dougsploitation

SUPERTRAIN returns!

2012-02-07T08:00:00.000-08:00

This is a repost from 2008 (and 2010).

In the past few seasons NBC has brought back both BIONIC WOMAN and KNIGHT RIDER, which forced me to recall the another terrible NBC show about a futuristic vehicle–SUPERTRAIN! A failed attempt by the peacock network to launch it's own LOVE BOAT-type franchise, SUPERTRAIN is one of the most critically lambasted TV shows ever. While the train itself was mighty impressive (There was a disco and a swimming pool on board!), the series lacked several things that viewers were looking for at the time - big name guest stars and comedy. SUPERTRAIN premiered February 7, 1979 at 8PM and limped along for a few weeks before it was "retooled" and rescheduled to air in more "adult" the Saturday 10PM slot. I remember watching it a few times and thinking that it really sucked, excepted for the train. I always hoped that it would at least stay on the air long enough to inspire a cool line of toys. That never happened, in total, only 9 episodes aired.
Well, maybe NBC will revisit the concept since they seem to have been mining the NBC archives with revivals for the past few seasons (BATTLESTAR GALACTICA, THE BIONIC WOMAN, AMERICAN GLADIATORS, KNIGHT RIDER). With V turning up as a revival on ABC, Can SUPERTRAIN be that far behind? Thanks to Tony Cook for posting some great SUPERTRAIN clips on YouTube .

Enough with the Dead Celebrities...Let's Fly Away

2012-02-04T00:01:00.000-08:00

Man, they are dropping like flies, aren't they? Things are so bad I'm forced to lighten things up with a blog post I was originally planning way back in September 2011 - when PAN AM was the hottest thing on TV. Remember PAN AM?

Well, I for one was very excited about this show. When I first heard about it, I thought it would be right up my runway. After all, I've been a fan of Pan Am - the vintage airline - since as far back as I could remember. In fact I've been crazy about flight attendants since I was a wee lad.

After all, what's not to love about Pam Am stewardesses?

Well, after watching about 2.5 episodes of PAN AM...I realized I'd rather look at old ads from the 60s than watch a painfully annoying show about bland characters.

Like this one.

Other TV shows and films tried to capture the thrill of the airline experience.

Films like COME FLY WITH ME (1963).

How great is this poster? Even in French...

And then there's BOEING, BOEING (1966)...

And the awful Gwyneth Paltrow vehicle VIEW FROM THE TOP (2003). What a stinker!

A much better film which used Pan Am as production element was Spielberg's CATCH ME IF YOU CAN (2002), which I believe is currently having a second life as a big splashy Broadway musical.

On TV, there was the adaptation of the saucy novel COFFEE, TEA OR ME? (1973)

The ABC MOVIE OF THE WEEK version was a bit tamer.

Starring Karen Valentine and John Davidson.

Looks like the original book has been re-issued by Penguin. Didn't they used to publish classics?

Another attempt by network TV to capture the stewardess experience was the CBS dramedy FLYING HIGH (1978-79).

Starring Connie Selleca, Pat Klous and Kathryn Witt.

It was called a "jiggle show" or "CHARLIE'S ANGE:LS in the air."

Looks intense.

Apparently it's still popular somewhere...

Years later, FOX gave us THE CREW...

Yes, THE CREW (1995-96) from Marc (DESPERATE HOUSEWIVES) Cherry starring soap icon Lane Davies.

A little more racy was the British series MILE HIGH (2003-05)...

Which was kind of a throw back to the sexploitation flicks like...THE STEWARDESSES (1969)...which was in 3D.

Or STEWARDESS SCHOOL (1986) featuring Donny Most, Judy Landers and Sherman Hemsley!

I'm not gonna go into the AIRPORT series of films, but I really must mention that the all-time best Airplane movie is, of course AIRPLANE! (1980).

But by all means, avoid the sequel...

...and avoid PAN AM. Is that show still even on?

Ben Gazzara (1930-2012)

2012-02-03T20:34:00.000-08:00

Zalman King (1942-2012)

2012-02-03T20:31:00.000-08:00

Don Cornelius (1936-2012)

2012-02-01T08:29:00.000-08:00

Robert Hegyes (1951-2012)

2012-01-26T08:25:00.000-08:00

James Farentino (1938-2012)

2012-01-24T22:21:00.000-08:00

Jamesetta Hawkins (1938-2012)

2012-01-20T13:29:00.000-08:00

There She Is...

2012-01-14T00:01:00.000-08:00

Tonight is the Miss America Pageant. Never been much of a beauty pageant fan, but the Miss America Pageant has always held a special space in my heart. Maybe it's because two of my favorite World War 2 superheroines were named Miss America - one from Timely/Marvel and and from Quality (later DC)?

Nah, I think it's because of the awesome old TV GUIDE ads that the networks used to run. Let's take a quick look at them.

This one is from 1973, back when the pageant used to air in early September. I love this ad for two reasons 1) The amazing "Mrs. Bellows" hair on the generic Miss America lady. 2) I think she's flying. A crown, a scepter and the power of flight. She's amazing!

The next year, 1974, things got weird. This was the era of Peter Max, neo-Art Deco and freaky "PBS-style" TV GUIDE ads. I love the the show that is airing on channel 40 is called HAPPINESS IS...

In 1977, the show moved to CBS and Bert Parks gets a call-out in the ad, along with co-star Phyllis George (1971 Miss America winner). Photos of actual pageant contestants are now being utilized.

Back to NBC in 1978 with a lovely photo of a real winner (possibly from the year before?). Bert and Phyllis are joined by Lee Meriwether (1955 Miss America). N B See Us!

1982, still on NBC - but Bert Parks is gone! Mr. Parks was let go in 1979, after hosting for 24 years. TV's TARZAN and FACE THE MUSIC host Ron Ely (pictured) is the "new" host. Two former Misses (Susan Powell, Dorothy Benbam) are shown as well.

A year later, Ron is gone and Gary Collins is in. Susan Powell is back and the special guest is former Fifth Dimension-er Marilyn McCoo! You don't have to be a star, to be in her show.

In 1986, Miss America turns her back to us. Shocking! Gary Collins still helms.

The following year, Collins was back and the font choice reached a new level of cheesiness, as did Miss America's gown. For some interesting facts and figures about the pageant, see below:

Tonight lightning safety advocates will be rooting for Ellen Bryan, Miss Ohio to win. She has been a spokesperson for lightning safety for several years. Ellen has made lightning safety and "when thunder roars, go indoors" her Miss America platform issue. Brains and beauty too! So there you have it, my quick look back at the Miss America Pageant. Actually, I preferred this pageant:

One Life to Live 1968-2012

2012-01-13T20:15:00.000-08:00

Another one bites the dust.

Happy 65, Bowie

2012-01-08T14:12:00.000-08:00

Top Tensploitation: TV (2011 Edition)

2011-12-30T00:01:00.000-08:00

Because you can never get enough of people telling you what THEY like best, here's my second annual Top Ten TV Shows list.

1) AMERICAN HORROR STORY (FX, Wednesdays 10PM) - An incredibly addictive pastiche of gothic soap, softcore porn and Grand Guignol horror that added up to an incredibly well-cast and well-acted concoction delivering some of the campiest over-the-top dialogue this (or any other) season.

While the men (Dylan McDermott, Zachary Quinto, Evan Peters) were pretty to look at, it was the women (Connie Britton, Frances Conroy, Kate Mara, Jamie Brewer and the force of nature that is Jessica Lange) that made this exploration of urban legends and unsolved Hollywood mysteries must-see TV.

While the season finale was a bit disappointing, overall the show kept me guessing and laughing-out-loud all season long.

2) DOWNTON ABBEY (PBS, Sundays 9PM) - A touch of class, this British import showed us how great TV can be done. A sumptuous soap in the grand tradition of the original UPSTAIRS, DOWNSTAIRS and Robert Altman's GOSFORD PARK. A fine cast and a lush soundtrack made this MASTERPIECE an instant classic. Looking forward to season 2.

3) COMMUNITY (NBC, Thursdays 8PM) - The funniest, smartest, most original and lowest rated sitcom on NBC's Thursday night schedule. Season 3 is turning out to be even more brilliant than the previous two. The cast is more lovable than ever, (and who would have thought that I've ever say that about Chevy Chase?) The show is about to go on on hiatus…and I can't imagine how lonely Thursday nights will be without Jeff, Britta, Troy, Abed, Annie, Shirley, Dean Pelton, Señor Chang and yes Chevy Chase's Pierce. Hoping that there will be a season 4.

4) EPISODES (Showtime, Sundays 9:30PM) - Anyone who's ever taken a meeting with studio or network "suits" can relate to this hysterical and realistic look at how a great British series gets reworked into a dreadful Matt LeBlanc sitcom. Stephen Mangan and Tamsin Greig are painfully wonderful as Sean and Beverly Lincoln, whose "baby" (Lyman’s Boys) gets transformed into something called Pucks. Mircea Monroe is brilliant as network "yes woman" Morning Randolph and John Pankow is terrific as her slimy boss Merc Lapidus. Oh, yeah that guy playing Matt LeBlanc nails it.

5) HAPPY ENDINGS (ABC, Wednesdays 9:30PM) - Finally, a show that takes the FRIENDS concept to the next level and makes it work. Eliza Coupe is Jane, a control-freak and perfectionist. Jane is married to Brad (the super-sexy Damon Wayans, Jr.), her loyal husband. Brad's best friends are food truck operator Dave (Zachary Knighton ) - who used to be engaged to Jane's sister Alex - and Max (Adam Pally), the best, most realistic gay character EVER on TV. Max is sarcastic, unkempt and constantly unemployed. A far cry from cliched gay characters on shows like MODERN FAMILY and GLEE. Alex (Elisha Cuthbert) owns and operates a boutique called Xela ("Alex" backwards) and is roommates with desperate and single Penny (the awesome breakout Casey Wilson). A standout on ABC's otherwise dull line-up.

