The 2018 Star Wars The Black Series Grand Moff Tarkin (#63) stands as one of the most impressive human portraits in the entire Phase 3 Red Line. Based on Peter Cushing’s chilling performance in A New Hope, this figure captures the cold precision, authority, and intellectual menace that define Tarkin’s presence aboard the Death Star. His sculpt, uniform tailoring, and digital face-printing combine to create a figure that feels lifted directly from the film’s conference room and interrogation sequences.
Released as part of Wave 16, Tarkin arrived alongside the Jawa, Han (Solo), and the Death Star Trooper — forming one of the strongest ANH-focused waves in the Red Line era. What elevates this release beyond a standard Imperial officer is the inclusion of the IT-O Interrogation Droid, complete with a clear display stand. This accessory transforms Tarkin from a static command figure into a full diorama centerpiece, instantly evoking the infamous Leia interrogation scene.
The portrait is the centerpiece: a remarkably faithful digital recreation of Peter Cushing’s gaunt features, sharp cheekbones, and piercing eyes. The uniform is equally precise, with clean lines, crisp rank insignia, and the iconic olive-grey tunic that defines Imperial High Command. The IT-O droid is sculpted with glossy black surfaces, needles, sensors, and the floating silhouette that made it one of the most unsettling props in the Original Trilogy.
Technical Details & Sculpt
Overall Sculpt & Proportions
Tarkin’s sculpt is defined by sharp tailoring and screen-accurate proportions:
- high-collared Imperial tunic with sculpted seams
- crisp rank plaque with clean color separation
- flared officer trousers
- glossy black boots
- slim, angular silhouette matching Peter Cushing’s build
The sculpt captures the cold, rigid discipline of Imperial command.
Head Sculpt — Digital Face Printing
The portrait is one of the strongest human likenesses in early Photo Real implementation:
- deeply sculpted cheekbones
- narrow jawline
- subtle wrinkles and age lines
- piercing eyes with digital print depth
- swept-back hair with fine strand detail
The likeness is unmistakably Peter Cushing — stern, calculating, and quietly intimidating.
IT-O Interrogation Droid
The included interrogation droid is a major highlight:
- glossy black spherical body
- sculpted needles, injectors, and sensors
- silver and red detailing
- floating effect via clear stand
- screen-accurate scale relative to Tarkin
This accessory elevates the figure from “excellent” to “essential.”
Articulation
Tarkin includes the full Phase 3 articulation suite:
- ball-jointed head and neck
- hinged shoulders
- swivel-hinge elbows
- swivel-hinge wrists
- torso ball joint
- ball-jointed hips
- thigh swivels
- double-jointed knees
- rocker ankles
The articulation supports formal command poses, hands-behind-back stances, and subtle conversational gestures.
Paint & Deco
The paintwork is clean, precise, and restrained:
- natural skin tones with subtle shading
- digital face-printing for eyes and lips
- matte uniform finish
- glossy boots
- crisp rank plaque colors
- glossy black and metallic accents on the IT-O droid
The deco avoids unnecessary weathering, matching Tarkin’s immaculate appearance.
Accessories & Equipment
Tarkin includes:
E‑11 Blaster
- compact sculpt
- metallic barrel accents
- fits securely in the right hand
IT-O Interrogation Droid
- glossy black finish
- sculpted needles and sensors
- screen-accurate silhouette
Clear Display Stand
- supports floating effect
- adjustable height
- stable base
Packaging (Red Line)
As part of the Red Line, Tarkin arrives in the Phase 3 window-box packaging:
- matte black box
- bold red accent stripe
- character portrait art
- figure number #63
- large window showcasing the portrait and interrogation droid
The portrait art reflects Tarkin’s cold, authoritative presence.
Collector Notes
- This is the first modern 6-inch Tarkin in the Black Series.
- Includes the IT-O Interrogation Droid, making it one of the most complete ANH villain releases.
- Essential for Death Star, ANH, and Imperial command displays.
- Pairs naturally with Vader, Krennic, Stormtroopers, and Death Star Troopers.
- A cornerstone figure for any Original Trilogy collection.
Display & Photography Notes
Tarkin photographs beautifully under directional lighting that emphasizes his angular features. The IT-O droid benefits from rim lighting to highlight its glossy surfaces and sinister silhouette.
For dioramas, Tarkin excels in:
- Death Star interrogation scenes
- conference room displays
- Vader/Tarkin interactions
- Imperial High Command lineups
His sculpt supports formal, authoritative poses that capture the cold, strategic menace of one of the Empire’s most iconic villains — making this figure a centerpiece of any ANH collection.