The Pop Insider - No. 20 - Summer 2024

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ISSUE NO. 20

IN THIS ISSUE DEPARTMENTS

SCAN TO SUBSCRIBE TO THE POP INSIDER!

SHOW ME THE GOODS

8 | FROM THE EDITORS

12 | SDCC EXCLUSIVES

Summer merch makes us feel fine.

The Coolest Merch You Can Only Get at the Con

10 | NERDY NEWS

22 | MUST-HAVE MERCH

What’s New in Pop-Culture Merch

A Little Bit of Everything for Just About Everyone

20 | MERCH MAKERS: BIOWORLD

10 Trending Products from the Kings of Fandom Favorites

56 | GAMES

50 | MINT CONDITION

The Newest Titles Hitting the Tabletop

The Real Value of Collectibles

66 | FLAUNT YOUR FANDOM

POP JUNIOR | 37

Licensed Apparel and Accessories with Campy Flair

38 | NEXT-GEN NEWS

The Latest Headlines in Kids’ Merch and Entertainment

FEATURES

16 | CHANGING THE GAME

40 | KIDS’ MERCH

Video game franchises with TV and movie content are a hotbed for new merch.

Hot New Kids’ Toys, Apparel, Accessories, and More

32 | SNIKT! AND SNARK!

Deadpool & Wolverine merch makes fandom fun.

62 | ANIM(E)ATION DOMINATION

46 | THE NEW FORMAT OF FANDOMS

Anime, manga, and live-action adaptations take over popular culture — and our merch collections.

Little Golden Books get a pop-culture twist for adult collectors.

King Ice adds some glitz to classic Pokémon with bejeweled necklaces. Read more about how video games are leveling up beyond the screen on page 16. | Source: King Ice On the cover: Godzilla Minus One (Ocean) T-shirt ($30) and Long-Sleeve Shirt ($40), available at super7.com in sizes small-3XL | Source: Super7

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FROM THE EDITORS

SUMMER MERCH Makes Us Feel Fine

T

he only thing that could heat up this season any more is the perfect merch to go along with the lazy, hazy, crazy days of summer. And as your Pop Insider besties, we’ve always got you covered (although, not SPF-wise; that part’s on you).

In this issue, we take a deep dive into the multimedia explosion of video game properties (*ahem* Fallout) (page 16), the anticipated blockbuster Deadpool & Wolverine (page 32), the newfound domination of anime properties (page 62), and all of the beautiful merch that goes along with these entertainment juggernauts.

Additionally, we’ll take a look at the importance of getting your collectibles graded on page 50.

Fashionistas can plan the perfect summer camp look with Flaunt Your Fandom on page 66, while our mainstay Show Me the Goods section gives you a sneak peek at all the merch you’ll need to collect this summer on page 22. Plus, our Show Me the Goods section also highlights Comic-Con International: San Diego (SDCC) exclusives (page 12), and shines a spotlight on tabletop games (page 56), which we know you’ll love if you’re picking up this book at either SDCC or Gen Con. And we never, ever leave out those kiddos. Help the little ones in your life fuel their fandom with the special Pop Junior section of Show Me the Goods

CEO Laurie Schacht • laurie@popinsider.com

VICE PRESIDENT & PUBLISHER Jackie Breyer • jackie@popinsider.com

(page 40). We also take a look at how Little Golden Books is upping its game with new books that are not just for kids on page 46.

If you’re looking for more merch, make sure to follow us on Instagram @thepopinsider or sign up for subscriptions to our magazines or Fan Mail newsletter at popinsider.com/subscribe. We love new friends. Stay cool out there! ✪

EDITORS-IN-CHIEF Ali Mierzejewski • ali@popinsider.com Marissa Silva • marissa@popinsider.com

SENIOR EDITORS Nadia Velit • nadia@popinsider.com James Zahn • james@popinsider.com

ASSISTANT EDITORS Samantha Connell • samantha@popinsider.com Madison Patterson • madison@popinsider.com Ashley Pelletier • ashley@popinsider.com

EDITORIAL ASSISTANTS Taylor Battle • taylor@popinsider.com Stephanie Szulborski • ss@popinsider.com

SOCIAL MEDIA EDITOR Nicole Savas • nicole@popinsider.com

ART DIRECTOR Joe Ibraham • joe@popinsider.com

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Elena Sorce • elena@popinsider.com

NEWS WRITER ABOUT THE EDITORS: Marissa Silva and Ali Mierzejewski are editors-in-chief of The Pop Insider and The Toy Insider. They report on trends affecting the toy and pop-culture industries, including the latest in TV, movies, video games, collectibles, and more. They have been featured on ABC World News Now, Good Morning America, The TODAY Show, MSNBC, Fox Business, and dozens more. Follow them on Instagram @thattoygirl and @hashtagtrendy.

SUBSCRIBE TO THE POP INSIDER Scan the QR code to sign up for a subscription to get each issue delivered directly to you, or to receive our weekly Fan Mail newsletter in your inbox!

Bug Hartsock • bug@popinsider.com

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS Bill Reese • bill@popinsider.com

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF SALES & MARKETING James Devin • jd@popinsider.com

SENIOR SALES & MARKETING EXECUTIVE Stephanie Infantino • stephanie@popinsider.com

SALES & MARKETING EXECUTIVE Thomas Stephen Jr. • thomas@popinsider.com

SALES & MARKETING ASSISTANT Luíza Peres • luiza@popinsider.com

INTERN Valerie Kluge • val@popinsider.com THE POP INSIDER, Summer 2024 — “THE POP INSIDER” (ISSN-2641-5496) is published quarterly by Adventure Media & Events, LLC, 307 Seventh Ave., Room 501, New York, New York, 10001. Periodicals postage paid at New York, NY 10001 and additional mailing offices. © 2024 Adventure Media & Events, LLC. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form, or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the publisher. Printed in U.S.A. Subscription rates: $25 for four issues. THE POP INSIDER is a trademark and service mark of Adventure Media & Events, LLC registered in the United States Patent & Trademark Office Postmaster: Send address changes to THE POP INSIDER, c/o Adventure Media & Events, 307 Seventh Ave., Room 501, New York, New York, 10001 or email bill@popinsider.com.

Follow us @thepopinsider #fuelyourfandom

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NERDY NEWS

Alamo Drafthouse Sells to Sony Pictures, Opens AlamoMart Online Shop

Source: Netflix

Experience Your Favorite Netflix Shows at Netflix House Next Year Netflix is launching new in-person experiences at the Galleria Dallas in Texas and the King of Prussia Mall in Pennsylvania. The Netflix House will feature more than 100,000 square feet of shopping, food, and more based on the streamer’s popular series, including Bridgerton, Stranger Things, and Squid Game.

Some highlights include a ball featuring Bridgerton’s iconic orchestra covers, a glass bridge challenge from Squid Game, Netflix-inspired food, and shopping officially licensed, must-have merch. Both Netflix House locations will also feature sculptures and murals of scenes and characters from the series. These experiences are expected to open next year. ✪

Sony Pictures purchased Alamo Drafthouse Cinema, marking the return of big Hollywood movie studios to the theater-owning game. The dine-in movie theater chain will now operate under Sony Pictures Experiences.

Variety reported the chain’s 35 Alamo Drafthouse Cinema locations will remain open, and Alamo Drafthouse will still host Fantastic Fest, its genre film festival.

In addition to the landmark sale, Alamo recently launched its new online shopping destination, AlamoMart. The shop features apparel, accessories, collectibles, and more, all inspired by fan-favorite films or the iconic theater chain itself. Those who are nostalgic for the movies they watched at their local theater can get one of the many Time Capsules Pint Glasses, each featuring highlights from a different year in film history.

And, now through Aug. 31, any AlamoMart order more than $50 will include a special “Shushing Since ’97” Embroidered Patch.

Founded as a single theater in 1997 in Austin, Texas, Alamo Drafthouse Cinema is now the seventh largest theater chain in the country and is known for its signature cocktails, food menu, and special programming. ✪

Witness the Power of the Babe Live During Jim Henson’s “Labyrinth: In Concert”

Source: labyrinthconcert.com

Jim Henson’s “Labyrinth: In Concert” is a new live concert experience that combines the iconic film with live music for fans of all ages. During the event, the film will play on a large HD cinema screen while a live band performs the soundtrack in sync.

The tour will take place Sept. 24Oct. 27 and stops in 30 cities across several states, including Florida, Montana, Georgia, New York, and Ohio. The first show in Morgantown, West Virginia, will take place on Jim Henson’s birthday. Ticket prices vary by city and are available for purchase now at labyrinthconcert.com. ✪

Alamo Drafthouse’s new AlamoMart online store will sell movie-specific merch, including a tie-dye “I am Kenough” T-shirt, inspired by Barbie: The Movie. | Source: Alamo Drafthouse

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You’ve got your passes, now it’s time plan your con.

Here are some of the hottest exclusives you’ll only find at Comic-Con International: San Diego (SDCC).

LITTLE PEOPLE COLLECTOR BATMAN 85TH ANNIVERSARY: I AM BATMAN SET FISHER-PRICE

Seriously, these are all Batman. This collection of six Little People figures includes versions of Batman as portrayed by Michael Keaton, Val Kilmer, George Clooney, Christian Bale, Ben Affleck, and Robert Pattinson.

MSRP: $40 | Available: Booth No. 3029

DC MULTIVERSE SUPERMAN CENTENNIAL PARK TRIBUTE STATUE 7-INCH-SCALE GOLD LABEL ACTION FIGURE MCFARLANE TOYS

Centennial Park is paying homage to Superman, and so can you. This gold-painted, 7-inch-scale Superman figure comes with a large base, a backdrop, and a gold eagle accessory to complete the vibes of your collection.

MSRP: $29.99 Available: Booth No. 4544

TMNT BST AXN COMIC WAVE 3 JENNIKA BATTLE READY 5-INCH FIGURE TLS TOY

Jennika is ready to take on anything SDCC throws at her.

This action figure comes with everything it needs for an epic battle, including interchangeable hands, a swappable head, and a katana built for only one of the most skilled ninja turtles.

MSRP: $30 Available: Booth No. 2544

STREET FIGHTER II CHUN-LI DELUXE 1:12 ACTION FIGURE JADA TOYS

You’ll kick yourself if you don’t get this Chun-Li figure, decked out in Player 2 pink. The figure comes with removable heads and hands, and is ready for action.

