Every week we take a select a comic book collectible and take a close look at it. That means taking it out of the package. This week we're going to look at a Batman figure. Most people like Batman. Most people have several different versions of Batman action figures. This one is a little different. Let's take a look at Planet-X Batman, aka Zur-En-Arrh Batman.
This is one of the figures in the current Batman Unlimited line from Mattel. What's interesting about this choice is we essentially have two separate versions in the comics. The original was actually an alien named Tlano from another planet, Planet-X. The planet is also referred to as Zur-En-Arrh. You can see the back of the package has some information on him (although there is one typo).
What makes this odd is the art that is used on the package. You can see it's from the Batman: R.I.P. storyline, which was actually Bruce Wayne, when he was a little messed in the head.
Regardless of this and the fact that Bat-Mite is included even though he doesn't have anything to do with him either, it's a cool figure to have. Bat-Mite was (sort of) involved with Batman when he was going through his crazed Zur-En-Arrh phase in R.I.P.
This is actually the second Bat-Mite Mattel has recently released. If Zur-En-Arrh Batman wasn't enough, getting Bat-Mite is definitely a sweet bonus. His head, arms and legs do have some articulation.
The figure also comes with...a baseball bat. Because this is when Bruce Wayne was out of sorts, he put together a hodge podge costume. The bat was something he picked up. You can even see the cellphone he used and attached to his utility belt. The seams in the costume add a nice touch along with the tattered cape.
As with the previous line, there is a slightly strange look with some of the articulation. I never understood the need for the stomach articulation. It just adds a giant seam in the figure. His legs are a little awkward when standing still. He does look better if you try reposition the legs in a more action stance.
I mentioned the previous Bat-Mite. He was included in a K-Mart exclusive in the Batman Legacy line. (You can see pics of those figures HERE).
I figured, why not include that Bat-Mite here as well. They are a little different and would probably drive this Batman even more bonkers. The Bat-Mite here doesn't look too happy about it either.
I guess two Bat-Mites are no match for a crazy Batman with a baseball bat.
I can't say how easy this figure would be to find. I actually picked him up at WonderCon for $20. His sculpt isn't perfect. There have definitely been better sculpted ones, but this is Zur-En-Arrh Batman. The minor complaints can be overlooked for the fact that this is crazy Batman. Plus he comes with a Bat-Mite.
Let us know what you think of this figure. We'll take a look at another collectible next time.
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