6) PARKS & RECREATION (NBC, Thursdays 8:30PM) - A show which gets better every time you watch it. At first a poor clone of THE OFFICE, the show has now evolved into something greater. Amy Poehler leads a great ensemble that includes standouts Aziz Ansari, Nick Offerman, Aubrey Plaza, Rashida Jones, Chris Pratt, Retta, Jim O'Heir and Adam Scott. Stunt-casting Rob Lowe during season 2 didn't really add anything to the show, but didn't detract either. Who would have thought that small city government would make an interesting and hysterical series? Not I.

7) UPSTAIRS, DOWNSTAIRS (PBS, Sundays 9PM) - The grandaddy of British class-war soaps was back with Jean Marsh recreating her role of Rose Buck, as a new family moves into 165 Eaton Place. Overshadowed by the much grander DOWNTON ABBEY, this three-part revival was a wonderful effort and long overdue. For more on the history of UPSTAIRS, DOWNSTAIRS go here.

8) LOUIE (FX, Thursdays 10PM) - Stand-up genius Louis CK writes, directs, edits and produces the saddest. most depressing sitcom ever. The storylines are dark, the situations awkward and you can't help but feel uncomfortable watching, but the show almost always manages to make me laugh out loud.

9) WILFRED (FX, Thursdays 10:30PM) - If my dogs could talk, they would be Wilfred. Based on an Australian series, Elijah Wood stars as Ryan, a suicidal mess who befriends his neighbor's mischievous mutt (Jason Gann, reprising his Aussie role). Wilfred smokes cigarettes and pot, drinks beer, eats human food, and is a bad influence on Ryan. The show is absurd, distasteful and wickedly funny.

10) DAYS OF OUR LIVES (NBC, Weekdays 1PM) - I know. I'm crazy. I grew up watching DOOL in the 70s and 80s. I watched it sporadically in the 90s and 2000s, and somehow found my way back to Salem in 2011. While GUIDING LIGHT, AS THE WORLD TURNS, ALL MY CHILDREN and soon ONE LIFE TO LIVE have all called it quits - DAYS has been revitalized by returning to its roots: bringing back beloved characters and actors and finally welcoming a gay storyline. While it may not be Shakespeare, this show has survived convoluted continuity, demonic possession and a dreadful year where every major character was "killed" and transported to another dimension. With only three other daytime soaps left (GENERAL HOSPITAL on ABC, YOUNG & THE RESTLESS and BOLD & THE BEAUTIFUL on CBS), DAYS' days may be numbered, but I'm hoping it pulls through.

Missing from 2011's group are MAD MEN (no new episodes), IT'S ALWAYS SUNNY IN PHILADELPHIA (a very uneven season), BETTER OFF TED (sadly, cancelled), NURSE JACKIE (a concept that has run it's course), WEEDS (why is this still on?), HOT IN CLEVELAND (novelty has worn thin), ARCHER (novelty has worn VERY thin) and clip shows (THE DISH and INFOMANIA are gone, TOSH.0 has become torture porn, CHELSEA LATELY, THE SOUP and FASHION POLICE are still good background while blogging). There are also shows that I had high hopes for (PLAYBOY CLUB, PAN AM) that never took off, some shows I missed the boat on (REVENGE, BOARDWALK EMPIRE, RAISING HOPE) and "good" shows that I have no interest in (HOMELAND, JUSTIFIED, BREAKING BAD, SONS OF ANARCHY). Then there are the overrated shows (MODERN FAMILY, GLEE) and "reality" tv (no comment). Once again, CBS is suspiciously absent. This is my list and I'm sticking to it!

Have a Happy...

2011-12-25T11:35:00.000-08:00

Hello readers, it's been a super busy year between my "day job", working on PRETTY and just life in general. I intended to post many more wonderful holiday themed items over the past few week, but alas there is not enough time in the day. I do hope you all are having a great holiday no matter WHAT or HOW you celebrate and look forward to a big, bright New Year for us all. Peace, peeps.

Christmas From Our House To Yours

2011-12-18T05:00:00.000-08:00

The Green Apple Co. released this wonderfully dreadful holiday craft book sometime during the late 70s or early 80s. Clearly they did not have the budget to hire a professional photographer to make these homemade design "suggestions" look like something that anyone would want to undertake.

Let's start with the eye chart, um I mean banner. The alphabet, followed by three rows of images: 1) wreaths 2) gingerbread men 3) stockings. Then "From our house to yours" and a quaint image of a snow-covered gingerbread house. Followed by a row of trees, the numbers 1 through 9 (WTF?), a row of candy canes and finally a row of gifts. Did I mention the MERRY CHRISTMAS border and the gingham loops at the top? Oy vey.

Next yp we have this lovely (?) wreath pillow. Well at least I THINK that's supposed to be a wreath.

Ah, Rebecca's Christmas stocking. More gingham and a cheerful snowman make this suitable for flinging into, er, I mean "hanging by" any fireplace!

In case little Billy forgets where he's supposed to sit at the dinner table, why not remind him with this stylish place setting? After all what's better at catching crumbs and gravy spills than a white swatch of fabric?

And finally - what's the holidays without a small box decorated with label with a clever "Christmas Recipe"? I sure hope someone toils away to make me one of these this year! So there you have it - horrible crafts to avoid at all costs, from the Green Apple Co.

The Murder of Santa Claus, 1973

2011-12-16T00:01:00.000-08:00

I always thought this was a weird, but fun cover. As members of the JLA and JSA stand around with their hands on their hips, poor Santa lies face down in the snow. It's almost as if they killed him and are standing over his lifeless body with pride. Here Comes TV's Super-Friends, but you better not get in their way - I'm talking to you, Santa!

Joe Simon 1913-2011 & Eduardo Barreto 1954-2011

2011-12-15T10:20:00.000-08:00

Naughty & Nice - Holiday Pin-Ups

2011-12-14T00:57:00.000-08:00

From 2008 : Since a certain nameless blog listing service turned down Dougsploitation because it considered it "pornography" - I decided to put my money shots where their mouths are and share some slightly sexy photos from Santa's private collection.

First up, we have everybody's favorite Batgirl, Yvonne Craig showing some skin as she poses among some brightly wrapped packages spilling out of Old St. Nick's big sleigh.

Next up we have a classic James Bidgood photo of a hunky young man (circa 1966). Looks like somebody has already started unwrapping their present!

Yvonne's back, this time looking pert and stylish as she poses with a smiling snowman in front of a lovely decorated holiday window.

Meanwhile, a twinky blonde caroler has arrived with quite an assortment of gifts for some lucky recipient. This is another shot from a Bidgood collection called Holiday.

The Wonder Book of Christmas

2011-12-13T00:00:00.000-08:00

One of the last times I was back home, I packed a bunch of my childhood books into my suitcase including a few Christmas titles - THE WONDER BOOK OF CHRISTMAS was one of my favorites.

I just though I'd share this adorable opening spread with my readers. This is my WONDER BOOK...signed "Douglas". How cute is that?

I long for the days when the holidays were filled with Wonder. Maybe next life? In the mean time, I'll just enjoy them for what they are...

I'm Dreaming of a Bing Crosby...

2011-12-12T00:00:00.000-08:00

When I think of Bing Crosby I think of 5 things.

1) White Christmas

2) Bob Hope

3) Golf

4) Minute Maid Orange Juice

5) His duet with David Bowie

But I've recently come across two more things which I will now forever associate Bing Crosby with...

6) Friendship Trees! The grand tradition of taping Christmas Cards to your tree using cellophane tape–as Bing Crosby, star of Paramount's MR. MUSIC highly recommended. His co-star Nancy Olson agreed that it's a "wonderful idea". But how does one transform a boring old Christmas tree into one of friendship? Luckily we had this color advertisement to show us exactly how to how apply tape to greeting cards and then how to tape them to the tree. Wow - thanks Bing!!! Now, if there was only a frozen dessert I could eat after I exhaust myself from taping Christmas cards to my tree...

7) Bing Crosby Ice Cream. Long before Ben & Jerry's, Bing's giant head adorned the packaging of Valley Farm's vanilla frozen dessert. You may ask "why"? I could reply, "why not?". Let's just say, Bing was to ice cream like Paul Newman was to salad dressing and leave it at that. I once heard a story which I think can tie this all together. Someone once asked an elderly Bob Hope what Bing Crosby was really like. His response "you know, he really likes his marijuana." Wow - Crosby a pot head? Who knew? Bob Hope knew - that's who! Bing Cherry Garcia might have been the flavor that never was. Well, now I have 8 things to associate Bing Crosby with.

Random Holiday Stuff

2011-12-11T10:20:00.000-08:00

From 2009: Throughout the year whenever I come across some Christmas-themed images I file them away and hope that I remember to blog about them. Well this year I've been so busy that I almost forgot to share them with you, my loyal readers.

Lucy & Desi give the gift of lung cancer in special holiday-themed cigarette packaging from their friends at Philip Morris. Something wonderful happens when you give Philip Morris!

These ladies know what it's all about: getting gifts and sparkling like a living Christmas tree!

Don Holliday and Companion Books bring us the timeless Christmas classic, Holiday Gay featuring seasonal tales of half-naked Santas and dirty little elves engaging in a traditional holiday orgy. Ah, my people...