MSRP: $35 Available: Booth No. 4149

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LITTLEST PET SHOP 2024 YEAR OF THE DRAGON LIMITED COLLECTOR EDITION BASIC FUN!

Celebrate the year of the dragon with these fire Littlest Pet Shop collectible dragons, available in gold, firecracker red, and imperial jade. Each comes with a golden metal collector coin, a holographic collector card, and a code to unlock a digital surprise on Roblox.

MSRP: $20 | Available: Booth No. 5613

XOX KWEENIE — KWEEN OF HIGH SCHOOL MOOSE TOYS

We are living for the Kween of High School’s look.

This figure is blowing bubble gum and holding her phone while looking stunning in her gold-and-pink ’fit, coupled with her pink-and-purple hair. The figure comes with a premium collector’s card and is limited to 1,000 pieces.

MSRP: $14.99 | Available: Booth No. 301

MINI MOJO DOJO CASA HOUSE POP! ELMO WITH ROCCO FUNKO

They may be sworn enemies, but Elmo and Rocco are teaming up in this new Pop! figure.

MSRP: $15 Available: Booth No. 5341

MATTEL

Add some Kenergy to your collection or gift this set to your long-term, longdistance, low-commitment, casual girlfriend. The house may look like it belongs to Barbie, but it features some distinctly Ken touches.

MSRP: $50 | Available: Booth No. 3029

PREY ULTIMATE CAMO REVEAL FERAL PREDATOR 7-INCH-SCALE ACTION FIGURE NECA

The only way to save yourself from the Feral Predator is to add it to your collection! This figure comes complete with a bone mask, a bear trap, a wolf head and spine, a hatchet, bombs, a pistol, and much more. It is housed in translucent packaging with a slipcover that mimics the camouflage the Feral Predator uses to hunt.

MSRP: $40 | Available: Booth No. 3545

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STAR WARS SDCC DOORABLES GALAXY PEEK JUST PLAY

Rainbows are never outdated. This Rainbow Brite pin features an 8-bit design that is so retro chic.

The Star Wars Doorables galaxy is getting bigger! Each of these Death Star-inspired capsules has five figures, including four from series one and a limited-edition, SDCC-exclusive figure: a gold stormtrooper on Thursday, a shimmery Darth Vader on Friday, a red stormtrooper on Saturday, and a pearlized stormtrooper on Sunday.

MSRP: $10 Available: Booth No. 3348

MSRP: $20 Available: Booth No. 2913-A

RAINBOW BRITE PXL8 PIN HALLMARK

BLACK & WHITE ORIGINAL SKETCH TURTLES PLAYMATES TOYS

The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles are throwing it back to their OG black-and-white designs. The collectibles also come with original character sketches and standing bases that connect to each other to create an epic scene.

MSRP: $29.99 Available: Booth No. 4113

X-MEN ’97 CONVENTION EXCLUSIVE TRADING CARD PACKS UPPER DECK

Make trading cards X-citing at SDCC with X-Men ’97 card packs.

Each one contains a 15-card base set and a parallel chase card.

MSRP: $24.99 Available: Booth No. 307

CHEETOS CHESTER ACTION FIGURE (FLAMIN’ HOT CHEETOS GLOW IN THE DARK) JADA TOYS

We don’t mean to be cheesy, but you’ll treasure this Chester Cheetah 6-inch articulated action figure that glows in the dark and sports his signature sunglasses. It comes packaged in cheesy Cheetos packaging with life-size Cheeto and snack bag accessories.

MSRP: $30 Available: Booth No. 4149

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F

rom the launch of the Magnavox Odyssey and Atari in the 1970s to the ongoing battle between Xbox and PlayStation users, gamers’ lifelong love of video games has grown for generations.

With the birth of fandoms surrounding Super Mario Bros., Call of Duty, Minecraft, and more, merch makers have had a wealth of licenses to choose from to craft collectibles, apparel, and other merchandise.

Pokémon has been a staple for manufacturers for decades. From collaborations with hot brands including Loungefly, ColourPop, and Jazwares to all of the exclusive merch regularly sold on pokemoncenter.com, Pokémon fans have it made when it comes to their collections.

“The Pokémon brand is rooted in play, adventure, and friendship; these are the characteristics that fans look

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Dark Horse Direct transformed original characters from the Fallout series into collectible statues. | Source: Dark Horse Direct

for in any Pokémon experience and we work diligently with our knowledgeable partners to incorporate this spirit in all offerings,” says Amy Sachtleben, senior director of licensing and promotions at The Pokémon Co. International. “This allows Trainers to stay fully immersed in the Pokémon world regardless of how they’re choosing to engage with the brand, resulting in a robust and unique licensing program.”

The Pokémon franchise umbrella covers more than just video games; it also has the iconic trading card game and more than 26 seasons of TV content. Not every video game franchise has such an established foothold in the sphere of visual media, but when these games do make the leap to theaters or the TV screen, the merch game goes to a whole new level for both the companies that make it and the collectors who love it.

A NEW BLAST OF MERCH In April, Amazon MGM Studios launched one of the latest hit TV series based on a video game franchise: Fallout.

According to The Hollywood Reporter, gamers and new viewers watched Fallout for a total of 2.9 billion minutes in its first week on Amazon Prime, the biggest debut for an Amazon original series to date.

Since the launch, the Fallout video Ella Purnell, who portrays Lucy MacLean in the Amazon Prime Video series Fallout, brings the video game character to the screen in a new way, while The Wand. Co. brings her post-apocalyptic backpack and Pip-Boy to the real world for fans.

Source: Amazon MGM Studios

games have also experienced a surge in popularity, with Fallout 4 and Fallout 76 jumping from Nos. 87 and 159 to Nos. 5 and 8, respectively, on Circana’s charts for best-selling video games from April 7-May 4.

Merch makers have taken full advantage of Fallout’s new level of pop-culture awareness. In the past few months, new Fallout collectibles, apparel, accessories, and more have hit stores. Some highlights of the licensing program include flavored coffee from Bones Coffee Co., a line of figures featuring the iconic smiling eyes from Youtooz, statues from Dark Horse Direct, and a life-size replica of the Pip-Boy from The Wand Co. Good ratings and great merch are a perfect pairing for manufacturers and production studios, but it’s important that the longtime fans love the final product.

Bronwyn Timmons, a Fallout fan and cosplayer who runs the Instagram account @radiation.baby, was apprehensive about the Fallout TV series, but her fears were dashed upon watching.

“I absolutely loved it,” Timmons says.

“I felt like they perfectly captured the feeling of the games in a show format, and it felt very obvious to me that every single person who worked on that show — whether they were designing costumes, writing dialogue — they played the games and they love ’em.”

Amazon MGM aimed to stay true to Fallout’s themes through every step of the process, from making the show to creating merch to go along with it.

“I think authenticity is incredibly

important,” says Jamie Kampel, head of consumer products and interactive licensing at Amazon MGM Studios. “The level of detail that went into building the world is evident in many of our licensed products ... A lot of our partners are passionate fans of the franchise, and I think that translates to the products they develop and manufacture. Fallout is futuristic and post-apocalyptic, dark, but also humorous. Our licensed product collection stays true to those themes.”

VIDEO GAME STAPLES HIT THE BIG SCREEN The first live-action Sonic the Hedgehog film debuted in February 2020, and despite being one of the last flicks to hit the big screen before the COVID-19 pandemic shut down cinemas nationwide, the movie took home more than $300 million at the box office, according to Deadline. Two years later, Sonic the Hedgehog 2 earned even more than that.

The launch of the Sonic movies, along with the recent Knuckles TV series on Paramount+, brought new fans to the franchise, but it also has been a great experience for longtime fans like Courtney Calvert, a Sonic collector who goes by @sonic_collects on Instagram.

“They’re so popular and I love them,” Calvert says. “The movies, they’ve handled the story so well, and the Knuckles show was really good. I thought it was just really entertaining and the story is fun and silly, but they make it enjoyable.”

Since the launch of the first Sonic movie, SEGA has launched new collabTHEPOPINSIDER.COM | #FuelYourFandom | 17

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Video game franchises like The Super Mario Bros. will always have loyal collectors, including Lars van Klaveren, a Netherlands-based fan who owns thousands of pieces of Super Mario Bros. merch, from apparel and accessories to toys and games. | Source: Lars van Klaveren

orations with tons of fan-favorite brands, including LEGO, BoxLunch, Dark Horse Direct, Funko, Her Universe, Bioworld, JAKKS Pacific, and more.

“With Sonic, we always aspire to advance the franchise in ways that bring unique experiences to new and longtime fans alike,” says Alex Gomez, senior director of Sonic licensing at SEGA. “The TV show, animation, and films have opened many doors for collaborations, and we’ve had incredible opportunities to expand past our traditional verticals to broaden Sonic’s audience.”

And fans have a lot to look forward to with the third installment in the film franchise hitting screens later this year, along with the launch of the game Sonic X Shadow Generations this fall.

JAKKS Pacific also launched a full wave of toys and collectibles with the launch of The Super Mario Bros. Movie last year. Lars van Klaveren, a collector with thousands of pieces of Mario merch and games in his collection and known as @mario.collectors.world on Instagram, got his hands on the company’s Super Mario Bros. collection as soon as he could. When The Super Mario Bros.

Movie opened at his local movie theater in the Netherlands, van Klaveren got a special opportunity to show off his collection to the community.

“I contacted them and they said they wanted to make something really cool for the movie, and they said, ‘OK, you can make something like a museum here at the movie theater,’” van Klaveren says.

“My whole collection was there at the movie theater, so everybody could see it.”

Naturally, he loved the movie: “Because I did (the museum), I went three or four times for free to the movie. I also took my whole family. At one point, we were there in the movie theater with 15 people, only my family. I watched it a lot of times and I really, really enjoyed it. I think they did a really good job. I cannot wait for the second one,” he says.

While it has been difficult to get The Super Mario Bros. Movie merchandise in Europe, van Klaveren managed to add new products to his collection, including iam8bit’s pressing of the movie’s soundtrack, Monopoly: The Super Mario Bros. Movie, The Super Mario Bros. Movie Hot Wheels, and more.

STRENGTH IN NUMBERS In addition to mainstays like Super Mario Bros., there are dozens more pop-culture powerhouses with video game roots, including classics like PacMan and modern marvels like Call of Duty. CD Projekt Red‘s The Witcher has been turned into a Netflix smash hit, and Naughty Dog‘s lone-wolf-and-cub story The Last of Us pivoted to an ultrasuccessful series on Max, with a 96% Rotten Tomatoes critic’s score. And — you guessed it — there are huge merch collections for all of these entertainment mainstays, from apparel and prop replicas to home goods and gaming accessories.

