Fantasy & Science Fiction #753, January/February 2021

 

Sexy! Scorpio Vixen

Who would ever thought that creepy could be cute?

Bleeding Edge proves that bizarre can be beautiful with its Goth series of figures.

Series Three’s Scorpio Vixen is a velvet clad cutie that is creepy, curvaceous, cuddly and cute.

Let’s talk about the packaging first.

What impressed me about the packaging is that the clear front Goths box is protected by a plastic bag.  It keeps the box from getting scuffed and damaged since it is made mostly of plastic.  

The 12-inch figure is secured in place with black wires and stands against a background of white skull shapes against black. A large Series 3 Scorpio Vixen logo strip decorates the upper left corner.  

On the back of the box are pictures of other figures in the series along with a brief description of the inspiration for Series 3.

The dainty, articulated figure is a real cutie.

Her face has a large cranium, large blue eyes, with black eyebrows and slight red ring running around the edge of each eye.

Scorpio Vixen’s nose is small and pointed (much like an Anime figure) and her ruby lips are slightly pursed and pierced by two silver rings on her lower lip.

Her complexion is light and she had red and black hair tied up in two ponytails on each side of her head.  Black blows hold her ponytails in place. Two strands fall on either side of her head.

She wears a wide black cloth necklace with a silver cross and has pierced ears with silver rings.

Her cloths consist of a low neckline velvet dress in black and red.  

A red bodice with criss-crossing black strings secured by several metal rings covers her chest.  Her mostly solid blouse flares at the elbows into large billowing red cloth.

Her skirt opens at the front just below her waist and falls down to her ankles.  

She wears black and white strip leotards that end at her knees.

Large black knee boots with several straps makeup her outfit.

Her hands are small and dainty with red fingernails.

It’s a lovely figure, well-crafted, nicely attired and very petite.  Color application is tight with nice tonal variations.  Construction of the figure is excelent especially the choice and use of cloth.

Scary! Weird Suspense Featuring The Tarantula #1

What better way to sell comic books than by emulating already best-selling titles from a competitor?

And that’s just what Atlas Comics did when it premiered Weird Suspense Featuring The Tarantula.  

The name may be slightly different and even the storyline a departure but The Tarantula took advantage of the comic book community's love of Marvel Comics’ Spider-Man.

After all, what is a Tarantula? A spider of course!

The story premise is that several hundreds of years ago a village is terrorized by a spider-tarantula witch/queen.

She and her giant tarantulas killed, devoured or transformed villagers into tarantulas.  The local baron decides to take action and disguises himself as one of the spiders.

He follows the witch and discovers her whereabouts.  Along with the villagers he captures her, kills her spider legion and burns her at the stake.

As she dies she places a curse on the baron: the curse of the tarantula.  Both he and his descendants will transform into bloodthirsty tarantulas.

Modern day: a group of inmates escape from a nearby prison.  They spot a lone house in the woods and decide to hide out there.  Bad decision!

The house belongs to the currant Tarantula cursed baron.  Upon their arrival he transforms into Tarantula and stalks them and eventually trapps them in his web and devours them.

The Tarantula was sort of a Punisher/Dracula/Spider-Man combination.  It was a unique idea, but unfortunately didn’t fly and like the other Atlas titles ceased publication in less than a year.

Avengers Anniversary, Spider-Man Ultimate and Spider-Man Beginnings

Talk about perfect timing.  About two weeks ago In The Book contacted me about their In The Book series.

I took a look at their line of books and I requested three titles: one about Marvel Comics Avengers and two about Spider-Man.

They arrived today just in time for my birthday!  Happy birthday to me!

I wasn’t sure what to expect but I have to say I was pleasantly surprised by the products-they are gorgeous, extremely well-crafted and designed and best of all they're inscribed to me!  It says so on the covers and inner pages.

What a great gift idea!  Boy and gilds will love having personalized books sent to them.  Visit In The Book website for full set details. 

Not only are there Marvel themed books offered but also Disney, classics, pick a character and more.  There's even a section for adults!

Marvel Studios The First Ten Years The Avengers Anniversary Collection

Just like the superhero team of The Avengers this book is big, bold, unique and definitely makes a statement.

The book arrives in a big solid black flat box with the name MARVEL emblazoned on its cover in red foil.

The large oversize hardbound book looks similar on its cover with both MARVEL and the book’s titles printed in red and gold foil.

Inside the book retells The Avengers individual and group stories as seen in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

Large full-color illustrations accompany the text that is written for kids.  Smaller full color illustrations are included inserted in the text itself.

Not only are there great stories but exciting art to look at while kids read along.

It’s an oversized, personalized Marvel masterpiece that kids and parents will love.

The book is made of heavy paper stock for both the cover and interior pages.  It’s rugged binding makes it the perfect book for any rough and tumble kid.

Spider-Man The Ultimate Collection

Like the Avengers book the Spider-Man The Ultimate Collection features the same type of box and logo.  The book’s cover is red with black spider webbing and the book’s title is printed in gold foil.  

Inside are several Spider-Man tales, including his origin.  All are accompanied by full color and insert illustrations especially tailored for kids.

Look for tales about Spider-Man, The Lizard, Mysterio any more.  The rugged oversize book will be a wannabe Webslinger’s prized possession.

Spider-Man Beginnings

For young kids be sure to check out Signature’s Spider-Man Beginnings, a downsized and boxed book all about the origin of Spider-Man, his friends, foes and adventures.

Packaged in a ‘Just For You’ white box with the text in silver foil the book is a small hardbound with a full color illustration of Spidey on its front.

Look for lots of flashy full color illustrations accompanying the simplified text just for small children.

All three books make perfect gifts for children and big kids (like myself) who love Marvel Comic Books.  Happy birthday to me!

