Captain Action Meets Mego

[cptaction]

Hello All!

I’m Joe Ahearn, co partner with Ed Catto in Captain Action Enterprises. For those of you unaware, Captain Action was the first ever Super Hero Action figure line put out by Ideal from 1966 to 1968. He was Ideal’s competitor to the 12 inch GIJoe.

Captain Action was the brainchild of marketing genius Stan Weston who, a couple of years after the line’s demise re-invented the super hero action figure line as Mego’s World’s Greatest Super Heroes, so you could say the 2 lines are related!

The current big news is that we have partnered with Dave Lee’s Castaway Toys, to Bring Captain Action and his nemesis Dr. Eville into the world of retro Mego as 8 inch exclusive figures. Besides the 2 figures Castaway will also be selling Captain Action generic hero customizing kits that will include masks, boots, gloved hands etc etc and will be offering them this for both the new 8 inch and original 12 inch sized figures.

The Phantom was one of the original Super Hero Uniforms CA could change into , and as a tribute to the old Ideal line Castaway will be issuing a Phantom Uniform for 8 inch CA in vintage Ideal style packaging.

The figures will be available online in 2008. No exact dates as yet but you can check the Captain Action website at http://www.captainactionnow.com
for updates. Beyond that we’ll certainly do our best to keep you posted.

Regards,
Joe Ahearn

CA Enterprises, Inc.

[HardyGirl]

WOW! That's fantastic! I'd get one! I have the Playing Mantis Green Hornet version. And I like the Cafe Press stuff too! I hope they imrprove on the face sculpt. The Captain always looks like he's about to cry!

[kingdom warrior]

OH Happy Day! Oh Happy Day!.....A CA Mego sized Oh yeah with a Phantom costume!!!!! How about The Green Hornet and Kato and The Lone Ranger? This is Fantastic news! :grin:

[The Bat]

Welcome! And thank VERY much for taking the time to introduce Yourself to Us!:smile: This is very exciting news(both the Figure's & the Costume Set's....WOW!!!)...and You've come to the right place. We WILL be Your biggest Fan Base...and I'm sure You know this Site has A LOT of Members! I'm also EXTREMELY happy, You chose to go with the 8" scale...I think You'll find it was the right choice!:wink:

[toys2cool]

Welcome Joe,well everything sounds great,can't wait to see them :grin:

[Meule]

Welcome aboard and thanks for the news.

Will you only do the 2 figures and the Phantom uniform or will you eventually get to Batman and Robin, Green Hornet and Kato, ... as well?

[thunderbolt]

So, you have to call him Dr. Eville now? Due to Austin Powers???

[The Toyroom]

Glad to hear it! Looking forward to this line! Good luck with it!

[cptaction]

Hey gang, thanks so much for the warm welcome. I've been working with the CA character since the Playing Mantis days, and as a matter of fact I was responsible for getting them to do those repros.That relationship left me in the position to get the Trademark when the ball was dropped. Am really enjoying doing this.

As far as the head sculpts go they will be exact replicas of the 12 inch heads sized down. Dave Lee promised me he will do his best to get them to look "dead on". We will also be replicating the hands which all Cap fans know are great for holding all those accessories!
As respects "Dr. Eville", yes, unfortunately due to the Austin Powers thing we can't use the name as it was. I think the added letters give him a more Alien looking name which works out well because he is one :smile:

Feel free to ask any questions you like . Love to chat!!

Joe

[Hulk]

Welcome Joe, and thanks for posting.

Can you tell us if the heads will be rotocast, or solid?

[David Lee]

Welcome Joe, and thanks for posting.

Can you tell us if the heads will be rotocast, or solid?

All Rotocast Paul, these will be 100 percent China made. The initial numbers depend on the initial response and as always we hope for Museum Support.

We are starting out slow, what we want is a QUALITY product first and foremost. When we approached Joe and Ed with this idea it was predicated on quality and precision. The same with the Phantom, we want to take these licenses and make the owners proud.

Since we are manufacturing and selling these figures ourselves, we know we have to satisfy our License holders first. The great thing about working with two great license holders, and the likes of Charlee Flatt and Scott Fensterer is that; once they are satisfied we know you guys will be as well!

Jason and I , Cast-a-Way Toys LLC, are personally putting ourselves out here on this, because we believe in the product. We have had a tremendous amount of help right here on the Mego Museum so far, and the generosity and encouragement we have received behind closed doors has already been fantastic.

I don't want to get to far into the details yet, but I will say that these "retro" figure released first will not utilize our premium format body. We will be producing an updated Type 2 if you will, what we feel MEGO would have done over time had they stuck around. On top of this we have a veritable cornucopia of new custom style accessories coming as well.

Hang in there true believers, we are on the cusp of our own little journey and we welcome any one interested in riding along!

Cheers!

-Dave

[The Bat]

Really COOL Dave!!!!! Man...I'm so excited about this!:yes:

[MegoSteve]

That's great. I look forward to seeing the results! Frankly, though, I always thought the sculpt on the original Cap was kind of weak. Maybe it's just the way he's painted, but he always has this expression on his face that seems to say, "Please don't hit me!" I hope you'll be fixing that.

