The multiverse of action figures and collectible statues

04 August 2025

Whether you're an experienced collector or a newcomer, there’s one thing we all have in common: we all like to bring our favorite fandoms into our homes. From comic books, movies, TV, video games, anime or manga, having your favorite character on display is a tradition that resonates across generations.
The nostalgic allure goes beyond age; creative escapism makes us relieve cherished moments, from both past and present. But, when you look at your collectibles shelf, what are you actually seeing?
In this article, we’ll explore the key distinctions between action figures and collectible statues and delve into the impressive catalog of franchises from Iron Studios, a market leader for those seeking to elevate their collections to gallery-worthy status. Get ready to find the perfect piece to complement your collection and bring even more life to your space!

Difference between an action figure and a collectible statue

The term ‘action figure’ was coined by US multinational toy manufacturing and entertainment holding company Hasbro in 1964. Originally, the term was used to market G.I. Joe figures to boys, while competitors still used the term ‘boy’s dolls’.

However, articulated dolls go as far back as Ancient Greece and Rome and military figures have even been found in ancient Egyptian tombs!

So the term “action figure” helped to elevate figures beyond playthings, evoking a sense of adventure, excitement, heroism and belonging. Over time, appealing more and more to mature audiences, who appreciate their craftsmanship and cultural significance, however without losing a childlike wonder for the imaginative potential.

Collectible statues could be argued to be the evolution of action figures. Where action figures go back and forth between a younger audience and a niche market, statues took the fandoms to more artistic heights.

Being handcrafted, hand-painted and having an overall artisanal appeal, statues transcended home decoration and became exhibition items.

Action Figure

An action figure is a poseable, joint-articulated character model figure made most commonly of plastic, and often based upon characters from film, comics, games, TV and other media. 

Their joints and articulations allow buyers to pose them in various action-filled stances, hence the name, departing from their more traditional counterparts, the collectible figurines. 

Action figures have had a sustained popularity since the 60’s due to the sparking of nostalgia and imagination, and also allowing fans to feel more connected to their favorite characters, them being from child, teenage or even adulthood.

Collectible Statue

Statues are typically made from higher quality material, with more detail put into the art of sculpting. Action figures are usually made to be more affordable and to reach a wider audience, from kids to collectors.

Statues can hold and actually increase their value because they are usually limited edition, whereas action figures are made to be mass-produced.

Statues are sculpted by artists. They have no articulations and are designed for display. They are easier to clean and meant to be exhibited, like historical and artistic pieces in a museum.

Get to know the main franchises of collectible statues from Iron Studios

Do you want to elevate your collection to museum levels? Don’t worry, because Iron Studios has the right work of art for you!

Marvel

The first Marvel figures began licensing in 1971 and were a huge success. Iron Studios’ Marvel statues are no different! Made in only a few units, they fly off the shelves, much like the superheroes they’re based on.

DC Comics

Whether you participate in the ancient battle between fandoms or enjoy them both alike, Iron Studios has got you covered! Our DC Comics collection has all your favorite characters, including even the Space Jam: A New Legacy collection!

Lord of the Rings

The Lord of the Rings movies have almost 20 Academy Award wins, and Iron Studios brings the award-winning characters from Isengard straight into your home. Remember, adventures must be shared!

Harry Potter

It does not do to dwell on dreams and forget to live” but Iron Studios’ Harry Potter statues will carry you on a broom into the dreamworld of the books and movies. It’s like looking into the Mirror of Erised and seeing your heart’s true desire!

Star Wars

By the late 1970's, the first Star Wars action figures were released. By the late 2010’s, Iron Studios first Star Wars statues were released, turning what was already good into something even better! Don’t believe it? Well, I find your lack of faith disturbing. Check them out now!

Mortal Kombat

Such a popular game like Mortal Kombat deserves such a popular collection like the one from Iron Studios. They are so coveted and sell out so quickly that you need to battle a few rounds to get them! Finish them!

Back to the Future

If you could travel in time, when and where would you go? I know! To a place where the 

Back To The Future collection would never sell out! Unfortunately, that’s as difficult as having a hoverboard, so get in your DeLorean and guarantee your statue now. No time like the present, Marty!

Jurassic Park

Welcome to Iron Studios’ Jurassic Park! But don’t worry, security here is a little tighter than in the actual park. All statues come with a certificate of authenticity and won’t go around chasing humans in Jeeps. But remember just in case, if you don’t move, they can’t see you!

There is nothing like seeing your favorite character in 3D 

Fictional characters usually become part of our imaginarium from a very early age. They are more than just a source of entertainment, they turn into friends, into family, into cozy memories.

So whether you can pose it like an action figure, or if it’s a hand-made, hand-painted, certified Iron Studios statue, your collectible's shelf deserves a museum-worthy work of art of your favorite character.

Get your statue now and turn your humble home into a geek Louvre! But hurry up because they sold out quickly and the British Museum might get it first!

 

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