The Art Of Vintage DC Comics and The Art Of Vintage Marvel Comics 100 Postcards

Ask any comic book collector and they will tell you there are certain comic book covers over the past decades that are classics.

When it comes to DC and Marvel Comic Books not only are they vintage covers but many of the comic books also include key events in come book history.

Several years ago Chronicle Books published two 100 Postcards collections: The Art Of Vintage DC Comics and The Art Of Vintage Marvel Comics.

Mail the postcards, keep them in their respective flip-lid heavy paper stock boxes with separator ribbons or take the out and display them.

Here’s a suggestion-take all one hundred cards in each set and mount them on separate DC and Marvel backing boards.

Then frame them! Talk about a cool wall decoration!

Both collections feature full color cover illustrations from the Golden Age to modern times from their respective companies.

Flipping through the postcards is like taking a trip through time.  Serious comic books fans are sure to salivate over the covers of comic books they wish they had.

Think of them as wishful thinking packaged in small square boxes with flip lids.

War Is Hell! U.S. Infantry, A.E.F.

When the United States entered World War 1 in Europe it’s military had never taken part in a major foreign war.  While the U.S. Army was modernizing it was woefully lacking in modern equipment and sufficient training.

While the American ‘Doughboys’ received basic training it wasn’t until they arrived in Europe and the English and French trained them that they became viable and competent combatants.

Sideshow Collectibles, as part of its Series Seven Bayonets & Barbed Wire collection of 12-inch action figures, recreated one of the Doughboy U.S. Infantryman, A.E.F. (American Expeditionary Forces).

The flip lid box the figure comes in features a WWI Buy Liberty Bonds poster on its cover with a full description of the soldier, the war campaign and other historical facts on the back.

The special lid has an inside plastic cocoon that extrudes out from the lid.  It holds a plethora of equipment and weapons.

The figures itself and other accessories are in an inset plastic cocoon with a plastic cover sheet protecting the figure and accessories.

When closed the lid fits snuggly into the recessed figure cocoon.

The figure itself is full articulated with hands positioned to hold weapons and equipment.

Articulation points are in all the joints, neck and torso.  No stand is necessary because the figure can stand posed without any aid.

The face of the figure is expertly sculpted with special attention given to the features.  The eyes have a reflective spot on each giving them a moist look.

The nose is strong and straight, the jaw line heavy and the figure’s forehead is high with deep eye sockets.  The hair is close cropped as befitting a soldier.

Lots of weapons and accessories come with the figure.  I’ve listed them below with comments.

M1917 Helmet: It fits snuggly on the figure’s head and is held in place by a chinstrap.

US Army Tunic with Collar Discs: Fits loosely to the figure’s chest and arms. Consists of four large pockets with small button, five buttons down the front and two buttons on the sides of the collar.  The olive colored Tunic is stitched to scale and moves easily with the figure.

US Army Breeches: The Breeches flare at the sides of the thigh and end just below the knees.  They are olive green and have extra reinforcement at the knees.   

US Army Puttees: A slightly lighter green, The Puttees consist of wraparound cloth from the knees to the ankles.

Boots: The heavy, brown, leather half Boots have heavy soles and are laced.

1910 Haversack: The forerunner to the Knapsack, the tan Haversack consists of upper and lower pouches with flaps and button latches.  It has  several ‘belts’ with buckles, shoulder straps, a waist strap and open pouches for supplies and tie downs for various equipment and weapons.

M1910 Shovel and Cover: The deep green Shovel is all one piece consisting of the spade end, shaft and open handle.  The Cover is light brown and slips over the shovel.

SBR Gas Mask and Bag: The Gas Mask is a light tan, has twin lens with black retaining rings and straps for securing over the Infantryman’s head.  Like the Mask the Bag is tan with a fold over flap and secure cloth rings to attach to the Haversack.

US Cartridge Belt: It consists of 10 pouches with flaps and buttons split into two groups of five.  A heavily wove fabric belt connects the two groups and also has a black Belt buckle. Black metal loops secure the Belt in place.

US Canteen: The Canteen comes in an olive canvas bag with two flaps secured by buttons.  The bag is emblazoned with a large black U.S.  The Canteen removes easily from its pouch.

Medical Kit: A small black striated box, the Medical Kit attaches to the Haversack.
 
US Mess Tin: Silver in color the metal Mess Kit has a long single strip of metal that snaps in place securing both sides of the Mess Kit.

Us Mess Fork, Spoon and Knife: All are silver metal and are in scale.

US Trench Knife: The Knife has a large brown handle with finger grips and pommel that wraps over the hand.  It has a long thin blade with blood groves and comes with a sturdy green Scabbard.

US Springfield Rifle with Working Bolt: Made mostly of deep brown wood the Rifle has a working Bolt, Bayonet attachment and a heavy trigger and loops for attaching a shoulder strap.

Springfield Bayonet and Scabbard: The Bayonet is long with a short black handle and rifle attachment and it is secured in a long Scabbard with a black tip.

Ammo Bandoleer with Bullet Clips: The Bandoleer is a light tan and five rounds of five Bullets make up the ammo.

All of the weapons and accessories are historically accurate in their details, are finely crafted and scaled and attach to both the soldier and the haversack.

The entire package, including the figure and accessories and weapon, makes up an impressive 1/6th Scale military figure.

Look What's New! Diamond Previews, February 2021

 

Feline Fury! Marvel Comics’ Tigra

Marvel’s Were-Woman: Tigra has gone through a lot of changes over the decades but I like her earliest appearances the best-in particulate two.

Coincidentally both appearances are draw by John Byrne.

John has a real knack for taking a classic character and making it his own.  In Tigra’s case her early appearances penciled by Byrne carry that distinct Byrne look.

To start off her hair is curly, unlike her other appearances by other artists. and she definitely more catlike in her poses and moves as befits her feline nature

Byrne would later go on to completely redefine her in the pages of The West Coast Avengers.