[MegoScott]

Bravo, David, Joe and all. An exciting project and a lot of hard work I am sure.

[JDeRouen]

Great news, can't wait to see 'em!

[Type3Toys]

Welcome to the site Joe! I hope you continue to visit even after this project is done.
This is good news! Dave, Jason and Co. I have always been a fan of your Cast-A-Way projects and as you know, proudly own your monster figures. I cant wait to see this new stuff come to life.

[MIB41]

Welcome to the board Joe! Fantastic news. I bought the entire CA line by Playing Mantis when they intially came out (including the book by Michael Eury). I LOVED that line and was deeply disappointed to miss out on the Speed Racer costume set which got shelved. I guess you can guess my first question...:please_y:. Any chance that costume set will see the light of day now? I also read during the Playing Mantis years DC had toyed with the idea of allowing license to rerelease the Batman costume. Will that be one of the company's goals for this next series? Any chance the company is considering recreating the classic CA rings to be packaged with the figures or costumes? I have a lot of questions, but I'll hold up right there. Just wanted to let you know, the company has my full support and I will begin working on a scheme in my collector room to display this next series :yes:.

Thanks for coming to this board to inform everyone. I will forward the news to my other fellow collectors. Also thanks for the link. I had no idea there was CA shirts and mugs available ( I LOVE it).

[cptaction]

Hey MIB41!
Welcome to the board Joe! Fantastic news.
Thank you!


I bought the entire CA line by Playing Mantis when they intially came out (including the book by Michael Eury). I LOVED that line and was deeply disappointed to miss out on the Speed Racer costume set which got shelved. I guess you can guess my first question...:please_y:. Any chance that costume set will see the light of day now?

Tough to say because of the new Speed Racer movie, the license may already be spoken for, but, of course it is something we would love to see also.

I also read during the Playing Mantis years DC had toyed with the idea of allowing license to rerelease the Batman costume.

I worked as a consultant on the PM line. We tried very hard to get DC or Marvel but their licenses were wrapped up tight with other companies. Warner wouldn't even give us Space Ghost! We do have feelers out to both comic book houses now and hopefully will be able to get one of them to relent eventually. In the meantime, we'll continue to expand with different products to build up steam in the marketplace. We're hoping the new Moonstone Comic scheduled for April will give us a nice boost.

Will that be one of the company's goals for this next series? Any chance the company is considering recreating the classic CA rings to be packaged with the figures or costumes?

Not sure as yet. If we get good support for the first releases then we can go after new licenses and go from there. Re- doing the rings would be cool. Ya never know! :wink_y:
I have a lot of questions, but I'll hold up right there. Just wanted to let you know, the company has my full support and I will begin working on a scheme in my collector room to display this next series :yes:.

You go boy!

Thanks for coming to this board to inform everyone. I will forward the news to my other fellow collectors. Also thanks for the link. I had no idea there was CA shirts and mugs available ( I LOVE it).[/QUOTE]

You're most welcome! Thanks for the kind words and support.

Joe

[MIB41]

Thanks Joe! I've always been curious about licensing and how it's obtained. I do have one question about that and you might be able to help all of us understand the sticky complexities involved with the process.

If your able to get a company like Marvel or DC at the table to discuss permission to produce goods, is the cost of a license more of a flat rate or something that is negotiated? Would a popular character like Spiderman cost more than say a second tier character like Nova or Moon Knight?

And finally when your licensing a product do you have to pay a base fee just for the license and then give them a percentage of the gross or does all of that vary if terms are negotiable?

Sorry to ask business related questions, but I think it's very educational for collectors to know just how tough this business truly is. I've always felt Captain Action is one of the great action figures of all time because of his flexibility to bring to life so many unique characters that otherwise wouldn't exist on our collector shelves today. I think I speak for everyone when I say, we're very grateful for your love and appreciation of the character and your efforts to keep him in the market place. I think there are alot of us here who will do our part to help this line reach the kind of success he truly deserves! :grin:

[Goblin19]

Exciting news. I can't wait to see them.

[The Toyroom]

OK...the good Captain and Dr. "Eville" seem to be covered...but what about Action Boy/Kid Action? Is it possible that he may make a return if things go well or are the name rights tied up?

[roman]

Joe & Dave:

One word baby! AWESOME!!!

Two suggestion if I might?

QVC / HSN ( it worked for Esteban)

Contact Hallmark Cards. If you look at their catologue they are doing all these nice retro ornament, video, stuff toy collections from the classic Peanuts Frosty the Snowman, The Grich and, Rudolph. All are way retro and aimed at the 35 - 50 crowd.

Just a thought is all.

The hold both Marvel and DC Licensing. Just as Doc did maybe you can broker a deal with them for and exclusive offer. I can see a mini retro CA Bats, Supes and, Spidey as something they's find intriguing

[thunderbolt]

Is it too early to ask about packaging? Mego style or shrunk down CA coffin style box?

[cptaction]

We haven't finalized anything as yet as respects packaging but I was thinking how about both?

