For decades, the superhero/comic book character figure industry had a pretty basic type of collectible figure -- the action figure. Over the past several years, an artistic revolution has taken place and the marketplace is now showing amazing diversity as artists are reinterpreting classic comic book heroes.
One of the most unique new interpretations is the Ame-Comi line of characters from DC Direct. Launched in 2009, the Ame-Comi line of Heroines brought the distinct features of Japanese Manga to American comic book characters. The initial figures -- Wonder Woman, Batgirl, Cheetah and Catwoman -- were hugely popular and sold out quickly. The lines has since added second versions of Wonder Woman, Catwoman and Batgirl, as well as new additions such as Black Canary, Robin (as a girl), Huntress, Poison Ivy, Zatanna, Steel, Supergirl, Power Girl, Wonder Girl, Donna Troy and now the first male in the Ame-Comi line, Batman.
The Ame-Comi figures are beautifully sculpted, with all the attention to detail we’ve come to expect from the artists of DC Direct. Considered collectibles rather than toys, the Ame-Comi are meant to be displayed instead of played with.
Considering the incredible popularity of the Ame-Comi figures, I fully expect to see the line of male heroes expanding to rival the heroine’s line very soon.
Superhero Makeovers
Ame-Comi Figures are a New Take on Comic Book Heroes
Trend Themes
1. Artistic Revolution - There is potential for more artists to reinterpret classic comic book heroes in unique ways, like the Ame-Comi line, creating more diverse and collectible figures.
2. Manga-inspired - Incorporating Japanese manga styles into American comic book characters, like the Ame-Comi Heroines, could appeal to new and younger audiences for superhero merchandise.
3. Gender-bending - The success of the Ame-Comi Robin and Batman figures shows potential for more gender-bending interpretations of classic superheroes, inspiring new collectibles for fans.
Industry Implications
1. Collectibles - Expanding merchandise lines to include beautifully sculpted collectibles rather than just toys, like the Ame-Comi figures, could create opportunities for new high-end collectible items.
2. Comic Book and Graphic Novel Publishing - Incorporating new, unique interpretations of classic comic book heroes, as seen in the Ame-Comi line, could inspire new storylines and reimagining of beloved characters.
3. Toys and Action Figures - The success and popularity of the Ame-Comi figures demonstrates potential for more diverse interpretations of classic superhero characters, increasing market demand for unique and collectible toys and action figures.