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!

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!

 

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

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.

 

Unexpected Stocking Stuffers

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If you use stockings for Christmas or enjoy small gift giving during the holidays it can often be tricky on what else to give the loved one in your life. In my family, these odds and ends turn out to be candy or dollar tree finds. Which are fun and enjoyable but it gets me thinking, what unique small finds could we use in their place? Here are some unexpected stocking stuffer ideas to get the ball rolling (not in any particular order)…

10. Patches

Small, colorful and full of memories, patches make a great surprise gift! Iron-on or sow-on they are perfect for book bags, computer bags, or the trendy jean jacket.

9. Enamel Pins

They are small and cater to anyone’s personality. Durable, easy to collect and keep nicely too! Enamel pins are some of my personal favorites.

8. Trading Cards

I love the idea of packed cards because they are small, affordable, nostalgic and unique. Plus you never know what you are going to get inside so they are always a surprise for you and for the person receiving them!

7. Playing Cards

Easy to handle, a theme for anyone’s taste, and great to use or decorate any desktop. Playing cards are also fun because every time your friend or family look at them they will immediately think of you and your amazing gift giving skills!

6. Action Figures

Okay, so not as big as this Peter, but I couldn’t help but post it. Small action figures that are 3″ or under like this Raving Rabbids figure are always a fun surprise. And if you can’t fit the figure in the stocking while it’s on card, you can always take it out of its packaging and it’s still a great gift!

5. Pez

Pez are the perfect size for any stocking. They also are nostalgic, fun, colorful and enjoyable no matter a persons age!

4. Small Paperbacks

These are another one of my personal favorites because they can cater to an individuals personal tastes or history, are unique to find in a stocking or receive as a gift, they aren’t hard on your wallet and they feel like a substantial gift more than, say, a couple of tootsie rolls. Though, yes, tootsie rolls have their moments.

3. Goosebumps

Anyone who grew up in the nineties or during the reign of the Jack Black movie will love the call back-feel of a good ‘ole Goosebumps book. And if they’ve never heard of them but love fun, somewhat creepy stories then they will enjoy these books too! They are along the vein of small paperbacks because one, they are, and two, there are so many that it’s easy to find one that fits an individuals taste.

2. Air Freshener

Now here is a gift they definitely won’t expect, but with all the pop culture references, they are sure to love! And even if the person doesn’t own a car, air fresheners are great for decor by a tv or desktop. They are also another visual that reminds your person of you every time they look at it, double bonus!

1. A Letter or Small Note

Now this one doesn’t need a photo, the idea is to write a small note or letter to your special someone telling them how truly special they are to you. It shows that you took time out of your busy day to think of them and is something they will cherish along with their other goodies.

What other ideas can you think of for unexpected stocking stuffers? Let us know!j

12 Shows You Could and Should Watch Right Now

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We all know there’s a ton of content out there nowadays. It can be really overwhelming. That’s why we’ve done some of the dirty work for you and narrowed down 12 tv shows you could be watching right now (no particular order). You know, aside from Stranger Things, which if you haven’t seen it yet… um, you should.

12. Pennyworth

Hey, hey, kid. You like Batman? You want to see a show about his butler? That’s right, Pennyworth follows the always witty and understandable butler, Alfred Pennyworth. Specifically his younger days as a former special-forces officer working for Bruce Wayne’s father. If you are a Batman fan, then we definitely recommend checking this Epix show out. All jokes aside, it furthers the universe and proves to be an unexpected look into the characters and world that we love.

11. NOS4A2

Based on a book with the same name by Joe Hill (author of Locke & Key and Stephen King’s son), this show combines supers with the undying in a twisted horror adventure. It is sure to creep you out while still having the joy of fantasy and Christmas. Available via AMC, it has been renewed for a second season!

10. Rocko’s Modern Life: Static Cling

This one is for all my 90’s-kids out there, Rocko, his dog Spunky, and all his crazy lovable friends are back in this movie released on Netflix! Movie… extended pilot… the point is, they’re back and we’re loving it! You may be saying to yourself, “Oh, fish sticks. How did I miss this one?” But fret not, it’s still available!

9. Frankenstein’s Monster’s Monster, Frankenstein

Another stand-alone piece that we recommend is this mockumentary that follows David Harbour (Stranger Things, Hellboy) in digging deeper into his family history and his thespian father. If you enjoy Documentary Now! (also highly recommend if you are into Documentaries), then you’ll enjoy this 28-minute look into the strange world of an obsessive actor/father. It is still available on Netflix.

8. Deadwood: The Movie

Fans begged and begged and their wish final came true with the return of Deadwood! This tv movie has it all from the original series, same cast, same amazing set and costumes, and the same amazing dialogue and acting. In all, it feels like one long episode that leaves you satisfied and longing. But in a fulfilled way not in a Lost – you’ve got to be kidding me – kind of way. If you haven’t seen the original series, don’t worry, we believe you’ll still get a kick out of the movie. However, if you can, watch the original series as well. There’s nothing quite like it. You can find Swearengen and the motley crew of Deadwood only on HBO.

