UofMUSCLE.com – M.U.S.C.L.E. Figures from Mattel

M.U.S.C.L.E. Can (Version Two)
By Namu Niku and Eric Nilla

Objective:
The original M.U.S.C.L.E. Can was also created by Namu Niku and Eric Nilla. The larger original can featured the faces of Non-Poster (or “Super Rare”) figures. The second, and smaller version, features faces of figures that are widely considered popular.

The figure was originally release several years ago. This figure was recently recast in the M.U.S.C.L.E.-like Flesh color for $30. The figure did not have a header card or packaging.

The figure will soon be available in a variety of colors.

Subjective:
When I saw the M.U.S.C.L.E. Can it felt 100% original. If the can had been taken from somewhere else, then I didn’t recognize it immediately. When I saw this smaller can I immediately thought, “Is that the old Garbage Candy can?”

That’s not really a good or bad thing. It probably says more about how weird I am.

I don’t know how I missed this original release. I was ecstatic to get a second chance at owning it – especially in the M.U.S.C.L.E.-like Flesh color. I can’t stress how much I wish other creators would, at least somewhat regularly, do this exact same thing.

I also have to admit, I bought this figure almost exclusively based on the last can. I knew “popular faces” had been used, but I never really inspect the can until I owned it.

The choices, and ultimately there placement, surprised me a bit. The #60 figure is front and center. As a popular and distinct face this choice and placement made sense to me. To the immediate left of the #60 face is the face from the #1 figure. Again, this makes sense to me.

The first surprise is to the immediate right of the #60 face – the #20 figure. I have never thought of this figure being particularly popular. I went back to a LRG M.U.S.C.L.E. Tournament from 2008 and the #20 figure wasn’t a part of it.

I can admit that the #20 face is distinct. I believe that is why the #172 figure was also used (to the left of the #1 figure). To the left of the #172 figure, I believe, the #57 figure was used. I don’t like this choice. The figure is neither distinct nor special, especially with the #1 figure front and center.

To the right of the #230 figure is the face of the #153 figure. This choice makes 100% sense. I’m also impressed that the face could be used. It’s a very odd shape, but it’s placement and positioning is perfect.

The remaining figures are very difficult to see.

The head next to the #153 face is either from the #16 figure or the #71 figure. I am embarrassed how long it took for me to identify. I thought about taking away my own M.U.S.C.L.E. card.

Rammed into the corner, almost impossible to see, is the face of Sunshine figure. I don’t know which one.

When I share my opinion I fear that it sounds overly negative. I know I’ve said it before. This comment is not meant to be negative.

I wish this figure had just been M.U.S.C.L.E. faces and not “popular” faces. The faces are all interesting, and the end product is fantastic, but I don’t feel like these are popular faces. I know it’s a minor thing to get stuck on, but I did.

This can is more art than toy in my opinion. And I think it’s an amazing piece of art. It makes me feel happy and it fills my head with ideas. I have to respect that kind of powerful impact.

You likely already know these artists. But just in case you need to find more information, here are some places to find more information about Nama-Niku:
– Nama-Niku on UofMUSCLE.com
– Nama-Niku.com
– Nama Niku on Instagram
– Namu Niku on Twitter

For more information about Eric Nilla check out these links:
– Eric Nilla on UofMUSCLE.com
– Eric’s Blog
– Eric Nilla on Instagram
– Eric’s Store
– Eric Nilla on Facebook