Mego Museum Announces the 1978 Re: Imagine Project

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Presenting 1978 Re: Imagine, the latest endeavour from the Mego
Museum and a project for all Mego heads.

http://www.megomuseum.com/1978/1978.jpg (http://www.megomuseum.com/1978/1978.jpg)

The Mego Museum is turning back the clock to 1978 and asking YOU to join the Research and Development department. Show us what lines you'd make. Would it be a new series of World's Greatest Superheroes or would Planet of the Apes make a comeback? A fourth wave for Star Trek or a new line from the 1978 TV season? Did Mego grab the Star Wars license just in time? What changes were in store for the Micronauts?

The goal: To create a 12 page color catalog which illustrates our
collective fantasies of what Mego might have been in 1978 and to
showcase the creative ingenuity of the Mego Community through:

•Custom action figure projects (New or previously created)
•Original package design

•Concept art (illustration, graphic design, computer generated imagery)

It's all your call: Team up and collaborate. Design, create, present ideas in the Museum Forum. Every one can be a part of 1978.

Guidelines will be posted on the Mego Museum Forum this week and the
re:Imagined lineup will be selected this February 20th (just in time for Toy
Fair) by a team that will include former Mego employees. The project will be coordinated by CustomMego's Dave McCormick and Museum Curator Brian Heiler. Selected submissions will be photographed by World's Greatest Toys (http://www.worldsgreatesttoys.com/) Author Benjamin Holcomb and Mego Museum artist Scott Adams and put into a Mego style product catalog, the first publication from Megomuseum.com, which will be sold Summer 2008. Proceeds to fund future Mego Museum projects.

This is your chance to create the toys we've all wanted Mego to make and get them approved by the Mego creative staff themselves!

Reimagine 1978 with the Mego Museum!

UPDATE: 1978 Project Timetable

Phase 1 — Brainstorming

This phase has already begun. Members are invited to continue to post product ideas. Recommendations are not necessary…it's gotta be something you can actually produce! If you want to see someone else's exquisite custom piece included, please ask them to post the item themselves. Photos of pre-existing or work-in-progress customs are encouraged, as they will give folks a visual idea of what you propose.

Phase 2 — Pitching to R&D:

On January 1, we will create a special new 1978 Forum. This is where formal submissions to the project will be made between January 1-February 17th. You may post as many submissions as you like at any time, but please use this format to enter them:

[Project/Concept Title]
Author: [Your Name (Your MM ID)]
Line: [Mego Line]
Toy Execution (Vintage, Custom or Digital Art): [Choose One, or TBD]
Packaging Execution (Custom or Digital Art): [Choose One, or TBD]
Toy Customizers/Collaborators: [Choose One, or TBD]
Packaging Customizers/Collaborators: [Choose One, or TBD]
Author Notes: [Your inspiration or reason behind concept]

Phase 3: Choosing the Product Line:

During the Toy Fair week of February 18th-22nd (an historically accurate Toy Fair date!) submissions will be reviewed by the project team with input from some former Mego employees and 60 products will be chosen for inclusion to the catalog.

Phase 4: Catalog Creation

Chosen submissions must be mailed by March 1st to Benjamin Holcomb and Scott Adams, who will photograph the products and design a gorgeous, authentic catalog! Please note that creators will be asked to cover shipping (with insurance) costs both to and from California. In shooting photographs for Mego 8" Super-Heroes: World's Greatest Toys!, Benjamin handled literally thousands of beloved, rare toys, and not one toy was damaged… so rest assured your creations are in good hands.

This keepsake catalog will be distributed through MegoMuseum.com, at Mego Meet and at San Diego Comic-Con.

We look forward to your participation!

Sincerely,

The Mego Museum 1978 Project Team
Brian, Scott, Dave and Benjamin

[Earth 2 Chris]

WOW.

This sounds incredibly fun.

You guys are the best, and this is the best place on the web.

Chris

[rchatlin]

I can't wait to see the ideas everyone contributes.

Kudo's to Brian, Dave, Scott and Benjamin for this exciting project.


r
o
b

[toys2cool]

That's a great idea guys,wow I would've had a great one if it would've been 1980 :grin:

[SUPERUNDERDOGGIE]

Aw man...I wish I had a creative bone....I know what I would do...but have no prayer of making a cool looking custom.

That's an AWESOME idea though!

[Meule]

Oh wow, what a great and original idea. With all the talent we have here this should prove very interesting

[The Toyroom]

Awesome idea!

[PCofmisfittoys]

pretty cool ideas for sure. this should keep my illustrator programs busy for a while . sounds very fun and win or lose I would like to buy the final catalog for sure.

[mitchedwards]

This will be really cool to see.

[megoscott]

I hope it gets the creative juices flowing! Ever since we did that fake catalog page for the Vinny Baiera interview (http://megomuseum.com/megolibrary/interviews/vinnybaiera/interview.html) I've wanted to do a whole catalog, and after all the great customs we've seen over the past 10 years I know we can fill a catalog with dream Mego goodness! I'm thrilled that Benjamin is excited to do photography for it---He's become a master of Mego studio photography and a huge expert in how they did things like this. I think it will be a creative and educational experience for everyone.

[UOBob]

Wow, what a great idea! I can't wait!

[palitoy]

I'm really hopeful this is a project that everyone will get behind and have a lot of fun. This thing has already got a great energy about it and I'd love to see that spread.

[imp]

Aw man...I wish I had a creative bone....I know what I would do...but have no prayer of making a cool looking custom.

That's an AWESOME idea though!

Dan, your response is exactly what I was hoping for. I see this project as an amazing opportunity for Mego heads to collaborate and work together to create Mego art. I am not a customizer, but I have some killer ideas that I hope will allow me to pair up with a customizer who can help me realize it.

I hope you will post your idea(s), because I suspect you will have several responses from other Mego heads who can make your idea a reality. Please share, as concepts are what will drive the project; execution is what will make it memorable.

Benjamin

[sauce]

Wow! Great project! I'm getting my wheels turning. And yes, I agree that the non-customizers play just as important a role in this with their ideas.

[Megospidey]

love it - love it - love it!

I will donate what little customizing skills I have to anyone who has a project in mind. Just let me know.

[UOBob]

I only have one good idea and no skills at all with anything resembling a tool, but I'd love to share my one good idea with folks!

[HardyGirl]

Ditto, only I have 2 good ideas. (at least I hope their good ideas!:yes:) Would a customizer like to team up w/ me?

[megowgsh]

This is going to be great. Wonderful idea guys!

[imp]

So everybody is jazzed and some folks already have great ideas. Fantastic!

Perhaps we could start to share the ideas here so we can get started. Dan? Bob? Austin? …Bueller?

Benjamin

[MegoGeek]

OK....I'll start.

Wizard of Oz Flying Monkey.

Only because I remember a rumor when I was younger that one came with the Witch's Castle.

Now, get on it.

[palitoy]

I have plans, oh how I have plans.....

[sauce]

Being the fist fighter junkie I am, I would like to see more characters pounding flesh. Hulk and Thing seem like pretty obvious choices for fist fighters. Also, I think it would be fun to apply the removable mask/cowl concept to other characters and let them change in and out of superhero to citizen with more ease being on the same action figure, rather than having a whole other figure.

