As previously reported, independent Spanish toy maker Amigo Toyz had teamed up with collectibles retailer Amok Time to sell their MONSTER HOME vinyl figures exclusively in the United States. Standing an impressive 10-inches tall, the hard vinyl collectibles launched with a limited edition Uncle Nosferatu. The line has since grown to include non-limited editions of Mr. Hyde, as well as the subject of today’s review, the return of Nosferatu (2nd Version).
The love poured into this project is immediately apparent from the gorgeous packaging. Shipped in a themed mailer box for protection, Nosferatu’s open window box grabs your attention with its brilliant red and yellow color scheme and spooky castle theme. Cut cardboard stalactites add depth to the package, while an illustrated castle dungeon insert acts as a wonderful backdrop to the figure, in and out of the box.
The sides of the box show off more amazing Monster Home art, while the back informs you of the figure’s articulation, glow-in-the-dark features and interchangeable parts.
My Nosferatu is one of the first 40 units released and comes signed by the sculptor (and Amigo Toyz owner), Ricardo Ribelles. An awesome Nosferatu finger puppet was also included as a promotional gift.
Vinyl figures aren’t known for their articulation, so the six points included with Nosferatu is actually very generous. Expressive movement includes a rotating head, both shoulders, wrists, as well as his waist. 
As mentioned, the figure is made of hard vinyl, no flimsy feeling roto vinyl here. Amigo Toyz even gives collectors an interesting toy history lesson with the inclusion of a Monster Home post card and note. It tells you where the Nosferatu vinyl figure was made, explains how the figure’s limbs are interchangeable (via using a hairdryer to soften the vinyl, I personally don’t recommend it), provides care instructions and contact information. The note is a nice personal touch.
The expressive head sculpt on Nosferatu is everything. Ricardo’s interpretation of the legendary vampire is wide-eyed and innocent, the fanged “monster” far from frightening. He just wants to be your friend! A great feature is Nosferatu’s glow-in-the-dark eyes and teeth, as well as his real cloth scarf. The soft goods accessory really adds dimension; contrasting nicely with the figure’s vinyl construction.
Other goodies include a vinyl Nosferatu portrait and a vinyl cobblestone display base. The former is a nice gesture, but I was left wondering what to do with it. I assume you could hang the picture next to your figure on display, but unfortunately it’s too thick and heavy to use as an accessory for Nosferatu to hold.
Despite his small feet, Nosferatu stands pretty good on his own. Plugged onto his included display base, however, and you can rest easy knowing that Nosferatu isn’t falling over anytime soon. The “stone” base also adds more character to the entire figure, and if you purchase more Monster Home figures, you can even connect the bases. Amigo Toyz shows how the pieces interlock, allowing you to also build a wall if you wanted. Obviously you’d need a lot of these bases to achieve that effect, so perhaps a cobblestone base pack is the works?
Lastly, my Nosferatu included a bonus finger puppet. I’m a big fan of the retro monster finger puppets, so the mini Nosferatu is right up my alley. Amigo Toyz has plans to release six Monster Home finger puppets in the near future, so if you missed out on this early bird addition, you’ll soon have your chance.
Creating a great toy and getting it out to the world for all to enjoy is NOT an easy task. Despite the difficulties, no less being in another country, Amigo Toyz has overcome all obstacles to deliver a high quality collectible in Nosferatu. Ricardo Ribelles’ passion for this project is apparent from the attractive packaging to the final product.
Art toys of this caliber are never cheap, but Nosferatu’s $129.99 asking price is more than reasonable given the figure’s large size, articulation and quality construction. The fact that accessories are included – the portrait and display base – only adds to the figure’s value. Most designer vinyl figures include nothing but the figure.
Fun, stylish and unique, Amigo Toyz’ Monster Home Nosferatu is available now exclusively through AmokTimes.com with free shipping included.
Fans can follow Amigo Toyz on Facebook, as well as on their websites amigotoyz.com and MonsterHome.es.
Review and Photos by Jeff Saylor
Review Sample Courtesy of Amigo Toyz
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