Tag Archive for: movies

A Time of Thanks

With Thanksgiving sneaking up on us like a Nightcrawler attack, we wanted to take time to list a few things we are thankful for this year. So here are 6 things we couldn’t live without (in no particular order of course).

Books

Whether it’s Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein or a Star Trek novel, we wouldn’t be anywhere without books. We are so grateful to be able to dive into the wonderful worlds given to us in books, sometimes over and over again.

Comics/Graphic Novels

The beautiful art that makes up a comic or a graphic novel has surely touched us all at some point. The stories told in near or far-off worlds through a mixture of art and text have given us understanding, justice, love… they’ve connected us to characters we always felt but never knew we needed. I personally went through a period where I only read X-Men. If I had to do it over again, I would do it the exact same way.

Movies/TV Shows

Now with movies and TV shows more readily available at our fingertips it is no surprise that they make our thankful-for list. Inspiring everything from creatures to set design, the films/shows we watch lift us up and also get our creative juices flowing. And when we have worked too hard and need to relax, we are thankful to have action movies that we cannot get enough of like Die Hard.

Action Figures

All of us wouldn’t be who we are without the toys that made us (and yes, that goes for the Netflix show as well). We are grateful for the re-used molds that brought us the Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves Friar Tuck figure. Just as we love, and always need, more Star Wars Action Figures regardless if they start to have silly names. He-Man figures with too many muscles that have to stand just so or just don’t make any character sense… yes, please!

Collectibles

 

While action figures are near and dear to our hearts, so are high-end collectibles with multiple points of articulation, high sculpture detail, multiple head and eye options, impeccable fabrications, realistic paint design, or sculptures that are top-to-bottom brilliant. After all, if we love it, we want to own it! #notashamed

Costumers

Above all, we are extremely thankful for all of our wonderful customers! We have the absolute best patrons and we couldn’t be more grateful for the opportunity to be a part of your lives throughout the years. Thank you so much for sharing your loves, or hates, with us. Thank you for your support be it for events, holidays, or just for coming in!

What are you thankful for this year? Did we miss something you think we should have listed? Let us know!

 

9 Movies That Are Great Even After Christmas

It happens to the best of us, Christmas comes and goes but we still yearn for more holiday movies. Luckily there’s those movies that hint at Christmas time but focus their attention elsewhere making them movies that are watchable all year long. Here is a list of 9 Movies That Are Great Even After Christmas. Huzzah!

9. Die Hard (1988)

Yes, it comes up every year, and maybe you even view Die Hard as a true Christmas movie, but nevertheless this comedic action thriller has all the kicks and punches that make us come back again and again all year long. We can’t get enough and neither should you. Yippee-kay-yay!

8. Lethal Weapon (1989)

Continuing with our love for action, Lethal Weapon is indeed a Christmas time movie. In fact, there’s even a scene that takes place lit in red by the Christmas tree. And with a mullet like Mel Gibson’s this movie deserves to be played on repeat.

7. Edward Scissorhands (1990)

As lovable as his McFarlane Toys action figure which we’ve carried in the past, Edward Scissorhands knows how to decorate for Christmas. Yet with the green foliage, hot tight pants, and Avon lady world that is this movie, you can watch this film year round. It will give you all the good vibes you wish for with a Tim Burton picture and leave you wondering, why don’t I watch this more often?

6. Gremlins (1984)

Gremlins may be more on the nose about its Christmas feelings then the other movies on this list but the mayhem that it creates makes it an all-the-time favorite. Christmas time, Halloween time, random day in March, this film is viewable at any time. And how we love the collectibles that remind us of this heartwarming movie, like the 2-Pack Winter Gremlins Action Figures released by Neca shown below.

5. Batman Returns (1992)

As our excitement grows about the newest Batman movie, The Batman (2022), we can’t help but yearn for Batman Returns. Nothing gives you those Christmas-feels like Gotham blowing up and Danny Devito as the Penguin. However, the movie doesn’t get hung-up on the fact that it’s Christmas time instead it let’s Batman fall in love with Catwoman while the Penguin tries to take over Gotham City. Pure Batman gold in Tim Burton glory. In fact, you can enjoy this movie over and over again as you cuddle next to your Batman Returns action figure. We’ll allow it.

4. Shazam! (2019)

A wizard at Christmas time? Sign me up! Not only do you get the child-like wonder that is Zachary Levi but this movie offers a warming family cheer with bad guys and good guys fighting amongst Christmas decorations. Score!