[imp]

This is great! In order to track the ideas, I'll document them. Following is the master list of Projects and Teams. As folks post information, updates/revisions and collaborations, I will update this list.

One quick note about ideas: While every idea is a good one, we should be mindful that we are developing a hypothetical 1978 catalog, which would have been created at the end of 1977, for distribution at the February 1978 Toy Fair.

This project will be especially cool if we develop ideas that are somewhat plausible. Even if not entirely plausible, we should avoid overly anachronistic additions (e.g. expanding the Dukes of Hazzard line, as the show wasn't even on-air at that point).

Also, when you post new ideas, it would really help me if you could copy/paste the following form and fill it out in a new post, so I can easily add it to this list.

[Project/Concept Title]
Author: [Your Name (Your MM ID)]
Line: [Mego Line]
Toy Execution (Vintage, Custom or Digital Art): [Choose One, or TBD]
Packaging Execution (Custom or Digital Art): [Choose One, or TBD]
Toy Customizers/Collaborators: [Choose One, or TBD]
Packaging Customizers/Collaborators: [Choose One, or TBD]
Author Notes: [Your inspiration or reason behind concept]

Here we go.

Wizard of Oz Flying Monkey
Author: Charlie Balicki (MegoGeek)
Line: Wizard of Oz
Toy Execution (Vintage, Custom or Digital Art): TBD
Packaging Execution (Custom or Digital Art): TBD
Toy Customizers/Collaborators: TBD
Packaging Customizers/Collaborators: TBD

Author Notes: Only because I remember a rumor when I was younger that one came with the Witch's Castle.

Marvel Fist-Fighters: Hulk and Thing
Author: Bryan Sanders (nayrbgo)
Line: WGSH
Toy Execution (Vintage, Custom or Digital Art): Vintage
Packaging Execution (Custom or Digital Art): Custom
Toy Customizers/Collaborators: N/A
Packaging Customizers/Collaborators: Anthony Durso (The Toyroom)

Author Notes: Hulk and Thing seem like pretty obvious choices for Fist Fighters.

Secret Identities: Line Expansion and/or Reimagining
Author: Bryan Sanders (nayrbgo)
Line: WGSH
Toy Execution (Vintage, Custom or Digital Art): TBD
Packaging Execution (Custom or Digital Art): Custom
Toy Customizers/Collaborators: TBD
Packaging Customizers/Collaborators: Anthony Durso (The Toyroom)

Author Notes: Apply the removable mask/cowl concept to other characters and let them change in and out of superhero to citizen with more ease being on the same action figure, rather than having a whole other figure.

Masters of Fantasy Celebrity 8" Figures: Rod Serling, Gene Rodenberry, Vincent Price and Stan Lee
Author: Joe DeRouen (jderouen)
Line: Masters of Fantasy
Toy Execution (Vintage, Custom or Digital Art): Custom
Packaging Execution (Custom or Digital Art): Custom
Toy Customizers/Collaborators: James Brady, Dave McCormick (DaveMC), Joe Derouen (jderouen)
Packaging Customizers/Collaborators: Anthony Durso (The Toyroom)

Author Notes: The Masters of Fantasy action figures include Rod Serling, Gene Rodenberry, Vincent Price, Stan Lee, Alfred Hitchcock, and Jack Kirby. The first four are finished and in custom boxes. The other two obviously aren't.

8" 2-Packs: World's Greatest Super-Pals™
Author: Benjamin Holcomb (imp)
Line: WGSH
Toy Execution (Vintage, Custom or Digital Art): Vintage with Custom (Flash)
Packaging Execution (Custom or Digital Art): Custom
Toy Customizers/Collaborators: Need volunteers
Packaging Customizers/Collaborators: Anthony Durso (The Toyroom)

Author Notes: Mego offered 2-packs in the U.S. (e.g. Fist-Fighters, never produced) and actually produced and sold them abroad (e.g. Western 2-Packs in Germany). It just seems like something Mego could have done, especially to better launch the Teen Titans. Please see: Wonder Woman and Wondergirl (http://www.impstudios.com/images/megomuseum/1978catalog/superpals_ww-wg.jpg)

Superman Daily Planet Playset
Author: Scott Adams (megoscott)
Line: WGSH and/or Superman: The Movie
Toy Execution (Vintage, Custom or Digital Art): Custom
Packaging Execution (Custom or Digital Art): TDB
Toy Customizers/Collaborators: Scott Adams
Packaging Customizers/Collaborators: Need volunteers

Author Notes: Daily Planet playset that uses the Tower design I used on my Baxter Building (http://www.didadisplays.com/protos/baxter/images/IMG_6648.jpg)

Superman Phone Booth
Author: Scott Adams (megoscott)
Line: WGSH
Toy Execution (Vintage, Custom or Digital Art): Custom
Packaging Execution (Custom or Digital Art): Custom
Toy Customizers/Collaborators: Scott Adams (megoscott)
Packaging Customizers/Collaborators: Scott Adams (megoscott)

Author Notes: Please see: Phone Booth (http://megomuseum.com/projects/phoneboothproto/webfiles/IMG_7043.JPG.html)

Vulcan Explorer
Author: Authentic Mego Concept (Vinny Baiera)
Line: Star Trek
Toy Execution (Vintage, Custom or Digital Art): Digital
Packaging Execution (Custom or Digital Art): N/A
Toy Customizers/Collaborators: Scott Adams (megoscott)
Packaging Customizers/Collaborators: Scott Adams (megoscott)

Author Notes: Please see: Vulcan Explorer (http://megomuseum.com/megolibrary/interviews/vinnybaiera/images/vulcan-explorer-ext.jpg)

1966 Batman Line
Author: Thomas Meuleman (Meule)
Line: TV Batman
Toy Execution (Vintage, Custom or Digital Art): Custom
Packaging Execution (Custom or Digital Art): Custom
Toy Customizers/Collaborators: Thomas Meuleman (Meule)
Packaging Customizers/Collaborators: Anthony Durso (The Toyroom)

Author Notes: I'll gladly participate for '66 Batman, but I have over 2 dozen characters from the show done now, with a couple more in the works.

Universal Monsters
Author: Thomas Meuleman (Meule)
Line: Mad Monsters
Toy Execution (Vintage, Custom or Digital Art): Custom
Packaging Execution (Custom or Digital Art): Custom
Toy Customizers/Collaborators: Thomas Meuleman (Meule)
Packaging Customizers/Collaborators: Anthony Durso (The Toyroom)

Author Notes: What if Mego got the rights to do monsters after the likeness of the Universal movies. I have a few of those done (did get the heads from others) with boxes made by Anthony. And I have more in the making.

World's Greatest Authors
Author: Thomas Meuleman (Meule)
Line: World's Greatest Authors
Toy Execution (Vintage, Custom or Digital Art): Custom
Packaging Execution (Custom or Digital Art): Custom
Toy Customizers/Collaborators: Thomas Meuleman/Todd Waters (Illegal Mego)
Packaging Customizers/Collaborators: Anthony Durso (The Toyroom)

Author Notes: Todd made a custom Edgar Allan Poe for me, I extended the line with Bram Stoker, Mary Shelley, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and Robert Louis Stevenson (Starbuk and Mefiboshet helped me with some of the heads).