Joe

:yes:

[cptaction]

OK...the good Captain and Dr. "Eville" seem to be covered...but what about Action Boy/Kid Action? Is it possible that he may make a return if things go well or are the name rights tied up?


Right now, we're just sticking to Captain Action and Dr.. Evil. Maybe down the road we'll tackle Action Boy!!

Joe

[Werewolf]

Awesome! Can't wait.

How about some Monster costumes for Dr Evil? :grin:

[The Toyroom]

We haven't finalized anything as yet as respects packaging but I was thinking how about both?

Joe

:yes:


Something like this? :wink_y:
http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n303/gman19652002/captain%20action/DSCN0663.jpg

[Blue Meanie]

Something like this? :wink_y:
http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n303/gman19652002/captain%20action/DSCN0663.jpg

I love that figure and that box...it stands tall in my collection. Very pleased with the end results of both figure and box.

[thunderbolt]

We haven't finalized anything as yet as respects packaging but I was thinking how about both?

Joe

:yes:

Both would probably be the way to go. Get the mego and CA fans.

[MIB41]

Thanks Joe! I've always been curious about licensing and how it's obtained. I do have one question about that and you might be able to help all of us understand the sticky complexities involved with the process.

If your able to get a company like Marvel or DC at the table to discuss permission to produce goods, is the cost of a license more of a flat rate or something that is negotiated? Would a popular character like Spiderman cost more than say a second tier character like Nova or Moon Knight?

And finally when your licensing a product do you have to pay a base fee just for the license and then give them a percentage of the gross or does all of that vary if terms are negotiable?

Sorry to ask business related questions, but I think it's very educational for collectors to know just how tough this business truly is. I've always felt Captain Action is one of the great action figures of all time because of his flexibility to bring to life so many unique characters that otherwise wouldn't exist on our collector shelves today. I think I speak for everyone when I say, we're very grateful for your love and appreciation of the character and your efforts to keep him in the market place. I think there are alot of us here who will do our part to help this line reach the kind of success he truly deserves! :grin:

I think my question got overlooked. :smile:

[David Lee]

I think my question got overlooked. :smile:

I know I don't personally want to discuss the details of our licensing deal, that's between us and CA Ent. That's just business... I am sure with a little research you'll find that there are a myriad of ways to obtain licenses and each deal is different. Some deals involve lump sums to obtain rights, while the majority require upfront payments and then subsequent royalties, based on a mutal percentage.

Hope that helps...

-Dave

[MIB41]

Thanks Dave! Wasn't trying to get intimate details of any deal. Just curious how it worked from a general perspective. Thanks for your reply!

[David Lee]

Thanks Dave! Wasn't trying to get intimate details of any deal. Just curious how it worked from a general perspective. Thanks for your reply!

Hey no problem, I didn't think you were...

This is kinda of new to us as well, and it took us almost a year to sort it out. The key to it is selling your product to the licensor, the rest is setting up the agreement. Most big properties have a very specific process, they've been to the puppet show and they've seen the strings :silly: So, at that point it's jumping through their hoops. There are Licensing Agents that do this all the time and they will gladly do it for you, for a not so nominal fee :deal2:

Now as for Marvel and DC (Star Wars etc...), these guys are nigh unapproachable. They get pitched to everyday, and in reality it comes down to... what they want to make. If either got the bug to do 8 inch Super Heroes with removable costumes, it would happen. SO it's just a matter of if they think it's viable for them. To further exacerbate this, they also grant what is known as Master Toy Licenses to big toys companies *Hasbro, Mattel*. Making Spidey Toilet paper? you might have a shot, but guess who ain't gonna be so happy with MEGO's competing with them:enraged: The ONLY way that these properties are available is if there is wiggle room in these pre-existing contracts with the Big Boys. This is where your DC Direct, Marvel Select (or whatever they are now), come into play. These are of course produced and Marketed by DC and MARVEL themselves or their subsidiaries. So in reality unless Hasbro or Mattel make these figures it becomes less likely to happen. Don't get me wrong, I'd be happy to see a little guy get the chance to do something cool with these properties, but the reality is just not good. Here's hoping I am wrong some day:grin:

-Dave

[Blue Meanie]

So, basically we are looking at public domain characters or older characters...Lone Ranger and Tonto, Phantom, Flash Gordon (which actually may sell because of the new series on Sci-Fi), Buck Rogers and other figures and outfits that have been done before with the Playing Mantis re-issues. I personally love those characters, and have the original CA figures with outfits in my collection, and would love to see them be made Megostyle...but you gotta give us more than the same stuff that's been already made. If there's no licensing beyond what already exsists in the Captain Action universe...then it will be "Been there...done that." Basically you'll sell to about 1000 diehards (and that's being generous) and then adios amegos. Unless you have a blockbuster licensing agreement to do "NEW" Captain Action Mego Stylings, such as the Speed Racer/Racer X and Johnny Quest stuff that is in the Michael Eury Book, I can see a very short lifespan. And that's just being honest. I love the Eury book and I love my orginal Captain Action figures...but to do a Megostyle line just for the sake of doing it is just being naive to what collectors and enthusiasts really want. Same can be said for all the retro stuff that has come out before this line comes out. CTVT was just poor product...the complaints of the figures was just too numerous to mention. EMCE is great product...but still no NEW stuff until year 2. That doesn't bode well...and they are being distributed though Diamond...one of the biggest monopolies out there. I've ordered 2 cases per wave up until wave 3 just to support the Doc/EMCE. I know that's not earth shattering...but I have supported it. If wave 4 is going to be re-hashed figures....I can't support it. Give me and other collectors/enthusiasts something NEW. In the case of doing Captain Action...AGAIN...there is plenty of the original and Playing Mantis re-issue stuff out there already. I understand it's not Mego sized...but honestly, you don't think customizers here on the museum and not here on the museum can't make those outfits??!!?? I wish you guys all the best of luck in this venture....I really mean that...but you may want to get some ducks in order before going full tilt with this. I don't want to see this fizzle like the Playing Mantis stuff did and go the way of the discount bin. Good Luck.

