MOMAW NADON Escape from Mos Eisley
The Saga Collection Basic Figures
Item No.: Asst. 85770 No. 86770
Manufacturer: Hasbro
Number: #031
Includes: Staff, cup, bar table, display stand, bonus holographic figure
Action Feature: n/a
Retail: $6.99
Availability: Summer 2006
Appearances: Star Wars

Bio: As Luke Skywalker and Obi-Wan Kenobi wander into the Mos Eisley cantina, the recently exiled Momaw Nadon has a discussion in a back booth. This giant, gentle gardener peacefully resists the evil rule of the Galactic Empire and generally avoids conflict. However, since Mos Eisley is filled with wretched scum, he keeps a staff by his side in case things ever get rough. (Taken from the figure's cardback.)

Image: Adam's toy shelves.

Commentary: One of the neat things about Star Wars is that the old toy line managed to elevate some characters to sub-mythic status. As a kid, one of my most wanted figures was Hammerhead, and as an older fan, I always get a tingle of glee when Hasbro cranks out a new version of Momaw Nadon. Sure, they've done three distinct releases so far, but each one tends to be a lot better than the last, this one being no exception. While there's still a lot of debate about the costume with some fans, it's hard not to like the figure on its own merits. He has six points of articulation (nothing special really) along with a wonderful sculpt and a stellar paint job. His costume is appropriately gritty and tattered while his long fingers are perfectly sculpted and positioned to grip a gold staff or a drink. His eyes are striking, his skin is multi-colored, and he's even got a couple of painted belts. What's more, he even has a little pouch on his belt and a half-hood, half-neckerchief to keep his head warm. Hasbro's designers put a lot of work into this figure-- after all, who else would remember to give him some pants? Nice job, Hasbro folks! This is (currently) the definitive Hammerhead figure and short of adding more articulation, it's unlikely Hasbro will do better. But seeing as we got the first one in very late 1996, and another one in 2002, and this one in 2007, it seems likely we might see another version in 2012 or 2013. So if this doesn't do it for you, I guess you can wait around to see what they do next.

Collector's Notes: The figure was one of three Cantina aliens in 2006, along with Hem Dazon and a new Garindan. He has the traditional beady black eyes that you've come to love and has no major variations to speak of. It's totally worth picking up if you can get one.

Day 663: February 28, 2008