3. 12 Monkeys (1995)

I’ll admit this movie took me awhile to go back to with being in a pandemic but the truth is 12 Monkeys has always been a great movie. Another Christmas time movie featuring Bruce Willis (Die Hard), the zany apocalyptic world designed by Gilliam is a non-stop enjoyment-fest. Did I mention ’90s Brad Pitt? Yea, reason enough to watch all year.

2. Prometheus (2012)

We can’t get enough of the Alien universe and that includes Prometheus. The fact that it takes place during Christmas time makes me want to jump up and down with my Alien collectibles. So, yes, we will be watching the Alien movie franchise on repeat during 2022.

1. Iron Man 3 (2013)

Writer and Director Shane Black knows what we want during this time of year (Lethal Weapon, Kiss, Kiss, Bang, Bang) and it’s no different with Iron Man 3. He once said that, “Christmas bands together and cements a story.” It brings everyone together those in the film and watching it. We couldn’t agree more. In fact, it’s bringing us to watch this movie right now.

No matter what time of year, these 9 movies are sure to bring you the warmth of Christmas without hitting you over the head with it. And, yes, it’s okay to watch Christmas movies in the middle of July. We asked, and also, we won’t tell. So, carry on, friends.

Your movie addicts at Blast From the Past

6 Bad A** Women Lead Movies to Watch

As Black Widow hits screens everywhere we took a look at what other women lead movies to recommend. If you are looking for fun, bad a** women movies, we decided that these are the six to start with. Do keep in mind they may not be suitable for all ages, after all, it’s hard to be a lady all the time when you’re kicking butt.

Black Widow (2021)

Just released, we love the strength and feisty attitude of Scarlett Johannson as Natasha Romanova, aka Black Widow. What’s even better is that there are many women making their mark in this movie which shows that not only one woman can take names but many.

The Hunt (2020)

This movie was a surprise hit for me. It is subtle, funny, full of action, and features Betty Gilpin who, since I love Netflix’s Glow, is everything. Keep in mind this is a movie with people being hunted so it’s not for every age, but if you are in the mood for a strong female lead with dark comedy and blood, you are golden.

Cruella (2021)

The animation style of the 1961 One Hundred and One Dalmations is one of my favorites and has a special place in my heart. Watching Cruella de Vil careening down the road with her crazy hair and maddening eyes made me scared and excited. That’s why I was over the moon to see Emma Stone hunched over the driver’s wheel just like the animation in the Cruella trailer. The movie also didn’t disappoint. Have some punk fun and root for the girl who doesn’t apologize for being bad.

Atomic Blonde (2017)

Atomic Blonde is a non-stop thrill ride of woman bad-a**ery. Charlize Theron did her own stunts in this movie and they are incredible. Also a movie not suitable for youngins’, this movie is packed with ’80s dressed spy-ness. So grab some pink lipstick because this ride is going to be killer.

Wonder Woman (2017)

When DC’s Wonder Woman hit theatres in 2017 we were unprepared. Suddenly a blockbuster action movie that did well in the box office featured a strong female lead. Now it’s not like female leads didn’t exist before 2017, but it was the first time a whole world of strong women didn’t rely on another sex to tell a story. Despite the story falling into the realm of love stories, Diana Prince and her Amazonians showed that if you believe in truth and love you can kick meanies butts. After all, besides an invisible jet isn’t that what most of us want anyway? If you’ve been waiting to watch this movie, do it now. And if you’ve already seen it, watch it again. Then go back and watch some Geena Davis movies, women film education people.

Thelma & Louise (1991)

Speaking of Geena Davis, if you want a powering women duo, Thelma & Louise is a must-see. I can never get enough of this movie. It is quirky and familiar, strong and unapologetic, it’s the right actors with the right dialogue and story, and yes, even has the famous Brad Pitt abs. Though the dynamics between Susan Sarandon and Geena Davis is enough a reason for me.

You may be asking yourself, “This is July? Shouldn’t this be a list of 7 Bad A** Women Lead Movies?” The reason for there being no #7 just as there are no numbers marking this list, is that any film that features a powerful lady is #1 in our book, and we want to know what your favorite movies are to watch! Let us know which movies we missed below or on social media. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.

Stay classy collectors. Your bad a** blogger,

Diane

6 Disney Animated Movies That Scream Summer

Summer is officially here and we want to know, what are 6 Disney Animated Movies that just scream summer? Luckily for us, we have this list.

