6 Disney Animated Movies That Scream Summer

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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

4 Must-Read Comic Book Series 4 April

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As we know, April is the 4th month of the year which makes these 4 comic book series even more special. This time of year may make you think of several things: springtime, Easter, taxes… and that’s why when trying to pinpoint which comic book you should read next, we recommend these following 4 gems. 4 series 4 you to read in 4 of 2021, still following me here? Good. Then, read on.

4. Spring Break Wolverine

Now, this is a tricky one which is why it makes our #4 spot, but “Spring Break Wolverine,” a fan story by Jason Latour and Robbi Rodriquez released in 2012, hits our party time curiosity. It had a short run online and has since been pulled but the available pages make it an itch in my want-to-read-more cap. It is said that it was unsuitable for work, but with a premise like Wolverine finds himself accidentally in the thralls of kids partying during spring break I’m sold. If anyone knows where we can find a copy, please comment below or reach out to us on social media (links below).

3. Lenore

Hitting our #3 spot is Roman Dirge’s Lenore because it is to die for (pun intended). Lenore is the cute little dead girl who lives her life not fully aware of her surroundings which usually ends up in fatal accidents. It’s a series that’s been running since 1998 and it’s the cutest and most twisted thing… I love it. Why Lenore makes our April Comic Book Series List is because in one story she accidentally catches the Easter Bunny in a bear trap. Helping out, she dons a “bunny suit” and goes around delivering eggs to children… well, she tries at least. We will just say this is the friendly version of how this plot goes down, but the original is just as dark and lovely as one can imagine.

2. Superman

April is the time for the terrible T-word, taxes, and flying into our #2 spot of comic book series you should read in April is, yes, Superman. It seems odd at first, but Superman had at least 2 issues that rehashed a similar tale of Superman never paying his taxes and owing the IRS a billion dollars. Superman No. 114 released in July 1957 which featured the story on the cover and then in October 1961, the recycled story made an appearance in Superman No. 148. Somehow I find it comforting that the man in blue even had trouble with the government, but that could be just my glass-half-full wanting to come through rather than the alternative.

1. Swamp Thing

Bringing this list home is one of my favorites, Swamp Thing. As we approach Earth Day who better to remind us of what happens when you mess with nature than Swamp Thing. Len Wein and Bernie Wrightson planted this wonderful creation in 1971 and then broke out his solo self-titled series in 1972. And if you still haven’t watched the DC hit television series based on the comic/original movie, go watch it — now. It’s one of the best adaptations that’s ever come out of the DC Universe.

If our 4 for month 4 list wasn’t enough to hold you for this month just remember… Don Cheadle was Captain Planet before he became War Machine.

“With our powers combined [we can read more comic].”

– Busy Reading Diane

Have other comic book series that just scream April to you? Let us know! Leave a comment below or give us a shout-out on social media. IG @Blastftp, Twitter @BlastFTP, or find us on Facebook at Blast From the Past.

Dear Galaxy I Love You #NotAshamed

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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

Roundup the Troops It’s Game Time

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Whether you are spending more time indoors with family these days, your 60-year-old roommate, or your three cats, we have some fun items in stock to help you pass the time.

1. Puzzles

No matter your pop culture delight of choice, we probably have a puzzle for it. One of my particular favs is the Gremlins Collage puzzle by Aquarius, not pictured (and it may be gone by the time I finish this blog). We have many White Mountain Puzzles for the nostalgic puzzler and other Aquarius puzzles.

2. Board Games

Bring out your dice! These board games will have you rolling (get it!?)! Have fun with 1-5 players with these games based on your ultimate movie favorites like Horrified: a Universal Monsters Strategy Board Game. It allows you to play as the Bride of Frankenstein, Dracula, the Invisible Man, etc. which hits all our classic horror bones. However, keep an eye out because some of these games are recommended for ages 10+.

3. Video Games

While we don’t specialize in retro video games, we do get in a collection from time to time. So, if you are wanting to play an old school game with your roommate or sister, or just ignore everyone in your family all together, then these games are vintage gold. It’s best to call our store directly to see what we still have available in stock.

4. Model Kits

You love your collectibles and you love creating them yourself, or you’ve always wanted to build a model kit but never had the time, and well… now you do. Then these guys are for you! We love model kits ourselves like this Aurora King Kong kit! They are perfect for filling that artsy itch and whittling away some hours. They also look beautiful on the shelf when complete! Check-in with us to see what we still have in stock as our inventory is always shifting on these unique items.

