Dark Horse has teamed up with Naughty Dog to create a special-edition bust that features Joel from The Last of Us, complete with an intense expression and his trusty brick. This notable piece, which stands 8.5 inches tall, is priced at $149.99, but it might not be for everyone.
According to the promotional material, “With a firm grip on the always-dependable brick, Joel appears battle-hardened yet determined, wearing his iconic green flannel and well-worn backpack.” This description may seem a bit dramatic for what is essentially a quirky collectible. “The brick is either a weapon or a timely diversion, crucial for Joel’s survival,” they emphasize.
So, who exactly would go for this kind of item? Imagine being such a dedicated fan of The Last of Us that you feel the need to feature a statue of this stern-looking figure in your living room. I must admit, it’s hard to picture such a scene. Are you really going to position it next to family photos or that charming artwork you picked up at the farmer’s market last week? The Last of Us can be intensely violent, occasionally in an over-the-top way, but somehow I doubt that having Joel the Brick-Wielder in your living space sends the right message, especially if grandma’s urn happens to be nearby.
That being said, this creation isn’t nearly as questionable as the “Ellie with switchblade” bust the duo launched last year, which, surprisingly, sold out. I don’t claim to be overly picky, but if I visit your home and spot either of these intense figures anywhere outside a teenager’s bedroom, I might just fabricate a reason to leave early.