In 1976, not long after he moved from Charlton Comics to Marvel Comics, John drew a single issue of Marvel Chillers: #6, that featured Tigra The Were-Woman and Marvel’s latest Native American superhero: Red Wolf.

While John did not draw the cover he did pencil the interior with inks by Frank Springer.

Much of John’s earlier style is present in the story although there are hints of his well-known and established style asserting themselves.

It’s a good story and Byrne does a competent job.  Still it’s obvious in his art the Neal Adams influence and while his page layouts are adequate the dynamic nature of his later work is lacking.

Also the intricate detail he is now known for was partially lacking as much of the backgrounds are more filler than pivotal to the story.

One year later when John teamed with writer Chris Claremont on Marvel Team-up #67 John’s art had vastly improved, aided by Dave Hunt’s inks.

His page layouts are much more dynamic and his attention to detail has really improved.

By this time Byrne’s signature style has almost full asserted itself.

It shows with his renditions of Spider-Man, Kraven The Hunter and especially Tigra.  

It easy to see why John was chosen to pencil the Uncanny X-Man after Dave Cockrum’s departure.

Both comics can be purchased in mint condition for around $5 t $10 each.

Creativity, No Way Out, Harley-Davidson, Armored Vehicles and Streamlined

Schiffer Publishing graciously provided five new book titles for me to review.  As with all of their books they are finely printed, bound and presented with or without jackets.  

The highest quality papers, eye-popping photographs and art distinguish Schiffer’s books.  If you are a historian or collector I highly recommend all of their books.  

The Creativity Oracle

As a Christian I don't hold much stock with magic.  I do, however appreciate common sense and the application there of.  

While I do not believe in magic, fortune telling or the like I do respect those people who have different views than myself.  I disagree with them on their assumptions.

I firmly believe God loves them just as much as he does me and he wants to see them successful, happy and fulfilled lives through his saving grace.

Amy Zerner and Monte Farber have compiled The Creativity Oracle: Visions Of Enchantment To Guide & Inspire Magic Makers.

Basically a resource for the reading of cards the book does offer some sage advice when it comes to living life day-to-day.

Beautifully designed and packaged the square-bound box with its magnetic flap houses a book and a stack of beautifully illustrated cards.  

The book delves into the authors’ beliefs and the cards contain short phrases that encourage creativity and living life in peace and harmony.

As I stated I don’t believe in magic, but as a creative guide the cards offer some good day-to-day advice.

No Way Out

The time: the midst of World War II.  The mission: the aircraft “Lady Be Good” a B-24 Liberator aircraft, was sent out on her first combat mission.

She was flown out from the Northern Coast of Libya to bomb the port of Naples, Italy.

She never returned.  Fifteen years later she was discovered 500 miles in the dessert of Libya by an oil exploration team.  The team was missing with no sign of their bodies.  A short time later remains of some of the crew was discovered.

No Way Out, by author Steven R. Whitby, tells the untold story of the B-24 “Lady Be Good” and her crew.

The book delves into the mission of the aircraft, its crew and the war.  Interviews with ground personnel, witnesses and others are complemented by archival black and white and color photos of the aircraft crash site, the bodies and crew.

It’s a haunting examination of one of the world’s most mysterious aircraft crashes and recovery.

Harley-Davidson Legends

Authors Dieter Rebmann, Horst Rosler and Frank Sander examine 35 classic Harley-Davidson motorcycles in chronological order.

For over 100 years the Milwaukee based Harley-Davidson Company has turned out and created what many consider the greatest motorcycles in the world.

The authors offer insights into each of the 35 models including striking full color photos of the entire bikes along with close-up shots of their parts and components.

Full engine and body specs are included.  I’ve never owned a motorcycle but if I did my first choice would be Harley-Davidson.  The brand is a classic and sets the benchmark for all motorcycles to follow.

If you love motorcycles-especially Harleys, then you’re sure to love Harley-Davidson Legends.  Rev up you engines and hit the highway on 35 classic models.

Armored Vehicles Of The German Army 1905-1945

I’ve said it before and it bears repeating.  Like the German military or not, the German Army during the first half of the 20th Century turned out some of them most impressive military vehicles and hardware imaginable.

Innovative, rugged, and revolutionary the German Army’s Armored Vehicles were vastly superior to any opposing army's

The Spielberger German Armor and Military Vehicle Series (with author Walter J. Spielberger) proudly present Armored Vehicles Of The German Army 1905-1945.

Quoting Darth Vader, “Impressive, most impressive!”

Absolutely amazing comes to mind.  The book is filed with archival photos and art of the aforementioned time period Armored Vehicles.

Full historical and spec information is included with each vehicle along with marking guides, schematics and other technical info World War II historians and war buffs thrive on.

The book offers a reminder of just how sophisticated the German Army was during the early 20th century.  Is it any wonder their enemies were both held both respect and fear of their capabilities?

Streamlined Classic Cars Of The 20th Century

There are cars and then there are classic cars. Authors Malte Jurgens and Michel Zumbrunn have assembled a striking gallery of photographs of 25 of the most classic cars of the 20th Century.

Streamlined is a classic unto itself.  Slipcased with a thick hardbound book inside both the slipcase and sleeve feature full color shots of classic cars.

Inside huge two-page or single-page color photos are complemented by fascinating text about the history and specs of each vehicle.

The entire package is a visual showcase of some of the most beautifully designed and manufactured automobiles from around the world.

Like the cars themselves the book is a classic addition to any car fan’s library.

Satire Humor: MAD

MAD was first introduced to readers as a comic book courtesy of EC Comics in the early 1950s.

Headed and owned by William Gaines JR., EC Comics (Educational Comics) started out as a small comic book publisher as part of William’s father’s huge publishing empire.

