Great stuff! I have a StarBird that's sadly missing it's removable engine. One thing though - the "wingtips" are supposed to be docked "Interceptor" space ships, not a solid part of the wing.
@PatrikSt74 I have one that's missing the smaller rear engines and the gun turret on the sphere, but otherwise it's in great shape. I made the outer wings permanent because the scale I'd worked out for the ship didn't allow them to be separate craft. I was never a big fan of that feature on the toy, anyway. The main fuselage just doesn't look right without them. I'm glad you liked the video, and there's more StarBird stuff on the way. Thanks for writing!
@buckaroohawk I see now, in reading all the comments, that you've explained that design desicion several times, sorry about that! I always imagined the Interceptors as unmanned drone fighters controlled by a guy inside the ball turret. I really liked the last version of your video where you show the inside of the turret as well. Looking forward to your next version for sure, keep up your excellent work :)
@PatrikSt74 No problem. Most people don't read all the comments when they watch a video, especially when there are a lot of them. In many cases that would take a very long time, so I don't mind having to explain something more than once. I've been re-working some of the details on the StarBird and I hope to have a new video up in a couple of months. Thanks again for your interest and for taking the time to write!
@bjonas0725 Me, too! That's why I built the model and kept making improvements over the years. When I finally get around to making and uploading a detailed video of my latest version of the StarBird, I hope you'll check it out. Thanks for writing!
@SuperMe4lyfe I know what you mean. I look at my stuff from back then, which I thought was awesome at the time, and some of it makes me cringe. The technology has evolved so fast. It's almost too quick to keep up with. Even now, I'm working with tools that are three years out of date because the new stuff is so expensive. Still, I enjoy seeing the learning curve evident in the video. It means I'm always improving! Thanks for writing!
@cloverfield911 Thanks! I'd learned a lot about camera movement, lighting, timing, etc. by the time I did the last fly-through, so it's only natural that one should look better than the ones before it. I'm working on one for my latest version of the StarBird and (hopefully) it'll be the best one yet! Thanks for taking the time to leave a comment!
@DefconWarningSystem Wow! Actual applause! That is very kind of you. I am honored and humbled. Glad to hear you still have your StarBird, and especially the Command Base. Cardboard isn't very rugged, so the fact that yours has lasted all these years is good news, indeed. I'm glad you enjoyed the video. Thanks for watching and for taking the time to write!
Excellent - I've still got my Starbird, although the gun is missing from the turret, and one of the Interceptors has a cracked wing. I think this was probably my favourite toy as a kid... I never grew tired of looking at it from different angles - a classic design. I see that Big Trak has been re-released, I bet Starbird will be next!
@ForViewingOnly Glad to hear you still have your StarBird. Mine is in my den, on display with the rest of my favorite sci-fi ships. I didn't know the Big Trak had been re-released. Fingers crossed that the StarBird is next. Thanks for the info and for taking the time to comment. I really appreciate it!
@buckaroohawk Yeah, I found an advert for the new Big Trak a couple of weeks ago, I was amazed that it was being sold again. The Liberator from Blake's 7 is also up there in the top 5 most beautiful sci-fi ship designs. I had a small Matchbox toy of it, but not sure if a large model was ever available?
@jim7221 The StarBird had the best elements from both Star Trek and Star Wars designs; the wide, flat look of the X and Y Wing fighters but with the smooth, clean lines of a Starfleet ship. It was a great toy, and I'm glad you enjoyed watching the video. Thanks for writing!
Lol that was extremely good, I must admit I didn't think much to the first version, but then it seems neither did you but your skills have obviously improved as you've been playing with the application. Perhaps you could consider giving the guys around the edge of the vehicle some variety ie: different clothes, hair, features etc. Just an idea.
@tempac Actually, in the lastest version of of the StarBird I don't even have bodies in those seats. I just decided to keep the flight crew. I'm glad you liked the video and took note that my skills improved as time passed. Thanks for writing!
Great job on the modeling, I used to have this toy, I'm sure my mother still has it packed away somewhere. The only constructive critisism that I can offer is that the rudders (tail fins) were not actually connected to the ship itself, they were docked and detachable star fighters.
Thanks for the compliment. If your mother still has it, make sure it's in good condition. The toy has become a sought-after collectible in recent years, especially if they're complete.
I know that the vertical fins were detachable fighters on the toy, but I never really liked that aspect of it. The ship just doesn't look right without the vertical wings so I made them a permananet part of my CGI model. I'm glad you liked the video. Thanks for writing!
