one,lol. I don't "gotta catch 'em all",lol.
I hope that with all this excitement around the Dracula figure, that Marty Abrams and the crew at Mego will devote 100% of their time on cool stuff like classic horror, sci-fi & comic book figures, instead of the likes of Tootie, Alice from the Brady Bunch and the gawd awful Action Jackson.
Stopped by another Target in another town today just for kicks... Not one single MEGO anywhere. haha But the NECA section was cool.
Our Target has a few Megos on an endcap but nary a Bela in sight.
If not for online shopping we'd be SOL for collectibles, especially in the southeast where I live. Heavy on hillbillies, light on collectibles. ::)
Quote from: horrorhunter on August 14, 2018, 10:50:14 PM
Our Target has a few Megos on an endcap but nary a Bela in sight.
If not for online shopping we'd be SOL for collectibles, especially in the southeast where I live. Heavy on hillbillies, light on collectibles. ::)
Venture on over to Ohio. We've loads of corn, meth, and heroin. Lotsa guns to "git ridda" the latter from "a' breakin' in my place",lol. 8) Sorry. Born here though so I got the right to gripe. I lived in California for a few years. It was worse there for decidedly different reasons. Too many odd things my yound mind should never have been exposed to at such an early age,lol. At least I got Bob Wilkins for awhile. Cali is where I got to see Boy Who Cried Werewolf on late nite Channel 40 I believe. 8) Also Werewolf Vs. Vampire Woman.
One of my local Targets was completely bereft of Mego figures, the other one had a full endcap with four Dracs so I was able to pick the one with the best paint job. Pretty cool they are numbered, I wonder who got #666? ;)
Now the question is whether to open him or not...
Quote from: KCE83 on August 15, 2018, 11:11:29 PM
Pretty cool they are numbered, I wonder who got #666?
#1931 would be cool to find...
I swapped out the EMCE Drac's shirt & pants piece to give Mego Bela a medallion, and I am very happy with the result. I think that touch of red amidst the black/gray/white gives the figure a little extra OOMPH!
(https://i.imgur.com/Rk4Wb0W.jpg)
(https://i.imgur.com/mgSEswF.jpg)
Meanwhile, I have found that my Mego Bela's left arm has a tendency to pop out of the socket. So far, I have been able to pop it back into place without any permanent damage. Anyone else having any joint issues with these new Megos?
Quote from: Dr. Acula on August 16, 2018, 03:00:44 PM
I swapped out the EMCE Drac's shirt & pants piece to give Mego Bela a medallion, and I am very happy with the result. ...
Wher'dja get the nice coffin?
Quote from: Monsters For Sale on August 16, 2018, 03:04:57 PM
Wher'dja get the nice coffin?
http://www.classictvtoys.com/blackcoffinfor8inchfigures.aspx (http://www.classictvtoys.com/blackcoffinfor8inchfigures.aspx)
I really like the outfit on the new MEGO Dracula. I think it's too nice to change, but I support anyone who prefers to give Drac a new wardrobe. I gave my Strange Frankenstein a brown jacket as soon as I got him.
Returned to my local Target for the first time in weeks, just to see if they had put out the MEGOs I know they have... The 14 inch ones... Do you think they are out? No. Nowhere around. This is bizarre.
They did have some NECA stuff, but it was very limited and not displayed as well as the store I visited out of town. Oh well... There's always online.
Sooooo....my Target finally got their display up. They were all present and accounted for. Falling all over the place. Except for Dracula. Absolutely NO Dracs. Sensing a pattern developing......and glad I paid my scalper for his or her time.
I saw the MEGO name on the Target website and I just about flipped my wig, heh. Amazing. And $15-$20 each? Well done!
I was never all that into the superheroes nor the TV stuff. Bring on the monsters! Not just licensed/Universal stuff, mind; I'd love to see a line of interesting drive-in flick/Tomland-type monsters & weirdos.
Would it be too much to ask for my Sanford & Son and Hammer/Amicus Megos, Marty?? :P
Quote from: Anton Phibes on August 17, 2018, 11:26:35 PM
Sooooo....my Target finally got their display up. They were all present and accounted for. Falling all over the place. Except for Dracula. Absolutely NO Dracs. Sensing a pattern developing......and glad I paid my scalper for his or her time.
I must admit that it's giving me hope for a focused monster line from Mego with the Dracula figure pretty much selling out at most target stores. I maybe being to logical though and they'll keep focusing on some of the other figures (I really hope not though).
Ian
Quote from: Palifan on August 18, 2018, 12:21:22 PM
I must admit that it's giving me hope for a focused monster line from Mego with the Dracula figure pretty much selling out at most target stores. I maybe being to logical though and they'll keep focusing on some of the other figures (I really hope not though).
Ian
If they want to release the rest of the Bela movie characters, I'd be on board with that. I'd buy all of them.
I'd buy all of the Universal characters they want to make too. Heck, just make monsters for all I care. :D
Quote from: aura of foreboding on August 18, 2018, 07:34:24 PM
If they want to release the rest of the Bela movie characters, I'd be on board with that. I'd buy all of them.
