When it comes to model box art, anyone with a sharp eye will notice the plethora of technical anomalies regarding ships and aircraft depicted on the covers. Airplanes take off with flaps retracted; ships are often shown steaming ahead at about 50 knots in seas that would capsize the QE2; jet planes with non-afterburning engines are invariably shown belching flaming jet exhaust for dramatic effect and some aircraft are even shown dropping their payload of bombs from 40,000 ft! Obviously, in the world of box art, these transgressions are forgiven in the name of marketing, but every once in a while, a cover image goes over the line. Do you know the answers to these questions?
Each month we will post a new trivia question here for you to ponder.
May 2008:
What famous “S” Kit Navy missile is shown taking off from its secret research base, yet with the wire safety locks still in place on its landing gear?
April 2008:
In the Strategic Airpower Series, a famous X-Plane is flying along with its wing leading edges glowing red-hot from Mach 2 speeds, yet two F-86 chase planes are shown actually flying ahead of the research aircraft! What is the name of that airplane?
March 2008:
On the cover of the “Pre S” Motorized USS Missouri kit, there are two small boys standing in the shallow water next to the battleship. What other Revell boat model is the younger brother holding in his hand?
February 2008:
What important structure is missing from the Swissair Caravelle shown parked on the ramp in the background of the SAS Caravelle kit’s famous takeoff scene?
January 2008:
On the Aerobee-Hi “S” Kit, there are three crewmen shown tending to the research missile, all of whom should be wearing heavy protective suits. How many actually are?
December 2007:
What famous Revell aircraft carrier has a U.S. Air Force McDonnell F-4C Phantom II wearing Vietnam camouflage shown parked right in the middle of its flight deck?
November 2007:
What famous Brazilian landmark is actually located high atop a mountain overlooking Rio de Janeiro yet is shown right next to the harbor on Revell’s SS Brasil ocean liner “S” Kit?
October 2007:
The Convair B-58 Hustler had very elaborate ground equipment that was specially designed and well-suited to its exotic operating realm, but what is the pilot standing on as he prepares to board the front cockpit of the B-58 on Revell’s “S” Kit cover?
September 2007:
Although there is no tropical island located just south of Honolulu, the Revell “S” Kit freighter Hawaiian Pilot is shown passing right next to one as it sails for San Francisco. What type of animal is lurking in the tree on that imaginary island?
July/August 2007:
What animal is shown on the box top art of the Revell USCG Ice Breaker Eastwind “S” Kit?
Find the answers HERE.