[fallensaviour]

This is pretty cool news.I know I will pick up a couple for sure.I'll do my best to get my kids hooked as well,so you have future customers for the next few years...LOL.
Good luck and I look forward to hearing more.

[David Lee]

So, basically we are looking at public domain characters or older characters...Lone Ranger and Tonto, Phantom, Flash Gordon (which actually may sell because of the new series on Sci-Fi), Buck Rogers and other figures and outfits that have been done before with the Playing Mantis re-issues. I personally love those characters, and have the original CA figures with outfits in my collection, and would love to see them be made Megostyle...but you gotta give us more than the same stuff that's been already made. If there's no licensing beyond what already exsists in the Captain Action universe...then it will be "Been there...done that." Basically you'll sell to about 1000 diehards (and that's being generous) and then adios amegos. Unless you have a blockbuster licensing agreement to do "NEW" Captain Action Mego Stylings, such as the Speed Racer/Racer X and Johnny Quest stuff that is in the Michael Eury Book, I can see a very short lifespan. And that's just being honest. I love the Eury book and I love my orginal Captain Action figures...but to do a Megostyle line just for the sake of doing it is just being naive to what collectors and enthusiasts really want. Same can be said for all the retro stuff that has come out before this line comes out. CTVT was just poor product...the complaints of the figures was just too numerous to mention. EMCE is great product...but still no NEW stuff until year 2. That doesn't bode well...and they are being distributed though Diamond...one of the biggest monopolies out there. I've ordered 2 cases per wave up until wave 3 just to support the Doc/EMCE. I know that's not earth shattering...but I have supported it. If wave 4 is going to be re-hashed figures....I can't support it. Give me and other collectors/enthusiasts something NEW. In the case of doing Captain Action...AGAIN...there is plenty of the original and Playing Mantis re-issue stuff out there already. I understand it's not Mego sized...but honestly, you don't think customizers here on the museum and not here on the museum can't make those outfits??!!?? I wish you guys all the best of luck in this venture....I really mean that...but you may want to get some ducks in order before going full tilt with this. I don't want to see this fizzle like the Playing Mantis stuff did and go the way of the discount bin. Good Luck.

Honesty I can deal with, as a matter of fact it's all I ever ask:wink_y:

Rest assured our ducks are lining up nicely. We didn't just think this up. We approached Joe and Ed with one goal in mind, Captain Action and Dr. Evil. The Phantom comes into play because we also have that license, it seemed a natural cross-over, this is also predicated on King Features approval. As for newer Costumes for these two, we will let the market make those decisions. We love to hear what you guys would like and brainstorm, it's fun for sure. But be aware that we are making business decisions.

Without getting to much into the weeds, we will be producing replicas of Captain Action and Dr. Evil (new name) in 8 inch format, and also the Phantom. Next will be villains based on the Phantom. We are making new stuff, not MEGOS not Capitan Action... new stuff. Our retro body will not even be just like the type 2. Straight up reproductions are not our thing and are being nicely done by others. If we obtain other licenses to make action-figures and they are amenable to the CA cross over, and Joe and Ed are as well, then we will happily continue along that path if it makes good business sense. But, get this, our goal is to make New 8 inch Action-figures.... period. New figures, new licenses, our new premium format body, new packaging. This is simply our business plan, and we are executing it. I know we have not always seen eye to eye 'Berto, but your concerns are valid, and I don't fault you for that, as a matter of fact thanks for posting. Hopefully this will clear up the questions. If you, or anybody for that matter, have any more questions or ideas feel free to post them, or contact me off-line I am more than happy to discuss what I can.

We certainly appreciate the excitement!

-Dave

[cptaction]

If your able to get a company like Marvel or DC at the table to discuss permission to produce goods, is the cost of a license more of a flat rate or something that is negotiated?

It could go either way.


Would a popular character like Spiderman cost more than say a second tier character like Nova or Moon Knight?
Yes.



And finally when your licensing a product do you have to pay a base fee just for the license and then give them a percentage of the gross or does all of that vary if terms are negotiable?

Sometimes it's both or it could be either. It depends on the licensor.


