Eaglemoss Hero Collector Build The Ghostbusters Ecto-1 Model Subscription Review - Issue #23

This is one of an ongoing series of reviews that looks at the "Build The Ghostbusters Ecto-1" model subscription from Eaglemoss, through their Hero Collector imprint. Let's take a closer look at this issue...


My review of Issue #3 went over the concept of "issues" and "car parts", so be sure to read that if you need a better understanding of terms being used here. Also, be sure to read my review of the introductory package to fill you in on what to expect from the "Build The Ghostbusters Ecto-1" model subscription. Okay, now that we're all on the same page, let's look at what is in the latest package.


Taking everything out of the large box, I find the latest magazine and four Ecto-1 model parts sets.


The magazine is slightly bigger than 8.5"x11" and contains 30-pages. The magazine contains a parts list (so you'll know what parts accompany that issue) with instructions, followed by a new interview/article. In Issue #23, you get articles about Steve Neill and the armchair effect, John Dods and Rick Lazzarini on Ghostbusters II's severed heads, Dennis Michelson on VFX editing, and Thom Enriquez's Ghostbusters II concept art; along with the usual "Ecto–101" section, which provides "a monthly list of all the things that make Ghostbusters great".

It should be stated that the majority of the articles from the magazines included with the model subscription have been collected in the Ghostbusters: The Inside Story hardcover book (reviewed here). So, if for some reason, you want the magazines, but not the Ecto-1 model, you can get most of the content in that book. However, the magazines do have an exclusive "Ecto-101" feature, as well as a few exclusive articles.


The model pieces are large and heavy due to the fact that this is made of die-cast metal! When finished, it will measure a whopping 31.5" long. That's roughly TWO AND A HALF FEET! The four parts sets included with this issue are:

• Parts Set #83 - Parts for the window lever mechanism.
• Parts Set #84 - Parts for finishing the left front door and starting the left rear door.
• Parts Set #85 - Parts for the left rear door, including locking mechanism and window.
• Parts Set #86 - Decorative parts for the left rear door.

All parts either snap or screw in place. No glue or paint is needed, though you will need the mini-screwdriver included with the introductory package and your own pair of pliers. Obviously, I don't have the completed model to show you. The most I could do right now is to assemble the parts given to me. My current plan is to wait until I have all of the parts, and then I will post a daily build report for an entire month taking you through the process from start to finish. That plan may change if I run out of physical space to store all of these boxes in the meantime.

You start your subscription with the introductory package, which contains the "Introduction" magazine, Issue #1 and Issue #2 magazines, a fold-out poster that shows you the model in full actual size, and the first two sets of Ecto-1 parts for just $1.95 with FREE SHIPPING!!! Further issues are $10.90 per issue plus $2.45 for shipping per issue. In addition to the 36 magazines and 141 model parts sets, you will also get a beautiful binder in which to store all of your magazines, an Ecto-1 license plate replica, an exclusive baseball cap, an exclusive t-shirt, and a display base for your model. If you're willing to pay an extra $1.00 per issue, you can upgrade to a Platinum subscription, which entitles you to a specially-designed crystal case with an amazing lighting kit to add onto your display base.

I will continue to review all of the magazines and model pieces that Eaglemoss sends me, and once I have them all, I'll build the Ecto-1 and show it off to all of you.

All photographs used in this review were taken by me, Paul Rudoff. This item was provided by Eaglemoss for review on this site.