I disagree.... the thing about the Star Ace Bubo is that the size and dimensions are spot on!
The whole figure/prop proportionally looks correct compared to the original life-sized prop.
To me, in person, it's not as dull as you'd think. But... not sure what you're expecting. I agree that it isn't as shiny as the original prop when it was new and on screen and in early publicity photo's, but it does look good, IMO.
I've seen a bunch or attempts at a life-sized Bubo over the years (most all home made) and none compare to this version! I also bought the cheap Rubies Bubo costume prop (10 years ago?) and actually threw it in the trash a few hours after I go it.... it was horrible! And now those Rubies versions sell between $100 and $200 each on eBay... for some reason?!?!!!
The Star Ace Bubo prop is advertised to be Vinyl... how much that differs from normal action figure type plastic, I don't know. I'm by no means a modeler, but the type of action figure plastic they use can be vac-metaliazied (Sp?) The first action figure I remember being advertised with that style *paint* process is the Super Powers Cyborg figure from 1986 and he was a chrome shiny silver that looked real good at the time.
I feel like Star Ace may have dulled the paint down to actually match what the original prop looks like now in the Ray Harryhausen collection. From the pictures I've seen recently of the original prop on display, it has dulled up quite a bit and is not fresh looking anymore. Just a thought.
I do agree, however, that the new Bubo would look amazing with that type of super shiny gold and silver finish!!! If you follow through with research and even re-doing the *paint* please post it here with info and pics!
Personally, I thought the Sideshow Grogu (Baby Yoda) looks real good as is.... but some here on the forum have made that prop replica look even better, too!
Overall, again IMO, the Star Ace Bubo is a must have!
- Jim