Logan's Run: Surface Dwellers
Author: Brian Heiler (Palitoy)
Line: Logan's Run
Toy Execution (Vintage, Custom or Digital Art): Custom
Packaging Execution (Custom or Digital Art): Custom
Toy Customizers/Collaborators: Brian Heiler (Palitoy)
Packaging Customizers/Collaborators: Brian Heiler (Palitoy)

Author Notes: Four new figures based on some of the more interesting characters in the first season. Some are literal translations, while others are a little more loose, they are: Carousel (Guard-http://www.megomuseum.com/dump/futurepast.jpg), Alien Captive (http://www.megomuseum.com/dump/remcaptive.jpg), The Protector (http://www.megomuseum.com/dump/remprotector.jpg), The Riders (http://www.snowcrest.net/fox/logantv/pilot/pics/14.JPG)

Hulk Expansion
Author: Steve Moore (stevemoore)
Line: Extension of Hulk line
Toy Execution (Vintage, Custom or Digital Art): Custom
Packaging Execution (Custom or Digital Art): Custom
Toy Customizers/Collaborators: Steve Moore (stevemoore), with parts from the usual sources
Packaging Customizers/Collaborators: TBD

Author Notes: To go with Hulk, I'll add Abomination, Rhino, and alter-ego Banner on custom cards.

Action Jackson 2099
Author: Scott Greer (gman)
Line: Re-Introduced Action Jackson
Toy Execution (Vintage, Custom or Digital Art): Vintage/Custom
Packaging Execution (Custom or Digital Art): Custom
Toy Customizers/Collaborators: Scott Greer (gman)
Packaging Customizers/Collaborators: TBD

Author Notes: Action Jackson was my favorite Mego and I always thought they could have and should have done more with him.

Legion of DOOM villains
Author: ? (PCofmisfittoys)
Line: Mego WGSV (World's Greatest Super Villains)
Toy Execution: Vintage/Custom (Riddler only; card backs on all others)
Packaging Execution: Custom
Toy Customizers/Collaborators: ? (PCofmisfittoys)
Packaging Customizers/Collaborators: ? (PCofmisfittoys)

Author Notes: The riddler has always been the only good villian released by MEGO. The oldest villians are included in the Legion of Doom. Giganta (1944), Lex (1940) etc. All thirteen are classic villians that are often overlooked.

Legion of Doom Headquarters Interior Playset
Author: ? (Pcofmisfittoys)
Line: Mego WGSV (World's Greatest Super Villains)
Toy Execution: Custom
Packaging Execution: Custom
Toy Customizers/Collaborators: ? (Pcofmisfittoys)
Packaging Customizers/Collaborators: ? (Pcofmisfittoys)

Author Notes: This is a goal of mine to produce the interior of the Hall of Doom so it could be used with 8" figures.

M*A*S*H
Author: ? (Pcofmisfittoys)
Line: M*A*S*H
Toy Execution : Digital
Packaging Execution : Custom
Toy Customizers/Collaborators: ? (Pcofmisfittoys)
Packaging Customizers/Collaborators: ? (Pcofmisfittoys)

Author Notes: The original toy line fell short in some regards. I could see an expanded line with more figures and Klinger with more of a dress-up doll as well.

Monday Night Football
Author: ? (Pcofmisfittoys)
Line: MNF
Toy Execution: Digital
Packaging Execution: Custom
Toy Customizers/Collaborators: ? (Pcofmisfittoys)
Packaging Customizers/Collaborators: ? (Pcofmisfittoys)

Author Notes: It's sports baby....Back in that time the catalogs and TV where covered in sports. The idea that Joe Namath was only produced is crazy. I can see Howard cosell, and other legends of the day in 8" form in their own WGSH feeling packaging.

Scooby Doo and the Gang
Author: Derek Combs (Megospidey)
Line: Scooby Doo and the Gang
Toy Execution: Custom
Packaging Execution: Custom
Toy Customizers/Collaborators: Derek Combs (Megospidey)
Packaging Customizers/Collaborators: The Toyroom (Anthony Durso)

Author Notes: Since this was on Mego's potential list of things-to-do, Derek has been gracious enough to revisit his some of Scooby Doo custom figures. This time, they'll be carded instead of boxed.

AWESOME SUGGESTIONS
We are seeking leaders for the following suggestions:

— Challenge of the Superfriends (suggested by Austin Hough)

— 8" X-Men (suggested by Joe DeRouen)

— Pulp Heroes Line: The Phantom, The Shadow, & Doc Savage. Maybe with an overseas Diabolik ala Jet Jungle (pitched by Tom Ligotti, Wannabemego)

— Heroes of Legend Line Expansion: 3 Musketeers + D'Artagnan (pitched by Tom Ligotti, Wannabemego)

— Dogtown and Z-Boys (suggested by Bryan Sanders, nayrbgo)
Suggestion Notes: These guys (Jay Adams, Stacy Peralta, Tony Alva, to name a few) rewrote skateboarding and made it the crazy lucrative trend it is today. This happened during Mego's company timeline and most certainly captured the minds of kids all over. It would be great to also make "The Dogbowl" playset (a drained swimming pool) and have these figures doing aerial tricks.

— Get Smart figures (suggested by ?, Pcofmisfittoys)

— Get Smart Shoe Phone Toy (suggested by ?, Pcofmisfittoys)

— Good Times figures, with Apartment Playset (suggested by ?, Pcofmisfittoys)

— Hardy Boys and Nancy Drew figures (suggested by ?, Pcofmisfittoys)

If you want to tackle one or more of the above, please create a new post to that effect.

Hopefully, more soon.

Benjamin

[Meule]

Might I suggest the following:

Wizard of Oz Miss Gulch on bike/Winged Monkey/Winkie Guard/Uncle Henry and Auntie Em/Farmhands
Author: Thomas Meuleman (Meule)
Line: Wizard of Oz
Toy Execution (Vintage, Custom or Digital Art): Custom
Packaging Execution (Custom or Digital Art): Custom
Toy Customizers/Collaborators: Mikeoz
Packaging Customizers/Collaborators: Mikeoz
All these characters (and their boxes) have already been made


Star Wars characters
Author: Thomas Meuleman (Meule)
Line: Star Wars
Toy Execution (Vintage, Custom or Digital Art): Custom
Packaging Execution (Custom or Digital Art): Custom
Toy Customizers/Collaborators: Dave Mc
Packaging Customizers/Collaborators: TBD
Dave has quite a collection of Star Wars characters, don't know about the boxes tho


Star Trek characters
Author: Thomas Meuleman (Meule)
Line: Star Wars
Toy Execution (Vintage, Custom or Digital Art): Custom
Packaging Execution (Custom or Digital Art): Custom
Toy Customizers/Collaborators: Dave Mc/James Brady
Packaging Customizers/Collaborators: TBD
Don't think anyone can top Dave and James' creations

[megowgsh]

Here is what I would like to conribute:

Superman the Movie 8" figures
Author: MEGOWGSH (Austin Houg)
Line: WGSH
Toy Execution (Vintage, Custom or Digital Art): Customs
Packaging Execution (Custom or Digital Art): Custom
Toy Customizers/Collaborators: Myself
Packaging Customizers/Collaborators: Need a Volunteer
Author Notes: I have already created 8" versions of Lex Luthor, Zod and Jor-el in similar motif as 12" line. Probable additions of Ursa, Non. Possible additions of Lois Lane, Perry White and Jimmy Olsen

[megowgsh]

Also, a "Challenge of the Super Friends" line would be a nice addition considering it is 1978. I know a lot of have customs of those characters we have made.