Gibson Cards has a wonderful thought for everyone this holiday season - even Molly, who's clearly a bit on the simple side.

This was seen at a local Big Lots store - Santa's bending over to warm his big fat butt just in time for Mr. Snowman to deliver him a stocking stuffer of a carrot!

And finally, something a bit sentimental. An Advent calendar given to me by my late Aunt Vicky when I was a mere child. This glittery bible-quote card has been with me every year for the past 40 years or so. I will treasure it always as much as my memories of the sweet, warm and funny lady who gave it to me. Merry Christmas!

Christmas is like magic

2011-12-10T10:26:00.000-08:00

It sure is with this magical View-Master ad. (click on image to enlarge) I wonder if kids today would be excited to get a View-Master for Christmas? Probably not, and how very sad that is.

Santa's Village

2011-12-10T10:25:00.000-08:00

Santa's Village were the first franchised theme parks in the world. Imagine a place where children could experience the fun of Christmas 365 days a year!Sadly, they are a thing of the past. For an exhaustive history of these incredible parks, go here.

The Fifth Day of Christmas

2011-12-10T00:25:00.000-08:00

"It hadn't taken Julia long to fall in love with Ivo van den Werff – but she had better fall out of love equally quickly, she decided, when she met Marcia Jason and realized just how much stronger a claim the other girl had on Ivo's affection."
That's the description on the back cover of THE FIFTH DAY OF CHRISTMAS, a 1971 Harlequin Romance by Betty Neels. I'm not sure what this book has to do with Christmas, but it appears that Ivo's got a small package (5 Golden Rings, perhaps?) and he's all ready to share it with our heroine, nurse Julia - not to be confused with the other nurse JULIA. The author Betty Neels, a retired nurse, wrote an astounding 134 novels between 1970 and 2001 (when she was well into her 90s) - with about a half-dozen published posthumously. Some intriguing titles include AMAZON IN APRON (1970), VICTORY FOR VICTORIA (1972), COBWEB MORNING (1976) and HILLTOP TRYST (1990). Her work lives on in a new 2008 Harlequin holiday collection, CHRISTMAS DREAMS.

Some of Nurse Betty's other holiday romance titles include ROSES FOR CHRISTMAS (1976), WINTER WEDDING (1980), A CHRISTMAS WISH (1995), MISTLETOE KISS (1997), MISTLETOE MAGIC (2000), A CHRISTMAS PROPOSAL (2001), A CHRISTMAS ROMANCE (2001) and CHRISTMAS WISHES (2003). Who knew that there was such a niche market for Christmas-specific romance novels? I guess the tradition lives on in the slew of cheesy ABC Family, Lifetime and Hallmark Channel movies that we are bombarded with each December.

The Moon's Our Home

2011-12-09T00:13:00.000-08:00

What an odd title for a Christmas-themed romance! This 1936 novel was one of author Faith Baldwin's 85 published works in a career that spanned over 50 years.

Is it the story of the first man/woman astronaut team who must celebrate their first Christmas together snowbound in a lunar base? It sure looks like it to me. Does anybody have any other guesses to what the plot line might possibly be?

Prisoner of Christmas Island

2011-12-09T00:01:00.000-08:00

Sounds like a lovely place to be held prisoner to me!

Jerry Robinson 1922-2011

2011-12-08T08:48:00.000-08:00

Holiday Leftovers

2011-12-07T16:58:00.000-08:00

Here's some holiday season leftovers from last year for your viewing pleasure...

In 1978, the SESAME STREET gang celebrated Christmas TWICE - Once at home on PBS...

and also on CBS with special guest stars ranging from Michael Jackson to Ethel Merman!!!

'TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS was a Rankin-Bass animated special that still airs annually on cable. I always found it charming except for it's odd depiction of Santa's red nose and cheeks. He looked freakish to me.

What do you think?

Meanwhile, back in the Stone Age, The Flintstones are celebrating the birth of Christ before it even happened.

In fact The Flintstones celebrate Christmas through time travel as seen here where they frolic with anthropomorphic animals from the 1960s and the Jetsons, from the far future.

Even 'tweenage Peebles and Bamm-Bamm get in on the holiday fun.

Betty Rubble is absent from this gathering, she must be baby-sitting Boo-Boo Bear who is also not present.

Here Yogi Bear, sans Boo-Boo is taking a turn at playing Santa.

And here Yogi is "helping" Santa...or is he helping himself to Ranger Smith's new skis?

And finally here's Yogi and Boo-Boo decorating their tree with painted snowballs. Shouldn't they be hibernating?

Looks like Tom & Jerry have put all their feuding aside for the holidays - and Jerry's found himself a little gray mousefriend to celebrate with! Hope all my readers and friends have a wonderful holiday season whether they are spending it on Sesame Street, in Bedrock or in Jellystone Park. Peace on Earth and all that.

Dougsploitation Holiday Dream House

2011-12-06T00:01:00.000-08:00

I've been collecting vintage Christmas decorating books and magazines for a few years now, so it's about time I share some of my favorite photos with you all. The above picture is an example of what the Dougsploitation Holiday Dream House would be like. A blazing fire with a highly flammable wreath hung above it. All the fellas would wear red vests and the gals (whether real or factory-made) would be as pretty as could be. Our Reader's Digest Condensed Books would be in year order on the shelf and popcorn would be offered to all guests.

Our white tree would be decorated with red balls and Mariah Carey meets Mothra style butterflies.

Or maybe we'd do a blood red tree simply decorated with White Wing Doves. All gifts would be wrapped in red so as not to stand out from the tree.

In addition we'd have this smart pastel spiral tabletop tree in our green room.

Our dining room credenza will be decked out in throngs of gold garland with gold balls on thick red ribbons hanging in front of the mirror. Who needs to look in the mirror anyway?

Speaking of garland - lets just hang all of it over the living room window. Take a gander at that gold candelabra. Classy, eh?

Our other fireplace would have an amazing Santa with bells and reindeers display. The three stockings add a nice touch to the already festive mantle story.

Our snacks would be served in the most unique ways...who else has a donut caddy? The pretzel tree is a bit sloppy, but I have no idea what's go on with that thing on the right. Any ideas?

And finally, our third fireplace would be adorned with a life-size Baby Jesus coming out of the wreath to greet us. Who wouldn't want to spend the holidays in this Dream House?

Yes, Virginia, There is a Santa Claus

2011-12-05T00:01:00.000-08:00

In 1897 a young girl named Virginia O'Hanlon wrote a letter to the editor of The New York Sun asking if Santa Claus really existed. The editor's response became the bookYes, Virginia, There is a Santa Claus, which was published in 1972. Two years later in 1974 Peanuts animator Bill Melendez adapted it into a popular half-hour ABC special - complete with a theme song by Jimmy Osmond.

The show aired during the 70s on ABC, then on CBS, USA Network and The Family Channel throughout the 80s and 90s. The story was also adapted into a live-action TV-film in 1991 starring Richard Thomas, Ed Asner and Charles Bronson. A second animated adaptation premiered on CBS in 2009 and will be rebroadcast this season. The real Virginia O'Hanlon grew up to become a schoolteacher and died in 1971.

Best Christmas CD Ever?

2011-12-04T00:01:00.000-08:00

By now readers of my blog know that I love Christmas. I kinda love most things about Christmas, (perhaps except for certain kinds of Christians-but that's another story), but the music is what makes the holiday most special to me. Each year I pick up one or two new cds (yes, I still buy cds - and vinyl LPs too!) of holiday music, but most usually get downloaded and quickly filed away.

Last year I picked up the newly-released Joy to the World by Pink Martini - a pop jazz ensemble that I've been a fan of for the past dozen years or so. While I expected the disc to be good, I had no idea that it would quickly become one of my favorite holiday albums of all time. Unlike other recording artists, who seem to lazily approach Christmas music as some quick money-making chore, Pink Martini has embraced the task with the thoughtfulness and complexity that they would put into any of their fine recordings. The result is a true work of art that could possibly be the best Christmas album ever recorded.

I mean what album could boast two versions of Irving Berlin's 1940s wartime chestnut White Christmas—one in English and one in Japanese? Additionally we have tracks in Ukrainian (Shchedryk or The Carol of the Bells, 1916), Hebrew (Elohai, N'tzor, 2000), Chinese (Congratulations - A Happy New Year Song, 1946), Italian (Le Vergine Degli Angeli, from Verdi's La forza del destino, 1862), German (Silent Night, 1816), Scottish, French and Arabic (Auld Lang Syne, 1788) and what I think is a Spanish Hanukah song (Ocho Kandelikas, 1981)! There are also gorgeous versions of Little Drummer Boy (1958), Do You Hear What I Hear? (1962), We Three Kings (1857) and a sweet and sexy cover of Santa Baby (1953).

An added special bonus for me is the guest appearance of a certain Patricia Costa Kim - from Sonseed. That's right, Sonseed - the Christian rock band that this very blog put back on the map back in 2008. Now, how weird and special is that???

Pink Martini was founded in Portland, Oregon in 1994 by Thomas M. Lauderdale with vocalist China Forbes, joining in 1995. Having grown into a 12-piece orchestra, they have performed with the Boston Pops, San Francisco Symphony, the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra and the Los Angeles Philharmonic. Pink Martini’s brilliant first four previous albums have collectively sold over 2 million copies worldwide, and I'm happy to add this fifth extraordinary release to my collection. Check out out Pink Martini here. They are scheduled to be guests on NPR's A Prairie Home Companion this coming weekend.

THE BIG EVENT: Christmas Around The World?

