MEDICOM TOY has brought HAL 9000 from '2001: A Space Odyssey' to life in PROP SIZE. With a commitment to authentic reproduction, this ultimate model features a special lens structure that allows its iconic red light to glow.

Released in 1968, Stanley Kubrick's '2001: A Space Odyssey' has captivated audiences for decades as a landmark science fiction film.

Ryuhiko Akashi, President and CEO of MEDICOM TOY, which celebrates its 25th anniversary this year, is one of them. With a philosophy of 'creating what we want,' the company has developed toys based on films and TV shows. In 2000, they paid homage in various ways, including naming their original block-type figures 'KUBRICK'.

Kubrick long refused to allow his films to be merchandised, so clearing the rights after his death took considerable time. However, once the licenses were obtained, MEDICOM TOY released figures such as protagonist Alex from 'A Clockwork Orange,' an astronaut from '2001: A Space Odyssey,' carpet pattern figures from the Overlook Hotel in 'The Shining,' and statues of the twin girls.

Now, after much anticipation, comes the prop-size figure of the artificial intelligence 'HAL 9000' from '2001: A Space Odyssey.' HAL is an acronym for Heuristically programmed ALgorithmic computer, a master computer aboard the spaceship 'Discovery One' for its Jupiter mission. It was designed to control all ship functions and communicate with humans.

Years in the making from the start of planning, this ultimate item faithfully recreates the 'HAL 9000' from the film. We will introduce the ambitious and challenging journey behind its creation, along with a valuable report from the development staff.

1. Planning the Concept and Specifications
Because of its simple appearance, even a slight deviation from the authentic design would be noticeable. Therefore, we meticulously researched the actual props used in the film, from their dimensions to the components used in their creation, to define uncompromising specifications.

The lens, in particular, is a key element of HAL 9000's identity. Its unique glow, appearing as multiple concentric rings of red light, was an aspect where any compromise would lead to a significant departure from the original. We dedicated considerable effort to perfecting this.

2. Recreating the Original
By chance, a staff member involved in planning had photographed the prop HAL 9000 from various angles at a Stanley Kubrick exhibition held overseas. Using these photos as reference, Akashi himself purchased an authentic lens used in the film from abroad and provided it for the development.

3. Analyzing the Lens Structure
To understand the lens structure, we first consulted a craftsman trusted by a staff member fond of vintage lenses within the company. However, even this skilled craftsman hesitated due to the age of the lens and introduced us to a shop run by former engineers who had worked on such lenses.
Upon sending the lens specifications for review, we were informed that a specialized tool was required to disassemble it, making the process difficult. Progress was not as straightforward as we had hoped.

4. Cutting the Lens
An idea emerged from within the planning team: what if we cut the lens in half vertically? This would allow us to analyze its structure by examining the cross-section, similar to diagrams often seen in explanations of lens construction, and then perform a 3D scan.
This approach also presented challenges. After searching for multiple specialized cutting services, we finally found a company willing to undertake the task.
There was a risk that the glass of the lens, potentially valuable as a reference material, could shatter into pieces. Nevertheless, we decided to proceed with the request.
The result was a remarkable cross-section. By scanning the parts, we were finally able to reproduce the characteristic light, passing through multiple lenses of different shapes, in a form closely resembling the original.

The 'PROP SIZE HAL 9000' faithfully recreates the film's iconic design and proportions. Not only the color tones of each part but also the placement of the side metal components and even the unseen rear section are true to the original. It comes with a dedicated display base, making it an item that can be proudly displayed as an interior piece for years to come.

Acquire the HAL 9000 recreated with MEDICOM TOY's full effort and embark on an ultimate journey!

PROP SIZE HAL 9000
Sculpted by PERFECT-STUDIO
Size: Approx. 346mm in height
Price: ¥162,800 (incl. tax)
Release Date: Scheduled for May 2022 release at MEDICOM TOY's directly managed stores and online shops.
*This is a sample under supervision and may differ slightly from the final product.
2001: A SPACE ODYSSEY and all related characters and elements © & ™ Turner Entertainment Co. (s21)