Lord Garmadon (The LEGO Ninjago Movie)
njo312 · Ninjago
The LEGO Ninjago Movie · 2017 - Released as part of the massive wave for the theatrical film release.
Figure ID
njo312
Theme
Ninjago
Year Released
2017 - Released as part of the massive wave for the theatrical film release.
Rarity
Uncommon. While found in a specific set (70631), Garmadon's four-armed mold is more expensive to produce than standard figures, keeping his distribution more controlled than 'mook' figures.
Head
Double-sided black head printing. One side features a menacing grin with sharp teeth and red eyes (visible in image); the other side features a scowling expression. Includes a large black Samurai helmet (Kabuto) with a specialized connector for the shoulder armor.
Torso
Unique double-torso construction. Features a specialized 'four-arm' torso piece that fits over a standard torso. Printing includes black samurai plate armor with sand blue tassels and silver line work for texture.
Legs
Standard black legs and hips with sand blue sash (obi) printing and silver armor plating details on the hips and upper legs.
Accessories
In the image, the figure is missing its primary weapons. Originally, this version comes with a large black staff and a silver katana. The character is defined by the four-armed 'torso extender' which also functions as a wearable accessory/clothing component.
Color Scheme
Predominantly black with sand blue highlights and metallic silver line printing. Red and white accents on the facial features.
Printing Details
High-quality pad printing with excellent registration. The silver lines represent the ribbing of traditional Japanese armor. The blue tassels provide a nice color contrast against the dark base.
Variants
There are many 'The LEGO Ninjago Movie' Garmadon variants, including 'Jungle Garmadon' (njo353) with a fabric cape, 'Volcano Garmadon' (njo312 - this version), and 'Flashback Garmadon' from the CMF series.
Condition Notes
Main wear points are the arm sockets on the specialized torso extender and the 'toes' of the feet. The helmet ornament is prone to snapping if stepped on. Check for torso cracks on the inner standard torso hidden by the armor.
Estimated Value
Used: $8.00 - $12.00 USD. New/Mint: $15.00 - $20.00 USD. The value is relatively stable as the movie is several years old.
Price (New)
Came in set 70631 'Garmadon's Volcano Lair' which retailed for $49.99 USD.
Compatible Sets
Set 70631: Garmadon's Volcano Lair. Also appears in some promotional display materials and localized polybag variants.
Character Background
The main antagonist of The LEGO Ninjago Movie. Unlike his TV counterpart, this Garmadon is a high-tech conqueror with a massive shark army who lives in a volcano but deals with complex fatherhood issues regarding his son, Lloyd.
Design Notes
The dual-torso piece is the defining design element. It allows for four functional arms while maintaining standard minifigure height. This mold was a major innovation for the character's transition to the big screen.
Similar Minifigures
Lord Garmadon (Legacy versions), General Kozu (njo073), and Samukai (njo009) also utilize multi-arm or specialized torso molds.
Collectibility
Moderate to High. Garmadon is a staple of Ninjago. While movie figures are less sought after than 'Core' or 'Legacy' figures, his unique mold makes him a necessity for completionists.
History
Lord Garmadon has existed since 2011. This 2017 'Movie' redesign offered a more detailed, textured look to the character compared to the simpler iconic designs of the 'Pilots' or 'Rebooted' eras.
Interesting Facts
The voice actor for this version of the character was Justin Theroux. The 'four arms' in the movie are explained as the result of a 'legendary' bite, though it's played for laughs.
Display Suggestions
Display alongside 'Green Ninja' Lloyd or inside the 'Ninjago City' (70620) modular for a life-like movie scene. Use a transparent stand to mimic his 'jumping' attack animations.
Modification Potential
The four-armed torso is highly popular for 'MOCing' (My Own Creations) fantasy characters like Goro from Mortal Kombat or general demonic villains.
Overall Assessment
A fantastic representation of the movie's main villain. The printing is crisp, and the four-arm gimmick works perfectly. It is a solid 8/10 for any Ninjago fan.
Notes
Ninjago Movie