2011-12-03T09:25:00.000-08:00

NBC once had a weekly Sunday night "showcase" called THE BIG EVENT that featured movies, miniseries, and specials. While some shows were big events, others were just slot fillers. Not sure what to make of CHRISTMAS AROUND THE WORLD. You decide.

90 minutes of celebrations from 22 countries..that's BIG. Sponsored by McDonalds...that's BIGGER! Hosted by William Conrad? That's BIGGEST! Featuring Vikki ("It Must Be Him") Carr, MGM legend Gene Kelly, French mime Marcel Marceau, Fifth Dimension refugees Marilyn McCoo and Billy Davis Jr., acclaimed International actress Liv Ullman, TV legend Dick Van Dyke and comedy genius Jonathan Winters. That's pretty BIG. Introducing Scott Beach and Larry Finlayson. Yes - Scott Beach, the original voice of Garfield the cat! And Larry Finlayson - who went on to star in....um, nothing. Looking up Misters Beach and Finlayson on IMBD, you will discover that Scott did much voiceover work and some on-screen acting before his death in 1995 - but Larry doesn't even have a listing. As a matter of fact, this entire show doesn't not have an IMDB entry! How can that be? It even had a TV Guide "close up"...

Wait...an oompah band and Maude Frickert??? And this is not on IMDB? Where's the justice people?
Now I'm beginning to wonder if this show ever even aired at all. It's not on Jonathan Winter's resume, there are no screen shots, just an illustrated TV Guide ad and a clip art nativity scene. I mean if Vikki Carr isn't still talking about it...maybe it was all a dream. Maybe Larry Finlayson didn't exist? Perhaps it was all a McDonald's junk food induced nightmare. But come on , how cool would it be to hear the Trinidad steel drum cover of "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas"?

Disturbing TOYS FOR TOTS ad...

2011-12-02T08:57:00.000-08:00

Yes, I know that Love Is... was a popular and adorable comic strip back in the 1970s and I know that TOYS FOR TOTS is an important charity... but really did the two concepts need to meet?

What were they thinking? Naked children in a local Los Angeles TV GUIDE ad promoting a toy collection for Christmas? Somehow I don't think this would fly today...

Do-It-Yourself 22 Piece Ornament Kit

2011-12-01T00:01:00.000-08:00

Holy shit.

Thanks for Tooning In (Again)

2011-11-23T00:02:00.000-08:00

Everybody has seen A CHARLIE BROWN THANKSGIVING at least once. While not as popular as the other Peanuts holiday specials, it stands out as the most memorable animated Thanksgiving program ever created.
Since 1977, when the show premiered on CBS, we have all enjoyed the exploits of the Peanuts gang as they gather for the annual parent-free feast of popcorn, toast and candy. I've always loved pushy Peppermint Patty and her entourage and how they invade Chuck's holiday meal. Maybe it's because I've known a few people like Patty over the years - but she has always been my favorite Peanuts character. The one disturbing aspect of the show is that Woodstock, clearly a bird, carves and ingests a turkey - therefore becoming a cannibal before our eyes. Yikes!

Some other not-so-well-known specials include: THE THANKSGIVING THAT ALMOST WASN'T - not to be confused with THE CHRISTMAS THAT ALMOST WASN'T! This syndicated special first aired in 1972-and hasn't been seen since. It told the tale of Jeremy Squirrel who helped orchestrate the first Thanksgiving feast. Who knew? This special came from the guys over at Hanna-Barbera.
Another critter tale, THE MOUSE ON THE MAYFLOWER was first broadcast in 1968. It's a Rankin-Bass classic that was narrated by Bing Crosby. You can read all about it here.

Comic strip cavemen from Before Christ came to life in B.C. THE FIRST THANKSGIVING, which premiered on NBC in 1972. THE FLINTSTONES it's not. You can watch it in three segments here on YouTube.
Another comic strip came to TV in 1989. GARFIELD'S THANKSGIVING was one of the sourpuss cat's many CBS specials. I've never been a fan.
In 1980, NBC aired a compilation of old Warner Bros. cartoons mixed with a new Duck Dodgers episode and called it DAFFY DUCK'S THANKS FOR GIVING.
This was after CBS debuted the similar BUGS BUNNY'S THANKSGIVING DIET a year earlier to big ratings.
In 1980's THANKSGIVING IN THE LAND OF OZ , Dorothy Gale is carried back to Oz by a green turkey balloon to spend the holiday with her Aunt Em and Uncle Henry, who are moving to a nursing home! Along the way she meets Jack Pumpkinhead, a and Tic Toc, and must battle the evil Tyrone the Terrible Toy Tinkerer. Oh boy! This CBS Special should not be confused with the live action atrocity called THE WONDERFUL LAND OF OZ.
Also, it should not to be confused with 1974's JOURNEY BACK TO OZ, which was a theatrical feature from our friends over at Filmation (that actually took ten years to make it to the big screen). Liza Minnelli takes over her late mom's role and she's joined by such talents as Ethel Merman, Paul Lynde, Milton Berle, Mickey Rooney, Danny Thomas and Margaret Hamilton! With special guest Bill Cosby as the Wiz! (A little Filmation cross-promotion there). It premiered on ABC in 1976.

So there you have it - my quick overview of that rare bird, the Thanksgiving special.

Enjoy!

PRETTY Season 3, Episode 2

2011-11-16T22:01:00.000-08:00

PRETTY Season 3, Episode 1

2011-11-09T19:15:00.001-08:00

Genie Francis and a bevy of guest stars turn up in the third season premiere of PRETTY!

Bil Keane (1922-2011)

2011-11-09T19:12:00.000-08:00

Moving On...

2011-10-16T14:40:00.000-07:00

Hey fans & readers, just letting you all know I've decided to move on over to tumblr. As this blog evolves and as my time to write becomes more and more limited, it makes sense to start anew on a different platform. Hope you will join me there. Thanks! - Doug

More Random TV Guide Ads: The Halloween Treat?

2011-10-15T00:01:00.000-07:00

When I first came across this vintage TV GUIDE ad, I thought "Bing Crosby and his Family in GOLDILOCKS...The Halloween Treat?" How weird, I never thought of the story of Goldilocks to be a seasonal story...and though it does have some minor elements of fright, it would take some stretch of the imagination to consider it horror. Only after I scanned the ad did I actually realize that it's Sun-Maid® Raisins that are actually "The Halloween Treat." Not the Crosby family, not the Three Bears and not our young fair yellow-haired maiden...but some saggy old, wrinkly ass grapes. Well, either way cannot deny the grooviness of the GOLDILOCKS logo. It's actually so cool, I'm thinking of making myself a GOLDILOCKS tee-shirt! Hey come to think of it that one Little Bear's face peeping between the "G" and the "L" - just above the "O" is pretty freakin' scary.

The Sinister House of Secret Love

2011-10-14T00:01:00.000-07:00

The Halloween season always reminds of the great horror comic books of the 1970s. Enjoy this cover gallery of one of the most unique titles from the period.
By 1971, DC Comics was publishing many romance comics and horror titles.
Romance comics were popular with girls and their line of horror comics had a healthy male audience.
Following the lead of ABC's gothic soap opera, DC decided to merge the two genres to double the appeal of their new title: THE SINISTER HOUSE OF SECRET LOVE.
Written by acclaimed storyteller Michael Fleisher, the concept was deemed a failure and by the fifth issue the title was changed to SECRETS OF THE SINISTER HOUSE, and the romantic aspect of the stories was soon dropped.
Now relaunched as pure horror anthology in the tradition of HOUSE OF MYSTERY and HOUSE OF SECRETS, the title now had a host and her name was Eve.
Yes, Eve as in Adam & Eve - after all Cain and Abel hosted the other anthologies. DC was quite Old Testament in those days.
Many comic greats contributed to the short-lived series including artist Alfredo Alcala in issues #6, 13 and 14.
SGT. ROCK and WONDER WOMAN writer Robert Kanigher provided stories for issues #6, 9 and 11.
Silver Age great Sam Glanzman contributed art to Issue #7.
Stylish newcomer Michael Kaluta provided covers for issues #6 and 7.
All-time great superhero artist Neal Adams drew a tale in issue #10.
JUSTICE LEAGUE OF AMERICA scribe Mike Sekowsky wrote a story for issue #14.
And HEAVY METAL artist Alex Niño's work was feature in issues #8, 11, 12 and 13.
Around this same time, DC also launched THE DARK MANSION OF FORBIDDEN LOVE, which similarly transformed into FORBIDDEN TALES OF THE DARK MANSION.
Eve left her hostess duties after issue #16, moving over to WEIRD MYSTERY TALES.Recently DC published SHOWCASE PRESENTS: SECRETS OF SINISTER HOUSE, a trade paperback collecting the entire 18-issue series (which ran from 1971-1974) for the first time in a black-and-white value-priced 496 page collection.
Pick up a copy at your local comics shop for $17.99 - cheap!
I do hope you join me in THE SINISTER HOUSE OF SECRET LOVE!!!

Broom-Hilda

2011-10-13T23:10:00.000-07:00

Here's a little post I ran last Halloween season on another blog, HELLO THERE CUTIE, about one of our favorite wacky witches in the world!Comic strip diva Broom-Hilda is a old hag in dire need of a makeover. With green skin, a wart on the end of her nose, and very stringy hair, she could use a bit of a Beverly Hills NIP/TUCK. She always dresses quite fashionably in a little black dress, and accessorizes with a flower on top of her hat. Hilda is rumored to be Attila the Hun's ex-wife(!) and is always unsuccessfully trying to land a new husband. Cougar. Originally Hilda smoked cigars and drank like a sailor, but she seems to have mellowed out a bit in her old age.In our world, Broom-Hilda is a classic newspaper comic strip that began on April 19, 1970. Created by Russell Myers (no relation to Russ Meyers) it is still distributed by the Chicago Tribune Syndicate. You can read the strip every day here.