The overall shape of the StarBird is similar to the Y-Wing from "Star Wars," but it has a single main engine in the back instead of the Y-Wing's outrigger-type engines. It's also about twice the size of the "Star Wars" fighter. I hope you enjoyed the video. Thanks for writing!
I was thinking how great it would be to make a scy-fy series about the starbird. You've shown me the interior of the ship. What would be a great story line? Characters? Is she only used for short range missions? I noticed no bathroom!! My mind is going crazy with ideals!!
I am planning a video that explains some of the StarBird's stats and capabilities, but it's still a far from finished. A series about the StarBird would be great. Who knows, maybe someone at Sy-Fy has seen this and is already working on it. Thanks for writing!
Thank you for writing! I believe the StarBird was called the SuperVogel in Germany. It had the same design but different decal markings. I'm glad you enjoyed the video. Thanks again for taking the time to write.
Whoohoo! I loved this toy when I was a kid! After many years of playing with it, some part broke and I decided to repaint it to make it look more Romulan. Needless to say, it's pretty trashed now, but I think my cousin still has one mint in the box. Maybe I can talk him out of it! (Great job on the CG, btw. I know if I ever got into CG, this is exactly what I'd do!!)
The StarBird would make a very cool Romulan ship. I may have to give that a try with the CG model. If you manage to get your cousin's, don't tell him how much they're worth. The price has gone up a lot in the past few years. Glad you enjoyed the video. Thanks for writing!
I always wondered what was inside. This was my favorite toy ever. I wonder if my parents still have it. They probably gave it to the neighbor's kids when I wasn't looking.
If your folks did give it away, I hope whoever received it enjoyed it as much as you did. It was a great toy, and I'm glad you enjoyed the video. Thanks for writing!
Wouldn't that be nice! I'd love to see Pixar do something with the StarBird. I'm sure they'd make it look much more beautiful than I did here. Glad you liked the video. Thanks for writing!
Great work you've done there! I still have three of them at home. One for my personal toy exhibition an two crappy ones for the kids who still enjoy the howling sound of the starbirds.
There's one thing I'm missing: the interceptor ships attached at the tips of the wings. You built them as part of the wings here. Whould be much more awesome if they jump off and whirl around the starbird.
I've never been a big fan of the separating interceptor wings. Removing them ruins the lines of the rest of the ship. That's the main reason I made them part of the hull. I'm glad you enjoyed the video. Thanks for writing!
Cool buck! Are you going to attempt to model the base, "Avenger" model Starbird or the "Intruder"? That would rock to see all 3. Nicely done at any rate.
Thanks, CAD! The "Avenger" model was the same design as the original StarBird, just with different markings. I may create some new maps to turn my CGI model into the Avenger at some point.
I also have plans to build the "Intruder," but other projects are keeping me busy right now. You'll see it someday, though.
OH MY DAMN!!! As a child, I truly thought "that's" what the ship looked like on the inside. It's said to think thought day are far and away, but I thank you, for the video. God bless you , nicely done!
You are very welcome! I'm amazed at the number of people I've heard from who have such fond memories of that toy. Thank you so much for taking the time to write!
OMG that was BEAUTIFUL! That toy had my imagination superglued to it for the better part of my childhood! To see her actually take flight and tour the inside was magic! THANK YOU!!
I dunno what to say at the moment! Apparently you had the same Idea I did, only long before I did (like the idea just occured to me yesterday and I find this today while searching for refference images!)
Rock on... and lemme know if you decide to share the mesh, k?
Don't let me stop you from creating your own version of the StarBird. I would love to see what other CGI artists might do with this idea. I say go for it! Thanks for writing!
Excellent work! This was fun to watch and I thoroughly enjoyed your hard work. We used to have the Starbird and the other one (short, squat little Defender or Avenger or something like that).
Good memories. Look forward to seeing the next evolution!
Ah hah! Just wanted to let you know I'm gonna keep checking to see when you update it (I won't post anymore though. I know it's annoying to have folks nag/bug you).
What a great video! I'm playing an XBox360 game called Mass Effect and when you go back to your own ship and walk around...well it reminded me of this video, so here I am again!
The new mesh is coming along well. I'm hoping to havew it finished by the end of January, so a new StarBird video should show up here sometime in February. Thanks for writing again!
I bought the Starbird complete, boxed on ebay, and a week after I got it, I found the Avenger in box at a garage sale! I haven't had SB since 1980 and with a week, 2! Love the Video. Next time, launch the wing Interceptors! :)
Thanks, frodovader. I'm glad you found two of those great toys! I'm working on a new version of the StarBird, but in my versions the wings are fixed to the main hull, so no interceptors. Sorry. I'm glad you liked the video. Thanks for writing!
