Review: 41603 Kylo Ren
Posted by CapnRex101,
The BrickHeadz range is now entering its second year and has already included more than twenty figures. Many more will be released in 2018, the first of which are two further Star Wars models, four sets based upon last year's Justice League movie and the seasonal 40270 Valentine's Bee.
I have been most looking forward to 41603 Kylo Ren, not only because I like the character in the films but also due to the instantly recognisable design of the figure.
The Completed Model
The figure stands on a 6x6 stud base so matches both 41485 Finn and 41486 Captain Phasma which were released towards the end of last year, as well as the whole of the latest wave. This base is a lot more stable than the 4x6 plate upon which many of the earlier BrickHeadz were displayed and it includes a printed tile denoting that the model is part of series two.
Kylo Ren follows the standard BrickHeadz template very closely but is distinguished by an intricately detailed hairstyle. This is formed using 1x2, 1x3 and 1x4 curved slopes which create some attractive texture, accented by a few exposed studs and 1x1 slopes. Otherwise, the figure consists of a black robe with a stitched pattern which looks superb, although it is a shame that this design does not continue below the belt.
A printed 1x1 tile forms the belt buckle. This is attached via a Technic axle so it remains fixed in place and a spare is also included which could prove useful elsewhere as the buckle design resembles that of a control panel. The head also includes a couple of printed pieces depicting Kylo's scar. I like this design very much and the inclusion of a tiny mole shows fantastic attention to detail, perfectly reflecting the character's appearance in the movie.
Turning the figure around reveals a great deal more texture in the hair. This style looks very messy so matches the source material and I like the little flicks, represented by 1x1 slopes, around the back and sides. The cape is constructed using a simple combination of curved slopes and tiles but it looks pretty good, hanging naturally around the shoulders and almost reaching the floor, just like that worn during Star Wars: The Last Jedi.
Viewing the model from either side reveals a particularly interesting detail. The ears are almost entirely covered by hair but a small area of flesh remains visible underneath, once again matching the source material exactly. Kylo Ren is equipped with a red crossguard lightsaber, as usual, which features a pearl dark grey hilt on this occasion.
Overall
The BrickHeadz range is certainly not for everyone but I enjoy these stylised models and am pleased with 41603 Kylo Ren. His black robes look rather imposing and the hairstyle is appropriately unkempt, using a selection of curved slopes and wedge plates. I like this combination of smooth and studded surfaces as well as the distinctive strands of hair hanging down over Kylo's forehead.
Several printed pieces are used across the figure, including an intricate belt buckle which matches the movie precisely. The light bluish grey stitching looks great and I love the scar printed across the villain's right eye. Admittedly, the dark colours that dominate the figure do reduce its appeal to some degree as brighter models are often more visually impressive on display, although this design perfectly matches that of the character in the movie so I would recommend this set to Kylo Ren fans!
I hope you have found this review informative. Let us know by liking this article and share your thoughts on the set in the comments below.
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12 comments on this article
I bought this little guy along with Rey this weekend - my first Brickheadz, but I think I might be hooked.
I just wish they were called Brickheads. I got my fill of zs in the 90s.
There is a lot of potential to turn it into Ben Swolo.
I modded this to be shirtless a while back. If I could show photos here I would.
Thank you fro the review, I like it that the base plate simulates the look of the Brickheadz, even if unintentional. Looking forward to Vader, Leia and mainly Chewie!
Brickheadz is an awesome line!
My sister's a huge fan so I might get this at some point if I see it. Just gotta keep it locked up at night so she doesn't do the same @Ryan Suckle...
Holding out for Spider-Man Homcoming suit and Vulture
^Those would be cool but I think the time has passed for them unfortunately :(
Love this brickhead out of all of them!
Brickheadz are still a thing? Huh. I'm puzzled. o.O
Am I the only one who thinks this could also pass as Snape from Harry Potter? ;-)
Sectumsempra!