Just a thought.

[The Toyroom]

Benjamin,
Volunteer me for the packaging on:
Marvel Fist-Fighters — Hulk and Thing
Secret Identities — Line Expansion and/or Reimagining
Superman the Movie 8" figures
Challenge of the Super Friends

I've already dabbled in the custom packaging area on those so it just seems like a natural

[megoscott]

Awesome suggestions and ideas so far, I'm excited. Thanks for getting this so organized, Ben.

Here's some of my intended entries:


Superman Daily Planet Playset
Author: Scott Adams
Line: WGSH/Superman the Movie
Toy Execution (Vintage, Custom or Digital Art): Custom
Packaging Execution (Custom or Digital Art): ?
Toy Customizers/Collaborators: Scott Adams
Packaging Customizers/Collaborators: ?
Author Notes: Daily Planet playset that uses the Tower design I used on my Baxter Building. (http://www.didadisplays.com/protos/baxter/images/IMG_6648.jpg)

Superman Phone Booth
Author: Scott Adams
Line: WGSH-Superman
Toy Execution (Vintage, Custom or Digital Art): Custom
Packaging Execution (Custom or Digital Art): Custom
Toy Customizers/Collaborators: SA
Packaging Customizers/Collaborators: SA
Author Notes: http://megomuseum.com/projects/phoneboothproto/webfiles/IMG_7043.JPG.html

Vulcan Explorer
Author: Vinny Baiera?
Line: Star Trek
Toy Execution (Vintage, Custom or Digital Art): Digital
Packaging Execution (Custom or Digital Art): n/a?
Toy Customizers/Collaborators: Scott Adams
Packaging Customizers/Collaborators: SA
Author Notes: Vulcan Explorer (http://megomuseum.com/megolibrary/interviews/vinnybaiera/images/vulcan-explorer-ext.jpg)

[VintageMike]

It wil be fun to watch this. Unfortuntately (as can been seen by my absence here lately) I have some time issues to say the least right now, so I won't be able to participate.

[imp]

Might I suggest the following:Wizard of Oz Miss Gulch on bike/Winged Monkey/Winkie Guard/Uncle Henry and Auntie Em/Farmhands, Star Wars characters, Star Trek characters

These are wonderful nominations, Thomas, which I hope will encourage their respective creators to participate.

I do want to clarify that we should avoid nominating participants in lieu of offering to participate. Thomas, I understand you have a wonderful '66 Batman custom; I hope you'll consider submitting that piece to the project.

I also want to clarify my confusing word choice. The "Author" of a concept is the person who created the idea in the first place, not the person who suggests its inclusion. Using Thomas' "Star Wars" concept as an example, Dave Mc would be the author in search of a packaging collaborator. Dave Mc, if so inclined, would take lead on the project, and work with collaborators if necessary.

Conversely, I personally have an idea that requires a customizer. In that case, Benjamin Holcomb will be the author in search of a customizing collaborator.

Sorry to step on your brilliant toes, Thomas, and your ideas ROCK (keep 'em coming); I just want to make sure we're all working from the same dictionary.

Benjamin

[JDeRouen]

Masters of Fantasy celebrity 8" action figures
Author: Joe DeRouen
Line: Masters of Fantasy
Toy Execution (Vintage, Custom or Digital Art): Custom
Packaging Execution (Custom or Digital Art): Custom
Toy Customizers/Collaborators: James Brady, DaveMC, jderouen
Packaging Customizers/Collaborators: Toyroom

This is something I've been working on for myself for some time. The Masters of Fantasy action figures include Rod Serling, Gene Rodenberry, Vincent Price, Stan Lee, Alfred Hitchcock, and Jack Kirby. The first four are finished and in custom boxes. The other two obviously aren't. Dave did the paint on everything.

Boxes were created for me by Anthony/Toyroom. The Serling sculpt was commissioned by me from the wonderful James Brady. Rodderberry is also James' sculpt.

Will post pics if interested.

Joe

[JDeRouen]

Would also love to see 8" X-Men included in this!

[imp]

Master List updated (See post #23, page 3).

Benjamin

[imp]

Here's my contribution to our 1978 Mego Catalog project.


It's the World's Greatest Super-Pals™… from Mego!

Batman and Robin! Superman and Supergirl! Captain America and Falcon! Mego takes the world's most popular pairings out of the pages of comics… and puts them into children's hands!

And New for 1978, Mego introduces the Teen Titans, sidekick pals of the World's Greatest Super-Heroes! Aquaman and Aqualad! Wonder Woman and Wondergirl! Flash and Kid Flash! Green Arrow and Speedy!

These affordable 2-packs are sure to be a hit all year 'round!

OK, so that's the fake marketing pitch for the catalog. Here's the background.

Actual Mego History:
Approaching Toy Fair in 1978, Mego makes a crucial mis-step in their 8" line of WGSH. For reasons unknown, the company presents an offering that is identical to the previous year, with the exception of the recently discontinued Teen Titans. Retail buyers punish the company with weak purchase orders, causing the company to immediately thin the line from 27 characters to a paltry 12.

Re-Imagined Mego History:
Toward the end of 1976, Mego is working to appease a frustrated licensor (DC Comics), who is angry that just one of the previous twelve Mego Super-Heroes is based upon a DC character; the other eleven characters are based on DC's competitor, Marvel Comics. Rather than scramble to haphazardly introduce new DC characters such as the Teen Titans (which is exactly what Mego did, unfortunately), Mego proposes an aggressive idea they hope will meet the licensor's needs while simultaneously revitalizing the line.

Acknowledging DC's disappointment, Mego pitches a concept called World's Greatest Super-Pals™ which will pair characters with interconnected comic book meaning. Hearkening back to Stan Weston's original pitch, Mego explains that "kids love genuine heroes [with their own identity], and they draw stories and inspiration from the comics."

While pitching DC, Mego notes their findings that many families cannot afford multiple 8" figures, adding that the affordable pairings will be extremely pleasing to kids who wish to "Collect 'Em All." Mego further explains that the Teen Titans are the PERFECT characters to launch the line, as each Titan is inextricably tied to a better known DC character!

DC nods in approval, granting Mego a little extra time to put their concept into production. With the World's Greatest Super-Pals™, Mego hopes to give new life to poor-selling figures, while bolstering sales of their more popular characters (especially the female figures, whose sales lag desperately behind their male counterparts). Furthermore, Mego reasons that, despite rising production costs — specifically the oil embargo — they will be able to utilize existing molds and materials, keeping costs down. The proposed Super-Pals™ 2-packs will cost nominally more than single figures, as Mego already has most of the requisite parts, not to mention the fact they have already made the transition to cost-effective blister cards.

