VHS Video Cover Art: 1980s to Early 1990s

One of the best parts of growing up in the 80's was taking a visit to the local video store! Once you entered, you were usually greeted by a large cardboard cutout of whatever the latest movie to be released on VHS was. I have a vague memory of the excitement I had seeing a life-size cutout of Michael Keaton's Batman when the VHS was released. Going to the video store then was an anticipated event where you were surrounded by aisles of what seemed like an eternity of VHS. There was a section for Action, for Horror, for Comedy, and for New Releases. Each had their own distinct personality. Back then, you didn't have the luxury like we do now of getting all the info you needed before decided on spending the money to rent a video. You simply grabbed a VHS Cover that caught your attention, read the synopsis on the back, and took a chance by shelling out your hard earned money. There was a 50/50 chance the movie was going to be a good choice, or a waste of money. So basically, the VHS covers were one of the main selling points. Looking back, these covers were so much more than just cardboard or hardshell plastic cases. They were pieces of art! That gets me to the book "VHS Video Cover Art: 1980s to Early 1990s" by Thomas Hodge. This book is the closest thing you can get to revisiting a video store in the 80's. Flipping through the pages of the book is a walk down the aisles of the long lost video stores. It is a book that pays homage to a very unique time that is missed nowadays. I thoroughly appreciated the time and detail put in to the art in these pages. It really felt like being warped back to the 80's! Bravo to Mr. Hodge for putting together a book that takes us back to a much simpler time, where a trip to the video store was an irreplaceable experience.

The Walking Dead: Season 4 DVD

Ahh yes, The Walking Dead. Here we are knee deep in season 5 and it just keeps getting better. Now this leads me to the previous seasom. Season 4 was filled with so much twists and turns, from the prison to flu outbreaks and so on. I thought it was a great season overall.

Now being the die-hard fan that I am, it's a given that I obtained a copy of season four on DVD. And let me tell you, it's a must have for any fan.

If you love TWD, then this collection will fit in quite nicely with whatever other merch you may own. All episodes are on this great 5-disc set put out by Anchor Bay. So if you love TWD, make sure you grab yourself a copy.

Every decade or so, you happen to get a glimpse of that one team that flat out dominates the NFL.The last few years, the Seahawks have been that team. For most of their time in the league, this franchise has never sniffed the opportunity to win the Super Bowl. Well not only did they win last year, but it looks like they are favorites again this year. If you had the chance to see them play last year, you'd notice they play an old school, physically dominant brand of football. Putting aside their blowout win against the Broncos, their playoff games that led up to the big game were great. From both their close wins over New Orleans and San Fran, this team gave NFL fans a great viewing experience. Now I am not a Seattle fan, but I do love watching their style of play. This is where I need to mention the DVD released that contains their road to the championship. SEATTLE SEAHAWKS: ROAD TO XLVIII is released by NFL Films/Cinedigm, and it contains their playoff wins, as well as the Super Bowl blowout. Any NFL fan would appreciate this collection, and be able to re-watch years down the road and be reminded how the Seahawks took care of business. 

More Funko Madness!

Did you ever think one day you would see cutesy little toys based on Pulp Fiction? Neither did I. That is how cool Funko is. They take characters from films where you would never imagine toys being made, and they produce these awesome collectibles for adults everywhere. What a great time we live in. 

Anyway, it is no secret that I love this company. Some of the latest collectibles that I feel the need to mention here are none other than Jules and Vince from Pulp Fiction. Just look at them! These guys are a great addition to any movie lover's collection and would look really nice in that "man-cave", or any other place you display your collections! 

Can't you just see these two re-enacting the "Royale with cheese" scene? Haha. 

More FUN from FUNKO!

With a company like Funko around, adults (such as myself) have been reliving their childhood pop culture icons through these amazing little collectibles they continuously put out! They are like Willy Wonka for the 30 and above crowd! Alright, let's get right to the point. The purpose of this post is to mention 3 awesome new figures that were released by Funko.

Let's start with...

1.21 gigawatts!

In my time walking the earth, I don't think I've come across a person that dislikes Back To The Future. It sure is one of my all time favorite movies with an iconic character otherwise known as "Marty"! Funko has given all of us that love the film a collectible to commemorate the legendary movie. Just take a close look at him! Everything from his life preserver to his headphones are there. I proudly have him on display among my collectibles and don't think he'll be going down anytime soon. Definitely a keeper...

 Next we have.... The Truffle Shuffle!!

Another beloved film in the hearts of people that grew up in the 80's is The Goonies! Who can forget Chunk, the Truffle Shuffle, and Baby Ruth bars! This little guy here is a collectible for those that are fond of Chunk, and he even comes equipped with a candy bar (Truffle Shuffle not included)! Again, chalk this one up as another memorable figure that Funko has put out.

Last we have...

Jay!

As a big fan of Kevin Smith's films, this collectible is definitely a great addition. Again, looking closely at this one, from the long hair to the cap, Funko nailed it with this version of "Jay"! For those of us that followed Clerks and the "New Jersey Trilogy", this is one to hold on to!

I'm definitely intrigued as to what Funko will put out next. Until then, I'll be satisfied with these memorable collectibles!

The Walking Dead: The Complete Third Season DVD

A must have for Walking Dead fans, this 3rd season shows the gang adjusting to life in the new home (prison) and also introducing the character known as "The Governor". One of the best seasons so far, this plays a pivotal role in the series as so many new twists and turns are brought in for the characters to face. As if the walkers themselves weren't enough to handle already. Even if you watched every episode, this DVD set is definitely one to add. I've never been one for listening to commentaries while watching a show or movie, but if that's your thing then there are some on here for you to enjoy. "Fear the dead, fight the living!"

Batman vs. Joker Throwdown Game by Funko

If you're starting to get hit with the post-Summer blues (or if you are still THAT bothered by Ben Affleck getting the role of Batman for the next Superman film), I want to mention something that may be just what you need. The fine folks at Funko have come up with a board game pitting Batman and Joker against each other in Throwdown! This game comes in a sweet looking case of the Caped Crusader (see above), and includes 2.5" vinyl Batman and Joker figures (very cool!), along with the board and cards to play the game. Being a person who appreciates a good board game smackdown, and also a huge Batman fan, this is the kind of game to bring out on a rainy day (or any day!) for a fun challenge! Thanks again to Funko for releasing a product to satisfy the inner child in me. Definitely check it out!