William Gaines Jr. was given the task of running EC Comics by his father.

Throwing convention aside Gaines decided to try a daring approach and completely changed the face of EC Comics.

Originally a publisher of biblical comic books and mundane unforgettable titles Gaines incorporated his love of fantasy, science fiction and other story genre into his books.

Before long EC Comics was producing some of the best comic books in the business that were created, written and illustrated by top talent.

EC Comics are highly prized by collectors.

Gaines believed in treating his creators well and paid higher page rates than most publishers.

Befitting his rebellious strike against comic book standards Gaines agreed to produce a humor comic book.

There had been many funny comic books produced over the years but MAD took a different approach: cynical, controversial and cutting edge.

In 1986 Russ Cockran, Publisher, decided to compile the early issues of Tales Calculated To Drive You MAD, into bound hard cover collections comprised of several MAD comic books each including reproductions of the original covers and ads.

The first of these: Volume 1, contains the fist six issues of MAD all reproduced in full color.

What’s important to remember that EC Comics pushed societal norms.

It was the age of mom's apple pie, the girl next door and America right or wrong.  Morals were predominately Judeo/Christian and with traditional family values: dad worked and mom stayed at home with kids.  No one questioned authority and any ‘deviant’ behavior was considered taboo.

It was during that period that TV and ’rock and roll’ music were huge influences that challenged American values and helped shape an entire generation.

There was a true generation gap where Baby Boomers and their parents often bumped heads.

EC comics touched upon disturbing themes such as death, horror, science fiction, war and the occult.

The MAD comic book not only was funny, it also threw conventional American norms back into society’s face with satirical jabs and pointed observations.

It was totally unique and because of its context and content often rubbed the wrong people the wrong way.

Mild by today’s standard of satire MAD was considered edgy and controversial in some circles.

The book contains classic ads for other EC comics, MAD Mumblings, creator commentaries, prose stories and classic tales such as Superduperman, Melvin! of the Apes, Robin Hood! and many more.

It’s a fascinating collection of classic MADness as originally presented all wrapped up in colorful hand bound book.

TV Classic Series: The Secrets Of The M.A.S.H Mess and The Beverly Hillbillies

The Secrets Of The M.A.S.H Mess

Whenever the classic TV series M.A.S.H is mentioned certain characters always come to mind: Hot Lips, Hawkeye, B.J. Trapper John, Radar-you know the names.

But there is one more individual who deserves to be on that impressive list.  For, after all if were not for him none of them would survived long.  

I'm talking about Igor, the private responsible for the M.A.S.H 4077’s prepared repast.  You know-food, grub or in Igor’s case questionable vittles.

For nine years actor Jeff Maxwell portrayed the often taken for granted, lambasted and looked down upon chef who somehow day after day managed to make palatable food unpalatable.

His food preparation was like a thing from one of layers of Dante’s Inferno.  Who else could take fresh eggs and make them taste like scramble powered eggs ormake bacon indistinguishable from lettuce?

In Secrets Of The M.A.S.H Mess The Lost Recipes Of Private Igor, published by Cumberland House Publishing, Igor himself (actor Jeff Maxwell) has compiled a culinary cornucopia of recipes sure to stir the hearts (and stomachs) of those that partake in them.

Actually the book contains some excellent recipes renamed after certain members of M.A.S.H, military personnel, equipment and locations and events.

Filled with never or seldom seen photos from both behind and front of the camera and sprinkled with anecdotes and comments by cast and crew members the book is a delightful menu of M.A.S.H moments and memories.

The Beverly Hillbillies

It was a more innocent time.  America had just come out the 1950s and many of the norms and traditions of that time had yet to be seriously challenged.

America’s role in the Vietnam War was in its early stages. John Kennedy was president, the economy was still strong and the traditional family structure and values of mom, dad and kids were still in vogue.

Television was just starting to take on some challenging subjects with shows like The Twilight Zone, several war and detective series and smattering of ‘relevant’ series.

Mostly silly half-hour sitcoms ruled with variety shows, westerns, detective, crime and family shows flourishing.

In 1961 America was growing up-or so TV executive thought.  CBS, NBC and ABC all attempted to up the quality of their shows and make them more sophisticated.  Quite frankly America was taking itself too seriously.

Out of the blue producer Paul Henning sprung a new TV show on the viewing public.  Released by CBS the series revolved around a backwoods Ozark family who became fabulously wealthy when their patriarch struck oil while out hunting.

They moved to more swanky digs and surroundings at the urging oaf their tightwad banker and found themselves in the entertainment capital of the world: Hollywood, California.

I am of course referring to the hit TV comedy sitcom: The Beverly Hillbillies.

While CBS TV executives and critics held little hope that the series would survive because of its hayseed humor they could not have been more wrong.

The Beverly Hillbillies became a huge hit raking in the Top 10 TV shows its entire run.  It was so popular that it launched a number of spin-offs that also became popular for much the same reasons-good old fashioned homespun and heartfelt humor.

Like fish out of water The Beverly Hillbillies (comprised of Jed, Granny, Ellie May Clampett and Jethro Bodine) lived their simple and humble lives among the rush and hubbub of high society and somehow kept their innocence and innocence.

The series never looked down on the Clampett family, just the opposite in fact.  Writers took aim at today’s society with all its quirks, materialism and rush, rush, rush.

The Beverly Hillbillies A Fortieth Anniversary Wing-Ding (Revised and Expanded), written by Stephen Cox and published by Cumberland House Publishing, takes a loving look at the series with plenty of photos (both in production and behind the scenes), commentaries by the stars, production staff, writers and producers and even some guest stars.

The book looks at the careers of the stars, their lives before and after the Hillbillies series and there’s a complete episode guide for all nine seasons.