Scary TV: The Horror Show

2011-10-12T00:01:00.001-07:00

Damn - I wish I had this on VHS tape. Anthony Perkins (who I once had the pleasure of meeting) hosts at look at 60 magical years of movie monsters, madmen and creatures of the night. Imagine of the networks still had the moxie to program stuff like this?

Scary TV:Dracula vs. Frankenstein

2011-10-11T00:02:00.000-07:00

A low-budget 1971 shocker from Poland starring Lon Chaney, Jr. (in his last role), musical-comedy star Russ Tamblyn and DALLAS patriarch Jim Davis. A crappy movie, but a great TV GUIDE ad. I love that it aired TWICE - at 11PM for the adults then the next day at 4PM for the kiddies.

Scary TV: Alice Cooper--The Nightmare

2011-10-10T21:44:00.000-07:00

Before Michael Jackson's THRILLER, Vincent Price helped Alice Cooper realize his wildest dreams in this late-night special. Not really familiar with Mr. Cooper's music, I'm assuming this special was a "concept" piece based on one of his albums. Vincent Price was quite a common TV guest in the 1970s - showing up whenever a flamboyant and/or creepy old dude was needed. Whether it be sitcoms like THE BRADY BUNCH, variety specials like THE BRADY BUNCH VARIETY HOUR, adventure shows like THE BIONIC WOMAN, mysteries like COLUMBO or cartoons like SCOOBY-DOO, Vincent would always show up, do the work and earn a paycheck. He died in 1993 at 82...or did he?

PRETTY Season 3 Trailer

2011-10-09T09:52:00.000-07:00

Be prepared to get PRETTY all over again.

Return to PEYTON PLACE, Part 2

2011-09-30T00:01:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I explored the "roots" of PEYTON PLACE, the hit primetime serial which debuted on ABC in the fall of 1964. I recently began watching the show on DVD and am becoming slightly obsessed with it.

The show originally aired twice a week (Tuesdays and Thursdays at 9:30PM) for it's first season and and both half-hours ranked in the Top 20 and leading the expansion to three nights a week (Tuesday, Thursday and Friday) in June 1965.

The lovely Dorothy Malone assumed the role of Constance MacKenzie (following in the footsteps of Lana Turner and Eleanor Parker), the single mother who ran the local bookshop and raised sweet, naive Allison (played by 19-year-old newcomer Mia Farrow).

In the very first episode Dr. Michael Rossi (Ed Nelson) arrives from the big city to set up shop following the death of Doctor Donald Brooks. Turns out Rossi was present at Alison's birth and knows something about her absentee father. This freaks Constance out - and clues to the baby daddy's true identity are dropped.

Sweet innocent Allison is drawn to bad boy Rodney Harrington (Ryan O'Neal, wearing some very revealing trousers) and mama Connie is none to happy about this - mostly because Rodney already has a girlfriend.

Meanwhile, Rodney's father Leslie Harrington (Paul Langton) is about to enter into a torrid affair with his secretary Julie Anderson (Kasey Rogers), when Rodney walks in on them! We soon finf out that Julie's husband is an abusive salesman and she's much better off in her boss's arms.

Soon Julie's not-so-pure daughter Betty (played by future VALLEY OF THE DOLLS diva Barbara Parkins) is dumped by her boyfriend. Guess who? Rodney! Meanwhile Rodney's brother Norman (Christopher Connelly) is in love with Allison...

All these romantic entanglements and mysteries overlap and intertwine like the best of daytime soaps, though the show is not videtaped and scored with organ music, but filmed to look somewhat like a cross between a feature film and a sitcom.

The lush cinematic score and the gorgeous New England scenery elevate the show and give it a warmth and richness which I find very comforting.

The show ran for 5 seasons in total, and along the way it converted to color and featured great performers like Lee Grant, Ruth Warrick, Gena Rowlands, Ruby Dee, Barbara Rush, Mariette Hartley and even pre-AIRPLANE! Leslie Nielsen.

The show was canceled in 1969, but resurfaced on NBC in 1972 as the daytime series RETURN TO PEYTON PLACE. Several supporting actors returned in their original roles, but the major roles were recast. RETURN was axed in January 1974.

NBC aired MURDER IN PEYTON PLACE (1978) in primetime and it reunited many of the original cast members. Another NBC sequel, PEYTON PLACE: THE NEXT GENERATION aired in 1985 and was intended as a pilot for a new series, which never materialized. Maybe the CW has a revival up it's sleeves?

As a continue watching the first season, I look forward to future releases of PEYTON PLACE from Shout! Factory

Return to PEYTON PLACE, Part 1

2011-09-29T00:01:00.000-07:00

I've often been accused of being out of step with the mainstream. While millions thrill to AMERICAN IDOL week after week, I long for the days of THE GONG SHOW. While others drool over DANCING WITH THE STARS, I reminisce about DANCE FEVER and while the masses were tuning in to watch the final season of LOST, I found myself watching season one of PEYTON PLACE.

That's right, PEYTON PLACE, the grandaddy of prime-time soaps, which ran on ABC from 1964 through 1969.

PEYTON PLACE started life as a scandalous best-selling 1956 novel by Grace Metalious. Set in a fictitious New England town that appeared all prim and proper on the surface, but was full of dark and dirty secrets!

The book was adapted into a hit film in 1957 starring Lana Turner as Constance MacKenzie.

A semi-star (as opposed to all-star) supporting cast included Hope Lange, Russ Tamblyn and Lorne Greene.

In 1959 Metalious was back on the best seller list with a sequel, RETURN TO PEYTON PLACE.

The second book was then made into a film in 1961, with entirely different (and less expensive) actors assuming the roles.

Eleanor Parker, Carol Lynley and Tuesday Weld were among the new faces.

PEYTON PLACE came to television in September 1964. For more on PEYTON PLACE... (as they say in the world of soaps) tune in tomorrow...

ALL MY CHILDREN 1970-2011, 2012?-?

2011-09-23T21:36:00.000-07:00

PRETTY Season 3 Teaser

2011-09-22T22:42:00.000-07:00

It's almost here...

We're Gonna Turn You On...

2011-09-18T13:10:00.000-07:00

Celebrating the start of a new television season, I've decided to look back at some of my favorite shows of the past. Yawn - how many times have I done this already? Okay instead let's look at the porn versions of them.... (This blog post may not be safe for work - depending where you work.

First up, we've got THIS AIN'T GOOD TIMES - what happens when you take one of the best Norman Lear sitcoms (and a MAUDE spin-off) of the 70s and add in a bunch of women with large butts and this is what you get! As fake JJ would say "Din-E-Mite!"

Next up, we visit the Stone Age with THE FLINTSTONES, a live-action "homage" to the classic Hanna-Barbera animated series. Looks like you'll have a (not )gay old time in Bedrock! Check it out here. Perfect casting on Mr,. Slate!

Back to the 70s with WKRP IN CINCINNATI - and just like the DVD release of the original show, this parody also has to navigate around music clearance issues. Check it out the trailer.

Even Saturday morning staple SCOOBY-DOO joins in on the fun. Jinkies! See the live-action trailer here! Zoinks!

Another Norman Lear classic sitcom, THE JEFFERSONS gets the porn treatment too. Wonder what Mother Jefferson would say? Or Mr. Bentley for that matter.

And finally, everybody's favorite 80s family, the Huxtables gets a good once-over as well. Grab a pudding pop! LOL.
Has any show from my childhood escape the XXX parody craze? Well, so far no ELECTRIC COMPANY triple X. Yet.

The International Cave of Batwomen

2011-09-14T10:44:00.000-07:00

As a follow-up to my post on DC Comics' Batwomen, here's a fun look at all the other Batwomen who have appeared in campy cult films over the years.

1966's THE WILD WORLD OF BATWOMAN starring Katherine Victor. I've seen this (in 3-D) no less, and it's a giant bore.

From Mexico: 1968's LA MUJER MURCIELAGO aka THE BATWOMAN starring Maura Monti.

I believe this incarnation includes nudity, softcore sex and Mexican wrestlers.

The poster below is pretty awesome.

From The Philippines: 1972's BATWOMAN & ROBIN starring Robin Aristorenas.

This one also features Catwoman and key art that looks like it's directly take from a DC Comic.

And it even had a sequel (also from 1972): BATWOMAN & ROBIN MEET THE QUEEN OF THE VAMPIRES!

Love the oversized combined BATWOMAN AND ROBIN logo! I think I need to see these. Anybody out there have a bootleg copy to lend me?

