SMN report:
China-based Sun Star is probably best known for its truly excellent range of 1:24 scale bus and coach diecast models, and the even larger 1:12 Volkswagens and Morris Minors. It’s not so notable in smaller scales perhaps, but this recent addition to the range shows that Sun Star retains its mojo, even when working in 1:43 scale.
Massive upgrade - from 1965 Chrysler Imperial to crime-killer
The subject is a detailed rendering of the automotive star of the recent comic-based movie The Green Hornet, starring the crime-fighter of the same name, alias Brett Reid, aided by his Asian partner Kato. Their vehicle of choice is called ‘Black Beauty’, and is a fast and heavily armed street machine, based loosely on a 1965 Chrysler Imperial, itself a fine example of the best in retro-Americana. As a ‘star car’, we reckon the Black Beauty trails some way behind more imaginative designs, such as the outrageously designed Batmobiles, or even the DeLorean time-travelling car from the Back to the Future movies. Still, we’re not complaining - Black Beauty is certainly good enough to earn a place in any Hollywood collection.
A look at the Green Hornet’s Black Beauty
The Sun Star Vitesse Black Beauty measures 133 mm (5.25 in) long, and is loaded with fine detail - quad headlamps, menacing hood-top guns, twin rocket batteries at the front, a lustrous black paint finish, heaps of chrome - they’re all included. Black Beauty comes in a cleanly moulded clear plastic case, so those details will stay dust-free while the car’s out on display.
The real thing, caught out on the back lot during shooting.
If you are a movie collectibles buff, the Green Hornet’s Black Beauty is a must-have. And if you like movie-star cars generally, have a look at the ‘Geek Twins’ listing here.
Model pictures courtesy Sun Star.