Sadly when CBS TV executives decided to go for ‘mature’ comedies The Beverly Hillbillies got the axe even though it was still a top rated show.

Both my mother and I loved watching the show along with its offshoot series Green Acres and Petticoat Junction.

The Beverly Hillbillies is as popular today in reruns as it was when it was on network TV.

Wolverine Fights Back: Marvel Comics: The Uncanny X-Men #132

Of his over 40 years of existence in Marvel Comics there is one moment that in my mind that defines Wolverine.

During the Dave Cockrum/John Byrne early run on Uncanny X-Men both pencillers and writer Chris Claremont slowly developed Wolverine’s character.

It was John Byrne who popularized the character, making him the feral beast known and loved by millions today.

Wolverine was Byrne’s favorite X-Men and it showed in the way he drew the character.

The Uncanny X-Men issue #132 is special for several reasons:

Nightcrawler and Wolverine really mesh as a team when they infiltrate the Hellfire Club, the inner circle of the Club reveal their mutant powers and Jean Grey transforms into the Black Queen and takes out the X-Men.

But, to me, the most important development in the story involves Wolverine.

Issue #132 really spotlights just how vicious and cunning he is.

When faced against almost insurmountable odds Wolverine fights on, despite the danger.  His loyalty to his fellow X-Men shines through.

What really shines out in this issue is the very last penal.  In it Wolverine has been plunged into the sewer systems beneath the club.  He manages to grab onto a water line and drag himself out of the water waist deep.

He turns with claws extended and glares straight at the reader and says these famous words, “OK suckers--you’ve taken your best shot!  Now it’s my turn!”

That moment defines Wolverine like no other and that single panel has become a classic scene known by fans all over the world.

At that instant Wolverine is clearly defined as the type of person and mutant he is.  It’s both enlightening and frightening at the same time.  Instant classic!

100 Dream Cars The Best Of My Ride

I was born and raised in the small town of Milford, Michigan just stone’s throw away from Detroit, Michigan: the car capital of the world-at least at that time.

My entire family worked for the auto industry (I was the only exception). My oldest brother Jim and Rich the youngest brother next to me worked in factories that produced car components.

My second oldest brother Dallas was an engineer at Pontiac Motors, a division of GM Motors.

We all loved cars, especially Dallas.  I knew nothing about how to work on a car, but I did appreciate the beauty of the design of each-maybe that’s why I became a graphic designer.

Milford was the home of the GM Proving Grounds.  I was not uncommon to see futuristic prototypes on the track and sometime cruising though Milford.

Of all the cars I saw growing up I always dreamed of owning was a 1957 Ford Thunderbird.  I still do.

In 100 Dream Cars The Best Of My Ride, written by A.J. Baime, with a foreword by Mario Andretti and published by Rizzoli, owners of classic cars (and other mechanized transportation) tell their stories and showcase their dream cars, etc, that they own.

What makes this oversize hardbound and jacketed book especially enjoyable is the huge gallery of color photos-not just of vintage pricey cars but common cars as well.

Inside readers get to read about and see trucks, scooters, motorcycles, military vehicles, race cars, formula 1 Cars, domestic and foreign cars and even miniature racetrack cars and cars made for a specific purpose-such as for a disabled person.

What an amazing gallery of automobiles and transportation filled with close-up shots, interiors, exteriors and full body shots-many in their environment they are best suited for.

If you love cars that ordinary people own, along with the rich and famous, this book is cornucopia of four wheel-mechanized magic.

Mechanized Warfare: Sherman Tank

I’m a war buff.  My favorite war as far as weapons go is World War II.  Both the Allied and Axis powers made enormous leaps when it came to weapons technology.

In 2006 Corgi Diecast produced a Corgi 50 Anniversary Limited Edition Celebrating Fifty Years M4A3E8 Sherman Medium Tank “Thunderbolt VII” Diecast with assist from Osprey Publishing.

Included with the Limited Edition Tank are a Presentation Plinth and a Sherman Tank Leaflet Anniversary Booklet.

The 1:50 Scale solid metal diecast Sherman Tank is cradled in a form-fitting plastic cocoon covered by a yellow cloth over an additional cocoon.

Underneath the double cocoons is a separate cocoon holding the creme white Plinth with a metal commemorative placard.

The entire assembly, including the tank, fits snug into a slip case box with an illustration of the tank on its front.

The tank has a working turret and tracks.  It is painted a standard military green with tank, supply pouches on its turret rear, tank rear, upper rear behind the turret and rear sides.

Two Thunderbolt VII decals decorate each side.

Additional details include front fender flaps, twin towing hookups, front and turret hatches, cannon, gas can, shovel, front mounted machine gun and gas cap, pry bars and more.

The tread assembly has ten wheels on each side along with three shock supports.

A large red strap holds the equipment and supply bags n place on its rear deck.

It is a remarkable reproduction of the Sherman tank bristling with details, precise and historically correct paint application and color and in additional a separate turret machine gun and tank antenna come in a small plastic bag.

Vivid-Pix's Restore Picture-Fix

Do you have a lot of old photographs, slides, documents or other printed material that is faded, hard to read or both?

You could spend hundreds, even thousands of dollars for sophisticated programs or pay some professional to fix them for you.

For just under $50 you can now buy a program for a PC or Mac that solves all of your problems.
 

Vivid Pix's Restore Picture-Fix is as easy to use as one, two, three.

Choose your category:

Faded Print of Slide
Badly Faded Print Or Slide
Digital Or Cell Phone Camera
Faded Document Or Text
No Image Correction Add Meta Data Only

I was able to import some old, faded family photos that I scanned along with some hard to read documents and with a few easy adjustments I was able to save them in repaired condition.

Color, black and white, sepia-whatever the format-Vivid-Pix's Restore Picture-Fix can fix it.

You can even change a color photo to black and white or sepia and rotate them!  

