It’s Time to ReFresh Your Collectibles! 6 Types of Items We Can’t Get Enough of This Spring

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As spring blossoms and the world awakens from its winter slumber, it’s not just the flowers that are in bloom – collectibles also springing to life and to mind! From iconic characters to beloved franchises, there’s something for every fan to treasure. Let’s dive into six spring pop culture collectibles that are capturing hearts and imaginations around the world.

Funko Pops

These adorable vinyl figurines have become a staple in pop culture collections everywhere. With their oversized heads and cute designs, Funko Pops come in a wide range of characters from movies, TV shows, video games, and more. Whether you’re a fan of superheroes or prefer characters from classic sitcoms, there’s a Funko Pop for everyone this spring.

LEGO Sets and Figures

Spring is the perfect time to let your creativity soar with LEGO sets inspired by your favorite movies and TV shows. Whether you’re looking for that special min-fig to complete your collection or in need of a LEGO vehicle from your childhood, we may just have what you’re looking for. We try to acquire LEGOs whenever possible. So our LEGO case is always something to keep an eye on!

Action Figures

Action figures have been a beloved collectible for generations, and spring is the ideal time to expand your collection. From retro figures based on classic cartoons like He-Man and the Masters of the Universe to modern collectibles from popular franchises like Marvel and DC Comics, there’s no shortage of options to choose from. Display them on your shelves or recreate epic battles – the choice is yours!

Comic Books

Spring is the season of new beginnings, making it the perfect time to dive into a new comic book series. Whether you’re a fan of superheroes, sci-fi adventures, or fantasy epics, there’s a comic book out there for you. Explore past titles from Marvel, DC Comics, Image Comics, and more, and immerse yourself in captivating stories and stunning artwork. We also carry past issues of sci-fi and horror magazines!

Collectible Pins

Add a touch of flair to your spring wardrobe with collectible pins featuring your favorite pop culture icons. From enamel pins shaped like beloved characters or a collectible theatre release pins there’s no shortage of options to express your fandom. Pin them to your backpack, jacket, or hat, and show off your love for all things pop culture wherever you go.

Board Games + Puzzles

 As the weather warms up, gather your friends and family for a game night featuring pop culture-themed board games or a puzzle. While our collection is always changing, one thing is for sure, you’ll never run out of new items to try.

Spring is a season of renewal and growth, making it the perfect time to indulge in your love for pop culture collectibles. Whether you’re adding to your existing collection or starting anew, these six spring pop culture collectibles are sure to bring joy and excitement to fans of all ages. So go ahead, embrace your fandom and let your imagination run wild this spring! And keep coming back in to the store as our collections are forever evolving so you never know what you’ll find! See you soon!

A Time of Thanks

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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!

 

Top 5 Horror Movies That Never Die

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For those of us that love horror or enjoy the spooky season movie-binge-watch-a-thon, we are always on the lookout for what to watch next. Here are our Top 5 Horror Movies That (in our opinion) Never Die.

5. Killer Klowns From Outer Space (1988)

Cotton candy, cream pies, and shadow puppets, add in Killer Klowns and a couple on the run, what’s not to love about Killer Klowns From Outer Space? You’ll laugh, you’ll scream, it’s the best of campy horror and we always have a great time with this movie. Where’s my popcorn?

4. Child’s Play (1988)

Another great from 1988, Child’s Play is all of our inner childs’ worst nightmares come true. Chucky brings the fear of your favorite doll becoming a psychopathic killer home and we love it for it!

3. American Werewolf in London (1981)

It makes us laugh, it scares us, it’s bloody brilliant and that’s why John Landis’ American Werewolf in London never grows old… just hairier in the full moon.

2. The Shining (1980)

There’s a reason the Overlook Hotel keeps souls forever and ever, because it’s hauntingly perfect and keeps drawing us in. A family that changes for the worse is something that is so relatable and the execution of this element in sound and visuals is something that we can’t deny ever. It’s creepy and unsettling and we can’t get enough.

1. The Exorcist (1973)

Speaking of hitting it home, The Exorcist hits the family unit with pitch perfect gore that never dies… even if everyone in the movie does. The pace in which the world is over taken by possession grips us and makes the pay offs worth it watch after watch.

Have a different Top 5? Which movies never age for you? Let us know here or on social media: IG @blastftp, X @blastftp, and FB @blastfromthepastinc.

Top 6 Black Comic Book Superhero Dads

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In the vibrant and diverse world of comic books, there are numerous black superheroes who have not only saved the day but have also excelled in their roles as fathers. Dads who have inspired readers with their heroism, strength, and unwavering love for their children. From time-traveling mutants to high-flying superheroes, these fathers have shown us that being a hero extends beyond the battlefield and into the realm of family. Sweet Christmas! Let’s take a look at our top 6 black comic book superhero dads.

6. Bishop: The Time-Traveling Protector

Starting us off at #6 is Bishop, aka Lucas Bishop, a time-traveling mutant from the X-Men. While Bishop is not often portrayed as a father, in the “Age of X-Man” story line, he becomes a protective father figure to a group of young mutants. Bishop guides and fights alongside these mutants, ensuring their survival and teaching them to harness their powers. He also saw himself as a father figure to Hope Summers, though after hunting and attempting to kill her multiple times, Bishop says in “Uncanny X-Force Vol. 2 #5” that he was really a monster even though he thought he was doing the right thing. We all make mistakes, right? Nothing that Psylocke and Storm can’t erase.