7. Glow

Based on the 80’s tv show by the same name and the world behind the show, comes GLOW (The Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling. Now in their third season, this show has a little bit of everything and at the center of it is hardcore moves, awkward but hilarious comedy, amazing 80’s fashion and a whole lot of heart. After watching the show, we also recommend watching the documentary about the original show and ladies. The reality that the show brings to an outrageous situation will have you saying, “Can we have more?”

6. Barry

Another HBO must-see is Barry. A dark comedy, this show tells the story of a hitman who after coming to Los Angeles for a mark, finds he wants more and decides to become an actor. This show is hilarious and has some outstanding comedic performances by Bill Hader, Stephen Root, Henry Winkler, Sarah Goldberg, and Anthony Carrigan to name just a few. It offers a unique view on the hitman genre while hitting home with identity and how one defines who they are, who they’ve been, and who they want to become. There’s a reason it’s nominated for 17 Emmy’s, guys.

5. The Terror

All my period-piece and horror fans this one is for you. The first season takes you on a journey to the Northern Passage via the Royal Navy and the terrors they face in the wake of treacherous conditions, limited resources, and the monstrous wild creatures. The second season, though similar, splits to a different place and different time, Japan during WWII. We are coming up on only the second episode of Season 2 but can’t wait to see what terrifying steps this season will bring. AMC does it again with complete set, wardrobe, and acting submersion.

4. Swamp Thing

Fair warning, while we recommend this show, it has been cancelled so try not to get too attached and appreciate it for what it is. Available on DC Universe, Swamp Thing follows the age old story of man gets interested in woman, woman shows interest in man, man falls in polluted swamp and becomes… a thing. In fact, the pilot episode is a capsulation of the entire movie. With dark moments that show why you shouldn’t mess with nature, the show is overall a little lighter take on the environmental creature story and enjoyable. Why we still recommend despite the limited run? The dark moments and the makeup are wonderful and worth every second.

3. Doom Patrol

DC Universe just comes out with some fun content. Here’s another one that came out a little while ago but that we highly recommend if you are looking for something fun and comic-related, Doom Patrol. This unlikely group is a strange combination of odd-balls and misfits but put together with heart and big explosions… so, you can’t really go wrong.

2. The Boys

The world needs a hero and they have not one, but seven called “The 7.” But what happens when heroes are put up on a pedestal and placed in positions of authority when they are still humans with flaws? What if they are evil people but playing a good superhero? This show brings us people with powers which we love and meshes it with extreme gore and WTF moments that leave us laughing, shocked or excited, and wanting more. It definitely throws a new peg into the gear of heroes and it is extremely fun to watch. Available on Amazon Prime, this show like some of the others mentioned may not be family friendly but we definitely recommend it if you are into like minded shows.

1. Good Omens

Cleansing our souls and ending this list is Neil Gaiman’s Good Omens. Featuring Michael Sheen and the ever-talented David Tennant as the angel Aziraphale and the demon Crowley respectfully. Long time friends who attempt to prevent Armageddon. The show provides a magic in story-telling, fun characters, and a whimsical take on the end of the world. It’s an absolute delight to watch and we can’t recommend it enough. It is available through Amazon Prime.

So what are you doing? Stop reading and get to watching! Don’t see your favorite show on our list? Comment below and tell us which show we need to be watching and why!

The Beauty of the Con

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Back in 1970 when Shel Dorf brought the first Comic Con to San Diego, I doubt he ever imagined what it would turn into 50 years later. 300 people has turned into a swarm of well over 180,000. That’s even a swell of 50,000+ since 2013! Exhibitors, street vendors, cosplayers, celebrities… everyone comes out in droves. I’ve been going since 2012 and the amount of growth I’ve seen from there to now even is incredible. So, what’s the pull? What keeps us wanting to go back with such a crowd? Is it worth it?

As a fan of comics, movies, tv, games, and collectibles, Comic-Con International: San Diego provides all these things and more. Walking through the crowd this year I would find myself saying “Look at that!” or “Niiiiiicccccceeee.” There just seemed to be astounding pieces that would surprise you around every corner. That happiness would lift you up and carry you through the slow moving herd of people, the long walks that you forgot you were on, and the hours spent waiting in line. You would float, and right as you would start to come down (if that happened at all) another sign or figure or beautiful cosplayer would start that feeling all over again.

It’s the addictive passion that fans exude every day of the five day event, that sparks curiosity and our own sense of passion that carries us through the convention. It stays in our hearts even after its over and makes us feel past the exhaustion that, hey, we can keep on doing this.

If you haven’t been to San Diego Comic Con (SDCC) before, but want to go here’s a few tips.