Originally developed by Midway

Games in 1992, Mortal Kombat has more than a dozen sequels and spin-offs, from arcade cabinets to mobile games — not to mention multiple animated series and live-action films.

Released last year, Mortal Kombat 1 marks the series’ second reboot, and Funko just debuted a range of new Pop! vinyl figures based on the game, including iconic characters like Scorpion, Sub-Zero, Liu Kang, and Mileena.

While new film and TV content proves to help expansion in a large-scale way, video game franchises will continue to be a popular category for merch makers on their own. According to a survey of more than 10,000 people conducted by Statista this spring, almost 70% of respondents say they played video games of any type for at least an hour a week, with 42% playing for more than six hours a week.

“It’s great to see the IP of video games being treated with the care and attention they deserve on the big screen,” says Melissa Lomax, director of e-commerce at Dark Horse Direct. “The fans of these properties have dedicated such an enormous amount of time and dedication to completing their journey through each game that these experiences become embedded in their identity to a certain degree. To see those storylines get the dramatic elevation of movies and television makes it all the more exciting for us to create a physical representation of a person’s fandom that they can carry with them and display in their everyday life.”

No matter if fans are consuming their video game content on their console or at the cinema, these fandoms aren’t going anywhere. ✪ ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Ashley Pelletier is assistant editor for The Toy Insider, The Pop Insider, and The Toy Book with a master’s in journalism. When she isn’t writing her latest story, she is reading a fantasy novel or rewatching one of her three favorite TV shows. She’s also a big fan of showing people pictures of her two dogs and cat.

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SPONSORED

MERCH MAKERS

BEETLEJUICE GLOW IN THE DARK SLIDES These striped slide sandals glow in the dark and are (dangerously) embroidered with the word “Beetlejuice” three times, making them perfect for creatures of the night.

MSRP: $29.99

POWERPUFF GIRLS 11-INCH CLEAR BACKPACK

Check out 10 trending products from the kings of pop culture merch!

M

aking a truly great piece of fandom merch takes a certain finesse. For Bioworld — the brand behind a mountain of top-notch licensed apparel, accessories, and home goods — that finesse doesn’t just come out of thin air. “We are a collection of brand experts, product pioneers, omni-channel merchants, and content creators — but above all else, we’re fans,” says Jason Mayes, Bioworld’s senior director of marketing and intellectual property. “We are constantly collaborating and innovating with the world’s biggest brands to create products specifically for the fans.”

The result of this attention to detail? Fandomaffirming goods that are too enticing to pass up.

We’ve curated a selection of trending products from the treasure chest that is Bioworld. Revel in Hello Kitty travel gear, Deadpool home goods, Beetlejuice footwear, and more products that translate the minutiae of a fandom into pieces that allow fans to express both their geeky adulation and, crucially, themselves. After all, as Mayes says, it’s all about celebrating the colorful world of the fan: “It goes beyond merch. Beyond commerce. We help cultivate self-expression.”

This trending silhouette is perfect for holding everyday essentials. The pink PVC backpack stars everyone’s favorite cartoon superheroes screen-printed on the 11-by-5-inch surface.

MSRP: $49.99

SPONGEBOB SQUAREPANTS WOMEN’S 2-PAIR QUARTER CREW SOCKS BOX SET Unleash nautical nonsense upon your footwear game!

These SpongeBob socks dress up any outfit with the colorful flowers of Bikini Bottom.

MSRP: $24.99

HELLO KITTY 40-OUNCE STAINLESS STEEL TUMBLER This tumbler’s stylish Hello Kitty design is executed in a durable powder coating, while the double-wall vacuum insulation guarantees contents to stay hot for 12 hours or cold for a full 24.

MSRP: $24.99

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Shop all of these items on Amazon

HELLO KITTY 16-INCH YOUTH CARRY-ON LUGGAGE Hello Kitty can come with you and the little ones on all your adventures with this lightweight piece of luggage, featuring a telescopic handle and large wheels.

MSRP: $79.99

DEADPOOL ALL-OVER PRINT SWIM TRUNKS

POKÉMON MINI MESSENGER BAG WITH ADJUSTABLE STRAP

The ever-bold but lovable antihero makes the perfect bold print for these custom designed board shorts, which showcase an eye-catching, all-over print of Deadpool’s mask and logo.

MSRP: $39.99

Bulbasaur, Charmander, and Pikachu (rendered in custom pixel art) stand guard over your valuables on this messenger bag with both an inside pocket and an exterior cell phone pocket.

MSRP: $24.99

NARUTO ICHIRAKU’S RAMEN SLIDE SANDALS Slurp some ramen and put on your fave Naruto episode while sporting these slides, which feature the details of the titular hero’s favorite ramen shop and an all-over Konoha print.

MSRP: $29.99

DEMON SLAYER TANJIRO SPLIT WASH LOUNGE SHORTS Tanjiro isn’t the only one who will be slaying! Rock these black-and-green shorts, which feature the Demon Slayer Corps logo, a drawstring closure, and a sword-wielding image of Tanjiro.

MSRP: $24.99

DEADPOOL 40-OUNCE STAINLESS STEEL TUMBLER Deadpool may be the cheekiest superhero around, but this tumbler’s all business: It has a durable powder coating, double-wall vacuum insulation, and will keep liquids hot for 12 hours or cold for 24.

MSRP: $24.99

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The Hottest Apparel, Home Goods, Collectibles, and More to Get Your Hands on This Summer

HASBRO PRESENTS: TRANSFORMERS: MUSIC FROM THE ORIGINAL ANIMATED SERIES HASBRO

Remastered by Sony Music, this limited-edition vinyl celebrates 40 years of Transformers and boasts 42 tracks, including the full soundtrack from the original 1984 animated series and a remix of the iconic theme song.

MSRP: $39.98 | Available: Hasbro Pulse, mass retailers

HELLO KITTY PINK SPECKLED HERO BUCKET HAT LOVE YOUR MELON

Celebrate friendship through fashion with this supercute Hello Kitty bucket hat. Made with soft, flexible FitKnit technology, the hat contours to your head for a comfortable fit. It is also available in a baseball cap style.

MSRP: $55 | Available: loveyourmelon.com

SUPERMAN METROPOLIS AND BATMAN GOTHAM CITY HOMESICK

Burn these candles to reveal super scents and hidden artwork on the back of each label. The Superman Metropolis vibe is golden and optimistic: The sun’s glow highlights tall buildings as notes of concrete rise from below with a familiar shadow flying overhead. The Batman Gotham City vibe is dark and brooding: Smoke rises from a moonlit city with suede and leather notes.

MSRP: $44 | Available: homesick.com

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ELVIRA MISTRESS OF THE DARK ZIPPO LIGHTER COLLECTION THE BRADFORD EXCHANGE

She’s camp, she’s a vamp, she’s witty, and she’s witchy! This collection features fan-favorite hostess of horror Elvira in a bewitching hand-painted display that holds the six included lighters.

MSRP: $49.99 Available: bradfordexchange.com

ULTRAMAN 6-INCH ACTION FIGURE COLLECTION BANDAI NAMCO TOYS & COLLECTIBLES AMERICA

VOX MACHINA APPAREL COLLECTION HEROES & VILLAINS

This collection features the iconic Ultraman inspired by the 1966 series (pictured), and Ultraman and Gigantron from Ultraman: Rising.

Prepare to save the realm from evil and destruction. With T-shirts, joggers, a dress, a cardigan, a trucker hat, a varsity jacket, and more, the collection includes something for every fan.

MSRP: $24.99-27.99 Available: Amazon

MSRP: $28-150 Available: heroesvillains.com

GREAT DEKU TREE 2-IN-1 THE LEGO GROUP

The 2,500-piece set has two buildable options inspired by the Great Deku Tree as seen in The Legend of Zelda: Ocarina of Time and The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. The set also features iconic imagery from both games, including the Master Sword, Link’s House, and more.

MSRP: $299.99 | Available: LEGO

MISTER ROGERS AQUARIUM CAR LIONEL

It’s a beautiful day in the neighborhood! The 10.5-inch, O-gauge train car features a quote from Mister Rogers, interior illumination, and fish that look like they are swimming as the train moves.

MSRP: $129.99 Available: lionelstore.com

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INSIDE OUT 2 CORE MEMORIES SPINNING WHEEL MINI BACKPACK LOUNGEFLY

This simulated leather mini backpack is designed to suit your mood, whatever it happens to be.

It features a dial on the front with Joy, Anger, Sadness, Embarrassment, and more.

MSRP: $80 | Available: Disney Store

BRIDGERTON 3D FOAM BAG CLIPS

LILO & STITCH: ANGEL CABLE GUYS ORIGINAL CONTROLLER AND PHONE HOLDER

MONOGRAM

Bring the elegance and drama of the Regency era everywhere you go. These delightful accessories are sure to make you the diamond of the season. Characters include Eloise, Lady Danbury, and more.

EXG PRO

Now, you can trust Angel to charm your senses and safeguard your phone and gaming controllers with a touch of her celestial magic.

MSRP: $6.99 Available: Entertainment Earth, Hot Topic

MSRP: $29.99 Available: exgpro.com

DISNEY PRINCESS X UNIQUE VINTAGE COLLECTION UNIQUE VINTAGE

HOUSE OF THE DRAGON COLLECTOR BOX MCFARLANE TOYS

Inspired by the HBO series House of the Dragon, each collector box includes a 2-inch mini figure, a 4.5-inch character bust, a coin, a house family tree, a collector card with a certificate of authenticity, and a bookmark with a house crest. Available in Rhaenyra Targaryen (pictured), Daemon Targaryen, and more.

MSRP: $29.99 Available: Amazon, BigBadToyStore, Entertainment Earth, mcfarlane.com

Channel your inner Disney princess — or evil stepmother — with this new collection of vintage-inspired apparel with designs celebrating Tiana, Ariel, Snow White, and more.

There are eight pieces in the collection, including a blouse, a sweater, a skirt, and multiple dresses, such as the Princess Ariel Green & Gold Sequin Wiggle Dress (left) and the Blue Snow White Print Sweetheart Dress (right).

MSRP: $68-158 Available: unique-vintage.com

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FUNKO NIGHTMARE BEFORE CHRISTMAS BEACH COLLECTION FUNKO

Have some frightful fun in the sun with Jack Skellington, Zero, and Sally (pictured) dressed for the beach. Based on Tim Burton’s iconic film, the collection includes Pop! figures and plush.