5. Playing Cards

Whether you’re in the mood for playing solitaire or tricking your father out of a few M&Ms in poker (you scallywag), these pop culture cards are sure to add a little twinkle to your smile. We have horror-themed, superhero-themed, or fantasy-themed playing cards just to name a few.

So gather the troops and pass the skittles, it’s time for a little play and relaxation Blast From the Past style.

– Reliably Retro Diane

10 Movies That You Can Watch for Halloween and Christmas

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​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

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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

•••

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.

Comic-Con@Home?

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I do not consider myself a veteran of San Diego Comic Con (SDCC), however, I have been going nearly every year since 2012. There are others, like the owner of Blast From the Past, Larry Ross, who have been attending for over twenty years. It has been a staple of “going home” every year. A place and event to look forward to, and once there, a place where one can get caught up in their passions and momentarily escape— no matter how sleep deprived one might get. So, with the development of COVID-19 and the suspension of the in-person SDCC, today marks the first day of Comic-Con@Home.

The programming for Comic-Con@Home started earlier in the day, and while it is a limited selection of what you could experience in person at SDCC, it does offer a taste of the panels that would normally be available. Yet it will be interesting to see how long people at home attend these online panels.

For one, the overload of information that is the joy of going to panel after panel does get tiring. As much fun as it is to hear from industry leaders in comics, tv, or film, there’s only so much listening a person can do. On top of it, while someone might be an extraordinary artist, that doesn’t mean they are at all interesting to see in person– or in this case, on video. From my experience, Game of Thrones is an amazing show. To see a panel of the hit show is incredible and awe inspiring. However, having George R.R. Martin hosting a panel is weird, awkward, and something you just want to run away from. Trust me on this. So, it will be interesting to see which panels are out-of-the-park, so to speak, and which ones flop.

Secondly, part of what makes SDCC such a delight is being around friends sharing in common interests. The enthusiasm your friend has for Bobobo-bo Bo-bobo and Sailor Moon somehow, whether it was true beforehand or not, suddenly becomes intoxicating and a passion of yours. Together you are on a celebration of a creative art form and how it has positively effected your lives. It pushes you through long hours, hot days, insane crowds of people, and in the end, not only do you have your passions that exhilarate you, lifting you up to be productive and go for your dreams, you have what is the SDCC experience. You have survived it together. You have built memories that will last a life time.

So, will I attend Comic-Con@Home? Probably. But only certain panels and screenings here and there. It’s not going to be an all consuming weekend that’s for sure. And somehow the idea of me sitting alone at home in cosplay just makes me feel sadder and more aware of the predicament we find ourselves. Maybe I can find away to turn my room into Hall H during a Warner Brothers reveal…

Are you attending Comic-Con@Home? Let us know on our social media. Tag us @Blastftp #comicconathome #blastftp For the Comic-Con@Home schedule click HERE.

 

Top Animated Disney Dads

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By Tom Ward

With Father’s Day coming up, (hint, hint – – Don’t forget guys: Sunday, June 21st), we want to reminisce some of our top dads from animated Disney movies.  So, without further ado, here are our top 12 Animated Disney Dads (in this writer’s personal order, although please note that some are considered tied).

12. King Triton

Starting us off is King Triton, the father of Ariel, from Disney’s Little Mermaid (1989). As fathers go, he’s loving, powerful and stern. He means well for all his daughters even though that sometimes means putting his fin down when he’s afraid for their safety. After all, the ocean is a large, dangerous place, and the land… forget about it!

11. The Sultan

He may have tried to marry his daughter off based on tradition and listened to a smarmy aid, but the Sultan from Aladdin (1992) eventually came around. So we can forgive that. The Sultan, in the end, is lovable and wants what is best for his daughter, Princess Jasmine, therefore he’s a pretty good dad in our book. Did I mention he allows Jasmine to have a tiger as a pet!? Best. Dad. Ever.

10. Zeus

Bringing us to #10 is Zeus, the beloved father of Hercules, from Disney’s Hercules (1997). As fathers go, he’s loving, funny, and all powerful. If only he could have kept Hades from making his son a mortal, but then — heck, we wouldn’t have had the story.

9. Eli “Big Daddy” La Bouff

Big Daddy from Princess and the Frog (2009) might be known for being the most powerful man in New Orleans but his love for his daughter, Charlotte, is why he makes this spotlight list. Sure he may be a bit of a pushover and dote on her a little too much, but since he is voiced by John Goodman we’ll let that slide. I mean, who doesn’t love to spoil those we love?

8. Maurice

Coming in at #8 is Maurice, Belle’s father from Beauty and the Beast (1991). He might be a little quirky but he’s loving, supportive, and works hard, all for a chance at a better life for his family. Although he does get held captive by the Beast, and later Belle sacrifices herself for his freedom, in the end, they all get to live in a palace or be palace-adjacent, so let’s just say it all worked out!