WHITE DOG

2011-09-11T00:18:00.000-07:00

Today is Kristy McNichol's birthday. Here's a review of perhaps her greatest film performance.As a dog lover and supporter of animal rights, WHITE DOG (1982, directed by the great Sam Fuller) is a film that has always intrigued me. As a birthday tribute to Kristy McNichol, I decided it was time I saw the controversial classic film. The drama starts when actress Julie Sawyer (Kristy) accidentally hits a beautiful stray white German Shepherd with her car. She takes the dog to a local vet and rather than drop him off at the shelter, she decides to take him in until his rightful owners claim him.
The nameless dog seems sweet and protective at first. Julie's boyfriend (Jameson Parker) is glad she's not alone in her Hollywood Hills house any longer. That very night an intruder breaks in Julie's house and tries to rape her. The dog is watching a loud war movie in the other room (seriously) and doesn't hear the criminal. Luckily during a commercial break, the dog finally hears the commotion and leaps to Julie's protection, effectively kicking the shit out of the bad guy.
Days later, the dog–still nameless–wanders off after spotting a rabbit. Julie visits the local animal shelter and in a very powerful scene is disturbed by the conditions there and the use of killing ovens used to put dogs "to sleep". The dog eventually returns her, all bloody from attacking a truck driver. After cleaning him up, Julie takes her boy to work with her and ties him up in the soundstage where she is shooting a scene with an African American actress (Lynne Moody). From out of nowhere the dog brutally attacks her costar, hospitalizing her and sending Julie to a sanctuary for theatrical animals called Noah's Ark to seek help.
Once there she begs Mr. Carruthers (Burl Ives) to help deprogram her attack dog, but he insists it is not possible. Suddenly the dog mauls one of Carruther's workers, an African American man. At this point we learn that the animal is a "white dog" - who was trained from birth to attack people of color! Carruther's top trainer, Keys (the wonderful Paul Winfield) has faced these kinds of dogs before and believes he can break the dog out of it's racist training and takes it on as a personal challenge. Julie agrees to this because she loves the dog, even though she still hasn't given it a name!!!
"Dr. Jekyl" resists Key's training methods at first, and eventually manages to escape from the facility and lives on the streets. In a terrifying scene a small black child is seen playing on a sidewalk while the dog is sifting through garbage just around the corner, luckily the child's mother removes him from harm before the dog is even aware of his existence. An adult churchgoer isn't so lucky as the dog spots him and chases him into the church of St. Francis Assissi, where he rips the man to shreads.
Keys discovers the murdered man and resolves to cure the dog, even though Julie now thinks that "Mr. Hyde" cannot be saved. Keys commits to making headway with the dog, and finally does. (Apparently Mr. Winfield insisted on doing all his own stunts.) Suddenly the dog's original owner shows up a Julie's door, turns out he's an overweight middle-aged man from a trailer park with two freckle-faced little daughters, and he looks very much like Carruthers. In the best scene of the film, Julie lays into guy and calls him just about every name in the book except "racist motherfucker", which is what I would have called him.
When Julie arrives at the compound, she is stunned by the dog's improvement as he is kind with both Keys and another black man. Then there's a shock ending which can be interpreted two ways. SPOILER ALERT!!! After accepting Keys, the dog spots Mr. Carruthers and leaps towards him. Keys shoots the dog dead. So, are we to believe that the dog now hates white people OR does he think Carruthers is his original, abusive owner? I just think the dog is pissed off because he doesn't have a name.
This is a great film. While some of the dialogue is a bit cheesy and Kristy's wardrobe is dated and laughable, the story is as powerful and thought-provoking as it was when it was first made. 10 outta 10. See it.
Pictured: Director Sam Fuller and "White Dog".

Cliff Robertson 1923-2011

2011-09-10T19:48:00.001-07:00

YOR, HUNTER FROM THE FUTURE

2011-09-10T00:01:00.000-07:00

Here's a timely re-post, as this film is now available on DVD via Columbia Classics by Request.
YOR, HUNTER FROM THE FUTURE (1983, directed by Antonio Margheriti aka Anthony M. Dawson) is a fantastical mess of a movie. It's kinda like CONAN THE BARBARIAN meets STAR WARS meets THE HERCULOIDSmeets PLANET OF THE APES with a decidedly European touch. I had origianally watched it during the 2008 Christmas holidays, but because of all my Christmas posts, it fell onto the backburner.I'll try my best to recreate it for you. First of all, you can tell it's an instant classic when it opens with our hunky hero, strapping blonde Yor (Reb Brown, also known as TV's bulgerific CAPTAIN AMERICA) prancing and around in his loin-cloth with his big axe to his own super-cheesy theme song ...Soon we meet Ka-Laa the sexy, sultry cave-girl ("Yor's not like other men"), and her scraggly old pal Pag - who are searching for food, but are attacked by a paper mache triceratops. Lucky for them Yor suddenly appears and kills the creature with his trusty battle axe and drinks its blood because "drinking the blood of your enemy makes you stronger"!
Before too long, The Blue Ape-Man Group attacks the village, kidnapping Ka-Laa! In order to rescue her, Yor uses his bow & arrow to kill a giant bat, using its carcass as hang glider. I kid you not.
After this, Yor decides to set out to find his roots with Ka-Laa and Pag tagging along. The trio soon encounter a band of desert mummies, and woman named Roa who possesses an medallion similar to one that Yor has. She must somehow be connected to him! Then there's some craziness involving Neanderthals and a paper mache dinosaur. Look at this cool Frank Frazetta-inspired poster (artist unknown)...This leads Yor to a mysterious 'Island of Storms' where he learns that his parents were part of a tribe that survived a nuclear attack. Okay, I'll buy that.On the island, Yor and company encounter 'The Overlord' and his team of Darth Vader-wannabe robots, who capture Yor and then a giant laser battle ensues. Of course.
There's other stuff that happens too, only I can't remember it all and my notes are kinda fuzzy. If you're a YOR kinda person, you've probably already seen it and you could tell me more about it than I've told you. I do know that the film is actually edited together from a 4-hour TV miniseries.

I could only imagine what they left out. Here's a website all about the film and it's director.

Rebootapalooza

2011-09-08T08:25:00.000-07:00

Still figuring out my thoughts on the DC Comics "new 52" - while I think there are some talented folks involved, I see this as a good point to drop many comics from my weekly pulll list. So far, one week in, the entire "reboot" feels like another Elseworlds stunt to me. I'll reserve my judgement until after I read the handful of titles I've decided to continue buying, in the meantime enjoy this cool graphic showing the history of the DC logo.

Jack Kirby & the Amazon Princess

2011-08-28T08:33:00.000-07:00

"The King" would have been 94 today - lets celebrate by taking a look at his version of Wonder Woman.

Josie and Pussycats: Behind the Music

2011-08-25T00:01:00.000-07:00

Proving my lifelong desire to be a hard-hitting journalist, I now present my look at some cutting-edge news makers.

JOSIE AND THE PUSSYCATS was always one of my favorite Hanna-Barbera cartoons, as well as the hippest of the Archie Comics line.

Initially published as SHE'S JOSIE (#1-16) and later just JOSIE (#17-44), the comic book was launched in 1963 as a rather generic high school humor series aimed at young girls.

The strip was created by Dan DeCarlo, artist of Atlas/Marvel's MILLIE THE MODEL and Archie's BETTY & VERONICA.

DeCarlo was also known for his very saucy Golden Age pin up girl art.

Now that's a topic for another post entirely. Josie Jones/James/McCoy, whom DeCarlo named after his wife, made her debut in ARCHIE'S PALS 'N' GALS #23, before SHE'S JOSIE #1 hit the newsstands.

Josie's closet friends included sexy dumb blond Melody Jones/Valentine, snobbish Alexander Cabot III and Alex's bitchy twin sister Alexandra (and her equally evil and somewhat magical black cat Sebastian). The kids seemed to spend a lot of time hanging out at ski lodges or on the slopes.

These three characters would remain with the series through the years, though other supporting characters like Pepper, Albert and Sock would fade away.

The book reflected some of the far-out pop culture art and fashion movements of the day. Hunky blond Alan M. Mayberry made his first appearance in JOSIE #42, attracting the attention of both Josie and Alexandra.

The comic became JOSIE AND THE PUSSYCATS with issue #45 (Dec. 1969) when Josie and Melody teamed with their new friend Val Smith/Brown to form an all-group rock group called The Pussycats - at a time when an all-girl rock group was not very common.

In fact, other than Suzi Quatro's 60s band The Pleasure Seekers and The Carrie Nations from BEYOND THE VALLEY OF THE DOLLS, there weren't many representations of this concept in pop culture.

The real-life Runaways would later fill the gap five years after The Pussycats.

Josie was the lead vocalist and guitarist and Melody the drummer. Self-centered Alexandra was their original choice to be bassist, but only if they decided call themselves "Alexandra's Cool Time Cats".

The gals resisted Alexandra's changes and Val took over as the bassist, and she often played other instruments as well...like the tambourine.

Following in the footsteps of Filmation's music-based THE ARCHIE SHOW, which became a Saturday-morning sensation in 1969, Hanna-Barbera quickly adapted JOSIE into a weekly animated series.

Josie's speaking voice was performed by Janet Waldo (also the voice of Judy Jetson); Melody's voice was supplied by cute DORIS DAY SHOW actress Jackie Joseph; and Valerie's speaking voice is performed by Barbara Pariot. The character of Val is notable for being the first African-American female character on a animated TV series, making her the kivvid equivalent of JULIA. Marvelously mean Alexandra's voice in the cartoons is provided by former Mouseketeer Sherry Alberoni.

In the TV show, Alexander became the band's manager, with Alan cast as their roadie and Alexandra becoming the resident pain in the ass.

Unlike the slapstick comedy used in the ARCHIE franchise, JOSIE episodes were more inline with Hanna-Barbera mysteries and adventures like SCOOBY-DOO and JONNY QUEST, with a heavy emphasis on wonderful and wacky musical montage chase scenes. In fact, Alexander became a Shaggy clone and Alan took on the qualities of Fred from SCOOBY.

Episodes would follow the Pussycats on their world tour, as they visited exotic locations and, usually because of scheming Alexandra, got mixed up in some kind of crazy caper. The show's producers opted to not include Alexandra's Sabrina-like dabblings in witchcraft in the series.

The villain was invariably a diabolical madman who wanted to take over the world, and he would have gotten away with it if it wasn't for that meddling all-girl rock group!

Every episode usually ends with Alexandra getting her comeuppance.

