This diorama is a combination of two kits, the Polar Lights Robby The Robot and Lunar Models cast resin Altaira, both from the 1956 science-fiction blockbuster Forbidden Planet. Both were essentially built straight from the box, with only minor modifications to Robby.

These kits reminded me just how difficult building a model "straight from the box" can be. Although the Robby kit has many nice details, several of the pieces fit poorly. I spent many hours carefully eliminating gaps and seams on Robby's feet and legs, especially along the inseam. Worst of all were the transducers on each side of Robby's head. These parts were cast in clear plastic, and had 1/16" gaps in the fins. I opted to grind away the clear fins and cut new ones from clear sheet plastic. The Altaira was no better. The resin casting was typical of Lunar Models, with thick seams on her legs and misalignments in her hair and dress, all requiring extensive clean-up.

Despite hours of frustration and aggravation, the two kits finally combined into a beautiful diorama from one of my favorite films.