Sorry to ask business related questions, but I think it's very educational for collectors to know just how tough this business truly is. I've always felt Captain Action is one of the great action figures of all time because of his flexibility to bring to life so many unique characters that otherwise wouldn't exist on our collector shelves today. I think I speak for everyone when I say, we're very grateful for your love and appreciation of the character and your efforts to keep him in the market place. I think there are alot of us here who will do our part to help this line reach the kind of success he truly deserves!

We appreciate the support from all the Mego and Cap fans!

[cptaction]

Something like this? :wink_y:
http://i115.photobucket.com/albums/n303/gman19652002/captain%20action/DSCN0663.jpg

Yes, I've seen this before. That is correct. However we obviously would not be able to put the other licensed heroes on the sides of the box.

[MIB41]

I think this is always an interesting dilemma when new character lines are being introduced. Both Hasbro and Toybiz have taken turns tipping their hats to the mego-style action figures. I think Toybiz spent too much time in the packaging department and cut corners with the figures themselves. Too many characters had flimsy outfits, poor sculpts and even silly poses in their boxes (look no further than the Goblin for a textbook example of a really bad pose). Some of the figures were so bad they almost appeared to be a pre-school item because of the baby expressions and misproportioned body (look to the Hulk for that example).

Hasbro, in my opinion, did a much better job in the quality department and made a number of very good figures. Where they made a colossal mistake was changing price points with their sophomore line that had comic inserts. In some cases, as with Spiderman, there were little differences in the figure, yet they sat side by side (one $14.99, while the other was $19.99). Since this newer product was stocked at the front, many consumers were confused by the price so they assumed all of the figures were $19.99, so it slowed sales of the entire inventory. For collectors who knew the difference, most scoffed at the price increase based on a cheap comic insert.

After a few new character series, Hasbro then released one character by himself (Cyclops) at the higher end price of $19.99. Nobody was impressed with that move so the character sat on shelves and collected dust for nearly four months before getting marked down. Hasbro finished their marketing debacle by releasing the Sandman months after Spiderman 3 came out. It was so confusing that many stores immediately marked it down to $4.99 without realizing it was new product.

So I guess if there is a good lesson to learn from these two companies, it would be to focus on the quality of the figures while still remaining competitive with the price points. Also have a solid line up ready to go before the public see's it. New products often live and die with that intial impression so a nice display of characters and or sets would be a favorable move. Obviously you can't hang yourself with too much product until you know how it's going to sell, but you also don't want to get overlooked on the shelf by not having enough. I fear that if only Captain Action and Dr Evil figures are released, vendors won't order that many because they'll feel the only customers showing up for these will be the same collectors who bought the Playing Mantis line. What I'm hearing is this line is new and different so my expectations are already raised. I think if you can get the vendors excited you'll be off to a good start. Just some food for thought...

[thunderbolt]

If you are looking for other heroes to use for Cap, how about the Superpowers series from Alex Ross? I'm sure he would be interested in seeing mego inspired figures of those characters. Others to consider would be Madman, Big Bang, or some of Image's characters.

[The Toyroom]

Yes, I've seen this before. That is correct. However we obviously would not be able to put the other licensed heroes on the sides of the box.

No problem there...just put CA on the sides like he is on the original Ideal costume boxes. :wink_y:

[Corellian Corvette]

This is super exciting. I just picked up a bunch of the PM CA boxed figures for characters I like (Lone Ranger, Tonto, Flash Gordon) so the possibilities here are really cool.

IMO, my only piece of advice would be: Make sure the clothes and accessories work with existing T1 and T2 figures! :)

I know making a new body is probably the most exciting part for you, but I've seen it go wrong more often than I've seen it go right. I'm not sure I need *another* new body (by new I mean "incompatible") and the best way to appeal to the existing community is compatibility.

I'm sure many folks here are excited about a new 8" figure body so I'm not suggesting it's a bad idea - I'm saying that the ability to support the line and extend the customization possibilities is to make sure everything fits. I'm wishing you guys the best, but for 8" scale the number of Mego accessories and bodies will outnumber any new line by a huge margin. To be able to take your body and put a vintage Batman outfit on it would be awesome. For others, they may want to take your new head and pop it on a vintage T2.

Either way you guys sell a figure.

Just my $.02.

Best of luck guys!

[David Lee]

This is super exciting. I just picked up a bunch of the PM CA boxed figures for characters I like (Lone Ranger, Tonto, Flash Gordon) so the possibilities here are really cool.

IMO, my only piece of advice would be: Make sure the clothes and accessories work with existing T1 and T2 figures! :)

I know making a new body is probably the most exciting part for you, but I've seen it go wrong more often than I've seen it go right. I'm not sure I need *another* new body (by new I mean "incompatible") and the best way to appeal to the existing community is compatibility.

I'm sure many folks here are excited about a new 8" figure body so I'm not suggesting it's a bad idea - I'm saying that the ability to support the line and extend the customization possibilities is to make sure everything fits. I'm wishing you guys the best, but for 8" scale the number of Mego accessories and bodies will outnumber any new line by a huge margin. To be able to take your body and put a vintage Batman outfit on it would be awesome. For others, they may want to take your new head and pop it on a vintage T2.