For Toy Fair 1978, Mego introduces the exciting "Super-Pals" line of 2-packs, apprising buyers that subsequent offerings could include:

» Aquaman and Aqualad

» Wonder Woman and Wondergirl

» Green Arrow and Speedy

» Flash and Kid Flash*

» Superman and Supergirl

» Captain America and Falcon

» Shazam! and Isis

and, of course:

» Batman and Robin

Obviously, there are other pairings, but you get the idea. With all of that said, here's my rough concept sketch of the World's Greatest Super-Pals™: Wonder Woman and Wondergirl (see JPEG below).

*Flash and Kid Flash would be perfect for our 1978 catalog, as Flash is one of the biggest "What If" figures out there!

Benjamin

http://www.impstudios.com/images/megomuseum/1978catalog/superpals_ww-wg.jpg

Footnote: Anthony (The Toyroom) just sent me an incredible example of a Captain America and Falcon 2-pack he created some time ago. We are going to team up on this project. Looking forward to it!

[WannabeMego]

...Ah Man...

You must have had that idea thoroughly thought out because I was typing up a very similar idea (just not as elaborate)...

It started simply with making a single Titan scale Robin then adding him to a Batman/Robin 2 pack...Then later adding Villains to the mix...Batman/Joker...Superman/Lex Luthor (again 8 inch instead of 12)...Spiderman/Green Goblin.

Great idea for adding the Flash to the two-pack idea...maybe we could squeeze Daredevil in there somewhere since it's a simple Batman repaint somehow.

It kinda reinforces their stronger character line with the big 3 (Batman, Superman, Spiderman)...not so much different then what they are doing today. Kinda makes sense that Mego takes the lead on this sales concept.

I was also going to say the SuperFriends & X-Men (very logical choices), but Austin & Joe beat me to it.

Making a Pulp Line of The Phantom, The Shadow, & Doc Savage (maybe with an overseas Diabolik ala Jet Jungle :biggrin:) and adding to the Legends Line the 3 Musketeers + D'Artagnan.

Just some ideas :biggrin:

[Meule]

These are wonderful nominations, Thomas, which I hope will encourage their respective creators to participate.

I do want to clarify that we should avoid nominating participants in lieu of offering to participate. Thomas, I understand you have a wonderful '66 Batman custom; I hope you'll consider submitting that piece to the project.

I also want to clarify my confusing word choice. The "Author" of a concept is the person who created the idea in the first place, not the person who suggests its inclusion. Using Thomas' "Star Wars" concept as an example, Dave Mc would be the author in search of a packaging collaborator. Dave Mc, if so inclined, would take lead on the project, and work with collaborators if necessary.

Conversely, I personally have an idea that requires a customizer. In that case, Benjamin Holcomb will be the author in search of a customizing collaborator.

Sorry to step on your brilliant toes, Thomas, and your ideas ROCK (keep 'em coming); I just want to make sure we're all working from the same dictionary.

Benjamin

Don't worry about it Ben, you're not stepping on any toes here. I admit I misunderstood the "author" thing.
I nominated mikeoz because I remember him saying he'd gladly participate in this project. I made some Star Trek and Star Wars customs myself, but everyone will agree that Dave MC and James Brady created the ultimate ST TOS line extensions and Dave also did some killer Star Wars customs. And he has more of 'em than me, so that was another reason to nominate him. I hope he will participate.
I'll gladly participate for '66 Batman, but how many of those do you want? Cause I have over 2 dozen characters from the show done now, with a couple more in the works

[Meule]

Universal Monsters
Author: Thomas Meuleman
Line: Mad Monsters
Toy Execution (Vintage, Custom or Digital Art): Custom
Packaging Execution (Custom or Digital Art): Custom
Toy Customizers/Collaborators: Thomas Meuleman
Packaging Customizers/Collaborators: Anthony Durso
Author Notes: What if Mego got the rights to do monsters after the likeness of the Universal movies. I have a few of those done (did get the heads from others) with boxes made by Anthony. And I have more in the making

[JDeRouen]

On mine, the focus would be on Serling, Roddenberry, Lee, and Price, since those are done and ready to go. We could add a "coming soon... Alfred Hitchcock and Jack Kirby" tag mentioning those.

Masters of Fantasy Celebrity 8" Figures
Author: Joe DeRouen (jderouen)
Line: Masters of Fantasy
Toy Execution (Vintage, Custom or Digital Art): Custom
Packaging Execution (Custom or Digital Art): Custom
Toy Customizers/Collaborators: James Brady, Dave McCormick (DaveMC), Joe Derouen (jderouen)
Packaging Customizers/Collaborators: Anthony Durso (The Toyroom)

Author Notes: The Masters of Fantasy action figures include Rod Serling, Gene Rodenberry, Vincent Price, Stan Lee, Alfred Hitchcock, and Jack Kirby. The first four are finished and in custom boxes. The other two obviously aren't.

[Meule]

World's Greatest Authors
Author: Thomas Meuleman (Meule)
Line: World's Greatest Authors
Toy Execution (Vintage, Custom or Digital Art): Custom
Packaging Execution (Custom or Digital Art): Custom
Toy Customizers/Collaborators: Thomas Meuleman/Todd Waters (Illegal Mego)
Packaging Customizers/Collaborators: Anthony Durso (The Toyroom)

Author Notes: Todd made a custom Edgar Allan Poe for me, I extended the line with Bram Stoker, Mary Shelley, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and Robert Louis Stevenson (Starbuk and Mefiboshet helped me with some of the heads).

[palitoy]

Author: Brian Heiler
Line: Logan's Run Surface Dwellers TV action figures
Toy Execution (Vintage, Custom or Digital Art): Custom
Packaging Execution (Custom or Digital Art): Custom
Toy Customizers/Collaborators: Brian Heiler
Packaging Customizers/Collaborators: Brian Heiler

Actual Mego History:
Logan's Run got cancelled 13 weeks in and Mego abandoned their wonderful line of action figures. Wah.

Re-Imagined Mego History:
The series is a smash success and in it's second year, Mego decides to create a second wave of figures. The trouble is, the show only has four principles. The remainder of the actors on the show wear sandman uniforms, the only thing to do is to create a series similiar to the Star Trek aliens. Thus the surface dwellers are born, four new figures based on some of the more interesting characters in the first season. Some are literal translations, while others are a little more loose, they are:

Carousel Guard- From the episode "Future Past" this character only appeared in a dream but he is one of the more memorable creatures the show had.
http://www.megomuseum.com/dump/futurepast.jpg
Alien Captive: From the episode "The Collectors" these tiny aliens graced the credits through season one.
http://www.megomuseum.com/dump/remcaptive.jpg
The Protector: Also from the episode "The Collectors" a cloaked alien who saved the day, the name is made up, much like "The Keeper"
http://www.megomuseum.com/dump/remprotector.jpg
The Rider based on the villains from the pilot, the armoured Riders are warlords who hunt for slaves. WIP
http://www.snowcrest.net/fox/logantv/pilot/pics/14.JPG

http://www.megomuseum.com/dump/surface2.jpg

[imp]

Master List updated to reflect revisions and new additions from Thomas (Meule), Brian (Palitoy), Joe (JDerouen), Scott (Megoscott) and Tom (WannabeMego).

See post #23, page 3.