The StarBase is hard to come by, so if yours is still in good condition make sure you keep it safe! I'm planning on building a CGI version of the base after I finish the Mark VII StarBird. Thanks for writing!
Thank you very much. I'm thrilled so many have enjoyed this video because it's very special to me. I appreciate the comments and I'm glad you liked it.
Wow! I'm stunned. I'm so glad you liked my video! Like you, I never owned my own as a kid, but I fixed that as an adult by building these CGI models. I really appreciate that you took the time to write, and I'm glad it made you so happy.
That is really cool...I never would have thought the inside of the Starbird cockpit was so spacious. I used to have the original Starbird, then my parents got me the Avenger. My cousin got the Intruder and we had some great battles with the ships as kids.
Scale is a wonderful thing, isn't it? Thanks for sharing your memories of that wonderful toy, and for taking the time to write. I really appreciate it.
There is another on Youtube that has made a Starbird video too. Not as high tech as yours but still, kinda interesting. Check out Silencesucks page for his Starbird part 1 video and be entertained....I hope! ;)
This is brilliant. I did a search on starbird hoping someone had posted some video just of the toy!! I would love to know how to do something like this, but I only fix computers. I am thinking of building my command base up and sitting my Starbird and Intruder on it and filming a few minutes footage. One comment, what about the fighters on the wings? Well done!!! G.
It's great to hear from another fan of the StarBird. You've got my vote for wanting to see some actual footage of the real toy. Go for it! RE: The Wing Fighters. I never liked that particular feature of the toy, so on my CGI model, they're wings only. They don't separate from the body of the ship. Thanks for writing!
I'm going to send this link to my buddy. He'll probably get a kick out of this. I'm thinking about creating my own Starbird, and see how my interior visualizations differ from yours.
My main suggestion would be to make some drawings first of the interior placements to make sure they fix the exterior. Other than that, anything goes!
I do 3D computer animation, and had remembered an idea a buddy of mine had back in the 70's. We played around with this idea before I enrolled in film school, and we never really revisited it. Just now, I did a search on "Starbird", and found your video. It was fun to find this!
Did you create the original Starbird mesh yourself?? Nice work! :)
I had one here in Germany (Star Bird:Supervogel), it was for a long time gone, but I had buyed 2 on ebay and made one of it, then 1 "Custom-Repaint" and one thing, that was a prototype or something else...this thing was from another Toy Company and released before SB...had the same sound-system, but the parts were poorly, altered or something. Don't know, what this thing was, no Intruder or Avenger...
Buckaroohawk, that was an incredible CGI presentation! And yes, I was a Starbird fan as a kid as well. My friend had the Starbird and I had the Intruder and the Command Base. My family didn't have much money either and I remember my mother getting the Command Base on discount, because it was missing some pieces. But I didn't mind and my mom always tried to get us the things we wanted for Christmas. Thanks for the memories! :)
Like a window in time back into my 11 year old imagination. I always thought of my Starbird, (which I just recently found, still working!) as a combat/rescue vehicle. Small and designed like a fighter. Great video, gave me chills!
That's exactly what I was going for! That toy spaceship fired my imagination more than any other when I was a kid. I'm working on a new CGI version of it now, for debut in early 2007. Glad to hear you found yours recently. They're getting hard to find, so keep it in nice shape. Thanks for writing!
I have one that I refurbished to look more realistic, but that meant taking out all the electronics. I also have the Intruder and the Command Base, though the latter isn't in such great shape. I'm glad you liked the video and it's great to hear from other fans of that great toy. Thanks for writing!
I never saw the intruder OR the command base. We grew up kinda poor. I was very lucky to just have the starbird! One of the starbirds I was bidding on came with the original box. THe artwork on it was pretty cool.
I don't come from a wealthy family either. A childhood friend had all the great toys I coveted. I picked up my StarBird toys long after becoming an adult. The artwork on the boxes was great. Very sleek and fast-moving. I hope you can snag a StarBird of your own soon. If eBay isn't working, try some second-hand toy stores. If you let the store owner know you're looking for one, they may be able to help you find it. Good luck!
I'm glad someone out there remembers those toys. They were a blast to play with. I've still got mine, but they're a bit beat up. The cardboard Command Center hasn't withstood the test of time too well. I'm glad you liked the video. Thanks for taking the time to write.