MSRP: $12-13 | Available: Funko

FIGHT SCRUB SUPER7 REACTION WAVE 2 — SESAME STREET SUPER7

Can you show us how to get to Sesame Street? This new wave of ReAction figures features classic characters Oscar the Grouch, Lefty the Salesman, Guy Smiley, and Cookie Monster in 3.75-inch scale.

DR. SQUATCH

Don’t talk about Fight Club, but definitely talk about this officially licensed Fight Club-inspired soap. The limited-edition collection features powerful ingredients like exfoliating pumice and revitalizing arnica montana extract.

MSRP: $8 | Available: drsquatch.com

MSRP: $20 each | Available: Big Bad Toy Store, Entertainment Earth, super7.com, Target

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JOHN WICK TUBBZ COSPLAYING COLLECTIBLES NUMSKULL DESIGNS

This duck is a killer. With his slick hair, black suit, pistol, and — of course — blood spatters, there’s no mistaking this rubber duck for anyone other than notorious assassin John Wick.

SAILOR MOON LUNA FIGURAL STARRY CARNIVAL CUP

MSRP: $24.99 Availability: Just Geek

JUST FUNKY

Staying hydrated has never been cuter. This cup comes with a lidded hemisphere complete with a tiny figure of Luna beside a crescent moon, surrounded by star-shaped confetti.

MSRP: $22.90-24.99 Available: BoxLunch, Hot Topic

IRREGULAR CHOICE X HASBRO'S MY LITTLE PONY IRREGULAR CHOICE

This pony-rific collection includes shoes, bags, accessories, and kimono-style jackets. Get ready to prance around the paddock in these incredible styles.

MSRP: $16-400 Available: irregularchoice.com

TRANSFORMERS ROBOSEN FLAGSHIP MEGATRON AUTO-CONVERTING ROBOT ROBOSEN

The world’s first auto-converting Decepticon leader is ready to battle Optimus Prime and the Autobots! Voiced by the original actor from the 1984 Transformers, Frank Welker, Megatron features more than 270 phrases and an immersive library of interactive actions, along with custom sequences for you to program.

Witness the 21-inch Megatron convert from robot to tank mode instantly via voice command or the companion app.

MSRP: $899 | Available: Hasbro Pulse, us.robosen.com

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CLASSIC BARBIE METAL SIGN ATA-BOY

Come on, Barbie, let’s go party! Featuring iconic vintage artwork, this classic metal sign is perfect for all Barbie fans — old and new — to upgrade their Dreamhouse decor.

MSRP : $6.99 | Available: Amazon

MARVEL STUDIOS X-MEN '97 EARRING SET GIRLS CREW

Unleash your inner mutant with this earring set! Channel Rogue and Gambit’s everlasting love with a green stone heart and kinetic playing card, Cyclops optic blast powers with a sleek visor stud, and more.

MSRP: $68 Available: shopgirlscrew.com

GODZILLA MINUS ONE (OCEAN) T-SHIRT SUPER7

Godzilla has emerged and cannot be stopped! This 100% cotton short-sleeve T-shirt is inspired by the ocean scenes in the 2023 film Godzilla Minus One. MSRP: $30 | Available: super7.com

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DISNEY MICKEY PINWHEEL SAND CLOUD

Take Mickey with you to the pool or beach this summer! The Sand Cloud towel is made from 100% Turkish organic cotton and features a single jacquard weave in a subtle Mickey pinwheel design.

MSRP: $48 Available: sandcloud.com

WILD WEST C.O.W.-BOYS OF MOO MESA NACELLE CONSUMER PRODUCTS

Strap up your stirrups and throw on your C.O.W.-Boy hats, because it’s time to take the trail back to Cow Town. The first wave of this series includes Marshal Moo Montana, Cowlamity Kate, and Terrorbull. Each figure comes individually packaged with accessories, three interchangeable heads, and 21 points of articulation.

MSRP: $34.99 each | Available: BigBadToyStore, nacellestore.com

STAR WARS: THE BLACK SERIES YODA FORCE FX ELITE ELECTRONIC LIGHTSABER HASBRO

KRABBY TAFFY ASSORTED FREEZE DRIED TAFFY FYE

Freeze-dried candy gets a Bikini Bottom twist with this Krabby Taffy. Bursting with fruity flavor and a satisfying crunch, it’s best eaten with friends.

MSRP: $11.99 | Available: FYE

BENDY 5-INCH FIGURES WAVE ONE JAKKS PACIFIC

Inspired by Bendy and the Dark Revival, each articulated figure includes an accessory, a backdrop, and a character stand. The assortment includes Bendy, Ink Demon, Audrey, and Tom.

This deadly Lightsaber is inspired by Yoda’s iconic green Lightsaber in Star Wars: The Book Of Boba Fett. It features sound effects necessary for any Jedi battle, progressive ignition, a blaster deflection effect, a battle clash effect, a duel effect, a battle sequence mode, and a wall-cutting effect.

MSRP: $249.99 Available: Amazon, Best Buy, Entertainment Earth

MSRP: $14.99 each Available: Walmart

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4D GROGU SPIN MASTER

Build the cutest little guy in the galaxy. Standing at more than 10 inches tall, this 4D Grogu puzzle doesn’t require any tools or glue to complete.

MSRP: $19.99 Available: Amazon, Target

STUDIO GHIBLI THE SECRET WORLD OF ARRIETTY JOURNAL CHRONICLE BOOKS

No idea is too small for this journal. It features full-color artwork on the front and back covers, five interior spreads of concept art from the film, and spot illustrations throughout.

MSRP: $12.95 | Available: Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Chronicle Books

1.5-INCH CHEEBEE FIGURES — RAINBOW BRITE TLS TOY

Rainbow Brite is back and brighter than ever! This surprise package includes two figures inside of a star container with a peel-off lid.

There are 20 figures to collect, including three rare and three ultra rare.

MSRP: $7.99 Available: Amazon, Big Bad Toy Store, GameStop, Hot Topic

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“

M

any of you are very excited, but we should set the table correctly,” explains Ryan Reynolds about Marvel Studios’ Deadpool & Wolverine, the third installment of the Deadpool trilogy in which he stars as the titular character. “This film is as paper-thin as a sequel to Battlefield Earth. We’re mostly gonna beat each other senseless; make enemies with Disney; tell a few d*ck jokes; make a few jokes at my expense; make a lot of jokes at Hugh [Jackman]’s expense; and completely side-step Marvel’s mandated after-credits sequence, which if you haven’t figured it out yet, is just a commercial for another movie which will end with a commercial for another movie.”

That rapid-fire commentary was issued via an unlisted YouTube video that most people haven’t seen — only thousands at press time — compared to the more than 16 million views garnered by the film’s proper trailer back in May, and that’s only counting the views on the Marvel Entertainment version of the upload. Of course, slower versions of some of those lines made it into a TV spot in which Deadpool himself declares, “This.

Is. Cinema.”

Reynolds’ constant quips and backand-forth banter with co-star Jackman (Wolverine) are a key part of the unconventional marketing for an unconventional film. The Walt Disney Co. leaning into an R-rated film with a storyline that breaks all boundaries of conventional wisdom and perhaps the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s (MCU) multiverse itself? We’re here for it!

And, an unconventional film calls for some unconventional merch that comes peppered with plenty of that trademark snikt! and snark! we’ve come to know and love from the merc with a mouth.

So how does Disney activate the Marvel machine to create a product launch for a film in which kids aren’t the primary audience? They mix things up.

“This film is so different from past MCU films, so we knew it needed a product lineup that pushed the envelope and had unexpected items,” says Brian Siegel, vice president of global marketing strategy at Marvel. “Using the core themes of friendship, irreverence, breaking the fourth wall, and humor, we worked on unique graphics paired with editorial, incorporated sounds into products like never before, and developed apparel and accessories that took the idea of best friends in every direction possible.”

Iron Studios’ Deadpool & Wolverine Deluxe Art Scale 1:10 Statue is available at Entertainment Earth, ironstudios.com, and sideshow.com for $249.99.

Source: Iron Studios

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MSRP: $24.99 each

of “evergreen” items tapping into the legacy of the antihero and his curmudgeon of a buddy.

It’s all there to fuel your fandom whether you’re into Deadpool’s irreverence, Wolverine’s gruff heroism, or both.

Siegel notes all movie-specific products are aimed at adult fans and carry an age rating of 14 and up on their packaging.

“Recent industry reports show that adult collectors are outpacing kids, which means a movie like Deadpool & Wolverine can really exist in a sweet spot in terms of collectibles,” comments Erik Weinbrecht, who co-hosts the Adventures in Collecting Podcast with his brother Dave. “This means superhero toys that are ‘fun and colorful’ for kids who know the characters from other media, sure, but first and foremost, the kinds of toys that carry the accuracy and absurdism a more mature audience will enjoy and want to add to their collections.”

Available: Entertainment Earth, GameStop, Hasbro Pulse

HEROES IN YOUR HANDS

Marvel Legends Series Deadpool Legacy Collection Deadpool & Wolverine Hasbro

Rather than place all the eggs in one basket (an “Eggpool,” perhaps?), Marvel unleashed a multipronged approach — and they did it just in time for convention season, allowing fans to sink their Adamantium claws into a vast array of merch spanning products inspired by Deadpool & Wolverine, the recent X-Men ‘97 series on Disney+, and a refreshed assortment

If we’re talking about a new Marvel movie, you know Hasbro will have additions to its 6-inch-scale Marvel Legends collection. This year, they’re leaning into how we got here with the Marvel Legends Deadpool Legacy Collection. So far, the lineup includes Deadpool as he appeared in Deadpool 2 (2018) alongside Wolverine as he appeared in that film’s post-credits sequence, referencing the widely panned X-Men Origins: Wolverine

Wolverine Sixth Scale Figure Hot Toys MSRP: $280 (Collector); $340 (Deluxe) Available: sideshow.com (2001). Capturing Deadpool’s sarcastic smirk and Wolverine’s battle scars, these figures are perfectly sized for tabletop battles, should collectors ever free them of their packaging.

For the serious fan, brands like Sideshow, Iron Studios, and Hot Toys are in the mix with museum-worthy statues that command shelf space in any collection.

Marvel Studios’ Deadpool & Wolverine starring Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman hits theaters on July 26, and is expected to break box office records this summer.