7. Pacha

Are we partial to characters voiced by John Goodman? It’s a huge possibility. Another great one is Pacha from The Emperor’s New Groove (2000). I love this movie SO much. Pacha is a gentle llama herder who has to leave his home, wife, and two adorable kids, Chaca and Tipo, to return Kuzco to his palace safely after he’s been turned into a llama by his ex-administrator Yzma (Eartha Kitt — um, yes, please!). Pacha does all this to save his family’s homeland. Awww.

6. Pongo

Prancing in at #6 is Pongo from 101 Dalmations (1961). You can’t have a whole lot of puppies and rescue them from a villain like Cruella De Vil and not be on this list. Good boy, Pongo. #boopthesnoot

5. Mufasa

The thought of Mufasa from The Lion King (1994) may make you start crying, but whether on land or living in the clouds he will always be one of our favorite animated Disney dads. He’s noble, strong, loving, and knows how to let loose and have fun. You could almost say he was purrr-fect.

4. James

I’m sure we can agree that we all wish we had a dad like James from The Princess and the Frog (2009). Not only is he supportive of Tiana, but he knows what is most important, love. So, even if your dreams seem far away, as long as you have love… you have it all.

3. King Fargus

This lovable Scottish family wouldn’t be complete without their papa King Fargus from Brave (2012). He’s tough, easy going, and kind. Has a little bit of a temper and is loud, but likes to have fun with his kids which is always a plus. We also dig the fact that he rocks a wooden leg. So boss.

2. Mr. Incredible

Mr. Incredible (aka. Robert “Bob” Parr) from 2004’s The Incredibles and 2018’s Incredibles 2 blasts into the #2 spot. He will stop at nothing to save the world and knows the source of most of his power comes from his super family. Out of shape or in shape, we love him just the way he is.

1. Goofy

Bringing us to our #1 pick, Goofy! Max’s dad seen here in A Goofy Movie (1995) may not be the brightest or the strongest, but there is nothing he wouldn’t do for his son. He’s full of love, understanding, and makes every day an adventure!

To all you dads out there, thank you for being you! Don’t see your favorite Disney Animated Pop on our list? Unfortunately, we couldn’t fit them all, but make sure to let us know who your top picks are on Instagram @blastftp or on Facebook @blastfromthepastinc.

10 Sci-Fi Shows to Binge Watch

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There’s no better time to grab a cozy blanket; prep the munchies; and re-watch, or finally start watching, that Sci Fi tv show you’ve always wanted to watch but didn’t have the time.  Bazinga!  It’s an amazing way to escape and unwind.  “And it’s also a great way to stay in shape! (Family Guy)”  Here are our top 10 picks on binge-worthy Sci Fi series (in no particular order):

10. Lost In Space

This image should be worthiness enough to watch the original Lost in Space but in case you aren’t convinced yet… this 1960s Sci Fi series had 3 Seasons.  It was originally released on CBS and was a mix of the novel The Swiss Family Robinson and Gold Key Comics’ Space Family Robinson. The theme music was also composed by John Williams! And, it. Has. Robots. ‘Nuff said.  Plus once you are done, you can head over to Netflix and watch the remake also titled Lost in Space.

9. SeaQuest DSV

Below the sea, in the mid-90s, there was SeaQuest DSV which originally appeared in 45-minute increments on NBC.  It consisted of 3 Seasons and 57 episodes. It also starred, at least early on, Roy Scheider (he found a bigger boat!) and Jonathan Brandis (pictured above).  Plus, look at that cute lil’ dolphin!? The first 2 Seasons were executive produced by Stephen Spielberg, as well — another connection for you Jaws fans.  The show follows a high-tech submarine in the near future, starting in 2018, and it’s United Nations-like-crew when the earth’s natural resources have been depleted to the point of forcing colonies to form on the ocean floor.

8. Lost

I’m not talking about how most of us probably feel at this moment in time, though I definitely am starting to feel I probably look like a few of these characters, caked in grunge and bewilderment.  I am talking about the ever confusing yet hard-not-too-watch ABC Sci Fi series Lost, which aired 2004-2010.  It follows plane crash survivors on what appears to be an inhabited tropical island.  Which sounds pretty good to me at this point… the tropical island, not the plane crash.  It’s easily one of the best rated Sci Fi shows of all time, though I will say, don’t blame me if you don’t like the very last episode.