Either way you guys sell a figure.

Just my $.02.

Best of luck guys!

You betcha, we're on the same page! Remember we are, in fact, first and foremost customizers ourselves:silly: So this was a priority from the start. We knew our new stuff needed to fit and play well with existing stuff, as to expand the Mego 'verse (not recreate a new one). So, without repro'ing old MEGO stuff, we are making things that fit the Type 2. Our first "retro" body is just more of an improved Type 2, but for customizing purposes there will be little difference. The Newer Premium format articulated body, shares most of the overall dimensions as the type 2 as well... So no worries there mates! We may in the business to make new figures... be we still think like customizers :smiley1:

BTW, wait until you see the purely custom accessories we will have for you guys!

-Dave

[jds1911a1]

I have many capt actions with my joes and loved the playing mantis repros so thanks CA your work to bring Kato to life in bot doll and sepaarate uniform was awesome.

[megocrazy]

Do you also have access to the Action Jackson license that PM had? Is there even a license needed for that? Would make a nice companion line and would be very similar in style to CA. I always felt if they had done more uniforms with that line they would have been better received buy the general public. Vehicles would be awesome also.

[mage66]

I'm very excited to see my two Action Figure passions converge.

As a child in the 60's I loved Captain Action, and carried one around with me ALL the time. He was my version of Linus's Security Blanket.

With Cap around. I always knew I was safe.

In the 70's, I discovered the MEGO line of WGSH and immediately broke my piggy bank and bought every one I could.

Unfortunately, that collection was trashed by my Aunt.

But, now I have new repros thanks to Dr. Mego, The Mego Store, Austin at Reproheads.com and more.

But, to have the ability to buy new CA figures again, even in 8in scale is FANTASTIC!!!

I made this suggestion earlier and I'm sure Joe snickered when he read it and said... "If only Al knew what we have in the works..."

I know I'm buying lots of these new figures.

I'd also like to see things like:

Supreme from Image Comics
Kid Supreme for an eventual AB/KA figure
Buck Rogers
Doc Savage

and others.

I'm sure Joe and Ed have more up their sleeves. I can't wait to see!

[cptaction]

[QUOTE=megocrazy;61875]Do you also have access to the Action Jackson license that PM had? Is there even a license needed for that?

I believe Tom Lowe of Playing Mantis, now Round2corp, may still own Action Jackson. You'sd have to check the US patent & TM office website search engine to see.

[SlipperyLilSuckers]

Thrilling news...really looking forward to them.

[knight errant00]

That is GREAT news, Dave! I know you guys have been working hard at this for years, and this is going to be a phenomenally cool step! If they're going to be the same licenses as the last CA reissue, I'm in for the Phantom, Green Hornet, and Kato for sure!

--Pat

[roman]

BTW, wait until you see the purely custom accessories we will have for you guys!

-Dave


DAMN ! COME ON i AN NOT A BLOND AND YOU HAVE ME IN SUSPENSE
.
Give us a taste.. a peak even

: )

[Werewolf]

Any word on when we can expect to see pics of the figures or prototypes? I'm really curious to see how they look shrunk down.

[The Bat]

BTW, wait until you see the purely custom accessories we will have for you guys!

-Dave



Man Dave....You KILLLING Me with statements like that! I CAN'T WAIT!!!!

[David Lee]

Man Dave....You KILLLING Me with statements like that! I CAN'T WAIT!!!!

All I can say is; it's stuff we have personally wanted for 6 years. Factory made touches to make customs really pop and have a manufactured look. Pros and novices alike will appreciate this stuff:yes:


-Dave

[megozilla13]

All I can say is; it's stuff we have personally wanted for 6 years. Factory made touches to make customs really pop and have a manufactured look. Pros and novices alike will appreciate this stuff:yes:


-Dave


a more realistic axe for the tinman?

[roman]

Females with bigger boobies ?

If you say fedoras and thrench coats then the first round is on me.


Dave you're givin' me an ebolism here.

So when will you be premiering or going to market with this, has a date been set?

[phil]

Really looking forward to seeing the figures. This is a great idea.

[apes3978]

Will there be weapons packs available?

[thunderbolt]

Given your past work with AC Comics, any chances for more AC stuff?

[David Lee]

Given your past work with AC Comics, any chances for more AC stuff?

Not in the foreseeable future... but ya never know...


-Dave

[Randy]

This is awesome for us old time CA collectors!! Welcome Joe, glad to see you here!!

[cptaction]

This is awesome for us old time CA collectors!! Welcome Joe, glad to see you here!!

Thanks Randy! Glad to be here! We're very confident that Dave and Company at Castaway are gonna do this up right!

Justice Will Be Done!

Regards,
Joe

[roman]

So as we all sit patiently and wait (credit cards in hand) for this fascinating new line of 8" mego like goodness I have a question.

I looked at your site and I am seeing CA being done by Moonstone Books. The Phantom is in their line up as well. Might one take an inference from this that other Monstone propeties may be heade for an 8" rendering ?

Might we See ole Cap action as Zorro or Sherlock Homes in the future?

