Brian and Monica of Red 5 Toys & Collectibles hosted an event – “Let’s Talk Toys” with Steve Evans, Hasbro Director of Product Design for Star Wars & Marvel.
It was great meeting up with fellow collectors that I’ve met through Star Wars The Vintage Collection Facebook group, Banthaskull.com, and Patrons of the Let’Em Breath Society (PLEBS)! It was also a wonderful surprise to see Chris Reiff, Hasbro Principle Designer of Star Wars, who ventured out to the western part of our state to “chew the fett” (as Steve would say) with us collectors.
We chatted about all sorts of topics ranging from the toys we had as kids, to what white whales we’re chasing down, to items we wish we didn’t pass up on, to what other pop culture toys we’d like to see happen. Steve brought his Jabba’s Sail Barge and told some stories about the making of it and various interactions with the late Mark Boudreaux whose career spanned 40+ years with Kenner then Hasbro. One story that stands out is the attention to detail Mark had for all the intricate greebles on spaceships and vehicles and how Mark had specific designs for each faction. Rebels had one design, imperials had another, and even the Hutts had specific designs unique to them.
It was was beyond meaningful to interact with Steve and Chris. They were genuine about the various topics brought up. We chatted about how we display our figures. I mentioned play sets and the lack of lighting and if they could, at the very least, make it easier for us to mod them for it. We discussed the new E-Wing and heard stories about the designing of it. Chris mentioned he had seen the Facebook group’s poll and how well it did on it (#2 most wanted vehicle). We spoke to focusing the Star Wars line more on it’s core fan base and medias. We also spoke to our favorite kenner figures. Speaking of that can we please bring M.A.S.K. back but in 3.75″ form?
Greatly appreciative of the time they spent with us and I hope the Hasbro Star Wars Brand Team continues to engage the community in this type of Grass Roots way. I’m beyond grateful. With that I leave you all with some photos of the event.
Thank you to Monica and Brian for this awesome event.
