Welcome back to Fantastic Plastic — the monthly mayhem here at Pop Heist where I run down my top five favorite action figures from the past month. I'm John DeQuadros, and with 25 years experience in the industry as both a photographer and writer, I've seen it all: knockout knickknacks, bargain bin bombs and everything in between. But here? We celebrate the best of the best — figures that bring the wow, the whoa and the how soon can I get my hands on this?
With summer right around the corner and excitement for San Diego Comic-Con building to a fever pitch, the toy world is buzzing — and June 2025 definitely brought the heat. From striking sculpts to ace accessories, this month delivered a wave of collectibles that made compiling a list of just five finalists a feat of Herculean proportions. However, after some time in the studio to pose, snap, and just generally geek out, I've once again locked in my picks. Whether you're a longtime collector or just taking your first steps into this larger world, consider this your VIP pass to the month's finest. So, grab your shades and fire up the grill, because it's time to crack into June's fantastic plastic!
5. Amazing Yamaguchi Revoltech — Deadpool
What's red, loud and ready to strike a pose? Why, the best comic-style Deadpool figure on the market, that's who! This latest version of the popular Amazing Yamaguchi figure is pure fun, packed with a wild range of articulation that lets Wade pull off every over-the-top stance you can imagine — and maybe a few that you can't. Sure, Kaiyodo has traded a little sculpt for all that flexibility, bur who's counting when you can make the Merc with a Mouth look this dynamic? He's also loaded with accessories like swappable heads, dual katanas, a cellphone, and even a lit stick of dynamite for extra oomph. Oh — and there's even an X-Force variant for fans of that slick black-and-grey look. He may not be cheap, but he's worth every penny!
4. Jaws 50th Anniversary — Ultimate Matt Hooper
Just when you thought it was safe to skip a figure ... NECA's all-new Jaws 50th Anniversary Ultimate Matt Hooper is ready to make waves. This fin-tastic release perfectly captures the appearance of a young Richard Dreyfuss, who looks like he just stepped right off the ferry at Amity. Featuring two sets of interchangeable arms (jacket or sweater, it's your call), a shark dart, scuba tank, duffel bag and more, Hooper's geared up for chum-plete adventure. Add to that some killer detailing and 20+ points of articulation and it's easy to see why everyone's second favorite marine biologist (George Costanza will always take top prize) remains the catch of the summer. Don't let this one get away — reel him in before he's gone!
3. G.I. Joe Classified Series Retro Collection — Dr. Mindbender
Cobra's mad scientist is back and badder than ever before! The G.I. Joe Classified Series Retro Collection Dr. Mindbender brings sinister genius to the shelf — no Comic-Con badge required. While the original release was a San Diego Comic-Con exclusive back in the day, this latest release comes to collectors via mass retail and packing even more punch then before. Sure, he's got fewer gadgets, but the strong sculpt, improved colors and added Cobra logo on the back of his cape make this version a real MVP. Part silent movie villain, part '80s wrestler and 100% moustache magnificence, Mindbender is back and ready to cook up loads of trouble for G.I. Joe. Grab this diabolical doc before he hatches another scheme — or at least before Cobra Commander gets wise!
2. The Return Of Superman MAFEX — Superboy
Ripped right out of the comics comes a cool clone with style, swagger, and enough attitude to fill the Fortress Of Solitude! It's MAFEX Superboy, a figure that nails its look with crisp sculpting, vibrant paint and a faux leather jacket that screams '90s cool. Accessories might be lean, but they're exactly what you'd expect — swappable heads and interchangeable hands. Not that he needs much else, if we're being honest. Engineered with a wide range of articulation, this six-inch super-toy pulls off flight poses with ease and, while he may cost a little bit more than your average action figure, this impressive import is certain to make a heroic addition to any DC Comics display.
1. Sesame Street — Ultimate Bert & Ernie
Sunny days are ready to sweep the clouds away thanks to NECA's Sesame Street Ultimate Bert & Ernie. This dynamic duo may be sold separately, but they take the top spot this month together because you just can't have one without the other. Packed with charm and loads of nostalgia, these figures feature perfect accessories like Ernie's beloved Rubber Duckie, Bert's prized bottle cap collection, and even that iconic portrait from their apartment wall. The sculpting and bright colors wonderfully capture the heart and soul of these Muppet legends, guaranteed to transport fans straight back to childhood. Whether you're a lifelong Sesame Street kid or new to the magic, Bert & Ernie are an absolute must for any collection. Grab 'em. You'll be glad you did!
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