Awesome video on a cool toy!
unitruth 3 weeks ago
@unitruth Thanks! Happy to hear you enjoyed it!
buckaroohawk 3 weeks ago
Great stuff! I have a StarBird that's sadly missing it's removable engine. One thing though - the "wingtips" are supposed to be docked "Interceptor" space ships, not a solid part of the wing.
PatrikSt74 1 month ago
@PatrikSt74 I have one that's missing the smaller rear engines and the gun turret on the sphere, but otherwise it's in great shape. I made the outer wings permanent because the scale I'd worked out for the ship didn't allow them to be separate craft. I was never a big fan of that feature on the toy, anyway. The main fuselage just doesn't look right without them. I'm glad you liked the video, and there's more StarBird stuff on the way. Thanks for writing!
buckaroohawk 1 month ago
@buckaroohawk I see now, in reading all the comments, that you've explained that design desicion several times, sorry about that! I always imagined the Interceptors as unmanned drone fighters controlled by a guy inside the ball turret. I really liked the last version of your video where you show the inside of the turret as well. Looking forward to your next version for sure, keep up your excellent work :)
PatrikSt74 1 month ago
@PatrikSt74 No problem. Most people don't read all the comments when they watch a video, especially when there are a lot of them. In many cases that would take a very long time, so I don't mind having to explain something more than once. I've been re-working some of the details on the StarBird and I hope to have a new video up in a couple of months. Thanks again for your interest and for taking the time to write!
buckaroohawk 1 month ago
Excellent work! I always wondered what the inside of Starbird looked like as a kid... :D
bjonas0725 5 months ago in playlist retro commercials
@bjonas0725 Me, too! That's why I built the model and kept making improvements over the years. When I finally get around to making and uploading a detailed video of my latest version of the StarBird, I hope you'll check it out. Thanks for writing!
buckaroohawk 5 months ago
Its funny to see May 2004 to August 2004 when its 2011 and when CGI is much more advanced than this.
SuperMe4lyfe 8 months ago
@SuperMe4lyfe I know what you mean. I look at my stuff from back then, which I thought was awesome at the time, and some of it makes me cringe. The technology has evolved so fast. It's almost too quick to keep up with. Even now, I'm working with tools that are three years out of date because the new stuff is so expensive. Still, I enjoy seeing the learning curve evident in the video. It means I'm always improving! Thanks for writing!
buckaroohawk 8 months ago
last one is the best.
cloverfield911 9 months ago
@cloverfield911 Thanks! I'd learned a lot about camera movement, lighting, timing, etc. by the time I did the last fly-through, so it's only natural that one should look better than the ones before it. I'm working on one for my latest version of the StarBird and (hopefully) it'll be the best one yet! Thanks for taking the time to leave a comment!
buckaroohawk 9 months ago
Amazing!
/clap /clap /clap /clap /clap /clap
Just...amazing!
And yes, I still have my Star Bird and Command Base. :)
DefconWarningSystem 1 year ago
@DefconWarningSystem Wow! Actual applause! That is very kind of you. I am honored and humbled. Glad to hear you still have your StarBird, and especially the Command Base. Cardboard isn't very rugged, so the fact that yours has lasted all these years is good news, indeed. I'm glad you enjoyed the video. Thanks for watching and for taking the time to write!
buckaroohawk 1 year ago
Excellent - I've still got my Starbird, although the gun is missing from the turret, and one of the Interceptors has a cracked wing. I think this was probably my favourite toy as a kid... I never grew tired of looking at it from different angles - a classic design. I see that Big Trak has been re-released, I bet Starbird will be next!
ForViewingOnly 1 year ago
@ForViewingOnly Glad to hear you still have your StarBird. Mine is in my den, on display with the rest of my favorite sci-fi ships. I didn't know the Big Trak had been re-released. Fingers crossed that the StarBird is next. Thanks for the info and for taking the time to comment. I really appreciate it!
buckaroohawk 1 year ago
@buckaroohawk Yeah, I found an advert for the new Big Trak a couple of weeks ago, I was amazed that it was being sold again. The Liberator from Blake's 7 is also up there in the top 5 most beautiful sci-fi ship designs. I had a small Matchbox toy of it, but not sure if a large model was ever available?