  1. There is a lot of tips out there. Make sure to do your research and pick a plan of action before embarking on anything having to do with the con. That includes tickets!
  2. Get those tickets early! This is a big one. You might be saying, “Well, SDCC 2020 is a year from now.” Yeah, my point exactly. Start planning now! Put the ticket dates in your calendar, do what you have to now so that when the gates open for everyone to get tickets you were ready months ago. Always remember there is someone if not thousands of people out there who are already more organized than you and who will make the ticket portal sell out within minutes, if not seconds, the day it opens. Trust me on this, it’s happened if within the professional badges circuit.
  3. Make plans for lodging and parking as early as possible! Things will happen and yes, you may be able to find these things within days of getting to the convention. However, if you don’t want to end up looking like the Black Knight from Monty Python and the Holy Grail because of all the money you would have to spend to get those things last minute, then make sure to start planning now for next year. And be creative! Keep in mind that trying to think of alternative ways of approaching where to stay and where to park may save you time and money. In years past, I have stayed in hotels and airb&bs, and sometimes its been with a group of people in a room and others with just my family. Each have their perks but it’s best to consider all of these things when making your plan.
  4. Have as many things planned out before that week! Consider SDCC to be a great production. You want to do a very thorough pre-production before it begins. Being able to attack the show with confidence and ease will relieve so much stress. There’s many things you won’t be able to plan, but knowing you have done your homework will really help you handle those unknowns when they arise. (I’ve never run into this problem before *wink*wink*) Also, when you pick up your schedule that first day, set aside some time to review it and pin point the events or panels you want to attend. This will help your timing of things for the rest of the week and insure you don’t miss anything you really wanted to see.
  5. Preview Night is the best night for purchasing exclusives. Though you will still have some luck throughout the rest of the week and if you are extremely, extremely lucky then there may still be some around on Sunday. Make sure that if you do want one of the big ticket items, like Funko or Hasbro, that you are aware of how to go about it. Most of the more popular exclusives have a process where you have to get a ticket to be in line, etc. in order to be a part of possibly getting an exclusive. It’s been said before that one does not simply walk into Hall H and that goes for exclusives, as well. One does not simply walk-in and get an exclusive.
  6. If you want to cosplay, keep in mind how well you move and if you think you’d be able to hold up for many hours in heat. If you think you can last up to 4 hours, then make sure to be aware of that in your planning. The days will go by quicker than you think so every moment is a gem and you don’t want to look back regretting the time lost.
  7. Take snackies with you and a bottle of water! There is a plethora of eating spots and whistle-watering holes to keep you stuffed to the gills, however, to save on money, I recommend taking some bits you can throw in your bag (which you should always have a bag of some sort). This will not only keep you going, save you money, but will also cut down on time having to go get those things. Remember… long lines, big crowds… need I continue?
  8. Take a black magic marker, a pen, and a notebook with you. You never know who you will meet or what you may want signed in the moment. Make sure you are ready for any situation!
  9. Take breaks! Now after all that about not wasting time I should take breaks? Yes! Just factor them in and take them when you can. There’s a lot of stimulation on top of a lot of people, a lot of excitement, and long days. Make sure to take care of yourself during the whole convention so that you can last the five days without burnout or getting sick. Think of it as an observation moment for cosplay watching!
  10. Have fun!!! I think this would go without saying, but when people get tired or frustrated because they can’t get what they want or where they want to be, they get moody. Mood begets mood begets mood. To keep on the lighter side of things, remember what you love in the first place, what brought you to the convention, your favorite shows, superheroes, artists… take in that this is a moment in time and how wonderful and bizarre it all is. Enjoy it! And pass on that fan passion to the person who is standing in line behind you!

December 2018

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Hello from our side of the cosmos!

Have you started your holiday shopping yet? Don’t worry — we got you covered for that special someone who is out of this world. Like, I don’t know, maybe a life size Darth Vader?

No? Too much?

Well there’s no accounting for taste with some people. But don’t worry, we have more new additions than just the Lord of all Siths for the holiday season.

 

Like check out these brand new Comicon Exclusive Pan’s Labyrinth busts we got in just a few weeks ago. Imagine seeing these two lookers under your tree this year.

        

Too creepy for your gift list? No problem. Along with these high end, new items, we also have some great vintage Disney toys walk through our doors, like a vintage Beast figure that transforms into the handsome prince, a 1960’s Prince Adam with all the trappings, and a rare, Snow White’s evil Queen in disguise.

Along with our usual Disney, fantasy, and Star Wars hauls, we have some bright and shiny Marvel figures and busts that are just aching to go to a good home. Come pick yours up today!

               

 

These are only the tip of the iceburg for our new collections. Make sure Blast is on your go-to shopping spots this year, and we can’t wait to see you again in 2019!

A quick note:  the store will be closed on Christmas and New Years Day so our staff can enjoy the holidays. Thanks!

November 2018

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Hello from our side of the Cosmos!

Halloween is over, but the spooky still continues here at Blast. We’ve got signed copies of Slasher Dreams 1&2, the ultimate guides to slasher films.

Too much blood and guts for your tastes? Not to worry. By sheer luck, we managed to get a Beauty and the Beast porcelain doll set, as well as a complete Snow White and the Seven Dwarves series, for all you collectors out there.

      

And of course, we can’t leave you scifi lovers out in the cold. Along with our Disney collectibles, we have a rare collection of Star Trek visual novels from the OG series!

               

And if you haven’t heard already, Christmas is coming early! Every year, Holiday in the Park brings the joys of the season to Magnolia, full of music, food, games, and presents. We’ll be open and operating all night, so feel free to stop by and join us for the festivities!

That’s Nov. 16th, starting at 5pm. See you there!