Stories in the comic book soon reflected this darker direction that the characters faced on the TV show.

Meanwhile, a real-life bubblegum pop singing group was put together to record songs for the series.

An accompanying Capital LP featured Kathleen Dougherty (Cathy Dougher) as Josie, Cheryl Stoppelmoor (later Cheryl Ladd) as Melody, and Patrice Holloway as Valerie was released, along with a collection of 45 RPM singles.

Patrice also performed the show’s awesome theme song, which was written by Hoyt Curtin, William Hanna and Joseph Barbera. The song was covered by Juliana Hatfield and Tanya Donnelly in 1995.

The series set in motion a tidal wave of merchandise depicting Josie, Melody and Val.

Books, puzzles, toys, costumes and just about any cheap and/ridiculous item that they could slap a logo on became fair game for Pussymania!

16 episodes of aired on CBS during the 1970-71 television season, and were rerun during the 1971-72 season.

In 1972, the show was revamped and returned as JOSIE AND THE PUSSYCATS IN OUTER SPACE, with 16 new episodes of which aired on CBS during the 1972-73 season that were rerun the following season.

In these new episodes, the band was accidentally launched into space while attending a photoshoot at a NASA-type facility, thanks to that clumsy oaf Alexandra.

Thankfully Val was smart enough to figure out how to drive a penis-shaped rocket.

They spent much of the series trying to get back home to Earth, while performing impromptu concerts for misunderstood aliens.

During this run, ear-wiggling Melody adopted an annoying alien creature named Bleep that only says "bleep" over and over again.

The Pussycats also guest starred on an episode of THE NEW SCOOBY-DOO MOVIES, where dopplegangers Alexander and Shaggy and Alan and Fred got to share screen time.

More consumer products rolled out of factories as reruns of the JOSIE turned up on NBC, USA Network, Cartoon Network and are still seen today on Cartoon Network's spinoff channel Boomerang.

In 2001, JOSIE AND THE PUSSYCATS was unsuccessfully adapted into a live action motion picture by Universal Pictures and MGM. The less said about this film, the better.

Sadly, the regular bimonthly JOSIE comic book was discontinued in the early 1980s, with the characters occasionally appearing in "specials" and other Archie universe titles on and off over the years.

A short-lived New Wave makeover in the 80s and a Manga-style riff on the concept proved to be unpopular with fans of the classic Pussycats.

Yes, that's how I like my Pussycats. Long tails and ears for hats.

Guitars and sharps and flats.

...Come on and watch the good guys win. Josie and the Pussycats. Josie and the Pussycats. Insert familiar Sebastian's cat-laugh here.

Glenn Scarpelli in Hollywood

2011-08-24T08:48:00.000-07:00

Before ENTOURAGE, before REX...we had the illustrated adventures of teen TV star Glenn Scarpelli (Norman Lear's ONE DAY AT A TIME, and the game show FANTASY).

Like yours truly, Glenn was raised in Staten Island, NY and moved to Hollywood to find fame and fortune. Glenn's dad was long time Archie Comics artist Henry Scarpelli, which explains why his Hollywood adventures appeared in Archie Comics! Glenn also appeared in the short-lived Ann Jillian ghost sitcom JENNIFER SLEPT HERE and made numerous guest shots on shows like THE LOVE BOAT and FANTASY ISLAND. He also released an album Ever wonder what became of Glenn? Look no further than here.

Nick Ashford (1942-2011) & Jerry Leiber (1933-2011)

2011-08-23T06:57:00.000-07:00

KINGDOM OF THE SPIDERS

2011-08-20T00:01:00.000-07:00

After day of gardening, I've determined my backyard is KINGDOM OF THE SPIDERS!

KINGDOM OF THE SPIDERS (1977, directed by John Cardos) is an itch-inducing 1970s cult classic that is available on DVD via our friends over at Shout! Factory. The Special Edition DVD includes an new interview with star William Shatner; an in-depth commentary; rare behind-the-scenes footage; awesome and skin-crawlingly informative featurette Jim Brockett: Spider Wrangler and other cool stuff.

Now on to my review. In the tradition of THE BIRDS and JAWS, this film is a prime example of the popular "nature goes crazy" subgenre from the late 1970s. Other fine examples include favorites like GRIZZLY, PIRANHA and CRUISING.

Shatner, the consummate actor stars here as Robert "Rack" Hansen, a tight-jean and cowboy hat-wearing male chauvinist pig (and veterinarian) in some sleepy desert town in Arizona.
The mayhem starts when "Rack" gets a call from old man Colby (former football player Woody Strode) to tend to his sick calf.

After rushing the poor mouth-foaming calf to Hansen's lab, it mercifully dies. "Rack" is puzzled by this sudden and deadly illness, so he sends off some blood samples and calls it a day.
Enter Diane Ashley (Tiffany Bolling), a no-nonsense pantyhose wearing broad (and smarty-pants scientist) who quickly determines that spider venom is the culprit. And then she handles some some big hairy tarantulas...yikes! "Rack" our local sexist, egotistical, lying hypocritical bigot thinks Ashley is full of bull, but accompanies her anyway to Colby's farm to investigate. They are greeted by Colby's 'do-rag wearing wife Birch (ladies and gentleman introducing Altovise Davis, wife of Sammy) who informs the duo that their dog has died too! Ashley determines whatever bit the calf also bit the dog! "Rack" still thinks she's full of it.

Old man Colby then tells the mismatched couple that, oh yeah, he recently discovered a spider hill on his property - and we soon see it's not just your average run-of-the-mill spider hill - this thing is swarming with mother-fucking tarantulas! Ashley reveals that these spiders are attacking animals because pesticides have killed off all the bugs they usually feed on. "Rack" is starting to believe her and their attraction to each other is growing faster than a mob of tarantulas.

Back at the farm, a stampeding bull is covered with the giant spiders. Wait...if the livestock is now spider food - could humans be next? In a mad rage Colby and the gang set fire to the spider hill thinking that it will solve the problem - not knowing the entire community is soon to be infested with a horde of killer arachnids!!! The next day, after bidding his wife Birch goodbye (and leaving her with his gun), poor Colby drives his old pickup truck over a ledge when the eight-legged bastards begin to attack him. Sheriff Smith (David McLean) and "Rack" soon show up and find the old farmer's body in a cocoon of spider webs!

Back at the farm, the town's mayor orders that the property be sprayed with a stronger pesticide - because they have the big County Fair to worry about. Ashley can see that this douche is more concerned with making money from tourism than with dealing with what is clearly a very serious problem like the invasion of giant, hairy and deadly spiders.
Unfortunately the crop duster pilot is attacked by suicide-bomber tarantulas, and crashes his plane before he can spray the area, setting off a giant explosion that may have killed at least a few of the spiders. I think most of the budget must have been spent on this scene. What follows is my favorite scene in the whole movie. The newly-widowed Birch is alone in the farmhouse when the spiders attack–and of course she reaches for her late husband's weapon to fend them off.

So she points the gun at a spider that is crawling ON HER OWN HAND and SHOOTS!

Bye bye Altovise, see ya at the Sahara! Meanwhile Rack's flirty widowed sister-in-law (played by Marcy Lafferty, Shatner's wife) is alone on her ranch with her young daughter. Well, not alone–if you count the hundreds of spiders that attack her!
"Rack" is able to rescue his niece Linda from the spiders, sweeping her off to local Emma Washburn's lesbian lodge for safekeeping. The remaining residents of town have now barricaded themselves inside the lodge to protect themselves from the onslaught of the spiders - who are now friggin' everywhere! Chaos has broken out in the town and Sheriff Smith tries to escape, but is killed when the town's water tower collapses, smashing his car.

Things only get worse from here and I really don't want to spoil it for anyone. I have to say that despite being a vegan, I am not a fan of spiders. In fact, I have killed many a black widow on my property. (Picture me on my back porch with a shotgun yelling "get off my property you eight-legged freaks!"). Just thinking about them makes my skin crawl. But, the most fun part of watching this flick is to see actors and extras running around with REAL live spiders crawling all over them.

There's plenty of hammy acting, crazy scenes of Shatner treating women badly, an annoying little girl in peril and people covered in spider webs. I give this one a big 9 outta 10 and I think you will too.

Rutles, Rock Band

2011-08-19T20:35:00.000-07:00

The Rutles were born over 50 years ago when Ron Nasty met Dirk McQuickly in Liverpool. They soon hooked up with guitarist Stig O'Hara, and they formed a trio. After finding drummer Barry Wom living in their van, the Rutles were born. A fifth member named Leppo joined, but disappeared after crawling inside a trunk. They soon became known as 'The Prefab Four'.In 1961, one-legged chemist Leggy Mountbatten discovered the boys playing in a club. He disliked their music, but enjoyed the cut of their tight trousers. He soon became their manager, signing them to Parlourphone Records. Their first single was I Must Be In Love.They recorded the first album in 20 minutes and by 1963 were a huge success in the United Kingdom. In 1964, Rutlemania exploded internationally, including the states, the group's first film, A HARD DAY'S RUT was released later that year.
Their success continued as they became stars on record, in movies and on magazine covers. The film OUCH! followed in 1965.
In 1966, Ron Nasty was quoted incorrectly as saying that the group were 'bigger than God'. However, he had actually said they were bigger than Rod Stewart.Teen-age girls loved The Rutles and teen-age boys wanted to be them.
In 1967 the Rutles masterpiece Sgt. Rutter's Only Darts Club Band was released, though rumors quickly spread that they wrote it under the influence of tea, which Bob Dylan introduced to them. TRAGICAL HISTORY TOUR followed featuring the hits W.C. Fields Forever and I Am the Waitress. In 1968, a 'Stig is Dead' rumor spread quickly, prompting Barry Wom to stay in bed for a year.
The group's final release, Let It Rot. was recorded in 1969. The band soon fell apart when McQuickly sued Nasty and O'Hara, Wom suing McQuickly, Nasty suing O'Hara and Wom, and O'Hara ended up accidentally suing himself.
A retrospective TV documentary called ALL YOU NEED IS CASH aired on NBC in 1978 ushering a new wave of 'Rutlemania'.A sequel, RUTLES 2: CAN'T BUY ME LUNCH was released in 2007.

