naphtalia's Full Review: Accoutrements Nunzilla The Firebreathing Nun
The elementary school I attended was next door to a Catholic parochial school. My first real life introduction to nuns were the teachers at that school as they interacted with children on the playground. While all the priests received warm greetings from the children when they were outside, the children were more reserved around the nuns. This dichotomy and stories from the parents of friends about their experience in Catholic school caused me to be terribly fearful of nuns.
I was an adult by the time I had a chance to meet some nuns in another environment. I found them to be funny, warm and intelligent women.
As I comment on the fact that I like nunzilla, I want it understood that I like nuns.
Nunzilla is a small wind-up toy. At just under 2" tall, she is small and squat and in a stereotypical black habit, coif, wimple, etc. In one hand, she holds a stick - possibly a ruler - to administer punishment to children. Around her neck hangs a large gold cross. She wears a sour and angry look on her face. Her mouth is slightly open.
From one side of her body extends a small, red turn wheel. Wind up Nunzilla and she begins to walk. She has two feet that alternately move forward and down giving her a galumphing sort of gait. It really does look like the kind of walk you would expect from a toy Godzilla. In her mouth is a device that creates sparks. As a results, as she walks, she spits sparks. There is something about this odd combination of nun and Japanese movie monster that makes me very happy.
The nunzillas I've played with have a hearty mechanism. As with all wind-up toys, it is possible to over-wind, but the clock-work in this one is pretty hearty. I find I get a very clear feel when I've wound it sufficiently. The ones I get to play with are used for demo purposes in a gag and novelty shop. They get a lot more use than the average wind-up toy will have after purchase. They, however, hold up exceptionally well and last a long time. The clock-work doesn't lose its tension.
As much as I like nunzilla, I do recognize that this toy may be offensive to some - especially as a nun is not only a holy person, but this one is wearing a symbol full of religious significance. While I recommend it for the correct audience, I believe this is a toy that should be selected and presented with sensitivity. Good judgement and common sense should be a requirement for anyone presenting a gag gift.
Recommended:
Yes
Amount Paid (US$): 2.25 Type of Toy: Other
Age Range of Child: Other
Does Sister Spark a Memory? Say your prayers, Catholic school survivors! You've met your match with Nunula. Her size and gait are remarkably similar t...More at Amazon Marketplace
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