View the corrected or original or both on your screen.  Save the original and the corrected one. Select or skip images, crop them free form or as a standard photo size and even set preferences.  

You can zoom in, sharpen and tweak your images using the easy to understand drop down menus.

Confused?  Visit https://www.vivid-pix.com/customer-support/tutorials.html for free tutorials.

I was a professional graphic designer for over 25 years and taught it for 11 years.  I used Photoshop to repair most of my old photos and it tended to be a long drawn out process.

Similar software offered little improvement.

But with Vivid-Pix's Restore Picture-Fix I can fix or repair photos and documents with ease in a variety of file formats.

What a great way to restore family photos, archival documents and other faded or discolored treasures.

I highly recommend Vivid-Pix Restore Picture-Fix. It’s easy to use, fun and inexpensive-what more could anyone ask for?

Monte Python's Sir Lancelot

One of the funniest movies ever made in the 1970s featured the comedy troupe Monty Python in the Medieval spoof Monty Python And The Holly Grail.

One of the key players was comedian John Cleese as Sir Lancelot.

Sideshow Toys (Collectibles) recreates Cleese who turned in a hilarious performance as the over-the-top knight of King Arthur's Round Table.

The 12-inch, fully articulated figure comes in a full view display box with the figure and accessories secured in a plastic cocoon.

John Cleese shined in the movie and in my opinion he had the best lines and delivered the most outrageous gags and over the top acting.  You could tell he was having, “a jolly good time!”

The face sculpt on the figure's face is a dead ringer for Cleese right down to his square jaw, long straight nose, mischievous eyes and dark and heavy eyebrows.

Sir Lancelot comes dressed in neck, shoulders, arms, legs and chain armor cleverly recreated in fabric.  Even his feet are covered. It really does look like armor.

He also wears solid cup elbow guards and brown leather gloves.

Lancelot's full body tunic drapes over his shoulders.  It has no sleeves.  The tunic is split vertically in gray and white with the crest of Arthur (a winged dragon) equally split on both sides.

A large belt with scabbard adorns Lancelot’s waist.  It covers a checker board pattern at his waist.

Lancelot also comes with a full body shield also split by gray and white and with the Arthur crest.

A longsword with a gold pommel and wide hand guard and a single arrow with a message tied to it complete Lancelot’s accessories.

  Detailing (as always) of the Sideshow figure is spot on with lots of flesh variation of tone, nicely fitted clothing and accurate and realistic looking weapons and accessories.

Snowpiercer Season 1 and Doom Patrol Season 2

Adapted from the poplar cult graphic novel and movie the Snowpiercer TV series by Warner Bros. has just had its first season released on Blu-ray/Digital Code.

Imagine the not too distant future.  The world has become a frozen wasteland.  The sole survivors now inhabit a train consisting of over a thousand cars.

 Different cars contain individual classes and types of people.

Just like on earth the train has class warfare, the have and have-nots, crime, politics and all the other failings of humanity.

The series examines the struggles, social injustice in a microcosm aboard a train that travels the world on a non-stop trip of survival.  It’s a powerful and thought-provoking examination of the human condition condensed in a mechanized microcosm of mankind.

Extras include several featurettes, a behind-the-scenes interview, the art of the series and much more.  All aboard!

If you’re a fan of the Grant Morrison take on DC Comics Doom Patrol you’re sure to love the Doom Patrol Complete Second Season on Blu-ray.

Join Negative Man, Robotman, Cyborg, Elasti-Woman and the newest team members Crazy Jane, Dorothy Spinner as they and their benefactor The Chief face off against their arch foe Mr. Nobody, enter an alternate world, fight monsters and confront odd, dangerous and outrageous threats.

It’s quirky, full of surprises, mind-blowing and a whole lot of fun.

Humor, pathos and tragedy abound in one of the most unusual TV series ever to be broadcast.  

I’m a huge fan of the original Doom Patrol and absolutely love Grant Morrison’s take on the strangest team of all.

Extras include two featurettes and a few surprises.

Both Doom Patrol and Snowpiercer offer hours of entertainment, thrills, chills and the unexpected.

Batman Soul Of The Dragon

The latest DC Universe animated movie released by Warner Bros. has just been released in a 4K Ultra HD/Blu-ray/Digital Code Combo Pack

It also includes several special extras such as featurettes, a sneak peak at the next DC Animated film plus two bonus cartoons.

Taking place in the Elseworld alternate universe of the 1970s Batman Soul Of The Dragon looks at the past of Bruce Wayne and part of his training in martial arts along with Richard Dragon, Ben Turner and Lady Shiva.

Years later the old friends reunite when Richard Dragon contacts them to fight the evil forces of the Cobra Cult headed Jeffrey Burr.

It’s the Caped Crusader teamed up with some of the world’s masters of martial art in the ultimate battle of good versus evil that pays homage to some of the martial arts movies of the ‘70s.

It features lots of action, plenty of intrigue and even boasts a ‘70s type soundtrack.  The voice cast is excellent and as the story unfolds the characters' motivations and individual personalities shrine through.

This animated film is rated R for some strong language and violence.

Comic Book Master: The Art Of Ditko

Mention the name Steve Ditko and most comic book readers immediately associate him with his two most famous co-creations: Spider-Man and Doctor Strange.

Ditko had a long and successful career in the comic book industry.  Just of few of his creations include The Questions, Captain Atom, Hawk and Dove, The Creeper, Speedball, The Blue Beetle, Mr. A and many more.

In The Art Of Ditko, by Craig Yoe and published by IDW, readers get to see some of Ditko’s early work.

Steve Ditko got his start in comic books in the early 1950s.

Ditko had the uncanny knack for making the most mundane things seem creepy.  His human characters seemed to conceal secrets beneath their demeanor despite the circumstances.

