The 2017 Star Wars The Black Series Kylo Ren (#45) captures the conflicted, volatile, and increasingly powerful dark‑side warrior as he appears in The Last Jedi. Released as part of the Red Line’s 2017 Wave 12 assortment, this figure represents Kylo Ren at a pivotal moment in his character arc — unmasked, emotionally exposed, and caught between the legacy of the Skywalkers and the seductive pull of Supreme Leader Snoke’s influence. This release delivers a grounded, realistic sculpt that reflects Adam Driver’s likeness with surprising accuracy for the pre‑Photo Real era, while the costume design captures the layered textures and imposing silhouette of Kylo’s TLJ outfit.
This figure marks a significant evolution from earlier Kylo Ren releases. The original 2015 TFA figure featured a masked head, soft‑goods cloak, and a more primitive articulation scheme. The 2017 TLJ version refines nearly every aspect: improved proportions, a more accurate tunic sculpt, a better‑engineered cape, and a head sculpt that captures the intensity and brooding presence of Adam Driver’s performance. The result is one of the strongest Sequel Trilogy figures of the early Phase 3 era — a release that remains essential for collectors building out First Order, Throne Room, or TLJ‑era displays.
Technical Details & Sculpt
Overall Sculpt & Proportions
Kylo Ren’s sculpt is defined by a commanding silhouette, textured tunic, and a grounded interpretation of his TLJ costume. The figure features:
- a long quilted tunic with ribbed texturing
- sculpted belt with metallic buckle
- fitted pants with subtle fabric creasing
- tall black boots with reinforced straps
- a removable cape with a natural drape
The proportions are tall and imposing, reflecting Kylo’s physical presence in the film. The sculpt avoids the bulkiness of earlier releases, instead presenting a more streamlined, screen‑accurate interpretation.
Head Sculpt
The unmasked head sculpt is one of the standout elements of this figure. It includes:
- a strong likeness to Adam Driver
- sculpted hair with layered strands and natural flow
- subtle cheekbone and jawline definition
- a stern, conflicted expression
For a pre‑Photo Real figure, the likeness is remarkably strong. The sculpt captures Kylo’s intensity, emotional volatility, and inner turmoil — essential qualities for any TLJ display.
Tunic & Cape
The tunic is one of the most detailed elements of the sculpt:
- ribbed texture across the torso and arms
- layered skirt panels with natural movement
- sculpted seams and stitching
The cape is a separate piece that drapes over one shoulder, matching Kylo’s TLJ appearance. It features:
- soft sculpted folds
- a natural over‑the‑shoulder hang
- matte finish to contrast with the glossy boots
The combination of sculpted tunic and removable cape gives the figure versatility in display.
Articulation
Kylo Ren (#45) includes the full Phase 3 articulation suite:
- ball‑jointed head and neck
- hinged shoulders and elbows
- swivel‑hinge wrists
- torso ball joint
- ball‑jointed hips
- thigh swivels
- double‑jointed knees
- rocker ankles
The articulation supports dynamic lightsaber poses, aggressive stances, and expressive emotional silhouettes. The torso joint allows for subtle lean and twist, enhancing realism in dueling or dramatic poses.
Paint & Deco
The paintwork is clean and effective, emphasizing natural tones and subtle shading:
- matte black tunic with darker recess shading
- glossy black boots for contrast
- natural skin tones with soft shading
- brown hair with subtle highlights
- metallic silver accents on the belt buckle and saber hilt
The crossguard blade features translucent red plastic with sculpted energy crackle, enhancing the chaotic, unstable look of Kylo’s weapon.
Accessories & Equipment
Kylo Ren includes:
Crossguard Lightsaber (Ignited)
- sculpted emitter vents
- translucent red blade
- unstable energy sculpting
- two‑handed grip capability
Crossguard Lightsaber Hilt
- metallic silver and black paint
- sculpted activation box
- attaches to the belt
The accessories reflect Kylo’s aggressive, unpredictable fighting style and his connection to the Skywalker legacy through the modified saber design.
Packaging (Red Line)
As part of the Red Line, Kylo arrives in the Phase 3 window‑box packaging:
- matte black box
- bold red accent stripe
- character portrait art
- figure number #45
- large window showcasing the figure and accessories
The portrait art captures Kylo’s intense expression, while the red stripe complements the dark tones of his costume.
Collector Notes
- This is the first unmasked Kylo Ren in the Black Series with a TLJ‑accurate sculpt.
- Shares no major tooling with the TFA version — nearly all parts are new.
- One of the strongest Sequel Trilogy sculpts of the early Phase 3 era.
- Essential for Throne Room, First Order, and TLJ displays.
- Pairs naturally with Rey (Jedi Training), Snoke, Praetorian Guards, and Hux.
Display & Photography Notes
Kylo photographs beautifully under dramatic lighting. His textured tunic catches angled side light, while the crossguard blade benefits from directional highlights that emphasize its unstable energy. Three‑quarter angles highlight the cape drape, belt, and facial sculpt.
For dioramas, Kylo excels in:
- Throne Room confrontations
- First Order command scenes
- Dueling setups with Rey
- Snoke’s chamber displays
His sculpt supports expressive poses that capture his rage, conflict, and raw power — making him a centerpiece of any Sequel Trilogy collection.