Funko Pop is globally notorious for their iconic design and monumental archive of character figures. Today that collection gets even more legendary with the announcement of the all-new JUMBO CHAN Ultraman! We got our hands on a Jumbo Chan of our own and took him on a walk around NYC.
At 14 inches tall, JUMBO CHAN Ultraman towers over his standard 4-inch Funko Pop counterparts. With his hands proudly on his hips, feet planted firmly, belly to the world, the JUMBO CHAN figure embodies Ultraman’s valor and determination to a tee.
The design for the hard vinyl figure began with an illustrated concept and was brought to life through 3D-modeling. Every aspect of the design is deliberate from the unique faceted eyes to the tasteful acclimation of Ultraman’s body to the Funko Pop model.
The sculptor, Colus Havenga, is clearly an Ultra-Fan at heart, as is Package Designer Mark Jamotillo, who was a huge admirer of 1960s and 1970s toy package design. Together, the two created JUMBO CHAN Ultraman out of their love of Tokusatsu.
The term “Jumbo Chan” was coined by Funko Founder, Mike Becker, who was influenced by Japanese mascots and retro characters. “Jumbo” means big, and “Chan” means child, which accurately fits the Funko Pop interpretation of Ultraman’s build.
Director of Creative Development, Justin Jamanila spoke with us on the process of designing JUMBO CHAN Ultraman, “Retro Japanese mascots are a big influence. The correct head to body proportions is the key to having a really cute line. From the arm pose to a tiny belly sticking out, shape of the eyes, to the large feet is what makes Jumbo Chan.”
The faceted eyes are a major focal point, distinguishing Ultraman from other Funko products. Jamanila gave us some insight on the decision claiming that, “Japanese retro toys have one thing in common that draws you to them, the eyes. The cuteness and shape of the eyes make the figure. We went through hundreds of iterations of eyes before we settled on what you see on the Jumbo Chan figures today.”
JUMBO CHAN Ultraman Ultraman stays true to the Ultraman fan, with simple design and packaging that calls back to the 1960s Classic Ultraman era and does it all with a Funko Pop spin.
Take JUMBO CHAN Ultraman on adventures with you, or simply place him in your Ultra-Shrine. JUMBO CHAN Ultraman will be available on September 19th for order on Funko.com. There are only 1200 units being released to make sure to snatch one while you still can!
