It was perhaps inevitable that DC's most recognizable and famous heroines would somehow be portrayed be one of the biggest names in toys today - the one and only Barbie.
Released in 1999 as part of the Barbie Loves Pop Culture line, Wonder Woman Barbie was one of the most visually stunning and beautiful dolls to represent the Amazon Princess. From the moment I knew she was being released I was relentless in my pursuit of owning her. At the time, the Warner Bros. Stores were still in existence and it was announced that they were receiving them first before being released to the other stores. Weekly I was calling and asking if they were in yet. Yes, I was that determined!! What surprised me most was that once they did come in was that the store actually held one for me (before I called) because I had called so often. (Side note: I miss the Warner Bros. Store - it was awesome!)
Completely capturing the modern era costume with its double WW emblem, metal tiara, bracelets, magic lasso, star shaped earrings, and cape copied from the comics. The only complaint I have about this representation is the boots - they are completely made of fabric (more like socks).
Four years later (2004) Mattel released a second version of Wonder Woman and this time she was meant for more than just display (both in price and design). Diana's outfit was simplified and came on a new flexible body (arms and legs are extremely bendable). She was also released with two of her fellow DC heroes - Batgirl and Supergirl.
Numerous changes took place between the promo shots and the actual doll. The promo shot shows streaks of blue in the hair (very comic book) and a extremely glittery WW and belt designs. The actual doll does not have the blue streaks and the glitter designs were simplified. The shorts are also shown in the standard bathing suit design. However, the actual doll has longer bike short style. Non-fabric boots accompanied this version - however they have long slits going up the back (presumably to assist in the ease of removing them??). Also this version came with red base complete with logo. The first version only came with a clear base (not the one she is photographed with).
A second (or updated??) version of this one was released with some minor changes made. The face was more rounded, the top was a given a more defined shape, and the odd slit up the back of the boots was removed. However both came packaged with a small lunch box style key chain.
Barbie's third version of Wonder Woman came another four years later (2008). To date it is my absolute favorite. Again, Diana was joined some of her fellow female DC characters of Batgirl, Supergirl, but this time a four was added - Black Canary.
Unlike the previous version's release, the attention to detail is outstanding. I especially like the molded "metal" WW across the breast-line and that the belt is also molded "metal" provide a more armored look to her suit. And of course her arms and hands allow her to do the hands on hip pose that is so Lynda Carter. I also like the change in capes from the solid blue to RW&B.
One can only hope that another fantastic version will be coming out soon. I'd love to see them do a Golden Age version or even an Odyssey style version. If not another version of Diana, why not Hippolyta or Donna? Fingers crossed.