ForViewingOnly 1 year ago
Awesome...... this, along with bigtrak (and Lego Technic) was one of my favorite toys..... unsurprisingly, I love Star Trek / Wars !!!!
jim7221 1 year ago
@jim7221 The StarBird had the best elements from both Star Trek and Star Wars designs; the wide, flat look of the X and Y Wing fighters but with the smooth, clean lines of a Starfleet ship. It was a great toy, and I'm glad you enjoyed watching the video. Thanks for writing!
buckaroohawk 1 year ago
Lol that was extremely good, I must admit I didn't think much to the first version, but then it seems neither did you but your skills have obviously improved as you've been playing with the application. Perhaps you could consider giving the guys around the edge of the vehicle some variety ie: different clothes, hair, features etc. Just an idea.
Fantastic work none the less.
tempac 1 year ago
@tempac Actually, in the lastest version of of the StarBird I don't even have bodies in those seats. I just decided to keep the flight crew. I'm glad you liked the video and took note that my skills improved as time passed. Thanks for writing!
buckaroohawk 1 year ago
Excellent!!!
mrshubadub 1 year ago
Hey, that was really good. You should do CGI work for a living. Brought back alot of memories as I had this toy when I was little. Keep it up.
GazzTheFunkadelic 1 year ago
Thanks for writing, and for the compliment. I'm glad you liked it. I really enjoy hearing from others who had such fond memories of that great toy.
buckaroohawk 1 year ago
HAHA nice one!
Just missing the teeth marks from when my dog chews the wings.
Good on ya, looking forward to next part!
chrisuk2010 2 years ago
I'll have to add bite marks to my next version of the model. ;-)
Hopefully I'll be get back to making new animations soon, including more StarBird vids. Thanks for the support and for writing!
buckaroohawk 2 years ago
Great job on the modeling, I used to have this toy, I'm sure my mother still has it packed away somewhere. The only constructive critisism that I can offer is that the rudders (tail fins) were not actually connected to the ship itself, they were docked and detachable star fighters.
dsquaredproductions 2 years ago
Thanks for the compliment. If your mother still has it, make sure it's in good condition. The toy has become a sought-after collectible in recent years, especially if they're complete.
I know that the vertical fins were detachable fighters on the toy, but I never really liked that aspect of it. The ship just doesn't look right without the vertical wings so I made them a permananet part of my CGI model. I'm glad you liked the video. Thanks for writing!
buckaroohawk 2 years ago
does this spaceship remind anyone of the y-wing from star wars? the front view is similar.
PackmanML 2 years ago
The overall shape of the StarBird is similar to the Y-Wing from "Star Wars," but it has a single main engine in the back instead of the Y-Wing's outrigger-type engines. It's also about twice the size of the "Star Wars" fighter. I hope you enjoyed the video. Thanks for writing!
buckaroohawk 2 years ago
I was thinking how great it would be to make a scy-fy series about the starbird. You've shown me the interior of the ship. What would be a great story line? Characters? Is she only used for short range missions? I noticed no bathroom!! My mind is going crazy with ideals!!
roobencwright 2 years ago
I am planning a video that explains some of the StarBird's stats and capabilities, but it's still a far from finished. A series about the StarBird would be great. Who knows, maybe someone at Sy-Fy has seen this and is already working on it. Thanks for writing!
buckaroohawk 2 years ago
Absolute Amazing! You a a great artist! I had that toy and liked its design, too. Many greetings from germany, keep up your excellent work.
JussBignose 2 years ago
Thank you for writing! I believe the StarBird was called the SuperVogel in Germany. It had the same design but different decal markings. I'm glad you enjoyed the video. Thanks again for taking the time to write.
buckaroohawk 2 years ago
Whoohoo! I loved this toy when I was a kid! After many years of playing with it, some part broke and I decided to repaint it to make it look more Romulan. Needless to say, it's pretty trashed now, but I think my cousin still has one mint in the box. Maybe I can talk him out of it! (Great job on the CG, btw. I know if I ever got into CG, this is exactly what I'd do!!)
torinostu351 2 years ago
The StarBird would make a very cool Romulan ship. I may have to give that a try with the CG model. If you manage to get your cousin's, don't tell him how much they're worth. The price has gone up a lot in the past few years. Glad you enjoyed the video. Thanks for writing!
buckaroohawk 2 years ago
AWESOME
volunteer30 2 years ago
MANY THANKS!
buckaroohawk 2 years ago
Absolutely amazing. This is what was in my head when I was 9 and playing with it
operaghost1881 2 years ago
Thank you very much. I really enjoy hearing from people with fond memories of that toy. Thanks for taking the time to write.
buckaroohawk 2 years ago
I always wondered what the inside of one of those might look like. Very nice. Fun to watch you "learn".
craigfilm 3 years ago
Thanks! I'm glad you liked the video. Make sure you check out the other StarBird videos I've uploaded here. Thanks for writing!
buckaroohawk 3 years ago
You have a lot of talent
Mikej2156 3 years ago
I'm glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for writing!
buckaroohawk 3 years ago
I always wondered what was inside. This was my favorite toy ever. I wonder if my parents still have it. They probably gave it to the neighbor's kids when I wasn't looking.
