‘Alien and Predator Figure Collection: Pvt. Hudson’ Review
After looking at the Xenomorph last week for Eaglemoss’ Alien and Predator Figure Collection it seems fitting to look at another iconic character from the Alien franchise. This week it is a certain character that may have proclaimed “Game Over!” a little too soon, but was a hero none the less.
When we first saw the marines in Aliens, James Cameron was able to present us with a motley crew that each stood out in their own way. Private Hudson, played by the late great Bill Paxton was one marine who appeared to be cocky, and all mouth. When the Xenomorphs first attacked, gaining an advantage he was the first to proclaim “game over man! game over…” but when push came to shove he showed the true courage that made him an iconic character.
Looking at the model that Eaglemoss have created for the collection, we see Hudson in a heroic pose with motion tracker in hand. Looking for movement (that is coming from all around them) we also see one of the enemy ready to pounce from underneath him. This of course means that it is Hudson’s final moments.
What is impressive with this model is the level of detail we see with the motion tracker, pulse rifle and Hudson’s armour which he has added his own artwork to, to make his own. Seeing the Xenomorph’s claws coming from below will also remind fans of the creepy moment the aliens where creeping through the walls, floor and ceiling to attack the marines.
This Hudson model will please many fans because of the fact Hudson was such an iconic character. Bill Paxton brought such character to the role which in some ways could have just been yet another grunt who met their doom on LV-426. What he showed in the end though was courage under fire, and when he counted he was a hero. Just ask any Aliens fan and when they list the memorable characters, Hudson will be there.
In terms of the Alien and Predator Figurine Collection providing characters like Hudson is a nice touch because of their iconic status. While the most important models to have will be the different versions of the Xenomorph, Predator, and of course Ripley, the supporting cast were still important. To make the collection complete you need the Hudson, Hicks, and Bishops of the Alien universe to complete the set.
With nice little touches of detail, the Alien and Predator Figurine Collection is delivering where it matters, and that is with elements that fans will recognise and enjoy. It will be interesting to see some predator models and if they are as good as the Alien ones, though the ones I have at the moment focus on the Alien universe, because of the focus on Alien: Covenant.
Looking at the Hudson model when compared to last week’s Xenomorph I will admit that the alien was more impressive. This is of course because of the intricate design of the Xenomorph and the brilliance of the H.R. Giger design which is on show. What we get with the human models though is still impressive character models which are recognisable and very fitting within the world of the Alien and Predator Figurine Collection.
**** 4/5
The Alien and Predator Figurine Collection is available from the official website for the collection. For US customers the figurines cost $9.95, with the UK paying £9.99. Postage and packing is free.
