Merv Pumpkinhead Soft Toy (2001)
Figure:
Packaging:

Produced by DC Direct

Asking Price: US$14.95

My Advice: Own It.

Of all the Sandman-related "soft toys" that DC Direct has produced, our buddy here is definitely at the top of the heap. Sure, Death was nice and cute--how could she be otherwise, she's Death. Delirium was nice too, in Jill Thompson mode and complete with velcro-attached fish.

What makes Merv here so cool is the level of detail on the toy. You've got the slightly different colors on the eyes and nose to give it that "cut-into" depth. There's also the denim overalls, with stitched in "pockets". There's the green bowtie, and the shirt which goes all the way down to the figure's waist, whereas it would have been easy enough to stitch down the overalls everywhere. It's because of this that the thing seems worth the pricetag.

Granted, this would be a good thing to buy for the Sandman fans in your life. Anyone else will think it's a character from the Oz books. So bear that in mind before you plonk down the coin.