I think the lining upof any ocmic company is an incredible idea for both the doll maker and the publicict. If you can't go with DC or Marvel this looks like a posiible winner.

Rob

[David Lee]

So as we all sit patiently and wait (credit cards in hand) for this fascinating new line of 8" mego like goodness I have a question.

I looked at your site and I am seeing CA being done by Moonstone Books. The Phantom is in their line up as well. Might one take an inference from this that other Monstone propeties may be heade for an 8" rendering ?

Might we See ole Cap action as Zorro or Sherlock Homes in the future?

I think the lining upof any ocmic company is an incredible idea for both the doll maker and the publicict. If you can't go with DC or Marvel this looks like a posiible winner.

Rob

:rolleyes_2:

[Boywonder0]

:rolleyes_2:

I hope that this really materializes and that you are not playing with our feelings. This would be a dream come true! I really look forward to this line. I want them all! My VISA CC is salivating...

Can somebody link me to a web page containing additional info? Thanks in advance!

Happy 2008!

Boy

[David Lee]

I hope that this really materializes and that you are not playing with our feelings. This would be a dream come true! I really look forward to this line. I want them all! My VISA CC is salivating...

Can somebody link me to a web page containing additional info? Thanks in advance!

Happy 2008!

Boy

Well Boy,
It's true... we are making CA and Dr. Evil, as well as the Phantom. We have also approached MOONSTONE about both including their comics with the figures and also expanding to other MOONSTONE properties if the opportunity presents itself, and they are quite excited at the prospect. Our website is undergoing a huge renovation right now to get ramped up for the new figures and custom accessories we are currently manufacturing. Here is a link, from Awesome Lou M's MEGOLIKE.com, to the smaller projects we have done in the past.

http://www.megolike.com/castawaytys.htm

We won't have our site up for a a few weeks, until then this is the best place for Info. We will be posting prototypes and factory samples when we get them back... We are getting some awesome help from some very talented Museum members and are stoked beyond belief so far that this is going to become a long awaited reality.

So to sum up? It's true... how far we get depends on the success. We plan to give it all we have, we hope you guys will like it enough to keep it alive!

-Dave

[bobbait]

count me in for 101%, Dave!!

[The Bat]

Make a good 8" Mego-Style Figure Dave..."and They will come"!:wink::grin:

[Action Martin]

While an 8" Captain Action seems a little sacreligious to me, the idea of having an 8" Phantom is fantastic.

[Boywonder0]

Well Boy,
It's true... we are making CA and Dr. Evil, as well as the Phantom. We have also approached MOONSTONE about both including their comics with the figures and also expanding to other MOONSTONE properties if the opportunity presents itself, and they are quite excited at the prospect. Our website is undergoing a huge renovation right now to get ramped up for the new figures and custom accessories we are currently manufacturing. Here is a link, from Awesome Lou M's MEGOLIKE.com, to the smaller projects we have done in the past.

http://www.megolike.com/castawaytys.htm

We won't have our site up for a a few weeks, until then this is the best place for Info. We will be posting prototypes and factory samples when we get them back... We are getting some awesome help from some very talented Museum members and are stoked beyond belief so far that this is going to become a long awaited reality.

So to sum up? It's true... how far we get depends on the success. We plan to give it all we have, we hope you guys will like it enough to keep it alive!

-Dave


GOD BLESS YOU!

[cptaction]

While an 8" Captain Action seems a little sacreligious to me, the idea of having an 8" Phantom is fantastic.
Not to Worry! We'll have some things in store for 12 inch classic Cap too!

Joe

CA Enterprises, Inc.

[Talos]

Chiming in for my first post here... Joe I was wondering if you can elaborate on plans for the items for the 12" figures.

I'm still a little fuzzy about differences between the original CA IDEAL figures and the PM versions. Weren't there some size changes? Will these new items suit both versions?

I'm really buzzed about the 8" versions too. I had Action Jackson, a pretty substantial range of the WGSH figures, all 4 monsters, and Dr Zaius, but they all went to a worthy cause, courtesy of my generous hearted Mother (bless her) who thought I'd 'outgrown' them. My original CA collection had already gone the same road, sadly.

The prospect of a new range of CA figures in Mego scale is very exciting, and maybe some Moonstone crossover (drooling at the thought of Buckaroo Banzai and Kolchak:licklips:)!!!

I'm certainly looking forward to hearing about further developments and wish all concerned the very best with their endeavours.

[Action Martin]

I was just thinking how cool it would be if we got Captain Action 12" Flash Gordon costumes that resembled Mego's Flash Gordon costumes. That would be cool.

[cptaction]

Chiming in for my first post here... Joe I was wondering if you can elaborate on plans for the items for the 12" figures.

Hello Talos! The answer is most definitely YES! We are looking into some different opportunities for 12 inch Cap.Beyond that, Our friends at Castaway Toys will be putting out CA customizing sets for both 8 inch and 12 inch Cap, so you can definitely count on that!
I'm still a little fuzzy about differences between the original CA IDEAL figures and the PM versions. Weren't there some size changes? Will these new items suit both versions?

