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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.

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

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.