5 Toys & Collectibles Brands We Love

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Whether it’s friends sitting at a bar who decide that a line of toys need to be unrealistically, overly muscly or a woman who decides a risqué doll would be the perfect girls toy, there are many reasons to love toys and collectibles. As pop culture continues to grow, our love of such toys and collectibles grows with it. We yearn for more, more nostalgia, more detail, more accuracy— lucky for us, companies are continuing to deliver, bringing the movies, tv shows and comic books we love within reach of our finger tips. So in the spirit of Valentine’s Day and all things that we love, we salute these 5 brands that keep delivering us red hot gems.

Hot Toys – The Ultimate in Realism

Collectors seek out Hot Toys figures for their craftsmanship and accuracy. They are hyper-detailed, lifelike figures that really bring characters to life. Add in the many, many points of articulation, moveable eyes, and often multiple heads and accessories… it’s no wonder why we swoon over Hot Toys. If you are looking for a specific one, please ask one of our employees or give us a ring!

Sideshow – Premium Statues & Figures

Hardcore fans are drawn to the artistry of Sideshow’s highly detailed statues. The care and attention that these statues and figures were made with shows that Sideshow artists love these characters as much as we do. They ooze sophistication and really bring to life the movies, tv shows and comic book characters that we’ve come to embrace.

NECA – The King of Nostalgia & Horror

There’s a reason why you see NECA everywhere these days, it’s because their dedication to horror, sci-fi, and classic movie characters is so high that they capture the hearts of the child in all of us. Their figures are detailed and really capture those iconic movie moments. Even their Toony Terrors line has us smitten.

Hasbro – Brings the Mass Appeal

Hasbro balances affordability and quality with their collectibles. They had us at hello, or rather at Star Wars, but they continue to hold a special place in our hearts and will continue to be one of our beloved brands.

Trick or Treat Studios – A Haven for Horror Fans

No one quite answers the call for screen-accurate horror collectibles like Trick or Treat Studios. From their masks to their prop replicas Trick or Treat Studios delivers good-feeling chills again and again. And dare I say, leave us “shivering in… anticipation” for their next release.

A few of these brands may have been responsible for the toys that made us, but those toys quickly become our passion. The joy of owning a quality piece of pop culture history that swiftly wraps us in the feeling of the art that we love is one of the most comforting of feelings. What are some of your favorite brands for collectibles? Let us know below or on social media. Or stop on by, we love to hear about your loves in person!

Countdown of 5 New Old Favorites

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As we round the corner of another year, many people say, “Out with the old and in with the new.” However, we here at Blast From the Past like to say, “Out with the old… um, no thank you.” We love the old, the nostalgic. Even with a newly made item, if that item reminds us of something we loved in the past — to us, it’s golden. So break out the bubbly soda, cause we are going to countdown some of our newly favorite tributes to the not-so-forgotten past.

 

5. NECA’s PUPPET MASTER Toulon’s Puppet Case & Leech Woman 2-Pack Set

Back in the Blockbuster days, I decided I would watch as many movies as I could by starting from one wall of the store to the next. The first isle happened to start with “P” and so began my adventure. It wasn’t long before I had joined the gang of terror in PUPPET MASTER. And now, I can relive that moment with this 2-pack by Neca. It’s highly detailed, comes with many accessories, and best yet, it fits in size with other Neca PUPPET MASTER figures.

 

4. NECA’s Toony Terrors Universal Monsters

For most of us, we were introduced to Universal Monsters when we were wee ones. They creeped their way into our hearts and our homes and they never left. Neca’s Toony Terrors line has done it again and brought us a charming set of these monsters and creatures of the night. So howl at the new moon or get ready to roar, “Putting on the Ritz!” because these cute action figures will be charming your stoops once again this year (for those of you who don’t know, that quote is a reference to YOUNG FRANKENSTEIN — you should watch it).

 

3. Trick or Treat Studios’ Scream Greats KILLER KLOWNS FROM OUTER SPACE Action Figures

Clowns and horror aren’t everyone’s cup of ice cream, but KILLER KLOWNS FROM OUTER SPACE was an instant, out-of-this-world favorite for me.  It’s quirky and dark and just all-around fun. These action figures by Trick or Treat Studios light me up with so much joy and love by allowing me to recreate the experience I had with the movie. I know for any KKFOS fan they will do the same! In fact, I know someone who would absolutely scream if they got the entire set.

 

2. NECA’s Born to Rock ALF Ultimate Action Figure

Who doesn’t love this cat-eating furball!? Do you remember watching the show? Or perhaps you’re just learning of Alf now? Either way, if you love Alf you will love rocking out with this 7-inch Action Figure, complete with a record album that is titled “Not Born in the USA.” Ha!

 

1. ELVIRA’s “Scary Xmas” 8″ Clothed Action Figure

Ho, ho, ho — this Elvira set hits it out of the park! Elvira comes with her… cookies, her creature who was stirring, her naughty list– she even has incredible articulation and likeness to thee Elvira herself! Whenever I’m feeling like some cheeky fun, Elvira never disappoints. And that’s why she makes our number one goodie but oldie… I mean, newbie? Who cares– we love her and this set!

 

While you’re celebrating the new or celebrating the old, we wish you a very happy New Year! And we can’t wait to share our love of past loves with you! Leave us a comment below or reach out to us via social media. And of course, we are always around should you need us here in Burbank, CA.

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