5. Sam Wilson/Falcon: The Avian Guardian

Sam Wilson, also known as Falcon, soars high as one of Marvel’s beloved superheroes. When he takes on the mantle of Captain America, he becomes a symbol of hope and justice. In addition to his heroic feats, Falcon is a father figure to his nephew, Jody. Sam Wilson imparts valuable life lessons to Jody, teaching him the importance of using his abilities to fight for a better world. Through his unwavering support and guidance, Falcon molds Jody into a courageous and compassionate individual.

4. Black Lightning: An Ex-static Dad

Jefferson Pierce, also known as Black Lightning, is not only a high school principal but also a superhero with the power to generate and manipulate electricity. As a father to his daughters, Anissa and Jennifer (aka Thunder and Lightning), he strikes a delicate balance between his superhero responsibilities and his role as a parent. Black Lightning guides his daughters, teaching them important life lessons about justice, compassion, and the responsible use of their own powers. His commitment to protecting his family and community sets a powerful example.

3. Blade: The Ultimate Daywalker Daddy

Blade, the half-vampire/half-human hybrid, is widely known for his relentless pursuit of supernatural creatures. However, beneath his tough exterior lies a deep sense of responsibility towards his daughter, Brielle “Bri” Brooks (aka Bloodline).  While Bri grew up without knowing her father, he did gift some killer weapons to her mother Safron in order to keep her safe. He also gifted her with some sweet daywalker powers such as enhanced strength and speed, night vision, quick reflexes, and a sense of the supernatural; not to mention, she can really handle herself. Once Blade and Bri meet, he takes her under his half-vampire wing and trains her, showing his support by rewarding her with a leather jacket of her own.

2. Luke Cage: The Indestructible Hero

Luke Cage, also known as Power Man, is a street-level hero with unbreakable skin and superhuman strength. Sweet Christmas! But beyond his superhero persona, Luke Cage exemplifies what it means to be a loving and protective father. His daughter, Danielle, holds a special place in his heart, and he goes to great lengths to ensure her safety. Luke Cage serves as a positive role model, teaching Danielle the values of integrity, strength, and standing up for what is right.

1. T’Challa/Black Panther: The King of Wakanda

Rounding out our list and topping it off at #1 is the iconic T’Challa, also known as Black Panther, the king of Wakanda. T’Challa’s commitment to his nation extends to his role as a devoted father to his children. Despite his royal duties and responsibilities as a superhero, T’Challa takes the time to instill in his children, such as Azari, the values of honor, courage, and responsibility. He teaches them the importance of protecting their people and fighting for justice.

Don’t see your favorite black comic book superhero dad on our list? Let us know in the comments below or hit us up on social media! IG @blastftp or on Facebook.

9 Movies That Are Great Even After Christmas

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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

Scary Movies to Binge This Weekend

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There’s a lot of viewable content out there which is why a watch list is so important. With Halloween on Sunday, time is of the essence, we need scary movies and we need them now. Here are 6 movies to binge this weekend that may or may not have been on your radar.

1. Werewolves Within (2021)

A fun twist of a werewolf movie. Full of delightful comedy and scary bits, it is perfect for anyone looking for a werewolf who-done-it or just a great comedic horror movie.

2. The Birds (1963)

Hitchcock got it all right with this suspenseful slow burn. So right that it still holds up today. Despite having some dated moments that may get a chuckle more than when it was released, The Birds still builds anxiety like a true horror should and is definitely worth a rewatch or a first viewing this time of year.

3. Arachnophobia (1990)

A spider, ew! Or yay, depending on your taste. But what if there are a lot of them? Like, way too many? This may be a movie forgotten, but one viewing and you’ll see why you’ll never forget it again. John Goodman plays an exterminator who is hired by arachnophobe Jeff Daniels to help clean his new house of, well, more than a few deadly spiders.

4. Killer Klowns From Outer Space (1988)

They came from outer space and they aren’t here to make friends. Another fun, creepy movie that will have you enjoying every minute. Unless you are deathly afraid of clowns, then… then this movie might be too much.

5. Nightbreed (1990)

From legendary Clive Barker and Danny Elfman, this fantasy, monster mash-up will hit all your light-hearted horror needs. And if after watching it you need something scarier, there’s always Hellraiser (1987).

6. The Faculty (1998)

School is scary enough but this school is ridiculous. Somewhere between From Dusk Till Dawn (1996) and Spy Kids (2001), Robert Rodriguez brought you The Faculty which follows a group of kids who band together to try and figure out what’s coming over their school. It features an amazing cast and promises to offer some spooks and chills!

In addition to this list there’s always the great Halloween staples and their sequels: Halloween (1978), A Nightmare on Elm Street (1984), and Friday the 13th (1980). What scary movie(s) should we add to our watch list? Let us know below or on our social media: IG @Blastftp, Twitter @BlastFTP, or on Facebook @blastfromthepastinc.

You Might Be a ’90s Kid If…

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Whether inspired by animations, comic books, or originally imagined action figures before their spinoff tv shows, the ’90s filled our childhood hours with fun and imagination. They bat-a-ranged into our hearts and never let go. To us, they defined the 90s. Here’s a countdown of action figure lines that made us and defined us as ’90s kids.

5. SPAWN

4. BATMAN THE ANIMATED SERIES

3. THE SIMPSONS

2. REN & STIMPY

1. HE-MAN

 

There’s a whole lot of other toys from the ’90s that inspired us. What were the lines that called to you? If you haven’t had a chance, make sure to watch “The Toys That Made Us” on Netflix. It features some of these lines and has really great insider information on the lives of these figures. And the more you watch, the more likely the powers that be will grant us more episodes!

 

Till next time, friends!

 

6 Bad A** Women Lead Movies to Watch

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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

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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.