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Review of Argus Cube - Super 8 Prop Replica

Qmx
Date Published:
Written By:
Overall Average Rating: 3 out of 4

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Super 8 Argus Cube prop replica by Qmx

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Introduction

I'm a huge fan of well made prop replicas, but it seems like 2012 hasn't been a great year for these particular collectibles. There's been a few outstanding releases, but not as many items overall have seen the light of day. Those that have made it out have been so freakin' expensive that most collectors are priced right out. That's what makes a low cost replica so damn attractive, especially one that is so iconic to a film.

Such is the new release from Qmx - the 'argus cube' from Super 8. If you haven't seen the film, do. It's not really a monster movie, and that confused and disappointed some viewers. But if you realize that it's more of a pre-teen adventure, like Goonies or Stand By Me, then you'll enjoy it tremendously.

These small cubes are critical to the film's story, and have a very specific appearance. At around $15 each, they're cheap enough to buy a few to stack together - or build your own ship!

Click on the image below for a Life Size version
Super 8 Argus Cube prop replica by Qmx

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Packaging - ***
Nothing too super exciting here, but serviceable enough. They replicated the look of the crates from the film that held the cubes in transit, although as I recall the words "Super 8" weren't plastered on the side.

The interior is a foam box, but not the dense stuff - it's that damn soft cheap stuff that ends up all over the floor.

Super 8 Argus Cube prop replica by Qmx

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Sculpting - ***
I'm on the fence when it comes to the sculpt. It's certainly recognizable, It seems about the right size, coming in at 2" square. The general pattern looks right, and when Qmx says they used the same model as the many that were made for the film, I believe them.

The surface is rougher than I expected, and the corners and edges aren't quite as sharp. It is supposed to be an organic machine though, so rough surfaces and rounded or rough edges are probably to be expected. I do like the cut lines on the surface though, and I suspect that most of my problem with the sculpt really isn't the sculpt, but...

Super 8 Argus Cube prop replica by Qmx

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Paint - **1/2
...the paint work. It's clumpy and a bit too thick. The pearlescent color looks good, and the coverage is even and glossy. But there's a few too many bumps and swirls in the surface of the paint for my tastes.

Super 8 Argus Cube prop replica by Qmx

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Value - ***1/2
It's pretty rare these days to find a decent prop replica for $15. Of course, it helps that these guys are pretty small, but even so it's a very good deal.

Things to Watch Out For -
The small corner squares are very easy to break off - take care!

Super 8 Argus Cube prop replica by Qmx

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Overall - ***
While I'm not thrilled with the clumpiness of the paint, the price point helps bring this replica back into line. It's one of those props that people instantly recognize, but is still a surprise to see.

Quantum Mechanix generally does very high end replicas, and it's nice to see them create something cool at such an affordable price point.

Score Recap (out of ****):
Packaging - ***
Sculpting - ***
Paint - **1/2
Value - ***1/2
Overall - ***

Where to Buy 
Online options include these site sponsors:

- is at $15.

- Entertainment Earth it at $15 as well.

- or you can search ebay for a deal.

Related Links -
Not much else has been released in the collectibles area for Super 8.

You should also hit the Search Reviews page, in case any other applicable reviews were done after this one was published.

Discussion:
Want to chat about this review?  Try out one of these terrific forums where I'll be discussing it!

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Super 8 Argus Cube prop replica by Qmx

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This product was purchased for the review by the reviewer. Photos and text by Michael Crawford.

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