Cohengenuity 3 years ago
If your folks did give it away, I hope whoever received it enjoyed it as much as you did. It was a great toy, and I'm glad you enjoyed the video. Thanks for writing!
buckaroohawk 3 years ago
Fantastic! I hope Pixar hires you to do a feature length version.
Desslar 3 years ago
Wouldn't that be nice! I'd love to see Pixar do something with the StarBird. I'm sure they'd make it look much more beautiful than I did here. Glad you liked the video. Thanks for writing!
buckaroohawk 3 years ago
Great work you've done there! I still have three of them at home. One for my personal toy exhibition an two crappy ones for the kids who still enjoy the howling sound of the starbirds.
There's one thing I'm missing: the interceptor ships attached at the tips of the wings. You built them as part of the wings here. Whould be much more awesome if they jump off and whirl around the starbird.
Traidorizer 3 years ago
I've never been a big fan of the separating interceptor wings. Removing them ruins the lines of the rest of the ship. That's the main reason I made them part of the hull. I'm glad you enjoyed the video. Thanks for writing!
buckaroohawk 3 years ago
Cool buck! Are you going to attempt to model the base, "Avenger" model Starbird or the "Intruder"? That would rock to see all 3. Nicely done at any rate.
CAD703X 3 years ago
Thanks, CAD! The "Avenger" model was the same design as the original StarBird, just with different markings. I may create some new maps to turn my CGI model into the Avenger at some point.
I also have plans to build the "Intruder," but other projects are keeping me busy right now. You'll see it someday, though.
Thanks for taking the time to write.
buckaroohawk 3 years ago
OH MY DAMN!!! As a child, I truly thought "that's" what the ship looked like on the inside. It's said to think thought day are far and away, but I thank you, for the video. God bless you , nicely done!
JAIROC3121 3 years ago
You are very welcome! I'm amazed at the number of people I've heard from who have such fond memories of that toy. Thank you so much for taking the time to write!
buckaroohawk 3 years ago
OMG that was BEAUTIFUL! That toy had my imagination superglued to it for the better part of my childhood! To see her actually take flight and tour the inside was magic! THANK YOU!!
vaasnaad 3 years ago
You're welcome, vaasnaad. Glad you enjoyed it!
buckaroohawk 3 years ago
wowowwowow!!!
jedidaniel2 3 years ago
Thank you! I'm really glad you enjoyed it.
buckaroohawk 3 years ago
Duuuuude.....
I dunno what to say at the moment! Apparently you had the same Idea I did, only long before I did (like the idea just occured to me yesterday and I find this today while searching for refference images!)
Rock on... and lemme know if you decide to share the mesh, k?
StarRanger4 4 years ago
StarRanger4,
Don't let me stop you from creating your own version of the StarBird. I would love to see what other CGI artists might do with this idea. I say go for it! Thanks for writing!
buckaroohawk 4 years ago
I forgot...I totally dig the Space 1999 doors that came about in Mark 6; it's like the best of Milton Bradley and Mattel.
bobdefalco 4 years ago
Bob,
Thanks for all the great comments. To answer your questions...
1. I'm currently working on a new version of the StarBird. After that, maybe I'll work up an Avenger.
2. No website yet, but after I finish the new StarBird, I'll send you a few pics. How's that?
3. You spotted the Eagle doors?! Wow, you really know you're stuff. I'm impressed!
A new video will be appearing here soon. Thanks for writing! Talk to you soon!
buckaroohawk 4 years ago
No website yet, but after I finish the new StarBird, I'll send you a few pics. How's that? Oh, man - that's a deal!
bobdefalco 4 years ago
Great! I'll let you know when the new mesh is finished. Talk to you soon!
buckaroohawk 4 years ago
I don't suppose you have a webpage with images of the SB exterior, do you? That was be a sweet piece of wallpaper for the desktop!
bobdefalco 4 years ago
Awesome...awesome.
Now bring in the Avenger. That ship was a BEAST!
