Collector's Spotlight Vol. 22 (cinematicplastik)

Welcome back to Collector Spotlight—a regularly irregular interview with a fellow Mezco collector where we get all up in their articulation, poke and prod at their shelves, and learn more about how they pose, play, and display.

This time, we’re heading to Minneapolis, Minnesota to shine the spotlight on Dylan (@cinematicplastik), a game developer with a soft spot for Fallout, diorama dreams, and a rigid sense of order in his drawers (the storage kind, people—keep it classy). Whether he’s Frankensteining custom pieces from 3D-printed kits or chasing the perfect lighting for his photos, Dylan’s collection is equal parts nostalgia, nerdery, and no-FOMO discipline. Let’s dig in. 🎮📷

Q: What was the moment that kicked off your collecting obsession?
A: I played with tons of toys as a kid, mostly wrestling and G.I. Joes, but collecting started later. The NECA PlayStation line pulled me back in, specifically the Uncharted 4 Nathan Drake figure. I couldn’t believe how good the sculpt and paint apps were.
Q: What's the one word that captures the thrill of unboxing a new figure and adding it to your collection?
A: Catalyst. If something sparks creativity—whether it’s a figure or a diorama—it earns a place. If not, it doesn’t belong.

Q: What’s a toy-related moment you’ll never forget?
A: Helping with the rollout for Bartholomew Vex was huge. Mezco’s One:12 Collective line makes up most of my collection, and getting to introduce a new Rumble Society character to the world was a moment of real pride.
Q: Is there a particular vibe or theme that defines your collection?
A: Lately, I’ve found myself leaning more into video game characters. I work in game development, so blending that passion with toy collecting is priceless to me.

Q: What sparked your interest in toy photography—was it a love for storytelling, a passion for collectibles, or something totally unexpected?
A: When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, I needed a new hobby. I’d taken photography classes in high school, so I gave it another go. Building scenes, setting lights, posing figures—it was a great way to find some control in a chaotic time.
Q: If you could team up with just one superhero for life, who’s making the cut—and what makes them your ultimate pick?
A: Batman. Always Batman. His drive, his flaws, his lack of superpowers—it all resonates deeply with me.

Q: What moment in your photography flow feels the most rewarding or creatively fulfilling?
A: Mood-setting is everything to me. That means lighting, posing, and scene selection. Lighting, especially, is the most time-consuming and rewarding part. I love mimicking how light is used in movies—whether it’s a hero moment or a dramatic villain reveal.
Q: What is it about collecting that keeps your passion alive?
A: The community. I’ve built lasting friendships and found tons of creative inspiration through other collectors. And I think a person’s collection says a lot about them.

Q: Which toys in your collection would make the best team-up, and what would you name them?
A: This question’s tough! But if I had to choose, I’d go with the Gangrene Estates crew plus Nosferatu. They’ve got a shared vibe, a shared posture, and probably shared motives. I’d call them Hunchbacks ‘n Heathens.
Q: What’s the best movie you’ve seen recently?
A: We finally watched part one of the new animated Watchmen movie. The art direction was incredible, and the storytelling did justice to something I hold close.

Q: Which figure would have completely blown your mind if you had it as a kid?
A: I’ve always loved combat sports and thought Mike Tyson was the scariest man alive—before the ear incident. I have several 1:12 and even a 1:6 Storm Collectibles Tyson figures. Younger me would be totally starstruck
Q: What’s the best advice you’d give someone starting their collecting journey?
A: I don’t love giving advice—who am I, right? But if I had to, be selective. Make sure the things you collect bring value to your life. Don’t just chase the hype.

Want to be featured in the next Collector Spotlight? Be sure to tag us in photos of your collection on Twitter, Instagram, or Facebook!