Blacko (Lanard Intrepid Heroe)

The creepiness continues as we lurch toward Halloween. Longtime readers know that I like to feature the also-rans that sprang up around the success of the famous Hasbro brand. Lanard’s CORPS! started out in the 80s, and continues to this day, has put out its share of odd figures over the years. Where the Joes fought drugs and protected the environment in the 90s, the main CORPS! line in the 90s incorporated sports-themed figures and space forces. Even stranger themes have made their way into Lanard’s international offerings, many of which are based on CORPS! molds. The 12 inch line Intrepid Heroe is a sort-of modern Adventure themed series. I first discovered them at the annual Lanard sale, and have seen sets that feature animal companions as well as antagonists. That’s where Blacko comes in.

Blacko is a wonderful repaint of an impressive werewolf-like figure, Based on a K-9 Corps line’s Greyslash. He’s an imposing 12 inch scale figure, even with his strangely painted red chest. The design reminds me of the fearsome werewolves from The Howling. This guy is seriously scary looking. I think he’s got 48 teeth.

What would a good enemy wolfman be without some weaponry? Rather than the usual machine gun, Blacko carries a fairly wicked samurai-esque sword and a pair of knuckle knives. Speaking of weapons, I spotted an all-red version a couple years ago at the Lanard sale sporting a chainsaw. I still kick myself for not picking that one up.