Source: Marvel Studios

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“While Hasbro’s Marvel Legends and Hot Toys are constantly improving in their abilities to capture likeness and deliver some truly remarkable toys and collectibles, the non-toy releases attached to the movie are outrageous,” Weinbrecht says. “Items like ‘that’ popcorn bucket (you know the one) and the friendship necklaces are so on brand, it’s almost a miracle Disney has let them become a reality.”

WEAR YOUR FANDOM

Marvel X RockLove Marvel Studios Deadpool & Wolverine Best Bubs Necklace Set RockLove MSRP: $99 Available: rocklove.com

For fans who want to wear their love for Deadpool & Wolverine on their sleeves — literally, or not, as there are several Wolverine-style sleeveless options — Bioworld, Mad Engine, Lids, RSVLTS, Chalk Line, and others have answered the call with everything from graphic T-shirts to killer caps.

“The hilarious dynamic that Deadpool and Wolverine have, coupled with Deadpool’s penchant for breaking the fourth wall, mean we can have products that look like Deadpool doodled over the design and we can leverage his quippy quotes,” explains Lacey Prince, director of product design at Marvel.

Those comedic elements and unconventional interests also made their way into jewelry and accessories from RockLove and Girls Crew, including break-apart friendship necklaces, unicorn and taco studs, and more.

“The storytelling we were able to incorporate in jewelry design inspired by Marvel Studios’ Deadpool & Wolverine is unlike any other Marvel film we’ve worked on,” Prince adds. “The ‘best friends’ theme is such a strong trend in the jewelry world, so it was a no-brainer to highlight in the collection.”

BE A PART OF HISTORY

Deadpool & Wolverine Earrings and Studs Girls Crew

If you’re reading this issue of The Pop Insider on release day (congrats!), perhaps while waiting in line at Comic-Con International: San Diego, you could be a part of cinematic history this weekend. According to Deadline, data from theatrical tracking service The Quorum revealed a projected opening weekend of $200-239 million, which would make Deadpool & Wolverine the biggest R-rated opening ever. Some believe that number might be a conservative estimate, but at press time, only one film stands in the way: Deadpool. That’s right, bub. The original film set the current record in 2016 with a $132 million haul.

So get out there, buy a ticket, grab a heap of popcorn to consume from a gloriously grotesque “vessel” (that’s what they’re calling buckets these days), and then score some killer merch. As Deadpool might say, “It’s time to make the chimichangas” — and collect them, too! ✪

MSRP: $45 (Wolverine studs); $68 (Deadpool set of four) Available: shopgirlscrew.com

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Marvel Deadpool Bungee Suit-Up Character Backpack

Marvel X RockLove Marvel Studios Deadpool & Wolverine Wolverine Belt Ring

Bioworld

RockLove

MSRP: $69.99

Inspired by Logan’s classic retro suit, this sterling ring features hand-painted enamel encircling the entire band in his iconic yellow and blue colors with a red and black X-Men buckle in the middle.

Available: Target

MSRP: $85 Available: rocklove.com Chimichanga Dreams Kunuflex Short Sleeve Shirt RSVLTS MSRP: $70 Available: rsvlts.com

Deadpool Hoodie Bioworld MSRP: $36.99 Available: Amazon

Shelf Talkers Deadpool JAKKS Pacific

Deadpool & Wolverine Activewear Collection

This plush figure has a sculpted head and is just as chatty as Deadpool himself. The merc’s dual-sword pull string activates more than 14 lines from the Deadpool movies.

SUPERX

MSRP: $24.99

MSRP: $59-119

Available: BigBadToyStore, Walmart

Available: superx.com

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NEXT-GEN NEWS Source: Nintendo

*

Bring the Superhero Moves with Hasbro’s Dance ‘N Crawl Spidey

Nintendo’s New Lineup of Video Games Hits Shelves in Time for the Holidays Nintendo revealed tons of new games at its Nintendo Direct event, with titles from some of players’ favorite brands set to arrive on Nintendo Switch later this year and beyond. In The Legends of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom, Link and the people of Hyrule get taken by strange rifts that have appeared across the land. Players can play as Zelda to save the kingdom when the game launches on Sept. 26.

Gamers can go on island-hopping adventures in Mario & Luigi: Brothership starting Nov. 7. In this role-playing game, the brothers meet new friends as they explore the vast world of Concordia. More Mario-themed games include Super Mario Party Jamboree (Oct. 17) and Donkey Kong Country Returns HD (Jan. 25). Nintendo will also release Metroid Prime 4: Beyond, Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake, LEGO Horizon Adventures, Just Dance 2025 Edition, and Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics this fall and next year. ✪

Parents can add Dance ‘N Crawl Spidey, from Hasbro, to their kids’ toy boxes this summer.

Kids can dance with the 10-inch interactive plush and hear fun phrases like “Let’s do the Spidey dance!” and “Go webs go!,” along with two songs from the Disney Junior series Marvel’s Spidey and His Amazing Friends.

Kids can make Spidey go on crawling adventures by tilting up his head, rotating his wrists, and placing him on his belly. The toy will crawl across the floor or table, and kids can follow suit and do the Spidey crawl alongside him. Designed for mini webslingers ages 3 and up, the toy will be available at major retailers later this summer. ✪ Source: Hasbro

New Rainbow Brite Plush Adds Color to Kids’ Collections

Source: TLS Toy

A crop of new Rainbow Brite plush is ushering in a new era for the nostalgic hero. The newest additions from TLS Toy offer plush versions of Stormy, Tickled Pink, Twink, and Rainbow Brite.

Each plush doll stands 8 inches tall and comes in super-soft, ultra-vibrant fabrics. Add a bit of color to kids’ plush collections, introduce little ones to your favorite childhood characters, or simply indulge in your own nostalgic collection with the latest from TLS Toy. These plush and colorful friends will be available this summer. ✪

ON THE COVER: Hasbro’s Dance ‘N Crawl Spidey will hit retailers this summer for $49.99. | Source: Hasbro

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Blurb can go here in this space that The Summer’s Hottest talks about Products what Pop-Culture thisfor showcase is Little Fans about.

ULTIMATE TRANSFORMING BATMOBILE SPIN MASTER

Kids can speed into action in Batmobile mode, which is complete with lights, sounds, and four projectile missiles. Then, they can transform it into a Batcave, fully equipped with a command center, a Batglider, a light-up Bat Symbol, a jail to lock up all of Gotham City’s Super-Villans, and more.

PLAYMOBIL MIRACULOUS COLLECTION PLAYMOBIL

These playsets transport fans into the enchanting world of Miraculous. Whether it’s with the 16-piece pack of Marinette and Ladybug figures or the larger 73-piece Marinette’s Loft playset (pictured), kids can help their favorite heroes save Paris from the pesky villains.

MSRP: $59.99 | Available: Amazon, Target (Aug. 1)

MSRP: $7.99-69.99 | Available: Amazon, playmobil.com

TODDLER SESAME STREET LITTLE KID BACKPACKS SKIP HOP

STAR WARS FORCE N’ TELLING VADER HASBRO

Let Darth Vader tap into the Force and predict your future. Ask him a “yes” or “no” question, then press his head to reveal your fate. This fortune-telling toy features more than 40 different responses, including classic Darth Vader quotes and never-before-heard lines. Its animated digital eyes change expressions with each head press.

MSRP: $24.99 | Available: Walmart (exclusive)

Featuring Elmo (pictured), Cookie Monster, or Abby Cadabby, these special-edition backpacks are sized for toddlers on the move. Pack them up with snacks, a water bottle, toys, and other essentials for all of your little one’s biggest adventures.

MSRP: $25 each Available: Amazon

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SQUISHMALLOWS BEAD KIT FASHION ANGELS

Make friendship bracelets with the ultimate squad! This kit comes with beads featuring fan-favorite Squishmallows, such as Cam, Winston, and more. Kids can wear charms of their Squishmallows Squad besties everywhere they go and make matching BFF bracelets.

MSRP: $14.99 | Available: Target

STUMBLE GUYS 8-INCH PLUSH BUDDIES PMI KIDS’ WORLD

FEELING FEELINGS: INSIDE OUT: A GUIDED EMOTIONS JOURNAL

Let’s go, stumblers — adventure is waiting! Kids can make these plushies their real-life gaming companions or add some Stumble Guys decor to their space to show off their fandom.

CHRONICLE BOOKS

This mindfulness journal encourages kids to check in with and manage their feelings. It uses the movie characters to help them express their emotions and jot down their feelings in an approachable, Pixar-inspired way.

MSRP: $14.95 Available: Amazon, Barnes & Noble

MSRP: $9.97 | Available: Walmart

LITE-BRITE SUPER BRIGHT HD: HELLO KITTY EDITION BASIC FUN!

BABY GARFIELD FEATURE PLUSH — EAT, SLEEP, REPEAT GOLIATH

Meet Baby Garfield, an interactive plush that eats, sleeps, and repeats what kids say. This cuddly version of the notorious lasagna lover features munching sound effects. Pull his sleep mask down to hear his food coma snore.

Celebrate Hello Kitty’s 50th anniversary with this modern version of the retro toy you know and love! It features a brighter display with double the LEDs and includes six Hello Kitty-inspired templates.

MSRP: $24.99 Available: Amazon, Walmart

MSRP: $24.99 | Available: Walmart

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JURASSIC WORLD ALL-OUT ATTACK TYRANNOSAURUS REX MATTEL

CHEER BEAR FIGURAL BANK

This ferocious figure features a rampage attack, chomp action, and roar sounds. The faster kids press the button, the more the dino roars.

MSRP: $49.99 | Available: Walmart

MONOGRAM

SPONGEBOB SQUAREPANTS: HAPPY FUNDAY! PI KIDS

Will Plankton finally steal the secret formula? Or will SpongeBob make today the best day ever?

Press seven buttons as you read to immerse yourself in Bikini Bottom.

MSRP: $14.99 Available: mass retailers (October, preorder now)

SESAME STREET CHICKEN DANCE ELMO ANIMATED PLUSH

Sharing Saving is caring! Made from durable PVC material, this bank features the lovable Cheer Bear, complete with her signature rainbow belly badge and a cheerful expression.

MSRP: $24.99 Available: Urban Outfitters (August)

SQUISHMALLOWS X POPGRIPS POPSOCKETS

Take your Squishmallows squad everywhere you go! Theses grips stick to the back of your phone or device so you can hold it easily, text more comfortably, and watch videos hands-free.

