Soft material action figures packed with meticulous detail
The Master Craft Edition is a new series of vinyl models that pursues the most accurate representation of the creature's original form, with meticulous attention to detail. In addition to the conventional Tyrannosaurus image, details such as the lips covering the teeth, the shape of the scales on the upper jaw, the thick neck, and the silhouette of the abdomen have been enhanced. Furthermore, by achieving a self-standing posture on two legs, a vinyl model with an even greater presence has been created.
TyrannosaurusTyrannosaurus
Category: Saurischia / Theropoda / Tyrannosauridae
Size: 12-14 meters in length
Period of existence: Late Cretaceous
One of the most popular dinosaurs and the largest terrestrial carnivore of all time. Its lower jaw was massive compared to other theropods, and its biting force was considerably powerful. Its teeth had characteristic serrations (saw-like edges), making them suitable for tearing the flesh of prey. Its forelimbs were degenerate, with only two fingers, and appeared weak at first glance, but their strength was powerful, and they are thought to have had enough power to hold down prey.
Interview with Supervisor Kazunari Araki
- The Dinosaur Vinyl Model Master Craft Edition adopted a new production method that involves more detailed adjustments in 3D data, in addition to conventional methods to enhance the reproducibility of prototypes created by Mr. Araki. We aimed to improve accuracy and express Mr. Araki's vision more faithfully. Please share your impressions of the finished product.
- This model was created by digitally scanning my original sculpt and adjusting the data, allowing for a large reproduction that is almost identical, with corrections to areas that were distorted in the original, resulting in a more precise sculpt.
In the past, due to the material of vinyl models, they could only stand on three points (with the tail attached) in a Godzilla-like stance. However, with this model, new technologies such as strengthening the material of the hind legs allow it to stand on two legs with its tail raised, making it a more active Tyrannosaurus.
In addition, various techniques cultivated over the years have been incorporated, making this a groundbreaking model that combines cool proportions, posing, and playability. - The Tyrannosaurus was also part of the earliest vinyl model lineup. Were there any specific areas you focused on to differentiate its sculpting from the Tyrannosaurus Vinyl Model and Premium Edition for this Master Craft Edition?
- The Tyrannosaurus is the most popular dinosaur, so it's often the first in any series. This often means production occurs before we fully understand the sculpting usability and characteristics of that series.
For example, I've later realized things that needed attention when creating prototype sculpts, such as how wide the hind legs should be spread or the need to make the feet larger for stability.
This model incorporates designs cultivated from such experiences, while also reflecting the latest Tyrannosaurus restorations, such as the scales on the face, the lips when the mouth is closed, the thick neck, and the belly without a prominent pubis, and these were directly incorporated into the product. - The coloring uses the yellow-based color also seen in the Tyrannosaurus Vinyl Model and Mini Model. Was there anything you were particularly conscious of regarding the coloring?
- The coloring uses colors and patterns that have been used in previous Favorite Tyrannosaurus models, and it's a color scheme that I feel is most characteristic of Tyrannosaurus. I think it will be widely accepted without feeling out of place.
However, it's also true that we haven't been very adventurous, so it would be interesting to have special edition colorings or versions that adopt a color scheme chosen by voting in a contest.
After all, we don't know the actual colors of dinosaurs. - Finally, please say a few words about the Tyrannosaurus Vinyl Model Master Craft Edition.
- With the Master Craft Edition, prototypes are enlarged as they are using the latest technology, and by changing materials in certain parts, poses and details that could not be expressed with previous vinyl models have become possible. I believe a more realistic and larger "playable dinosaur figure" has been born.
I hope more comrades will join us in the future, so please welcome one Tyrannosaurus Master Craft Edition into every home!
Supervisor Profile
Kazunari Araki
Japan's leading dinosaur sculptor, who creates dinosaur restoration models for natural history museums and prototypes for dinosaur encyclopedias.