1. Lilo + Stitch

If you read no further, this one movie will have you summer wooed. Lilo + Stitch features Hawaiian beaches, loveable aliens (Homer not included), and a heartwarming story. It will make you want to surf, turn your backyard into a luau, and remind you why Elvis is king. This movie is summer.

2. The Little Mermaid

While our minds are on the ocean, nobody sings the summer waters better than Ariel in The Little Mermaid. Swim with the fishes in a good way by diving into this movie. And even after 32 years (yikes. I know, right!?), Ursula is still one of the best Disney villains of all time.

3. Finding Nemo

Keeping with the ocean theme, you can’t mention the high summer seas without talking about Finding Nemo. This movie takes us down under which always brings to mind warmer weather and sunny days. We also love the “road trip” feel which hollers summer vacation, and if you forget… just keep swimming, because that’s what summer is for… swimming.

4. The Lion King

After all that water, we should dry off on land. A movie that has plenty of sandy land, sun, and beautiful plants is The Lion King. It will leave you feeling the heat (hopefully in an air conditioned room) and with no cares in the world. Just keep repeating, “Hakuna matata,” while tapping your heals three times… oh, wait.

5. Moana

That’s enough dry land, let’s jump back into the water, and back to Hawaii, with Moana. Moana hits the summer vibes hardcore. Tropical inviting beaches, warm Hawaiian waters, and a blinged out crustacean. It even has a cute volcano and was originally accompanied with the short film Lava. A volcano falling in love in a tropical paradise? Hello summer!

6. A Goofy Movie

Bringing our list to an end is A Goofy Movie. This may seem a little bit different then our other picks, but it fits in like a rubber duckie in water. A personal favorite, we can all recall that feeling of the last day of school before summer vacation, having to go on a road trip with our strange yet loveable father, detouring it to fit our needs and win the hand of our high school crush– did I mention there’s a life-size opossom? This road trip movie will have you laughing and singing just like a real summer road trip would all from the comfort of your own home. Hello staycation!

No matter what your prefered Disney Animated Summer Watch List, we can all agree that summer vibes need to be had. So why not live it up Disney-style? What are your must-watch Disney animated movies for the summertime? Let us know in the comments or hit us up on social media: IG @Blastftp, Twitter @BlastFTP, or Facebook @Blastfromthepastinc.

Sipping on our pink lemonades,

Your Friends at Blast From the Past

Dear Galaxy I Love You #NotAshamed

We all have a story behind our pop culture loves that indefinitely link us to the toys we hold so dear. One world that is big in our store is Star Wars. We carry action figures, original 70s/80s/90s and new, memorabilia, promotional items, unique items, you-think-it-and-they’ve-probably-made-it items, enamel pins and everything in between. To the point, we love Star Wars. I love Star Wars and my connection to it goes back to, yes, when I was wee.

My father started it, my connection with Star Wars. It was the late 80s by the time I discovered his copy of the original VHS release of the trilogy. I was already familiar with the figures. We had quite the collection: action figures, an Ewok mask, a cork board featuring the cast, a lunchbox and even a tiny, kid-size Star Wars desk. The movies, however, blew me away. And even though I was of the in between generation, between the release of Episode IV-VI and the release of the prequels, I loved them all.

Those original three movies drew me in, as it did so many others, but why? Was it that it took you on an adventure over and over? Was it that good always won out no matter how appealing the dark side became? Was it the ridiculous creatures that somehow captured our hearts? For me, I believe it was all of the above. It didn’t matter how clunky some of the machinery or droids seemed to be, it didn’t matter how many side swipes jumped you from story to story, it had passion and heart from everyone who touched those films. It was the love of the people making those films that I believe in turn reached me and unleashed my imagination. It whisked up my hair into oversized cinnamon buns and said, “hey, this is pure fun and it’s alright.” And still to this day, the amount of ultimate joy I get by seeing a Jumbo Kenner-inspired Gamorrean Guard by Gentle Giant is an extension of that welcoming imagination. The figures and collectibles allow that rush of feeling, of love, and of awe I received from those films to wash over me like a kiss from a Bantha.

February is a month for many celebrations, but I think as we talk about love around Valentine’s Day we should speak about the love of our passions. After all, the love we feel for the movies, tv shows, and comics that made us is forever. To the artists who made them, we love you. You are astounding and we are not ashamed to say, yes, we probably will be dressed in head-to-toe cosplay and sleep in a several day, nay week(s), line the next time a Star Wars premiere is releasing in theaters and we are allowed to go.