I still have my Avenger. A friend of mine had the Intruder and he got owned everytime!
bobdefalco 4 years ago
I had forgotten all about my Starbird until I saw your video. Thank you for reminding me of all the fun I had with my SB.
mancruz86 4 years ago
Glad I could help bring back fun memories. Just wait until you see the StarBird Mark VII. Thanks for taking the time to write!
buckaroohawk 4 years ago
I still have my Starbird
Goodmanjoe55 4 years ago
Good for you! A toy kept from childhood is a precious thing indeed. Thanks for writing!
buckaroohawk 4 years ago
Excellent work! This was fun to watch and I thoroughly enjoyed your hard work. We used to have the Starbird and the other one (short, squat little Defender or Avenger or something like that).
Good memories. Look forward to seeing the next evolution!
AllSingingAllDancing 4 years ago
The StarBird Mark VII is coming along well. Hopefully, I'll have a new video ready sometime in January 2008. Thanks for writing!
buckaroohawk 4 years ago
Ah hah! Just wanted to let you know I'm gonna keep checking to see when you update it (I won't post anymore though. I know it's annoying to have folks nag/bug you).
What a great video! I'm playing an XBox360 game called Mass Effect and when you go back to your own ship and walk around...well it reminded me of this video, so here I am again!
AllSingingAllDancing 4 years ago
The new mesh is coming along well. I'm hoping to havew it finished by the end of January, so a new StarBird video should show up here sometime in February. Thanks for writing again!
buckaroohawk 4 years ago
Ok, well, how about shooting the turrent cannon then? :)
Fv
frodovader 4 years ago
Now that's something I can do! Keep your eyes peeled for a new video after I've finished the model.
buckaroohawk 4 years ago
I bought the Starbird complete, boxed on ebay, and a week after I got it, I found the Avenger in box at a garage sale! I haven't had SB since 1980 and with a week, 2! Love the Video. Next time, launch the wing Interceptors! :)
Fv
frodovader 4 years ago
Thanks, frodovader. I'm glad you found two of those great toys! I'm working on a new version of the StarBird, but in my versions the wings are fixed to the main hull, so no interceptors. Sorry. I'm glad you liked the video. Thanks for writing!
buckaroohawk 4 years ago
This is great! I have mine and the base still in the box :)
friariii 4 years ago
The StarBase is hard to come by, so if yours is still in good condition make sure you keep it safe! I'm planning on building a CGI version of the base after I finish the Mark VII StarBird. Thanks for writing!
buckaroohawk 4 years ago
elvideo-estacurada-ymegusto-muchisimo-esta-facinante-me-encanta-megustaria-ver-mas-sobre-la-secuencia-de-starbird-mark-7
bloodrayneslut 4 years ago
I don't understand what you wrote, but I hope you enjoyed the video. Thanks for writing!
buckaroohawk 4 years ago
Oh... my... goodness...
Very well done, sir.
art2art 4 years ago
Thank you very much. I'm thrilled so many have enjoyed this video because it's very special to me. I appreciate the comments and I'm glad you liked it.
buckaroohawk 4 years ago
Bless you for creating this! I'm literally almost weeping here watching this...
This was my FAVORITE TOY from my youth, one I sadly never owned but had hours of fun playing with it at friends' homes.
Simply wonderful!!!!
mangaka12 4 years ago
Wow! I'm stunned. I'm so glad you liked my video! Like you, I never owned my own as a kid, but I fixed that as an adult by building these CGI models. I really appreciate that you took the time to write, and I'm glad it made you so happy.
buckaroohawk 4 years ago
Je l'ai le starbird !!!!!!!!
Oui oui et en état !
Ownimaster 4 years ago
Merci! Thank you for taking the time to write! I'm glad you enjoyed it.
buckaroohawk 4 years ago
That is really cool...I never would have thought the inside of the Starbird cockpit was so spacious. I used to have the original Starbird, then my parents got me the Avenger. My cousin got the Intruder and we had some great battles with the ships as kids.
PoPoNellie 4 years ago
Scale is a wonderful thing, isn't it? Thanks for sharing your memories of that wonderful toy, and for taking the time to write. I really appreciate it.
buckaroohawk 4 years ago
There is another on Youtube that has made a Starbird video too. Not as high tech as yours but still, kinda interesting. Check out Silencesucks page for his Starbird part 1 video and be entertained....I hope! ;)
PoPoNellie 4 years ago
I've seen that video before. It's cool to see the real toy in a video. looks like it's in really nice shape, too. Thanks for reminding me of it.
buckaroohawk 4 years ago
This is brilliant. I did a search on starbird hoping someone had posted some video just of the toy!! I would love to know how to do something like this, but I only fix computers. I am thinking of building my command base up and sitting my Starbird and Intruder on it and filming a few minutes footage. One comment, what about the fighters on the wings? Well done!!! G.
grumbo39 4 years ago
It's great to hear from another fan of the StarBird. You've got my vote for wanting to see some actual footage of the real toy. Go for it! RE: The Wing Fighters. I never liked that particular feature of the toy, so on my CGI model, they're wings only. They don't separate from the body of the ship. Thanks for writing!
buckaroohawk 4 years ago
I'm going to send this link to my buddy. He'll probably get a kick out of this. I'm thinking about creating my own Starbird, and see how my interior visualizations differ from yours.
