Sideshow Featured Collector: Brian Willis
Collector: Brian Willis
Location: Yorkville, IL
How and when did you start collecting?
I went to a toy show because I wanted something to do one day. It took me back to being a kid again when I saw all the toys I used to play with that are now being sold. Been buying ever since, about 8 years now. I also enjoy building dioramas. Just finished a 3 x 3 version of Custer’s Last Stand. So much work, but I am very happy with it. I’ve included it in the pictures I was allowed to submit. The row of Venom got booted for it since I had a limit. My daughter who is now 18 is still involved in all aspects of my collecting. She LOVES Alien. Not sure why.
What do you collect? Does your collection have a theme, such as Star Wars, Batman, etc.?
I collect just about anything I think is cool or I think would look good on my shelves. I guess you could say my theme is action. My biggest weaknesses are King Kong and The Punisher. Lot of Venom, Alien, Predator, Joker, as well. Planet of the Apes (original) is my favorite movie, but there just aren’t a lot of cool pieces. Did just find an original movie poster recently for “Battle for the Planet of the Apes”. Very Cool!!!
What makes your collection unique?
My collection is unique I think because of my variety. Everybody that looks finds something they can relate to in some way. Could be a 6 inch figure that cost me $10 or my King Kong (skull island). I have a Bruce Willis (Die Hard), Small and large robot (Lost in Space), Headless Horseman, Rambo, Godzillas of all sizes, just a little of everything.
What are your favorite or the most prized pieces in your collection?
Anything KONG. I have the Skull Island version from you all the way down to a 2 inch figure , even a pencil eraser that someone gave me. License plates are KONG. Actually talked my wife into letting me hang the 8 foot vinyl movie poster from the Skull Island movie in my entry foyer because it was too big for my walls in the basement. (talked theater manager in to giving it to me by showing him my Kong tattoo) Still not sure how I convinced the wife. Just got a 6 foot movie poster of Venom framed. Not sure where that is going. Other wall in foyer?
What items are on your wishlist?
There is a 1/4 scale Punisher with Frank sitting on a chair, many beat up people laying at his feet. Can only find it over seas and for more money I’m willing to pay. I am patient and some day I’ll just happen to come across it, then I’ll pounce. Gotta be somewhere in the US for a reasonable price.