Until then…

Stay Classy, Friends

– Movie Marathon Diane

10 Movies That You Can Watch for Halloween and Christmas

​The pumpkin is lit, the lights are dimmed low, the popcorn is in hand… now, what movie to watch? With so many options to choose from nowadays, we thought we would help you out. Here are 10 movies that work for Halloween and Christmas because why not double down, am I right?

1. GREMLINS (1984)

GREMLINS (1984) always holds a place in my heart. It’s funny, it’s weird, it’s spooky, and jolly all rolled into one. I almost always forget how dark it is, which makes it perfect for Halloween. The mom cooking the gremlin in the microwave– classic! Yet, it’s hard not to feel a warm, soft spot for little Gizmo when he’s singing along in a Santa hat. Though the first on our list, I would be so bold to say it may reign supreme for Christmas horror movies in my book.

2. KRAMPUS (2015)

What a pleasant surprise KRAMPUS (2015) was when it came out in theatres. It hits all the seasonal buttons: family, snow, presents, and the mythology of Krampus. As someone who was always wary of toys coming to life in a PUPPET MASTER (1989) tone rather than a plucky Disney one, KRAMPUS gives me chills just thinking about it. The special effects are spot on and the story doesn’t disappoint.

3. SILENT NIGHT, DEADLY NIGHT (1984)

A joyous, timeless romp in all 80s splendor. SILENT NIGHT, DEADLY NIGHT (1984) shows how taking a symbol like Santa and turning him deadly can have negative effects later on in life. That’s putting it mildly, but hopefully, it gets your mind churning.

4. THE NIGHTMARE BEFORE CHRISTMAS (1993)

For a bit of a lighter touch on the holiday, you could opt for Tim Burton’s THE NIGHTMARE BEFORE CHRISTMAS (1993). A beautiful stop-motion film, this movie brings Christmas together with the darker, twisted stylings of Tim Burton. It’s engaging, spooky, and will leave you humming the songs all season long!

5. BLACK CHRISTMAS (1974)

This movie still gives me the creeps. I suppose it’s that feeling that you should be safe somewhere but really anything could happen. That’s what makes BLACK CHRISTMAS so disturbing and wonderful for Halloween. Yet, with all the Christmas decorations you’ll be yelling, “Where’s the eggnog?”

6. RARE EXPORTS (2010)

This Finnish movie is one of the scariest takes on Saint Nick. It will have you repeating to yourself, “I am good. I am good.” It will stick in your mind like any great story does and will leave you haunted well past Christmas.

7. CHILD’S PLAY (1988)

There’s a reason CHILD’S PLAY (1988) and its demonic doll, Chucky, are cult classics. This movie punches all our childhood fear buttons. Chucky is the perfect present for any boy, unfortunately, this one just happens to be possessed by the soul of a serial killer. Want to play? Um, not really, but we’ll watch the movie over and over again!

8. EDWARD SCISSORHANDS (1990)

Another story on the lighter side of Halloween, but fitting nevertheless. EDWARD SCISSORHANDS (1990) brings Tim Burton’s knack of odd and unique characters into the heart of a suburban neighborhood. It’s one I always love watching and one I always forget how wonderful it is until I watch it. Dianne Wiest as the mother– I mean, come on– genius!

9. THE SHINING (1980)

Stanley Kubrick’s THE SHINING (1980) may not seem like a Christmas movie to you but it meets our requirements: family, snow, well wishes… What is more endearing than the love of a father who allows his family to vacation at an incredible resort while he works? Sure he’s going to cut them up into little bits, but it’s not like it’s going to hurt. His love will go on forever, and ever, and ever…

10. CRONOS (1993)

Guillermo Del Toro is a master of monsters and CRONOS (1993) is no exception. It brings a 600-year-old monster to the surface in an incredible visionary dance. As always, Del Toro combines the macabre and dark with a childlike wonder that is delicious for Halloween and magical enough for Christmas. Just watch it and let us know what you decide.

There are many other wickedly horrific Christmas-centered movies that we sadly could not fit on this list. What’s your favorite? Let us know below or give us a shout out on social media! @Blastftp

Why We Love NECA’s 8-Bit Video Game Figure Line

NECA’s 8-Bit Video Game Figure Line hits so many of our joy buttons. They are retro, nostalgic, but modern and so rad. Honestly, I want them all. We currently have several of these action figures in store along with our other collectibles from NECA. For those that we don’t currently have– like the Jason Voorhees V. 1, which was an SDCC exclusive years back– we are always on the lookout to swipe them up. So, it’s always good to keep a pulse on our store for that special item you’re looking for! Here’s a highlight of 5 of our favorite 8-Bit Video Game Figures from NECA’s line.