The difference between Ideal Cap and PM cap are minimal as far as utilizing costumes and equipment are concerned. PM Cap is just slightly shorter in stature and his head is a bit smaller as well.
I'm really buzzed about the 8" versions too. I had Action Jackson, a pretty substantial range of the WGSH figures, all 4 monsters, and Dr Zaius, but they all went to a worthy cause, courtesy of my generous hearted Mother (bless her) who thought I'd 'outgrown' them. My original CA collection had already gone the same road, sadly.

The prospect of a new range of CA figures in Mego scale is very exciting, and maybe some Moonstone crossover (drooling at the thought of Buckaroo Banzai and Kolchak:licklips:)!!!

Ya never know!! We will be doing a Phantom costuume for CA, so there's your first Moonstone crossover right there!

I'm certainly looking forward to hearing about further developments and wish all concerned the very best with their endeavours.

Thank you sir! Keep checking in here and at the captainactionnow.com website for new developments! Action Over & Out!
Joe

[Action Martin]

I was just thinking how cool it would be if we got Captain Action 12" Flash Gordon costumes that resembled Mego's Flash Gordon costumes. That would be cool.

Or even in the 8" scale.

[Randy]

Bring them on Joe!!!!

Personally, I cant wait for these figures!!!

[MIB41]

Do we have a release date for any of the figures yet?

[David Lee]

Do we have a release date for any of the figures yet?

Nothing set in stone yet. Since this is our first offering, we really want to be more concerned with getting things right, than getting them out the door. But having said that, we should have a very nice late spring or early summer if things go as planned...

I really do hate to be vague like that, but deadlines get very dicey when dealing with China. Rest assured though things are moving along nicely.... As soon as we get approvals to show stuff we will be more than happy to do so!

We really do appreciate the excitement from you guys, and working with great licensor's like Captain Action Ent. and King Features is great. I can't wait for you all to see the talent, hard work and dedication that's going into these figures, from industry people and our very own MM member's... I have a good feeling you guys will be blown away, I know we are...

-Dave


-Dave

[DocDrako]

Great news. I first became familiar with Captain Action toys when the repros were done. I came very close to buying them then, but never did. I kept putting off getting them, but now that they're Mego scale, I'm on it! No reason not to buy them now. I can't wait to see them!

:grin:

[TCM Hitchhiker]

I can't tell you how much I am looking forward to picking up an 8" Dr. Evil. I fully support this line, and can't wait to see them.

[jayihdz]

That sounds cool, cant wait to see what you guys have to offer.

[GreenLantern9999]

I am very excited about this I just got done reading this whole thread I had no idea Cap Action was in the works for Mego size. I can not wait for these!

[roman]

We have discussed thi or maybe I have missed it but is there any word on what the packaging will look like for the 8" Cap and Doc figures? Are you going retro with smaller show box design or will you do a mego-like card?

I guess the same question for the accessorie packs and the Phantom costume. I assume the Phanto will be a costume rather than fully dressed figure?

I read a link through captainaction.com that you're debuting at the New York Toy convention in April.

[jemboy2004]

I love the idea! I'll buy them all! I hope they look as good as the custom shown here.

[Action Martin]

As respects "Dr. Eville", yes, unfortunately due to the Austin Powers thing we can't use the name as it was.

Just why is that? If I recall correctly when Playing Mantis released their Captain Action line, it was a year after the first Austin Powers movie and Dr. Evil wasn't renamed. Was there a lawsuit or something that I missed?

[Hotfoot]

video about the new CA
http://channels.ridgewoodtv.com/kickapps/_Captainjsessionid=33FEBDE8E49E4553C3DD2F7332138B2 B?as=7783 (http://channels.ridgewoodtv.com/kickapps/_Captain%20Action/VIDEO/134501/7783.html;jsessionid=33FEBDE8E49E4553C3DD2F7332138 B2B?as=7783)

[cptaction]

Just why is that? If I recall correctly when Playing Mantis released their Captain Action line, it was a year after the first Austin Powers movie and Dr. Evil wasn't renamed. Was there a lawsuit or something that I missed?

The reason is that Playing Mantis had it first and they worked out some sort of deal with New Line Cinema so they could both use the name simultaneously.

We asked New Line if they would let us use it and they said no.
Makes no sense to me since Austin Powers is over and done with from a toy standpoint.

Joe

[The Toyroom]

Or alternately... Dr. E. Ville

[TCM Hitchhiker]

How about Dr. Evel ;)

[Randy]

He is the greatest toy villain ever, DR EVIL is the sinister invader from outer space no matter how you spell his name!!!

[cptaction]

Of course he is!!
BTW -

We at CA Enterprises are planning a big splash this April at the NY Comicon to introduce CA back into the comics as well as the collectibles arena. We will have comics, prototypes and all kinds of fun stuff at our booth and we will also be holding the first ever Captain Action panel, so if you are going to the con, be sure to stop by to say hi to me and my partner Ed Catto! Here's a look at our full page ad which will be featured in the convention program: http://www.geocities.com/cptaction@v...t/NYCCadSm.jpg

Regards,
Joe Ahearn
http://www.captainactionnow.com