Amongst all the aces in the world, one is at the top of the list and known by almost everybody: Manfred von Richthofen. Often called The Red Baron, this German ace obtained 80 official victories in total. According to some sources, he even fought against Snoopy, although this last point is a bit controversial. In the last weeks, John Jenkins released a figure based on the greatest of all aces: the JJ-ACE-01NP - Baron Von Richthofen.

Those who know John Jenkins’ production will be quite aware that this is not the first time that this historical character was produced. Many years ago, the JJ-ACE-01P - His Last Cigarette was released and thus was the pilot to open the Aces collection. This figure showed the human side of the Red Baron. It came with his dog, Moritz, and a ground crew helping him to dress properly for battle. You can see Richtofen wearing his coat open while reaching for a cigarette. He is looking at the sky, maybe foreseeing his future death.

The retired JJ-ACE-01P, no longer available but still beautiful.

The previous version of Richtofen was a very emotional vignette and the opposite of what we now have here. The new version represents the other side of the Red Baron: the professional ace. He is now portrayed in a clean look with his best looking uniform. With his stern look on his face, he looks cold and deadly. We can clearly see his “Pour le Mérite” cross around his neck attesting for his feats. This decoration, also known as "Blue Max" inspired the great 1966 movie of the same name; a movie that I can only suggest to watch or watch again if it’s already done.

The new version of The Red Baron.

The overall look of the figure is actually quite close to several propaganda pictures from that time. Therefore, this makes this new figure perfect for collections where toy soldiers are more in a parade look.

The Red Baron postcard. Photo taken by Nicola Perscheid.

In conclusion, this new figure is very interesting as it shows a big contrast and completes well the first version produced by Jenkins. Atlast we have access to the “professional” Red Baron to go along with the “human” Red Baron. I suggest that you order your figure now if you want one as pilots by Jenkins usually sell fast. I now leave you with another movie trailer: Von Richthofen and Brown 1971. The movie contains its share of artistic liberties and might be criticized on many points. Despite that, it’s about the Red Baron’s career and is filled with aerial combat scenes. Therefore, it’s a perfect movie that is worth watching for the occasion.