MSRP: $35 | Available: popsockets.com

JUST PLAY

Kids tap into the power of giggles as they dance, chat, and sing along with their bestie. Elmo dances and chirps to his version of the “Chicken Dance” song and even tells silly jokes.

MSRP: $29.99 Available: mass retailers (August)

MGA'S MINIVERSE MAKE IT MINI THE LORD OF THE RINGS MGA ENTERTAINMENT

Build a surprise The Lord of the Rings-themed miniature using the ingredients, then cure the resin in any UV light (like the sun!) for a tiny keepsake. There are 15 styles to collect: 12 core styles available now, and three rare chase styles dropping in October.

MSRP: $9.99 Available: mass retailers

MINECRAFT 18-INCH CHILDREN’S BIKE DYNACRAFT

Perfect for kids ages 6-9, this bike features custom graphics on the frame, fork, chain guard, and training wheels, including the iconic creeper pattern from the game.

It comes with a removable plush creeper head on the handlebars.

MSRP: $94 | Available: Walmart

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L

ittle Golden Books are still printed in the exact same way — and even on the exact same printing press — as they were in 1942, the year of the brand’s inception. However, these days that printing press is just as likely to spit out The Poky Little Puppy as it is a Funko Pop! retelling of Gremlins, a Disney Parks-inspired tale, or a Seinfeld character introduction book.

In other words, Penguin Random House’s Little Golden Books have gone full fandom.

Chris Angelilli is the vice president, editor-in-chief, and director of licensed publishing at Penguin Random House, and has spent a total of 30 years in the licensed publishing industry. Angelilli has seen the power of the fandom firsthand: “We have found that, in addition to just people who have grown up with [Little Golden Books] and want to share them with the kids in their lives, that also there is a huge adult collector following.”

A large portion of this adult collector following is interested in early titles from Little Golden Books. The brand originally produced 12 stories, and these rarities and early editions now sell for up to hundreds of dollars online. There are entire websites dedicated to the collection and celebration of Little Golden Books; dozens of Instagram accounts borne from the trade and sale of them; and, at time

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of writing, 4 million “The Little Golden Books” posts on TikTok. “All of us grew up with them,” Angelilli says. “It’s the most iconic children’s book format.” And indeed, it’s this format that has kept fans devoted for decades: the proprietary binding system, the low cost, and the gold foil spine.

So what do you get when you combine a devotion to a brand’s original identity with the fortitude of new age fandoms? Huge sales.

“We have been specifically publishing Little Golden Books based upon properties that are clearly targeted toward an adult,” Angelilli says.

These titles include a multitude of Marvel properties, ranging from

She-Hulk to Ms. Marvel to Spidey and His Amazing Friends. There are also books about Dungeons & Dragons, Super Mario, and Shazam! “One thing we’ve been discovering is that the adult superfans who have children … have found that Little Golden Books are a great way to introduce the children in their lives to the properties that they love,” he says.

For fans who want three layers of fandom, there are even Funko-ized Little Golden Books. “It turns out that the CEO of Funko is a huge Little Golden Book fan. So he reached out to us and he said,

From classic titles to licensed Marvel stories, Little Golden Books are still printed on the original press from 1942.

Source: Penguin Random House

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Licensed titles bring collector-coded and kid-oriented stories to print. | Source: Penguin Random House

‘Hey, how can we partner?’” Angelilli recalls. The partnership looks like this: Funko-style Little Golden Books feature stories from Stranger Things, The Office, E.T., Back to the Future, and more, and Angelilli notes that for some of those more intense properties, the Funko look gives them a more kid-friendly vibe. But even a Funko look doesn’t necessarily make adapting intense adult material to a kids’ book format an easy task.

“Alien was probably one of the most [challenging],” Angelilli says of the upcoming ABC book based on Ridley Scott’s horror movie of the same name, but some adaptations do have an easy fix, as in the case of Jurassic Park: “We focused more on the magic of being in a place where dinosaurs are roaming around rather than the fact that the dinosaurs are running around trying to kill everyone in the park.” However, there are certain lines that can’t be crossed: “I don't know if I should say this, but we almost did a Squid Game Little Golden Book before all of us came to our senses,” he says.

Thankfully, it isn’t all about the adults.

Little Golden Books retains a roster of licensed and inherently kid-friendly titles, wielding popular stories and characters like Peppa Pig, the Sesame Street gang, and various attractions and rides at the Disney parks.

Another surprising angle Little Golden Books is taking on is the unofficial biography genre, part of its “Famous

Faces” category. From The Beatles and Jackie Robinson to Carol Burnett and Audrey Hepburn, the subjects of these unofficial biographies are all ultra-famous and utterly inspiring.

“We have been specifically publishing Little Golden Books based upon properties that are clearly targeted toward an adult.”

- Chris Angelilli, Penguin Random House

And of course, there’s the Taylor Swift: A Little Golden Book Biography.

According to a Publisher’s Weekly story from late 2023, the Taylor Swift title sold 367,000 copies and was a best-seller on both The New York Times and Publisher’s Weekly lists. Wendy Loggia, vice president and senior executive editor at Delacorte Press, a Random House Children’s Books imprint along with Little Golden Books, then told Publisher's Weekly: “The response from fans and book buyers has been overwhelming …

People are giving it as baby shower gifts,

they’re putting their concert tickets in the book; they’re pulling the book apart and creating journals with their own pages inserted; they’re using it in schools, along with friendship bracelets, as a classroom activity.”

The multitude of ways in which Little Golden Books masters the pop-culture arena continues. And despite the cred the brand gets from TikTok and other digital platforms, Angelilli sees the physical book, and specifically Little Golden Books, as a permanent fixture.

“People still want physical books. You sit down with a child … something about touching the cover and the smell of the glue and the spine … it’s a part of the reading experience.”

After 82 years of sharing stories for a diminutive cost, the gold foil format of Little Golden Books appears to be staying put in our culture, in kids’ hands, and on collector’s shelves.

However, there is one potential hiccup: “If that press ever breaks,” Angelilli says, “we’re in trouble.” But he’s only being facetious: Even if the press breaks, Little Golden Books and its mammoth appeal, will, as it always has, find a way forward. ✪ ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Madison Patterson is an assistant editor at The Pop Insider, The Toy Book, and The Toy Insider. When she isn't writing, the Seattle native can be found reading the classics, watching football, and scouring the city for New York's best vintage.

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MINT CONDITION

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I

n the ‘90s, when the Beanie Baby craze was in full swing, we all fought to grab the rare ones before we couldn’t get them anymore. Some folks were buying them up hoping they would be worth a lot of money in the future. Those collectors may not be sitting on bags of Beanie Baby money now, but many people still hold love for the Beanie Babies they’ve collected over the years.

Collectors range in passion from the casual Funko Pop! buyer to the hardcore enthusiasts who keep spreadsheets of new and vintage collectibles and know exactly how much everything is worth. While collectibles often hold value beyond their monetary worth, it can be helpful to know what people are paying — or are willing to pay — for your favorite pieces. And thankfully, dedicated collectors now have many ways of finding out exactly what their stuff is worth.

FINDING THE RIGHT PRICE Every product, from coins to action figures, has a manufacturer suggested retail price (MSRP) when it gets placed on physical or digital retail shelves. But once the initial product run comes to an end, it gets a new resale value — for better or for worse.

Popularity, scarcity, and personal value all impact a collectible’s resale value on sites like eBay and StockX. It’s a pretty simple supply-and-demand relationship, with items that are produced in limited runs reselling for higher prices than ones produced in mass quantities. While third-party marketplace sites are a great resource for collectors, some manufacturers are recognizing the importance of resale value.

KNOW YOUR WORTH

Professional grading makes the rarest and most valuable pieces in your collection even more special.

Source: CGC Grading (Batman and Spider-Man comic books); Collectible Grading Authority (Transformers figure)

Funko collectors can keep track of their collections through the Funko app, which features price valuations based on recent eBay sales.

“With more than 1 million Funko collectors using the Funko app to manage their collections, providing informed valuation metrics for the fans is a top priority,” said Johanna Gepford, Funko’s senior vice president of revenue, in a press release. “eBay is our preferred partner for secondary marketplace sales, and we’re thrilled to provide Funko collectors with frictionless access to real marketplace data, so they can better

understand the value of their collections.”

This program started at the tail-end of last year and gives each Funko collectible a price estimate based on recent, verified sales, so collectors know what each Pop! is worth or how much they might have to pay to get their hands on one that's missing from their collection.

"As a top destination for collectibles connecting millions of sellers and buyers around the world, we’re always looking for new ways to deliver an amazing customer experience and help enthusiasts make informed decisions,” said Gene Cook, global vice president of collectibles for eBay, in a press release. “In 2022, ‘Funko’ was searched about 13,000 times per hour on eBay globally, reinforcing the popularity and high collectability of these items. We’re excited to work alongside Funko to bring more innovation and exciting new features to the collecting community.”

These price estimates give collectors a starting point to determine the worth of their collections, but finding an exact number can often take more time and effort.

HobbyDB is an online database in which thousands of collectors log everything from die-cast vehicles and coins to action figures and baseball cards. Collectors can use the site to find missing pieces in their collections, discover places where they can purchase them, and, in some cases, determine how much a piece is worth.

Christian Braun, CEO of hobbyDB, says that the site uses 80 different pricing sources, including eBay, StockX, auction houses, and more. The site also stores a full history of prices for collectibles.

“You can make your own judgment basically, which is the thing that doesn’t happen anymore,” Braun says. “Now you just see a price, but you don’t know where it comes from or what it is. I like to see the whole history. I like to see 50 transactions or even two transactions — that’s valuable.”

MINTY AND FRESH The value of a collectible is not only impacted by what fans are willing to pay for it, but also by what condition it’s in. Collectible grading services will examine collectibles of all sorts and give them a rating on a 10-point scale. There are many factors that influence a collectible’s final grade, including scratches THEPOPINSIDER.COM | #FuelYourFandom | 51

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MINT CONDITION on the packaging, curling price tags, and bent corners.

It is almost impossible for collectibles to have a perfect mint rating. Chad Thompson, president of Collectible Grading Authority (CGA), explains that even brand-new collectibles are rarely mint quality.

“Even a brand-new item like a brandnew toy or brand-new video game [may not be mint] because straight off the factory line, you’re going to have flaws,” Thompson says. “Whether it’s a dinging on the card or a box or an indent or scuffing or a pool on the cellophane.”