As his talent grew Ditko tackled every conceivable genre of cartooning from mysteries to monsters.

But, it was his tales of the unusual, unexplainable, horror and science fiction that really set his art apart from other artists.

There was something unsettling about his drawings-almost sinister-hidden in the shadows.

Long before he drew Spider-Man or Doctor Strange or other mainstream characters Ditko had garnered the reputation as a fast, creative and dependable artist.

As with most young artists Ditko’s style developed over time.  Examining the stories in the book readers can identify his learning process.

There are some awkward panels and it’s easy to spot where he struggled to draw a figure correctly.

But as his work load increased and he drew more stories the economy of his line work, the use of dark areas to convey a dark mood and his ability to draw faces that often looked haunted and troubled soon differentiated his work from other artists.

It’s been said by many comic books artists, “No one can draw like Ditko!”

The huge hardbound book features a disturbing drawing of robot man’s head on the cover and spider web illustration on the back.

Stan lee provides the introduction.

Archival comic book tales in full color range from the bizarre to fantasy, sci-fi and horror.  Classic comic book covers spanning Ditko’s long career are also included.

It’s interesting to see how Ditko’s unusual style evolved over the years.  His range as an artist was second to none and his ability to draw readers in with his unusual and sometimes disturbing images is as powerful today as the day he drew each story.

The Art Of Ditko is more than an examination of an artist's career it is the dissection of a phenomenon.

Marvel Comics: Fantastic Four Special Edition and Roast

My first exposure to the Marvel Age of comic books was with the first issues of The Fantastic Four.

I bought issue #1 off a newsstand in 1961 when I was eight years old.  The price tag was ten cents.  I rolled it up, put it in my back pocket, took it home and read it.  

Shutter the thought!  Comic book collectors just let out a collective, “AAARRRGGGHHH!”

Up until that time I had only read DC, Harvey, Gold Key and Archie comic books.

When I got a look at the Thing, Mr. Fantastic, The Invisible Girl and the Human Torch my adolescent mind was completely blown.

I was a die-hard FF fan after that point and I anxiously waited for the next issue to come out each month.  I was a disciple of the Lee/Kirby school of The Fantastic Four.

In the Special Edition Fantastic Four comic book from 1984 the classic Sub-Mariner versus the human race story is reprinted.

The issue also includes a brand new John Byrne cover and interior character pages.  It’s a great way to enjoy a classic tale for a fraction of the cost of purchasing the original issue with some new art is included to boot.

Cartoonist and writer Fred Hembeck presents The World’s Silliest Comic Magazine: Fantastic Four Roast.

Fred provided the layouts and top artistic talents of 1982 provided the pencils.  Look for work from John Byrne, Michael Golden, Terry Austin, Marshal Rodgers and many more.

Join the FF as they are roasted courtesy of every superhero in the Marvel Universe.  Of course the super bad guys try to muck up the celebration.

It’s a no-holds-barred, hi-jinx filled, hilarious honorarium of the superteam that started it all.  It’s Marvel Comics at its wackiest.
of all time lists and has partially inspired other authors in the creation of influential manga.

The Dark Crystal: Kira

Muppets creator Jim Henson never rested on his laurels.  He constantly pushed what puppets could do and be.

He pioneered multi-operator puppets, full body puppets worn by a performers and even electronic assisted puppets.

His imagination knew no bounds and his studio was known for its high quality work and craftsmanship.

Jim Henson and his staff not only created unique puppets but also incredible practical effects and groundbreaking film techniques.

In the early 1980s Jim Henson Productions created, produced and premiered their first, full-length, all puppet cast movie.

One of the key players in the movie was the Elfling Kira-a small, delicate but fiercely lay and strong female character that lived in a world populated by all sorts of unusual and terrifying creatures.

Sideshow Collectibles created two 12-inch figures based on the Henson film: The Dark Crystal: Kira being one of the two figures.

Upon opening the Sideshow flip lid box you immediately see the Kira figure.  Her clothing and sculpt really captures the delicate but strong persona of Kira as seen in the film.

Kira’s sculpt duplicate the look of the female Elfling to perfection and her gossamer clothing practically floats on her body.  A slight breeze causes the outfit to move and flutter.

The box is decorated with a reproduction of The Dark Crystal movie poster and a similar design theme runs around and in the box.  

Inside the flip open panel are the movie credits and on the opposite side Kira and her accessories are secured in a plastic cocoon with plastic strips and protected by a clear viewing panel.

Kira's head is slightly elongated with large blue eyes, a small flat nose, delicate red pursed lips, large pointed ears and a round face.

She has long blond hair, most of which lays down her back.  Two long pigtails drape over her chest in the front.  Each pigtail has a fabric tie at the end.

She wears a long light green dress with long sleeves.  Overlaying the dress is a slightly darker green, translucent, gossamer apron the opens in the front and drapes to the floor.  Long neck ties of the same material drape from her neck.

On the front of her dress, chest high, is a stitched raised pattern with several turquoise beads weaved into the fabric.  A similar raised fabric pattern is on her apron and the apron’s tie at the waist has several turquoise beads.

Loose strands of cloth from both the dress and vest hang at her waist.  She also wears a light brown cape with hood fastened at her neck.

Kira has long fingers on her pale hands and she has large bare feet of a similar complexion.  

The articulated figure comes with a base decorated with the The Dark Crystal logo along with a wire support.

Included with the figure is Kira’s fuzzy round pet.  It has a carapace face with small beady black eyes, a brown canine nose and a large mouth that swings open to reveal a large row of teeth.  Small feet peek out from underneath its fur.

It is a remarkable figure recreating one Jim Henson’s most recognizable movie figures.

Speed Duel Battle City Box

Have you ever wanted to start playing the Yu-Gi-Oh! Trading Card Game from Konami but weren't sure to start?  What do I need?  How many Cards or Decks do I need?

