Famous among dinosaur figure collectors for their excellent Dinotales figures, Kaiyodo also produced a lesser known set of dinosaur figures in 2001, following the release of Jurassic Park III. The set, sponsored by Coca Cola, consisted of 12 dinosaur figures and a secret figure (a Spinosaurus skull). Today we will have a look at one of the best figures from the set, the Parasaurolophus.
There’s just something about this figure that calls out to the viewer. The pose is the best and most exciting I’ve ever seen on a hadrosaur figure. It’s widely known that the crests of hadrosaurs like Parasaurolophus were most likely used for loud vocal communication. This is emphasized by the figure’s pose. The Parasaurolophus rearing up on its hind legs and raising its head high in the air invokes a powerful image. One can just imagine the majestic animal rising in a forest to triumphantly call out to his herd mates. However, the purpose of this call is still not too clear. Perhaps it is to stake claim to his mating rights, or perhaps it could be to warn its herd of an unseen predator. It’s amazing how the simple posing of a figure can create such an interesting back-story.
This figure’s pose isn’t its only great attribute. Figures from the Kaiyodo Dinotales series are famous for their great detail and accuracy in spite of their tiny size. The figures from this set are no exception. While not perfectly true to the real animal, this Parasaurolophus figure is an almost spot on replica of the movie monster animal it is intended to represent. The paint job represents a male Parasaurolophus in the Jurassic Park universe, but is missing a few brown markings on the arms. Exquisite detailing makes this figure very lifelike, with realistic musculature and skin textures. These details, along with the rearing pose, give the figure a marvelous sense of majesty and realism. This is quite amazing for a figure that is only around 2 inches (5 cm) long.
Even though I am not the biggest hadrosaur fan, this figure is still a great one to have. It invokes a powerful image and has a majestic essence. In addition, it has the characteristic detailing and accuracy of Kaiyodo figures. Unfortunately, the set was only sold in Japan, and is most likely long retired by now. Luckily, the whole set can usually be found on eBay for around $35. Individual figures are occasionally available for a few dollars, around the same price as a Dinotales figure. It’s well worth the effort though, as this figure is worthy for the collection of any dinosaur enthusiast, hadrosaur fans in particular.
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Nothing like a tripod with a base!
I find it interesting how the tail goes lower than the stand does. Otherwise it would be broken if it reared up that much on flat ground. Lovely figure nevertheless. I always thought out of all the dinosaurs from Jurassic Park the herbivores were portrayed so nicely (and very accurately when compared to the meat eaters).