To get an item graded by CGA, a collector packs it up and ships it to the company, where a team of experts will examine and grade it. Once the grading process is through, CGA will put the collectible into an acrylic case for protection,

and send it back to the collector.

According to Thompson, getting items graded, especially pricier adds to your shelves, can be an extremely important step in your collection process.

“If you’re going to drop tens of thousands of dollars on something, you would want to make sure it’s real and legit,” Thompson says. “If it’s one of so many known in the world, or if it’s a super-rare variation, I would think getting a professional opinion on that is definitely worth it. You don’t want to pay a lot of money for something and then get it and it’s not correct and you get ripped off.”

While graders aren’t looking at the monetary value of an item, they often have an idea of what they are worth based on years of experience working with collectibles.

“We’ve been doing this so long, we

kind of know what things are worth,” Thompson says. “We don’t set a value on the item when it comes through us. We’re creating a base on the condition. Most collectors that send stuff to us, they know what they got.”

Having a collectible graded and knowing its monetary value can also be helpful when it comes to insuring your collection, especially if you have a sizable one that is worth a lot of money. We hope nothing ever happens to our collections, but it is important to be prepared for everything.

“We’ve got a guy who has 25,000 pins in his collection,” hobbyDB’s Braun says. “They’re worth $600,000. He can use [hobbyDB] to insure his collection.

When it comes time to pass it on — to sell it — it’s all there. It’s all documented.

In fact, we had somebody in Florida sell-

hobbyDB named the Eric Draven with Crow Pop! the highest-rated collectible on the site last year.

Source: Funko

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MINT CONDITION

Experts take weathering, scratches, folds, and other signs of age and damage into account when grading collectibles. | Source: CGC Grading

ing a pin collection to a dealer in Spain, and the Spanish guy could see everything there was and made an offer.”

A collection can also be a gateway to a new community. CGC Grading, the division of Certified Collectibles Group (CCG) that grades cards, comics, and more, offers chat boards for fans who have graded some of their collection to discuss the hobby with fellow collectors.

“Chat boards are a place where fans can discuss their hobbies and share knowledge with those who have similar interests,” says Max Spiegel, president of CCG. “Collecting is not a solitary activity.

Its online resources are part of a broader effort to foster a fun, lively, and informed community for fans.”

FOLLOWING YOUR HEART The monetary, social, and physical value of a collectible are vital parts of

the hobby to many collectors, but the emotional value your collection provides is just as important.

Jordan Hembrough, president of Hollywood Heroes and host of the Toy Hunter TV series that ran on the Travel Channel from 2012-2014, has been collecting since he was a teen. Throughout Hembrough’s life, the art of collecting has been a method of self care for him.

“Collecting is a way to escape,” Hembrough says. “Life is tough as it is.

We have families, we have mortgages, we pay college loans for the kids, we have car payments. Collecting is a way that everyone across every demographic and every gender and everyone can say, ‘I’m going to do this for me. I’m doing a little something for myself.’ It’s self wellness. It is almost like therapy.”

The types of collectibles one finds emotional value in are often linked

to what made us happy growing up.

For Hembrough, his love of Star Wars launched his career.

“I loved Star Wars when I was a child,” he says. “I didn’t have friends growing up. I didn’t have a lot of friends at all. I came home from school and my Star Wars toys were my friends. I made my own little adventures and everything like that ... That love for toys and that love for that franchise — that has kept me going.”

There is no wrong way to be a collector, whether you’re just dipping your toes into the world of collecting or have all of your collectibles logged in detail on hobbyDB. As long as you hold personal value on the things that you collect, they are priceless, but hey, having a collectible graded doesn’t hurt! ✪

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Updated Classics, Strategy Newcomers, and Fandom-Infused Favorites for the Tabletop

SUPERMAN PLAYING CARDS

HEROSCAPE: BATTLE FOR THE WELLSPRING BATTLE BOX

THEORY11

It’s a bird! It’s a plane! It’s … a deck of cards! This collectible set features custom artwork depicting iconic characters and locations from the Golden Age of Superman in Action Comics.

MSRP: $12.95 | Available: theory11.com

RENEGADE GAME STUDIOS

May the best Valkyrie General win. This two-player battle helps players step into Heroscape, kicking things off with six miniatures, including three pirates, a wizard, and two familiars.This game is compatible with previous and upcoming Heroscape releases.

MSRP: $45 Available: renegadegamestudios.com (preorder)

CRABS IN A BUCKET

STAR WARS UNLIMITED: SHADOWS OF THE GALAXY

BLUE RONDO GAMES

FANTASY FLIGHT GAMES

In this fast-paced, zany, card-shedding game, it’s OK to be a little bit shellfish. Players take turns trying to get rid of their cards as fast as they can — but beware of the Joker crabs, which can change the game in a pinch with unique rules and abilities.

Journey to the uncharted Outer Rim. Star Wars Unlimited expands with this new set, which features new challenges, strategies, and gameplay mechanics, complete with bounty hunters galore.

MSRP: $24.99 Available: Amazon, bluerondoshop.com

MSRP: $119.79 Available: starwarsunlimited.com

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FAIRY PRANK ULTRA PRO

If you believe in fairies … then hide your stuff because they are notorious thieves. In this game, one player will take on the role of the fairy and remove items from the treasure box while the remaining players will try to guess what is missing by shaking it.

MSRP: $17.99 Available: Amazon, ultrapro.com

NEOPETS BATTLEDOME TCG — STARRY & FIRE STARTER DECKS UPPER DECK

Challenge opponents in the Battledome, even if you can’t remember your Neopets password. This new trading card game features custom artwork and a unique dice battle mechanic. Two ready-toplay decks each include 10 glitter resin dice, foil cards, and more.

GATEWAY ISLAND VAN RYDER GAMES

We’ve all gotta start somewhere.

Gateway Island features 21 different mini-games, each of which teaches players a new board game mechanic, game rules, and types of play, followed up with a recommendation for a modern board game for you to try next.

MSRP: $24.99 Available: vanrydergames.com (Aug. 1)

MSRP: $19.99 each Available: upperdeckstore.com

TALISMAN ALLIANCES: FATE BECKONS AVALON HILL

THUNDER ROAD: VENDETTA RESTORATION GAMES

Two to four players will race on this dusty, blood-spattered game’s signature “infinite” road board, take control of their crew, and put the pedal to the metal. Work to dodge hazards, slam into other cars, fire your guns, and more.

Teamwork makes the dream work. The first expansion for Talisman 5th Edition introduces cooperative gameplay.

Players will collaborate on an epic adventure to complete five trials while revealing mysteries along the way.

MSRP: $33.99 Available: Amazon (preorder)

MSRP: $60 Available: restorationgames.com

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STREET FIGHTER V: CHAMPION EDITION LEGENDS WORLD WARRIORS KESSCO

MONOPOLY: HARRY POTTER EDITION HASBRO

Fifty points to Gryffindor! Monopoly gets a magical twist in this new edition, in which players try to earn the most house points. Players will get sorted into Hogwarts houses and explore the school and Hogsmeade Village locations.

MSRP: $39.99 | Available: Amazon

Get ready for a KO. In this cooperative brawling game, players take on the role of Street Fighter characters like Chun-Li and Ryu, build combos, upgrade their abilities, and battle to defeat the four kings.

LUDO IN BLOOM CLASSIC BOARD GAME SET

MSRP: $59.99 Available: Amazon, Barnes & Noble

GALISON

This game is a vibe. Inspired

by Pachisi, the ancient Indian game, Ludo in Bloom includes 16 wooden game pieces and features calming flowers and butterflies.

The gameboard folds up into a box for easy storage.

MSRP: $21.99 Available: Amazon, Walmart

AQUA THE OP GAMES

Dive into the beauty and wonder of the ocean, alone or with companions. This game offers solo play or other modes for up to four players, immersing you in the diversity of ocean life through brilliant graphics.

ONITAMA

MSRP: $39.99 | Available: Amazon

ARCANE WONDERS

Become a master of martial tactics in 15 minutes? Yes, please. In this elegant and simple two-player game, players will use ancient maneuvers presented on the Tarot-size cards to capture their opponent’s master.

MSRP: $34.99 | Available: Amazon, arcanewonders.com

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A

t Comic-Con International: San Diego (SDCC) 2024, anime titles like Demon Slayer, Chainsaw Man, Spy x Family, One Piece, and Jujutsu Kaisen are likely to flood the floor. This list provides only a small peek into the vast amount of anime and manga content available for fans to devour.

Like Roronoa Zoro to Monkey D. Luffy or Naruto to Hidden Leaf Village, members of the anime community are extremely loyal to their favorite titles and characters, so the merch should reflect the exact thing they fell in love with.

When creating products or coordinating events to represent anime, companies like Bandai Namco Toys & Collectibles America (BNTCA), Secretlab, and Anime NYC must go beyond — plus ultra — to confidently serve the community.

The community itself, however, has seen a slight shift over the past few years: With the influx of celebrity admiration

and live-action adaptations, the anime space has become increasingly easier to enter — and requires more merch!

LIVE-ACTION LOVE

Although a live-action series based on anime or manga titles is not a new concept, it has become more popular within the last few years.

Live-action series like Netflix’s One Piece and Avatar: The Last Airbender (both released within the past two years) instantly gained popularity, especially with viewers who have never seen an anime or read manga. For viewers without a background in the Japanese art style, the live-action medium introduces the storylines and characters in a familiar “real life” setting. After watching the live-action versions, a love for the original source material — whether it’s the more than 1,000 episodes of One Piece or the three seasons of Avatar: the Last Airbend-

er — can develop instantly.

“Live action — it’s absolutely true — is going to bring [anime/manga] to more fanbases. One Piece is one of the more trending pop anime titles because of Netflix, becoming a key component to making One Piece a very big title in North America … [One Piece anime] is now ‘so cool,’” says Kenji Washida, senior vice president, brand strategist, new business development at BNTCA. Like Washida, fans might have noticed that One Piece-inspired merch has skyrocketed following the popularity of the live-action series’ first season. These pieces often feature the characters from the manga or anime itself, rather than the live-action actors. Fans of the live-action series will recognize this trend in The Op Games’ recent launch of Monopoly: One Piece ($44.99). The board features several characters and locations from the anime — and don’t worry, that includes

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everyone’s favorite humble doctor, Tony Tony Chopper.

Alongside the live-action series, fans can further interact with their favorite anime titles through themed dining experiences and stage shows, such as Death Note: The Musical, which opened in Japan in 2015.