Benjamin

[gman]

Here is an idea I have been thinking of:

Action Jackson 2099
Author: Scott Greer(gman)
Line: Re-Introduced Action Jackson
Toy Execution (Vintage, Custom or Digital Art): Vintage/Custom
Packaging Execution (Custom or Digital Art): Custom
Toy Customizers/Collaborators: TBD
Packaging Customizers/Collaborators: TBD
Author Notes: Action Jackson was my favorite Mego and I always thought they could have and should have done more with him.

[sauce]

Dogtown and Z-Boys
Author: Bryan Sanders (nayrbgo)
Line: New Introduction of Skateboarding Action Figures
Toy Execution (Vintage, Custom or Digital Art): Custom
Packaging Execution (Custom or Digital Art): Custom
Toy Customizers/Collaborators: TBD
Packaging Customizers/Collaborators: TBD
Author Notes: These guys (Jay Adams, Stacy Peralta, Tony Alva, to name a few) rewrote skateboarding and made it the crazy lucrative trend it is today. This happened during Mego's company timeline and most certainly captured the minds of kids all over. It would be great to also make "The Dogbowl" playset (a drained swimming pool) and have these figures doing aerial tricks.

http://www.badmovieplanet.com/unknownmovies/pictures/dogtown3.jpg

http://thecia.com.au/reviews/d/images/dogtown-and-z-boys-1.jpg

[EMCE Hammer]

More WGSH
Author: stevemoore
Line: Extension of Hulk line
Toy Execution (Vintage, Custom or Digital Art): Custom
Packaging Execution (Custom or Digital Art): Custom
Toy Customizers/Collaborators: All me with parts from the usual sources
Packaging Customizers/Collaborators: TBD
Author Notes: To go with Hulk, I'll add Abomination, Rhino, and alter-ego Banner on custom cards.

[imp]

I am excited to announce that, after a conversation with him tonight, the incredible Otto Lange (http://www.worldsgreatesttoys.com/wgtBlog/index.php?s=otto+lange&submit.x=&submit.y=) has offered to create an original oil painting for the catalog cover. He is very enthusiastic about the project. In fact, he is apparently devising his own ideas for possible inclusion.

I notice that things seem to be cooling off a bit on this thread, though. Hopefully folks are plotting ideas…?

Let's see if this project still has legs.

Benjamin

[JDeRouen]

Who decides what gets chosen?

[MegoGeek]

Who decides what gets chosen?

I do, of course.

For no other reason than, I'm the first one who piped up after you asked.

[imp]

Who decides what gets chosen?

Great question, even if it is a bit of a shill! The details (including participation from former Mego employees!) is currently being drafted by Brian Heiler, Dave McCormick, Joe DeRouen and myself. This is ONLY because the person who developed the idea for this project is currently sidelined. I'll let that person speak up when the time is right, but suffice to say now is not the time for him to be drafting guidelines and time lines!

I promise that all will be explained… with ample time for participation. Perhaps we were a little anxious in putting this out there, but the idea is so exciting, I don't think anyone could wait to reveal it.

I hope that, while the details are being ironed out, folks will continue to brainstorm cool Mego ideas and present them here. This is a collaborative experiment, so everyone will have time to participate.

Not the best answer in the world, I know, but I hope it answers some lingering questions.

Benjamin

[Meule]

Maybe you oughta change the title of this thread and make it sticky on every forum cause I have the feeling plenty of people haven't even seen this yet. Or they're not interested in participating.

I wonder if Derek still has his Scooby Doo customs or if he already sold those...

[The Toyroom]

Derek's Scooby Doo figures would be PERFECT for this project! (Although I think in keeping with the time period the boxes would/will have to be redesigned as cards...no problem though)

[PCofmisfittoys]

Legion of DOOM villians ( 13)
Line: MEGO WGSV ( world's greatest super villians)
Toy Execution : Ridder only / card backs on all others
Packaging Execution : Custom ( front and back) with history of characters/first app.)
Toy Customizers/Collaborators: Me
Packaging Customizers/Collaborators: Me
Author Notes: The riddler has always been the only good villian released by MEGO. The oldest villians are included in the Legion of Doom. Giganta ( 1944) ,Lex ( 1940) etc. All thirteen and classic villians that are often overlooked. All the customs I have seen fall short for me and I want to one produce all the figures myself but time may not allow for now.

Legion of Doom Headquarters interior playset
Author: Pcofmisfittoys
Line: WGSV
Toy Execution : custom
Packaging Execution (Mock-up front )
Toy Customizers/Collaborators: Me
Packaging Customizers/Collaborators: Me
Author Notes: This is a goal of mine to produce the interior of the Hall of Doom so it could be used with 8" figures. Including the table and Lex's stand. Still researching pre-made chairs that I can mold . Also looking at scale.


MASH
Author: Pcofmisfittoys
Line: new line MASH
Toy Execution : digital /mockup
Packaging Execution : custom card backs
Toy Customizers/Collaborators: me again
Packaging Customizers/Collaborators: me again
Author Notes: The original toy line fell short in some regards. I could see an expanded line with more figures and Klinger with more of a dress-up doll as well.

Monday Night Football
Author: Pcofmisfittoys
Line: MNF
Toy Execution digital mock-up
Packaging Execution (Custom)
Toy Customizers/Collaborators: me
Packaging Customizers/Collaborators: me
Author Notes: It's sports baby....Back in that time the catalogs and TV where covered in sports . The idea that Joe Namath was only produced is crazy . I can see Howard cosell, and other legends of the day in 8" form in their own WGSH feeling packaging.

Other ideas include:

Re-release of GET SMART figures . It was in popular re-run in the late 70's

Get Smart Shoe Phone toy ( mocked up with a real shoe / packaging

Good Times figures line with apartment playset ( racial diversity/MEGO had very little and a great show)

Hardy Boys and Nancy Drew figures

Hopefully I can produce some of these ideas before whatever deadline there is . Sounds like a fun project for sure. Either way I am creating all of the above items at some point..lol

[Dave Mc]

To answer the "who" question..

From the original post in this thread...


re:Imagined lineup will be selected this February 20th (just in time for Toy
Fair) by a team that will include former Mego employees.

The details of that is what will be forthcoming. I think this is one of the coolest parts of this project. Former Mego employees selecting and sorting our stuff for inclusion just makes it really cool. It makes it much more "real". I mean, how can you determine WHAT Mego would have really wanted to include in 1978? Let the people who were making those choices then or working on those projects then, choose now. How awesome is that?

[HardyGirl]

PCofMisfitoys:

I really like your idea of the Good Times playset. Being a black woman who grew up on this show, I find this intriguing. :hokay:

Regarding the Hardy Boys, Kenner had 12" figures based on the then popular TV series starring Shaun Cassidy and Parker Stevenson. Mego size sounds like a great idea. If you need photos of Shaun and Parker to work from, lemme know. (They don't call me The HardyGirl for nothing!:wink:)

[gman]

Okay -- Let me get this straight -- If someone participates in this and does a great job on their line/idea it is still up to someone to determine whether or not it gets included in the overall project?

