Sculpting and retopo are the way to go nowadays, but I disagree it's any faster than box modelling.  Mostly that's the technique used because you can get a lot more detail in the sculpting apps.  But most workflow for that starts with modelling the base figure first in a standard 3D app anyways, then detailing and refining in the sculpting app.  I don't see how that process is faster than straight box modelling.  The end result may be more detailed, but faster?  Nah.  Someone with good skills, and the right package,  could box model a decent head in subD just as easy and fast as a guy sculpting one from a ball in Zbrush.  Gollum was all box modelling, and I think it still sets the standard for great CG characters to this day.  Nothin against using sculpting apps, just sayin.