This fall, anime fans can watch a musical inspired by the manga and anime Attack on Titan at New York City Center. Considered a 2.5D experience, Attack on Titan: The Musical uses a cast of 35 actors and innovative technology to tell Eren Yeager’s story through 2D manga and animation plus 3D live theater. Of course, there will be merchandise available for audience members to purchase as well.

In a different type of live-action love, celebrities have recently shown their dedication to the anime community on a large scale, drawing positive attention to different aspects of the anime fandom.

Rapper Megan Thee Stallion recently presented the Anime of the Year award to Jujutsu Kaisen at the 2024 Crunchyroll Anime Awards. She’s also posted photos of her cosplaying as Mirko from My Hero Academia and had several references to animes like One Piece in her music video for her recent song “Boa.” While this public celeb love isn’t new, fans have seen it increase within the past decade, making it easier for some to proudly showcase their passions.

“Growing up, I was not celebrated for loving anime and manga, I was ostracized,” says MK Goodwin, event director of Anime NYC. “Celebrities who enjoy manga and anime have had a profound impact on making these art forms more accessible and accepted by a wider audience. They play a very important role in breaking down stereotypes and misconceptions, and widely inspire diverse groups of fans to embrace these genres with enthusiasm and pride.”

Peter Tatara, director of film at the Japan Society and founder of Anime NYC,

Secretlab recently released Rengoku-inspired gaming chairs and chair sleeves. | Source: Secretlab

has a similar view, adding that “Weekly, we have major celebrities and sports stars talking about their love of anime — ­ embracing it as a part of their identity …

There are major celebrities, major money, and major corporations in the anime space, and it’s being devoured by more and wider audiences than ever before.”

HASHIRA HOME GOODS

As live-action adaptions pop up, celebrities continue showcasing their love, and new seasons debut, anime merch is more prominent than ever.

However, the sheer number of manga titles, anime series, characters, and arches can make it difficult to choose a new addition to the collection — for fans and merch makers. Luckily, companies like Secretlab and BNTCA are dedicated to the lore, details, and fandom when creating anime merch, so fans can expand their collections with pieces that are true to their favorites.

Following the May debut of Season 4 of Demon Slayer, fans might be itching to fill their game room with themed pieces.

Secretlab specializes in gaming chairs and accessories, including chair sleeves

for fans who already have a Secretlab chair (but want to change up their vibe or are invested in a new show). The company — which launched a Demon Slayer line a few years ago — recently added new additions inspired by Rengoku and Shinobu.

At the time of publication, fans can preorder the Secretlab Titan Evo Gaming Chair (starting at $519) in the Rengoku or Shinobu theme. Anime-lovers who currently own a Secretlab Titan Evo Series chair can preorder chair sleeves starting at $169.

The company follows Jigoro’s advice and hones its collection to perfection, to the utmost limit. “We obsessed over every color, thread, and detail to make sure we get every single detail right.

With anime-inspired products, there’s a lot of backstory that we can draw inspiration from, and the Secretlab Titan Evo Demon Slayer Rengoku Edition is a great example of this,” says SecretLab’s lead licensed product designer Gabriel Lim. “We very much wanted to capture the beloved character’s unyielding spirit and the impact it had on the rest of the

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"WHEN BRAINSTORMING FOR OUR ORIGINAL DEMON SLAYER COLLECTION, WE DELVED DEEP INTO THE LORE OF THE NICHIRIN SWORDS, WHICH ADOPT A DISTINCT COLOR WHEN FIRST DRAWN

BY THEIR OWNERS." - GABRIEL LIM, SECRETLAB

BNTCA's Dragon Ball Super Dragon Stars — Super Saiyan Blue Goku Power Pack has more than 20 points of articulation.

Source: BNTCA

Demon Slayer Corps. From his last words — “Set your heart ablaze” — stitched on top to his sword guard, now in the hands of Tanjiro, the chair is instantly associated with Rengoku’s burning passion and heroism.”

On the Shinobu Edition, fans will recognize a butterfly wing detailing resembling Shinobu’s haori. When choosing a chair, there’s no other way to go but forward: Choose a size, pick upholstery, and decide between the Rengoku and Shinobu skins. The price of each chair depends on these choices, and each chair comes packaged with a Magnetic Memory Foam Head Pillow.

If the older seasons of Demon Slayer are more your style, Secretlab also has pieces inspired by Inosuke, Tanjiro, Zenistu, and more. “When brainstorming for our original Demon Slayer collection, we delved deep into the lore of the Nichirin swords, which adopt a distinct color when first drawn by their owners,” Lim says. “We saw this in the first episode when the Water Hashira Giyu Tomioka was first introduced and were determined to bring this to life. With the Secretlab Titan Evo Demon Slayer Giyu Edition, we imbued a special colorchanging material into the embroidered sword on the backrest, which changes from black to a moody blue hue when thermally activated. This color-changing technology hasn’t been used in any premium chairs in the market, making it extra special for us and fans.”

Secretlab also has officially licensed chair skins inspired by Jujutsu Kaisen, Naruto: Shippuden, and Attack on Titan. Fans can expect the new Demon Slayer chairs and sleeves to complement their gaming setup by September.

ANIME ARTICULATED

For anime fans who prefer to display their anime collection rather than sit in it, companies like BNTCA have a wide selection of carefully crafted anime statues and action figures representing several titles like Dragon Ball, Chainsaw Man, and more.

When creating these anime collectibles, BNTCA often goes to the core of the title: the manga. “The anime fandom is very emotionally attached to the characters, they want to see [them go from] a 2D format to 3D format exactly the same,” BNTCA’s Washida says.

BNTCA focuses on several aspects to create an exact 3D replica of an anime character, including articulation. The company makes sure that the figures can move and pose in similar ways to what you see on the screen or in the manga. “Articulation is key … if we cut down articulation too much, you can’t pose it as much as you’d see in the film,” Washida adds.

This applies to one of the company’s most recent anime action figures, the Dragon Ball Super Dragon Stars — Super Saiyan Blue Goku Power Up Pack, which launched last month. With more than 20 points of articulation, the $26.99 figure resembles the iconic character up to the last detail. Fans can re-create battle scenes with the collectible and power-up accessories.

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BNTCA also released Dragon Ball Limit Breaker — Frieza 4th Form last month, a 12-inch tall collectible with five points of articulation and a reasonable price point of $17.99. Fans can display the figure or use it to reenact their favorite scenes from the anime.

Similar to the large selection of titles (and to the never-ending list of One Piece episodes), there are numerous possibilities for those looking for new and exciting anime products.

You could take your love on the go with Series 4 of Monogram’s One Piece 3D Foam Bag Clips ($6.99), which includes nine different figural bag clips for fans to unbox, including Monkey D. Luffy in his iconic red vest and frayed jean shorts, as well as Gear 5 Luffy.

Anime fans can also find new collectibles from Youtooz. Joining Youtooz’ already vast anime offerings, which covers titles like Chainsaw Man, Attack on Titan, and My Hero Academia, fans can make shelf space for a new line based on Haikyuu. At the time of publication, you can find four Youtooz figures representing Bokuto Koutarou, Shouyou Hinata, Tobio Kageyama, and Tooru Oikawa.

Each character will be $29.99.

CONVENTIONS, COSPLAY, COMMUNITY

Fans can showcase their admiration (or obsession, no judgment here) for anime at conventions

like SDCC, where the community can meet in real life to cosplay and discuss their favorite (or least favorite, no judgment here) aspects of each series.

At SDCC, fans can find a large selection of BNTCA figures at its centrally located booth, Booth No. 3345. Viewers and readers of various titles will have a large selection of merch to tote home.

Once the post-SDCC blues kick in, anime fans can look forward to next month’s Anime NYC, where they can meet thousands of other anime-lovers between Aug. 23-25 at the Javits Center in New York City. According to Goodwin, “We’re looking at our largest growth year-to-year ever for this upcoming edition, as we’ve finally been able to take over the entirety of the traditional convention center with our new August dates. We’re expecting around 100,000 fans for the first time.”

The convention, which has received award recognition from the Japanese Consulate, features tons of anime merch, cosplay, guest speakers, and more.

Anime NYC, powered by Crunchyroll, has new offerings for 2024 attendees. This year, the team will introduce “many new features dedicated to fan communities, including an 80,000-square-foot gaming hall with late-night hours, another entire hall dedicated to our show feature Destination Cosplay, guest photo ops, dozens of more panels including both professional and fan programming, and more,” Goodwin says.

Tickets are available on Anime NYC’s website and run from $67-429, depending on what kind of badge you want (single-day, three-day, or Anime NYC+ badges are all available). Fans can also purchase tickets to designated after parties ($25-85) to keep the anime celebrations going.

If you’re not a con person (or you need something to focus on besides your work-in-progess cosplay), new anime merch is always on the rise. This fall, both TOMY and BNTCA will release plush products and action figures inspired by popular titles.

TOMY’s Club Mocchi- Mocchi- line expands this fall with Suya Suya Spy x Family Yor Forger and Bond, which each sell for $16.99. The new, squishy plush feature character-specific details, including Yor Forger’s yellow accessories and Bond’s bowtie. If Toyko Revengers is more your style, you can also add new Manjiro Sano- and Takemichi-inspired Club Mocchi- Mocchi- plush to your stuffed animal-ridden couch.

BNTCA’s Gashapon Blind Packs ($7.99), available in September, feature mini figures of your favorite anime characters from Demon Slayer and Naruto: Shippuden. There are 10 different Demon Slayer characters and six figures from Naruto, so your mini anime collection will have some variety.

Whether you discovered your favorite anime in the bookstore, at a convention, or on Netflix, there’s always new — and extremely detailed — merchandise for you to proudly display (or sit in). ✪

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Samantha Connell is an assistant editor for The Toy Book, The Pop Insider, and The Toy Insider. She loves to write, craft, watch Pride and Prejudice, and play with her adorable dog, Willow. She is a Ravenclaw, Star Wars fan (prequels included), and Clemson alumna. She also thinks that she is the favorite aunt.

Add TOMY's Club Mocchi- Mocchi- Suya Suya Spy x Family Yor Forger plush to your collection this fall. | Source: TOMY

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MSRP: $99.99 Available: mass retailers 66 | Issue No. 20 | THE POP INSIDER

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Celebrate 70 years of the most terrifying Kaiju around in this baseball-themed collection, featuring embroidered and screen-printed jerseys, baseball hats, and T-shirts.

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