Thanks for the nostalgia! :)
Healer2K 4 years ago
Go for it! I'd love to see some other StarBird videos here from other CGI artists. Let's bring that ship back from the past!
buckaroohawk 4 years ago
Do you have any tips before I get started? All pointers are welcome!
Healer2K 4 years ago
My main suggestion would be to make some drawings first of the interior placements to make sure they fix the exterior. Other than that, anything goes!
buckaroohawk 4 years ago
I do 3D computer animation, and had remembered an idea a buddy of mine had back in the 70's. We played around with this idea before I enrolled in film school, and we never really revisited it. Just now, I did a search on "Starbird", and found your video. It was fun to find this!
Did you create the original Starbird mesh yourself?? Nice work! :)
Healer2K 4 years ago
Yes, I built the mesh myself, and it was a chore, let me tell you. I'm actually working on a new version now. Glad you liked the video!
buckaroohawk 4 years ago
I had one here in Germany (Star Bird:Supervogel), it was for a long time gone, but I had buyed 2 on ebay and made one of it, then 1 "Custom-Repaint" and one thing, that was a prototype or something else...this thing was from another Toy Company and released before SB...had the same sound-system, but the parts were poorly, altered or something. Don't know, what this thing was, no Intruder or Avenger...
batmanhimself 4 years ago
Thanks for writing, batmanhimself. I always liked the name "Supervogel," though I wonder why it wasn't called "Ubervogel" instead.
buckaroohawk 4 years ago
Buckaroohawk, that was an incredible CGI presentation! And yes, I was a Starbird fan as a kid as well. My friend had the Starbird and I had the Intruder and the Command Base. My family didn't have much money either and I remember my mother getting the Command Base on discount, because it was missing some pieces. But I didn't mind and my mom always tried to get us the things we wanted for Christmas. Thanks for the memories! :)
jeditemple 5 years ago
Glad I could be of service. I'm glad you liked the video, and it's great to hear from fans of that wonderful toy. Thanks for writing!
buckaroohawk 5 years ago
That is fantastic!
Like a window in time back into my 11 year old imagination. I always thought of my Starbird, (which I just recently found, still working!) as a combat/rescue vehicle. Small and designed like a fighter. Great video, gave me chills!
WtShark57 5 years ago
That's exactly what I was going for! That toy spaceship fired my imagination more than any other when I was a kid. I'm working on a new CGI version of it now, for debut in early 2007. Glad to hear you found yours recently. They're getting hard to find, so keep it in nice shape. Thanks for writing!
buckaroohawk 5 years ago
I LOVED my Starbird! I wish I still had it. I keep trying to buy one on ebay, but keep getting outbid. That was one of the coolest ships!
mrkevinstein 5 years ago
I have one that I refurbished to look more realistic, but that meant taking out all the electronics. I also have the Intruder and the Command Base, though the latter isn't in such great shape. I'm glad you liked the video and it's great to hear from other fans of that great toy. Thanks for writing!
buckaroohawk 5 years ago
I never saw the intruder OR the command base. We grew up kinda poor. I was very lucky to just have the starbird! One of the starbirds I was bidding on came with the original box. THe artwork on it was pretty cool.
mrkevinstein 5 years ago
I don't come from a wealthy family either. A childhood friend had all the great toys I coveted. I picked up my StarBird toys long after becoming an adult. The artwork on the boxes was great. Very sleek and fast-moving. I hope you can snag a StarBird of your own soon. If eBay isn't working, try some second-hand toy stores. If you let the store owner know you're looking for one, they may be able to help you find it. Good luck!
buckaroohawk 5 years ago
I had the whole set of starbirds. Sure do wish they made toys like that again.
neomrdo 5 years ago
I'm glad someone out there remembers those toys. They were a blast to play with. I've still got mine, but they're a bit beat up. The cardboard Command Center hasn't withstood the test of time too well. I'm glad you liked the video. Thanks for taking the time to write.
buckaroohawk 5 years ago