I'd buy all of the Universal characters they want to make too. Heck, just make monsters for all I care. :D
It's not like Peg Bundy is flying off the pegs. Bring on the monsters (even Munsters, if you need the T.V. tag).
Quote from: Mord on August 18, 2018, 08:17:10 PM
It's not like Peg Bundy is flying off the pegs. Bring on the monsters (even Munsters, if you need the T.V. tag).
Addams Family would rule. Would love to see a hawt Mego Morticia.
Does anybody know if they play to re-make characters they already released years ago? I'd buy Chekov and Sulu if I knew the rest of the crew were coming.
Quote from: Subatomic_Matt on August 18, 2018, 09:06:13 PM
Does anybody know if they play to re-make characters they already released years ago? I'd buy Chekov and Sulu if I knew the rest of the crew were coming.
Ya rolls the dice, ya takes yer chances. Seriously though, I would say it's a safe bet you'll see them all if they sell. Romulan and Gorn are rumored.
Quote from: Mord on August 18, 2018, 08:17:10 PM
It's not like Peg Bundy is flying off the pegs. Bring on the monsters (even Munsters, if you need the T.V. tag).
Neither are-Cheers (Norm), Charmed, The Fonz,
Charlies Angels or Action Jackson.
Quote from: marsattacks666 on August 18, 2018, 11:09:26 PM
Neither are-Cheers (Norm), Charmed, The Fonz,
Charlies Angels or Action Jackson.
ACTION JACKSON! DUNNN DUN! DUN! DUNNN! DUNNNNN!
Quote from: aura of foreboding on August 19, 2018, 12:26:57 AM
ACTION JACKSON! DUNNN DUN! DUN! DUNNN! DUNNNNN!
"BOLD ADVENTURE, is MY game! Think of what you'd want to be, then call on ME!"
I dont know about you guys, but I would buy ANY Universal monster Mego at the $14.99 list price. Leech Woman, Monster on Campus, Monolith Monsters...ANYTHING!
Quote from: Mord on August 19, 2018, 03:25:18 PM
I dont know about you guys, but I would buy ANY Universal monster Mego at the $14.99 list price. Leech Woman, Monster on Campus, Monolith Monsters...ANYTHING!
I would too, especially of the quality of that Mego Lugosi Dracula. I'm weary of having to pay so much for decent figures. That said, though, I appreciate a company like DD that makes the figures nobody else will.
Quote from: Mord on August 19, 2018, 03:25:18 PM
I dont know about you guys, but I would buy ANY Universal monster Mego at the $14.99 list price. Leech Woman, Monster on Campus, Monolith Monsters...ANYTHING!
You got that right! (Blood Beast, Moon Beast, She-Creature, Tor, etc.etc.)
Welllll, except maybe those Monolith 'Monsters', heh....not really into buying a solid chunk of crystal (plastic). ;)
I'll just keep waiting for my Fulci zombie, sigh....
Their 2 pack format would be great for a Frankenstein meets The Wolfman box set.
Batcave Toys has a custom box that is freaking gorgeous.
(https://i.ebayimg.com/images/g/JjsAAOSwA-JbeFnc/s-l1600.jpg)
https://www.ebay.com/itm/Mego-DRACULA-Box-for-8-Action-Figure/183413055833?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2060353.m1438.l2649 (https://www.ebay.com/itm/Mego-DRACULA-Box-for-8-Action-Figure/183413055833?ssPageName=STRK%3AMEBIDX%3AIT&_trksid=p2060353.m1438.l2649)
Nice! I'm ok with the original, but this would be nice for the extra figure.
No doubt. A perfect combination would consist of this box, the new mego figure and an Emce Dracula medallion.
He looks great in that box.
(https://s8.postimg.cc/itvjkhol1/40223505_2087424801289510_2283503643061649408_n.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/image/4nfsp9dpt/)upload pic (https://postimages.org/)
I got the Mego Dracula as a present. While the sculpting and costume is very good, the figure just seems to bemissing something without the medallion. The grey lining of his cape only amplifies this overall lack of color. But, never fear; with some Christmas beads and ribbon, I was able to create a fairly decent facsimile.
(https://imageshack.com/a/img921/4689/znrev0.jpg)
Quote from: John Pertwee on September 03, 2018, 09:24:03 PM
He looks great in that box.
(https://s8.postimg.cc/itvjkhol1/40223505_2087424801289510_2283503643061649408_n.jpg) (https://postimg.cc/image/4nfsp9dpt/)upload pic (https://postimages.org/)
Wow, that looks really good. Makes me regret not picking up Dracula when I saw him.
QuoteMeanwhile, I have found that my Mego Bela's left arm has a tendency to pop out of the socket. So far, I have been able to pop it back into place without any permanent damage. Anyone else having any joint issues with these new Megos?
Opened my Drac finally today to find both hands on the wrong arms.
Had to work a little to switch them, wasn't easy.
The Dracula's are back at Target.com !?!
Quote from: ilikemonsters on September 25, 2018, 09:36:52 PM
The Dracula's are back at Target.com !?!
They are listed online in my area.
(Southern California)
Those boxes are a thing of beauty. If only I could find a fig to put in it.