7. Highlander

With 6 Seasons and 119 Episodes there’s plenty of Highlander to keep you entertained for a while.  Making a run from 1992 – 1998, this show was actually an alternate sequel to the 1986 feature film by the same name.  It features immortals, swords, time travel, and fun lighting effects. Better yet, if you enjoy Highlander, there’s also several spin-offs which means even more fun time with this sci-fi world.

6. Twilight Zone

There are several Twilight Zones to talk about when mentioning this iconic series.  Let’s start with the original series released in 1959 – 1964.  Hosted by Rod Serling, this show takes you into a different spooky world each episode out of it’s 156 original episodes.  It makes you ponder such things as, am I the only one who sees that beast on the wing of the plane? And, the world can end as long as I have my books, now where are my glasses?  It’s also fun to spot all the young celebrities of that era! Hello, Captain Kirk. If you enjoy the original series, you can also go on to watch The Twilight Zone (1985 – 1989) and Twilight Zone: The Movie (1983).  The ‘80s series has 3 Seasons and 65 Episodes and the movie is an anthology that stars actors like John Lithgow, Dan Aykroyd, and Albert Brooks.  Not enough? The Twilight Zone made a comeback in 2002 -2003 for 1 Season and 43 Episodes.  CBS did it again in 2019, yup, Jordan Peele co-developed it and narrates all 10 Episodes of the First Season.  I cannot comment on how the latest series holds up as of now, but as a huge fan of the original series, it’s worth checking out.

5. Doctor Who

Now this is a big one.  Doctor Who has been produced by BBC since 1963!  Which means that Doctor Who, a time-traveling extraterrestrial being who appears human, can be seen saving civilizations and helping people in 38 Seasons, 861 Episodes, 1 Movie, and numerous Specials.  Excuse me while I pick my jaw off the floor. Who’s in this to watch from the very beginning with me? This show promises to bring fun into any situation from the bubblewrap space suits of the ‘60s to the more advanced technology of the more modern series, but whatever you do… don’t Blink!  You may end up missing something, or even worse, be sent back in time to a gorgeous countryside.

4. Star Trek: The Original Series

There’s certainly an abundance of Star Trek Series, Movies, and Specials to watch if you want to venture further into space after watching the original series.  However, speaking only to Star Trek: The Original Series, which has been remastered and distributed by CBS, this is definitely a must watch.  It has 3 Seasons; 79 Episodes; forged innovative Sci Fi entertainment roads; and more importantly, it shows how no matter what situation, and no matter who you are or where you come from, we can all come together.  Well, unless you are Khan, but then, he also has his buddies.

3. Twin Peaks

Enter the zany world of David Lynch with Twin Peaks.  Though technically labelled as a mystery, drama, horror, I’m adding Twin Peaks to this list because it does contain other worldly elements and demands that the mind stretch its concept of reality.  The original series, released in 1990-1991, aired on ABC and consisted of 30 Episodes. It was followed by a movie, Fire Walk With Me, in 1992, and then with a 3rd Season which was released on Showtime in 2017.  The latest season was made up of 18 Episodes. This series is filled with lovable, crazy characters and a charming odd pulse that may at times be hard to put a finger on, but it’s enthralling nevertheless.  I heart it so!

2. The X-Files

One of my all-time favorites, The X-Files, has 11 Seasons and 218 Episodes!  Created by Breaking Bad’s Chris Carter, this series follows Spooky Mulder (David Duchovny) and his sceptic side-kick Dana Scully (Gillian Anderson) as they navigate through over-looked or possibly secret-on-purpose FBI files bringing them into the world of the weird and unexplained.  The series was followed by 2 Movies, The X-Files (1998) and The X-Files: I Want to Believe (2008).  Personally I recommend watching the TV Series till Season 6, then watch the first movie, finish the series, and then watch I Want to Believe.

1. Battlestar Galactica

Ending our list is Battlestar Galactica!  The ever-engrossing Sci-Fi Channel 2004 Hit Series, Battlestar Galactica will have you wanting to watch the next episode regardless of the hour.  It had 4 Seasons, 76 Episodes, and beyond that was preceded by a 2-part miniseries in 2003 and the original 1978 series Battlestar Galactica and it’s spin-off Galactica 1980.  There’s also an additional episode in between Seasons 3 & 4, called Razor and after Season 4, called The Plan.  You might also be inclined to watch the spin-offs Caprica and Battlestar Galactica: Blood & Chrome.  If you love shows with robots and with a focus on character-driven plots, this one’s for you.  There is plenty of action but the human experience is definitely what makes this show have such an impact.

‘Til next time, friends…  try not to let the Tribbles cause you trouble.

4 Fun Ways to Pass Time During a Pandemic

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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