No need to worry, YGO’s Speed Duel Battle City Box is the perfect solution for new YGO gamers.  It also makes the perfect addition to veteran players YGO collection.

Just look at you get:

Allows up to 8 players.
A static pool of 200 cards to construct various popular strategies.
193 Cards are brand new.
Strategize as Teams or Card Pool.
Egyptian God Cards are included.
Look for other iconic characters.
Duel as some of you favorite YGO Anime characters.

Each Speed Duel: Battle City Box contains:

200 Commons
20 Skill Cards
8 (of 24) Secret Rares
4 Yugi Deluxe Game Mats
4 Kaiba Deluxe Game Mats

So what are you waiting for?  You’ve got the Cards and some friends.  Break out the Decks, invite your friends to play and get ready to Speed Duel!

Graphic Novel Collections: Are Reprints Collectible?

A fairly new phenomenon (the last ten years or so) has manifested itself in the comic book collecting and reading community.

Graphic Novel Collections (specifically soft and hardbound reprint collections) are very popular for a number of reasons.

Many comic book fans are holding off buying an entire series or storylines consisting of several issues of comic books.

Instead they purchase the Graphic Novel Collections that contain ‘entire’ storylines that they can read in one sitting.

Also, collectors of single-issue comics that have escalated in value are bagging and boarding their ‘first print’ comic books and opting to read the reprints when the to read them urge strikes.

It saves wear and tear on original expensive comic books, thus keeping collectors’ originals in better condition-thus keeping their value.

All these are good reasons to purchase Graphic Novel Collections.

What I don’t understand are those individuals who purchase such ‘collections’ and look at then as collections that will increase in value.

One, they are reprints (in most cases). Two, comic book shops, discount stores (such as Ollie’s) and major bookstore chains are discounting said Graphic Novel Collections.

The conclusion: the collections will never be worth much more than their cover price no matter how attractive or compelling they may appear.

If a comic book reader goes into collecting Graphic Novel Collections to safeguard their original issues or for reading entire storylines, by all means buy the collections.  Buy them to read and enjoy them and forget the value of the collections.

The value is in the reading them.  The money simply will not be there it the future.

Rog 2000 and The Destructor

The next two comic books I recommend any collector worth their salt should own include the introduction of a soon to be top talent and the return of a veteran penciller.

Way back in the early 1970s former Marvel Comics owner Martin Goodman felt slighted (for various reasons) that Marvel Comics had become so popular and profitable.

In hopes that he could recapture Marvel Comics’ success he decided to start his own comic book company called Atlas Comics (Marvel Comics’ former name).

He offered pencillers and writers better page rates and targeted top talent.

Needless to say many creative types jumped at the chance (and money).  One such penciller was former Spider-Man artist Steve Ditko.

Ditko had pretty much abandoned superhero comics after he left DC Comics.  To snag him for a monthly title was a real boon.

Unfortunately Atlas Comics floundered after barely a year. For too short a period Ditko penciled The Destructor with scripts by Archie Goodwin.

Recently it was announced Atlas Comics might become the inspiration for a whole new series of big-budget movies.

Charlton Comics was not known for its quality products.  It churned out huge amounts of books using the cheapest paper, second rate printing and lackluster covers.

However, one its strengths was that it introduced budding new talent to the comic book world.

While Charlton paid pitiful page rates it did offer creators to produce some unique titles with very little supervision.

In Charlton’s E-Man #6 a short back-up story about a smart-alecky robot premiered.

Drawn by a transplanted Canadian the wisecracking robot soon became a cult classic.

Penciling honors went to John Byrne-the same John Byrne who would go on to pencil some of Marvel’s top titles, including the X-Men, and over the following decades become one of the most famous and infamous comic book creators ever to write and draw a comic book,

Comic book collectors should search out and find his early Rog 2000 issues as they are sure to climb in value as well as the entire run of Atlas Comics.

Marvel Comics: Captain America and Guardians Of The Galaxy

I just scored a couple more books about comic books from Ollie‘s.  They are Captain America The Poster Collection and Guardians Of The Galaxy.

Insight Editions published both.

The Guardians Of The Galaxy were considered by many comic book lovers as a third-tier, offbeat super team from Marvel Comics.

Over several decades they would pop up as guest stars in various Marvel comic book titles.

It wasn’t until the 1990s that they received their own monthly comic book written and drawn by Jim Valentino.

As Marvel delved more into the universe with such characters as Captain Marvel. Thanos, The Eternals, etc. The Guardians became a more relevant team.

When Marvel Studios and Disney released The Guardians Of The Galaxy film both Marvel and Disney were unsure of its success.

Fortunately it was a big hit, spawned a sequel and since that time The Guardians have been a hot commodity.

Guardians Of The Galaxy Creating Marvel’s Spacefaring Heroes The Complete Comics History, by Marc Sumerak, travels from the genesis of the team to present day.

Filled with full color cover and interior comic book page reproductions the book follows the team’s evolution from a band of four individuals battling against an alien invasion force to the offbeat, quirky and mostly dysfunctional band of spacefarers who traverse the galaxy in search of adventure, profit and bad guys to thrash.

It’s an immense book that is jam-packed with historical information about the team complemented by lots o art, including variant covers.

Originally priced at $45 a copy can be bought at Ollie’s for $6.99.

It’s a red, white and blue extravaganza filled with images of the shield slinging Avenger.  

Captain America has been around since the 1940s.  The Sentinel of Justice has had his ups and downs as it concerns popularity.

The Captain America The Poster Collection contains 40 detachable posters featuring full color Captain America comic book covers.

The covers included images from Cap’s long history, many of which are classics.

Look for Steranko and Tales of Suspense covers, Cap's return during the Silver Age in The Avengers and much more.  A mere $2.99 gets you a copy.