[PCofmisfittoys]

PCofMisfitoys:

I really like your idea of the Good Times playset. Being a black woman who grew up on this show, I find this intriguing. :hokay:

Regarding the Hardy Boys, Kenner had 12" figures based on the then popular TV series starring Shaun Cassidy and Parker Stevenson. Mego size sounds like a great idea. If you need photos of Shaun and Parker to work from, lemme know. (They don't call me The HardyGirl for nothing!:wink:)

I have collected Good Times things for many years . I only need a couple of autographs to have the entire cast and have collected everything from the JJ dolls, tv guides to the trading cards. The DVD's are a daily watch for me.
My father was the white James Evans and still to this day think about him when I watch the show. I always loved James Tan pants...lol
I remembered the 12" figures from Kenner but thought about the smaller sized. My sister still has all of the books and I wish they had the series back out on DVD ( or do they and I missed it)
Last Christmas I got Parker Stevenson and Shaun Cassidy autograph for her as part of her presents...gotta love the classics.

[PCofmisfittoys]

Okay -- Let me get this straight -- If someone participates in this and does a great job on their line/idea it is still up to someone to determine whether or not it gets included in the overall project?

Knowing that the more well know people on the site will be an automatic shoe in and us lesser known people well be out. Should be judged by non-site members. Good design and good ideas could be judged from any walk of life and everyone should be on equal footing for the contest.

[gman]

That's cool --- When I hear project I think project -- When I hear selected and judged I think contest. I just wanted to make sure I understood.

[Hulk]

I really like your idea of the Good Times playset. Being a black woman who grew up on this show, I find this intriguing. :hokay:


Does that mean you are really either Ja'net DuBois or Janet Jackson? :wink_y:

[HardyGirl]

HAHA Hulk!:silly::wink:

PCofMisfittoys: The first and second seasons of the Hardy Boys are available on DVD from Amazon.com.:yes:

[The Toyroom]

Scooby Doo and the Gang
Author: Megospidey (Derek Combs)
Line: Scooby Doo and the Gang
Toy Execution: Custom
Packaging Execution: Custom
Toy Customizers/Collaborators: Derek Combs
Packaging Customizers/Collaborators: The Toyroom (Anthony Durso)
Author Notes: Since this was on Mego's potential list of things-to-do, Derek has been gracious enough to revisit his some of Scooby Doo custom figures. This time, they'll be carded instead of boxed.

[PCofmisfittoys]

HAHA Hulk!:silly::wink:

PCofMisfittoys: The first and second seasons of the Hardy Boys are available on DVD from Amazon.com.:yes:

that will be a CHristmas present for my sis for sure..need to check ebay ;)

[Dave Mc]

Obviously EVERYTHING can't be included, that could potentially be a BIG catalog.

We also don't really want to make it a contest of any sorts. There isn't really anything to "win". Basically (and we're still working this out, so hang in there with us), former Mego employee's will select (just like they did back in the day) items that will be "released" for the upcoming year from the larger group. So the goal here would be to create something that is very Mego circa 1978 and would blend in with their 1978 lineup of products.

So you are right, everything will not be in the catalog automatically, it's only a few pages long! Everything will of course be presented here, but what makes print is actually up to the Mego people.

It's kind of our opportunity to "pitch" Mego on our own lines and line extentions, and see if they bite.

[PCofmisfittoys]

it's a great idea for sure. I know I have pitched ideas to clients that went well and well very badly so it's an up and down thing. ( billboards for the American Red Cross comes to mind)
I would hope that a various cross section of the members is included and not just everything produced by the moderators or top contributors. It would seem to include a variety of skill level as well.

[Dave Mc]

PC, I'm not sure what you are getting at here. Everything will be presented to the Mego folks. They'll see what we all see here. We want EVERYONE to play, and encourage it. I'm not sure where you are coming from with this "everything produced by the moderators" thing or "top contributers" thing. We don't have a history of that. If anything, we tend to exclude the moderation staff from playing in the reindeer games, although on this one, I'd like to play. I'd like to get in on the fun of it like everyone else.

[EMCE Hammer]

Considering that the mods aren't part of the selection "committee," I think it would be a bunch of crap if they couldn't take part. They are all talented, and should have a chance to pitch their work and join in the fun. If it's doable, all work can be submitted to the "committee" without names attached so that there aren't allegations of favoritism if Dave, Ant, Brian, Scott, Joe or anyone else directly involved does get something chosen.

[gman]

I am not worried about favoritism or any of that stuff.... I just wanted to be sure I understood how things were going to done. Not trying to start anything I just want to be clear. I am looking forward to this and think it's going to be alot of fun.

[Meule]

Personally, I couldn't care less who makes the catalog and who doesn't. What matters is that we'll get a 1978 Mego catalog as close to the real thing as possible since Mego people get to choose what makes the cut and what doesn't.

[PCofmisfittoys]

i wasn't trying to start anything either , just asking the questions. Either way I want to buy one to see what everone does and the ideas that people come up with and I only collecting the MEGO smaller figure lines . :)

[Dave Mc]

Hang in there then gang. We're still working out the exact how- to's and we'll get them posted soon. In the meantime, start thinking up projects you've done that you would like to submit. Start thinking of new projects you'd like to do that would fit. Start forming teams if you have to and start brainstorming. This is a great opportunity to show, not only the Museum, but all the toy collecting community what a great toy line this is, and what kind of talent we as a community have. Besides all that, it should be a total blast.

[JDeRouen]

That's really cool!!

[batmanmc]

Gotham City Hall Playset

[twilitezoner]

How about a line of Ultraman figures along with a Science Patrol playset. A Johnny Sokko line would be cool as well.

[LadyZod]

Considering this is 1977, with a projection of what to sell in 1978, and oil being an issue (when isn't it, right?) I say Mego scales back production on 8 inch, and goes for the more cost effective 3 3/4 inch scale that Micronauts have proven to be lucrative!

With that being said, Starsky and Hutch need to be given a 3 3/4inch make over! Complete with plastic shell car, and alley or jail playset! (Think Dukes, repainted)

How about Happy Days in 3 3/4? The Fonz with kinetic motocycle with a daredevil like set up to get a piece of that Ideal Evel Knievel market!

A refinement of the WGSH/Pocket Hero line with new, better Micronaut level articulation. Black Hole? Buck Rogers? No. Superman, Batman and Spiderman, my friends!

Now, I just need someone with more talent than me to make this happen.

[Sowth]

Fun idea guys, love the stuff that has already been presented too!

How about "Worlds Greatest PoopaTroopers - Drop them All!"

Yes I know they were Imperial but Mego didn't have a license to make stretch heroes either you'll recall... :)

Cheers,
Will

[The Kryptonite Kid]

Hey Everyone, I had an idea for a new 1978 toyline...How about The New Gods! That's right, I think Mr. Kirby's NG's are definitely worthy of their own line. I will soon be done with my second custom, a classic Mego styled Orion, and I was wondering If anyone else out there would be interested in sharing their New Gods creations, done in the classic style only to preserve authenticity (no offense to anyone who uses type 3 bodies), to make a NG line. Mr. Miracle, Darkseid, Lightray, The Black Racer, etc...Let me know what you think. I am also willing to produce cards for the figures. I'm really excited about this catalog! :grin:

-Will

[megoscott]

Hey everyone,

It's great to see the ideas flowing and to hear people are already at work cooking up some cool stuff. Here's an update on how we expect the project to work. Please let us know if you have any questions or concerns.

