The Aurora Monster Model Kits from the 1960s and 1970s, including the Monsters of the Movies line, stand as timeless artifacts in model building, captivating enthusiasts and shaping the golden age of monster modeling. Produced by the Aurora Plastics Corporation, these iconic kits have left an indelible mark on popular culture, becoming cherished collectibles with a rich history.
The monster model kit phenomenon commenced in 1961 with the introduction of the Aurora Universal Monsters series. Classic characters like Frankenstein, Dracula, and the Mummy quickly found their way into the hearts of collectors and hobbyists.
Riding the wave of success, Aurora expanded its lineup to include the Wolf Man, the Creature from the Black Lagoon, and the Phantom of the Opera. The Monsters of the Movies line, introduced later, broadened the selection to include iconic creatures from various films.
The striking box art, designed by renowned artists like James Bama and Jack Davis, became synonymous with the Aurora brand. The Monsters of the Movies line featured captivating illustrations that heightened the allure of classic monsters and creatures from diverse films.
Meticulous sculpting characterized each kit, allowing for a high level of detail. Despite their modest size, the models intricately captured the essence of the monsters. The Monsters of the Movies line extended this commitment to realism by bringing creatures beyond the Universal Monsters roster to life.
The Aurora Monster Model Kits, including the Monsters of the Movies line, were pivotal in cultivating a do-it-yourself (DIY) culture. Assembling and painting these models became popular, fostering creativity and attention to detail among hobbyists. The extension of the Monsters of the Movies line further diversified the options for enthusiasts.
Original Aurora Monster Model Kits, including those from the Monsters of the Movies line, are highly sought after by collectors today. Their historical significance and limited production runs have elevated them to valuable and coveted items in the realm of vintage collectibles.
The enduring legacy of the Aurora kits continues through revivals and reproductions. Nostalgia-driven reissues, encompassing both Universal Monsters and the Monsters of the Movies line, ensure that these classic monsters and creatures continue to capture the imagination of new model enthusiasts.
The Aurora Monster Model Kits, enriched by the Monsters of the Movies line, represent a pinnacle in the history of model building. Their impact on the hobby industry and their cultural significance solidifies their place as beloved artifacts. Whether relishing the classic Universal Monsters or embracing the broader spectrum of creatures from the Monsters of the Movies line, enthusiasts continue to celebrate and cherish these iconic kits that have stood the test of time.
The Aurora Monster Model Kits series released iconic kits featuring classic Universal Monsters and other popular characters. Here is a list of critical kits in the series and their approximate release years.
- Frankenstein (1961): Released in the inaugural year of the series, the Frankenstein model kit featured the iconic monster from Mary Shelley’s novel.
- Dracula (1961): Dracula, based on Bram Stoker’s famous vampire character, was introduced alongside Frankenstein in 1961.
- The Mummy (1963): This kit depicted the classic Egyptian mummy and was released around 1963.
- The Wolf Man (1963): Inspired by the Universal Pictures character, the Wolf Man kit joined the lineup in 1963.
- The Creature from the Black Lagoon (1963): Released in the same year as The Wolf Man, this kit featured the iconic amphibious creature from the 1954 film.
- The Phantom of the Opera (1963): Based on Gaston Leroux’s novel, the Phantom of the Opera kit was introduced in 1963.
- The Hunchback of Notre Dame (1963): Another addition in 1963, this kit portrayed the tragic character from Victor Hugo’s novel.
- The Bride of Frankenstein (1965): Following the success of the initial releases, The Bride of Frankenstein kit was introduced in 1965.
- The Forgotten Prisoner (1966): This unique kit featured a skeleton shackled in a dungeon setting and was released in 1966.
- King Kong (1966): Aurora expanded beyond Universal Monsters with the release of the King Kong kit in 1966, capitalizing on the popularity of the iconic giant ape.
- Godzilla (1966): Inspired by the famous Japanese kaiju, the Godzilla kit was introduced in 1966.
- Dr. Jekyll as Mr. Hyde (1967): This kit portrayed the transformation of Dr. Jekyll into the monstrous Mr. Hyde and was released in 1967.
- The Witch (1972): Released later in the series, The Witch kit showcased a classic witch character.
- Giant Insect Series (1975): Aurora introduced a series of giant insect kits in 1975, featuring oversized insects like the Tarantula and Praying Mantis.
It’s important to note that exact release years can sometimes be challenging to pinpoint, and box art and packaging variations have occurred. Additionally, Aurora produced other kits beyond the ones listed here, contributing to the overall legacy of the Aurora Monster Model Kits series.
~David Albaugh