#1. Batman

Flying in at #1 and standing 7″ tall is Batman! Based on the 1989 NES Game following the Michael Keaton BATMAN (1989), this dark knight brings all that 80s-awesomeness from the side-scrolling game that we absolutely love. He’ll have you saying, “POW! BAM! BANG!” all-day-long no matter your age.

 

#2. Mohawk

He’s up to no good in your neighborhood, it’s Mohawk from the GREMLINS 2: A NEW BATCH (1990) NES Video Game! He wreaks havoc at 7″ tall and is painted to replicate the game’s pixelated look. This one we definitely recommend getting wet and feeding after midnight.

 

#3. RoboCop

Call him Murphy. He’s here in his 8-Bit blues to serve the public trust, defend the innocent, and uphold the law while being totally tubular. He’s part man, part machine, and all heart. Yes, please!

 

 

#4. Godzilla

Stomping in above 6″ tall and nearly 12″ long from head to toe, Godzilla is rockin’ his 1980’s look. His paint deco is a throwback to the pixelated look from the 1988 classic video game. RAWR hell yasss! This guy is going to fight all my action figures.

 

#5. Freddy Krueger

The man of our dreams, Freddy Krueger, looks amazingly killer in his classic video game colors. He’s fully articulated like the other action figures in this line and even comes with his dashing smile. It’s prime time!

 

 

 

NECA’s 8-Bit Video Game Figures Line makes me so happy I think I may break out the NES, grab some Tab and Pixie Stix, sit curled up surrounded by these action figures, and live my best narly vintage life. Who’s totally boss? NECA.

Stay groovy friends!

8-Bit Diane

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Give us a call at 818-557-7724 or Email us at blastfromthepastinc@yahoo.com to learn more about what NECA figures we have in store. You can also hit us up on Facebook at www.facebook.com/blastfromthepastinc, Instagram @Blastftp, or on Twitter @BlastFTP.

4 Fun Ways to Pass Time During a Pandemic

Normally this would be a fun doomsday prep-type blog, but seeing how the current climate has shifted, we thought the following would be even more useful.  If you are planning to hunker down for awhile we’ve got some great ideas on how to pass the time!  After all, let’s face it, there’s only so much of the Marvel’s movie/tv line we can binge watch straight.  I love the movies, don’t get me wrong, but a break is in order every now and then.  Am I right?  Here are 4 Fun Ways to Pass Time During a Pandemic!

Puzzle The Time Away

Puzzles — classic and timeless.  They are fun for the whole family and they are a wonderful way to pass the time.  If you’ve ever wanted to start your own Youtube Channel, you can show your mad puzzle skills and get tons of viewers.  I only know this because of babysitting.  I.  Am.  Amazed.  On what is out there.  We also have puzzles for just about anyone: DC and Marvel-folk, Jim Henson fans, Lunchbox fans, music fans, the list goes on!  You can have a contest and time to see who has the best puzzle-fitting score, or when you finish, throw some glue on that puppy, throw it in a frame, and voila instant wall art!

Get Comical

Stash-up on comics!  Comics are an excellent way to pass the time!  Endless story options, endless adventures, you might even get an idea for a project or find your next hairdo by reading one.  Even better yet, you won’t get a headache from staring at a screen all day.  That might make me sound old, but trust me… it happens.

CDeese CDs

For a lot of us, you know what I’m talking about when I say CDs, but just in case you don’t, I’m talking about compact discs… they play music or just about anything.  Rewind it back to the time of CDs and pass the hours by listening to some amazing movie scores!  We carry older movie/tv soundtracks but we also carry more relevant ones too!  So no matter your taste, you’ll be sure to find several that will transform you into another world from your very own living room.  CDs also ship really easily if you are putting together a care package for someone!

Bring the Arcade to You

Why not bring something home that’s new-to-you and oh-so-cool-old-school?  This Sears Video Arcade II which is Atari compatible is sure to give you a nice break from your usual console.  It comes with 23 games, 2 joysticks, and 2 controllers.  The games include E.T. The Extraterrestrial, Ms. Pac-Man, and Space Invaders!  There’s nothing quite like playing those games on a system they were meant to be played on, it just brings a sense of peace.

Do you agree or disagree on this list?  What other ways do you like to pass the time?  Let us know!  Make sure to also follow us on instagram @blastftp and facebook for other fun ideas, products, and pop-culture deliciousness.

Stay safe out there!

Your Pals at Blast From the Past