MEGO "re:IMAGINE!" 1978 Catalog Project: Project Timetable

We have needed to scale back our page count for the catalog supplement from 16 pages to 12 and set a limit of 60 toys total. Obviously, not every submission will be used in the final catalog, but all will be included in an online project gallery here at the Museum. Our goal is to create a cohesive, high quality catalog that authentically illustrates what might have been at Mego in 1978 and the showcase the creativity of Mego Museum customizers and artists.

Phase 1 — Brainstorming

This phase has already begun. Members are invited to continue to post product ideas. Recommendations are not necessary…it's gotta be something you can actually produce! If you want to see someone else's exquisite custom piece included, please ask them to post the item themselves. Photos of pre-existing or work-in-progress customs are encouraged, as they will give folks a visual idea of what you propose.

Phase 2 — Pitching to R&D:

On January 1, we will create a special new 1978 Forum. This is where formal submissions to the project will be made between January 1-February 17th. You may post as many submissions as you like at any time, but please use this format to enter them:

[Project/Concept Title]
Author: [Your Name (Your MM ID)]
Line: [Mego Line]
Toy Execution (Vintage, Custom or Digital Art): [Choose One, or TBD]
Packaging Execution (Custom or Digital Art): [Choose One, or TBD]
Toy Customizers/Collaborators: [Choose One, or TBD]
Packaging Customizers/Collaborators: [Choose One, or TBD]
Author Notes: [Your inspiration or reason behind concept]

Phase 3: Choosing the Product Line:

During the Toy Fair week of February 18th-22nd (an historically accurate Toy Fair date!) submissions will be reviewed by the project team with input from some former Mego employees and 60 products will be chosen for inclusion to the catalog.

Phase 4: Catalog Creation

Chosen submissions must be mailed by March 1st to Benjamin Holcomb and Scott Adams, who will photograph the products and design a gorgeous, authentic catalog! Please note that creators will be asked to cover shipping (with insurance) costs both to and from California. In shooting photographs for Mego 8" Super-Heroes: World's Greatest Toys!, Benjamin handled literally thousands of beloved, rare toys, and not one toy was damaged… so rest assured your creations are in good hands.

This keepsake catalog will be distributed through MegoMuseum.com, at Mego Meet and at San Diego Comic-Con.

We look forward to your participation!

Sincerely,

The Mego Museum 1978 Project Team
Brian, Scott, Dave and Benjamin

[mikeoz]

Might I suggest the following:

Wizard of Oz Miss Gulch on bike/Winged Monkey/Winkie Guard/Uncle Henry and Auntie Em/Farmhands
Author: Thomas Meuleman (Meule)
Line: Wizard of Oz
Toy Execution (Vintage, Custom or Digital Art): Custom
Packaging Execution (Custom or Digital Art): Custom
Toy Customizers/Collaborators: Mikeoz
Packaging Customizers/Collaborators: Mikeoz
All these characters (and their boxes) have already been made


Thomas, thanks for the nomination. I'd like to submit the above figures. I don't know for sure if the winged monkey will be completed in time (I'm making a more mego-like version), but the rest are finished.

[Meule]

Thomas, thanks for the nomination. I'd like to submit the above figures. I don't know for sure if the winged monkey will be completed in time (I'm making a more mego-like version), but the rest are finished.

My pleasure, your customs are incredibly cool and deserve to be in the catalog. I've never been that interested in the WOZ line, but seeing your customs has changed that.

[johnmiic]

Here's a few suggestions:


Logan's Solar Hovercar
Author: Johnmiic
Line: Logan's Run TV Series
Toy Execution: Custom 3D vehicle
Packaging Execution: TBD
Toy Customizers/Collaborators: Johnmiic
Packaging Customizers/Collaborators: TBD
Author Notes: I already have a prototype 2/3's built out of foamboard on a wood chasis. I just need to finish it.


Micronauts Endeavor Vehicle/Karrio Case
Author: Johnmiic
Line: Micronauts
Toy Execution: Custom 3d Mock-up or Model
Packaging Execution: TBD
Toy Customizers/Collaborators: Johnmiic
Packaging Customizers/Collaborators: TBD
Author Notes: This Micronauts vehicle is inspired by the Marvel Comic of the same name. As a tie-in with the toy line the comic fleshed out the American storyline for the Micornauts. Even with their relationship with Marvel, Mego never considered making this hero vehicle. I propose a ship large enough to fit figures, the hydro-copter & astro-station component as the bridge but small enough a child could carry it around to play with it.


Pocket Heroes S.H.I.E.L.D. Hellicarrier Vehicle Playset/Figure Carrying Case
Author: Johnmiic
Line: 3 & 3/4 inch Pocket Heroes
Toy Execution: Custom 3D mock-up or model
Packaging Execution:TBD
Toy Customizers/Collaborators: Johnmiic
Packaging Customizers/Collaborators: TBD
Author Notes: A central base of operations for the Pocket Heroes which also transports them to the battlefront. It should have room for existing scale vehicles, ( Spider-Man pocket hero Spider-Car? Or The Batmobile-yes I know that's mixing DC and Marvel characters!). The flat-top also allows for planes and helicopters to land on it.

Planet of the Apes Icarus Spacecraft
Author: Johnmiic
Line: POTA
Toy Execution: Custom 3d Mock-up or Model
Packaging Execution: TBD
Toy Customizers/Collaborators: Johnmiic
Packaging Customizers/Collaborators: TBD
Author Notes: Most 8" vehicles were cars. This time Mego creates a space capsule. The famous ship that brings Virdon and Burke to the future & Zira, Cornelius and Dr. Milo to the past from POTA is finally released. Seats three 8" action figures.

Star Trek Adversary Bridge Playset
Author: Johnmiic
Line: Star Trek
Toy Execution: Custom 3d Mock-up or Model
Packaging Execution: TBD
Toy Customizers/Collaborators: Johnmiic
Packaging Customizers/Collaborators: TBD
Author Notes: As a companion piect to the Star Trek Enterprise Bridge, this design is a different shape and sports bad guy colors. Populate it with your 8" Mego Klingons, Romulans and assorted aliens. The shape and configuration will be different from the Enterprise Bridge.

SPACE:1999 Laser Tank
Author: Johnmiic
Line: SPACE:1999
Toy Execution: Custom 3d Mock-up or Model
Packaging Execution: TBD
Toy Customizers/Collaborators: Johnmiic
Packaging Customizers/Collaborators: TBD
Author Notes: A vehicle for their popular Space:1999 figures in the UK. Mego/Palitoy creates a moon vehicle for further adventures. There were 3 tanks on the TV show. The toy tank is modeled after this design:

http://homepages.tesco.net/d.sisson/originals/tanks2.jpg

A Mego/Palitoy version will sport wheels and not tank treads. The back 1/2 will be expanded as a laboratory component where action figures can be seated at workstations and exit via a rear door.

[megoscott]

Happy New Year everyone! January 1st has come and the 1978 Forum (http://megomuseum.com/community/forumdisplay.php?f=42) is now open for submissions!

[Dave Mc]

The results are in! Visit the 1978 forum for details!

[MegoMark71]

wow i feel like i am getting sucked into a black hole

[Scotty Irving]

Hello. WAY late on this. Just ordered a copy.

[Scotty Irving]

Still waiting on my copy! Can't wait!