December 2008 - Every couple of weeks, Mattel will answer five questions per web site about their various product lines. Here are the answers for the past few questions:
1. What DC mainstream turned Vertigo characters are definitely out of the question? We know Swamp Thing is in the license, but what of others like Jonah Hex who had significant mainstream runs before moving to Vertigo?
Answer: Actually, a lot of Vertigo characters are in flux. The list changes periodically and some characters who are on it can be off again depending on how they are used last in comics. At the moment, Swamp Thing is actually off the list. But we will continue to work with DC Comics and Warner Brothers for a time when "Vertigo" characters are available as part of the DC Universe. In the end it is up to our licensing partners to grant permission character by character for each and every toy line. Although we hold the license, we have a great partnership with DC and Warner Bros to mold the line to be the best it can be.
2. Many collectors are excited about being able to acquire previously extremely difficult to find DC Superheroes figures as part of the upcoming Toys R Us 2-packs (including Barbara Gordon Batgirl and Cyborg Superman). However, there are still several figures that supply has never met demand for from the DC Superheroes line, including Two-Face, Cassandra Cain Batgirl, Catwoman, Clayface, and the modern Supergirl. Are any of these popular figures slated to be rereleased in 2009 in Toys R Us 2-packs or in some other fashion?
Answer: While we do have more 2 packs planned that are a combination of both new figures, redecos and re-releases of hard to find figures (such as the ones you mentioned), at the moment we are waiting for retail support to release these packs. Until we have orders from our retailers we can not announce or release new product.
3. How about sticking live action Batmen, Supermen, and Wonder Woman into DCUC like Marvel Legends line? Also goes for Flash and Captain Marvel and whoever else, Smallville and wherever you can find a live action DC Superhero.
Answer: This is something we really want to do but likely not until 2010. Though not for Smallville. That license is with DC Direct.
4. Does Mattel have indications from Wal-Mart regarding whether Wave 5 will be available in all Wal-Mart stores or only those currently carrying the DCUC line?
Answer: It is up to Wal-Mart to determine how many of there "doors" carry each product. But from what we hear, DCU is performing very well and will be featured in more doors next year.
5. On all of your DC product packaging, there are "vent holes" on the sides. What are these for?
Answer: It is to let the new plastic air out before hitting retail and avoid that "new plastic" smell.