Queen Mera of Atlantis!

2011-08-18T00:02:00.000-07:00

The DC Comics cosmic zombie vs. superhero megaseries BLACKEST NIGHT and its sequel BRIGHTEST DAY have thrust several B-list characters into the spotlight.

Chief among these characters is Queen Mera of Atlantis.

This stunning red-haired beauty has been a supporting player in the DC Universe for almost fifty years.

She is generally known as a footnote in the Aquaman mythos.

Though after the DC "reboot" in a few weeks there is a good chance that Mera will be an A-list character in her own right.

Let's take a look at the history of this unique character.

Mera first appeared in AQUAMAN Vol. 1, #11 (September 1963) as an undersea queen from another dimension. That teen in red and blue is Aqualad, Aquaman's original underwater sidekick.

Mera was deposed and exiled to Earth, where she met the king of Atlantis, Aquaman (Arthur Curry aka Orin).

The two were taken prisoner and after being rescued, Mera decided to stay on Earth with Aquaman, as the two began to fall in love.

Within several issues, the two were soon wed in gala ceremony attended by the Who's Who of the DC Universe.

Mera and Arthur enjoyed several adventures together over the months that followed.

She often overshadowed him on the cover.

Within months, Mera gave birth to Aquababy, Arthur Curry, Jr..

With junior around, there was now an Aquaman family.

Things seemed to go along swimmingly for a while.

The Aquafamily continued to face unusual rivals.

Presenting: The Fire-Haired Karla!!!

Above is an awesome cover, though this seems to start a trend where Mera is victimized and Aquaman must come to rescue her.

See what I mean?

And again.

Oh, here's the incredible shrinking Aquaman. Unfortunately his comic book series was soon canceled and Mera was in left in limbo for a few years.

Things took a turn for the grim when AQUAMAN's title was revived in the 1970s. Aquaman's nemesis Black Manta kidnapped the Aquababy (Aquaman vol. 1 ,#60) and the couple fought against all odds to rescue and save his life. They failed.

Mera appeared in a series of solo adventures in the back pages of her husband's title during this period.

Mera then suffered a breakdown, abandoning her husband and blaming him for the baby's death. Their marriage was dissolved and Aquaman soon left Atlantis, but Mera stayed behind.

After a while Aquaman tried to make peace with Mera, but she savagely attacked him. In a desperate attempt to defend himself, Aquaman accidentally impaled Mera, believing that he killed her.

She in fact survived and later rose from her coffin, eventually leaving Earth.

We later found out that she was captured and held in yet another dimension, having had another son named AJ!!!.

After this escape she faced some evil sorcerers who stole her powers, forcing her live up on the surface world for a while.

Mera was now part of Arthur's life and adventures once more.

She even had a brief affair with his son (from another relationship)!

Things seems to normalize for a while when Aqualad (now Tempest) married Dolphin, Aquaman's ex-lover.

Mera appeared alongside Aquaman, Tempest, Lori Lemaris, Power Girl and Arion the Immortal in a JUSTICE LEAGUE OF ATLANTIS one-shot.

After all this, AQUAMAN was cancelled yet again and Arthur was thought to be dead for a while.

After a few years, he resurfaced. He was actually in a time warp, and The Justice League managed to rescue him - and he was awarded his own title once more.

After the INFINITE CRISIS, Mera somehow regained her powers and led a army of Atlantian rebels - and teamed up with a new sword-wielding Aquaman. Her former husband, Arthur was soon transformed into a squid-faced freak and was eventually killed. Again.

In BLACKEST NIGHT storyline, at the request of Tempest (remember him?) Mera reluctantly allows Aquaman's Earthly remains to be returned to Atlantis.
However before they can do so, they are attacked by zombie Aquaman, Aquagirl (she died during CRISIS ON INFINITE EARTHS) and Tempest's wife Dolphin (she also died at some point) who have been brought back to life as cosmic zombies called Black Lanterns.

Tempest is killed by Tula (Aquagirl) and instantly transformed into a Black Lantern as well. Mera manages to escape with the Trident of Poseidon and flees to JLA headquarters where she begins a cosmic adventure alongside The Atom. During the battle, Mera is chosen as a deputy officer of the Red Lantern Corps!

In the process she gets a great new red costume and a whole slew of new powers. Following the events of BRIGHTEST DAY and FLASHPOINT, the DC Universe is "rebooted" and a new AQUAMAN series is slated to begin, with Mera as his co-star once again.

Normally, Mera can breathe underwater, possesses enhanced density and muscle mass, granting her enhanced speed and reflexes as seen in his Hostess Fruit Pie ad.

And here she is on a jigsaw puzzle! Aside from comics, Mera's appeared on Filmation's SUPERMAN/AQUAMAN HOUR in the late 1960s. In the 2000s she appeared in three episodes of the JUSTICE LEAGUE animated series. Recently she made a brief cameo as part of Atlantis's royal family on an episode of Cartoon Network's BATMAN: BRAVE &THE BOLD.

So there you have it, the almost 50-year history of Mera in one blog post. She's a real catch!

A Brief History of Batwoman

2011-08-17T00:03:00.000-07:00

A New BATWOMAN monthly comic book will debut in a few weeks as part of the DC Comics "New 52" reboot/relaunch. Let's take a quick look back at the history of this semi-obscure character.The DC Comics character Batwoman has always been one of my favorites, mostly because she was basically a D-List superheroine.

Kathy Kane was introduced in Detective Comics #233 (July 1956) and spent most of her short-lived crimefighting career trying to romantically woo the Dark Knight Detective.She was often doomed.
Paired with Bat-Mite.
Forced into being a surrogate mother to Robin.
Batman also saw her as the competition.
Kathy was later joined by her niece Betty in 1961 as the first Bat-Girl. Kathy and Betty were intended to be romantic interests of Batman and Robin, respectively - to fend off rumors that the caped crusaders were gay lovers.Like Lois Lane, she sometimes developed super-powers when the story called for it.And took part in some of the more bizarre Batman adventures.

She faced many unusual challenges.

Batwoman, as well as Bat-Girl, and other silly characters like Ace the Bat-Hound, and the fore-mentioned Bat-Mite pretty much disappeared from comics by the early 1960s.

Kathy was more or less replaced by Barbara Gordon's much more popular Batgirl during the height of the ABC TV series in last third of that decade.

Kathy resurfaced briefly in the late 1970s as a member of The Batman Family.

Ms. Kane became the owner of a circus after retiring from crimefighting.

Batwoman donned her costume for a few new adventures in the DC Universe–

including a team-up with Batgirl and The Freedom Fighters!

But Kathy's comeback was destined to be short-lived, and she was brutally killed by The Ras Al Ghul's League of Assassins in Detective Comics #485 (September 1979).

Her neice, Betty was renamed Bette after Crisis on Infinite Earths and later joined the Titans as Flamebird.

Years later, Batwoman made a ghostly cameo appearance in The Kingdom: Planet Krypton, in which she is one of many "lost" DC characters that haunt a superhero-themed restaurant.

Other Elseworlds and alternative versions of Batwoman have appeared in recent years, only appearing once or twice. Another Batwoman appeared in the animated film BATMAN: MYSTERY OF THE BATWOMAN. Here Batwoman is actually three different women, one of them is named Cathy Duquesne (pronounced "du-kane").

Batman writer/editor Denny O'Neil hinted for years that a new Batwoman was on her way in the late 1980s/early 90s - but that never happened. Most likely the character evolved into the third Batgirl (Cassandra Cain, no relation) who was introduced after Gordon became paralysed in The Killing Joke and transformed herself into Oracle in the pages of Suicide Squad, and later Birds of Prey. Now, many years later, Barbara Gordon will be returning to the role of Batgirl as part of the DC reboot/relaunch.

Add caption

A brand new Kate Kane was finally introduced to the DCU in the 7th issue of a wonderful weekly maxi-series called 52 (July 2006), becoming the new Batwoman in issue #11 (also July 2006). Kate was now cast as former Gotham police officer Renee Montoya's ex-lover and heiress to one of the wealthiest families in Gotham City.Batwoman and Renee (now the new Question) subsequently got involved with Intergang, the Crime Bible and all sorts of danger during 52, and two follow-up miniseries. This new, improved version of Batwoman debuted as the lead character in Detective Comics (with Renee's Question providing back-up support), coming full circle and bumping her up to the A-List at last. She also briefly joined a new version of the Justice League! It's a interesting footnote that Detective Comics, the title which DC Comics gets its name from costarred TWO lesbian superheroes. In a recent issue of BATMAN INC., Batwoman has an interesting encounter with the "ghost" of the first Batwoman.
A new BATWOMAN #0 appeared a few months back, with the monthly solo series delayed until the big September reboot/relaunch. With stunning art by J.H. Williams III, this is on my shortlist of the new titles I will be buying. You've come a long way, Batwoman.

Getting PRETTY All Over Again

2011-08-12T07:23:00.000-07:00

Hi readers, new posts will be a bit sparse here for the next week or so as I am deep into production on a the third season of PRETTY - the hit, award-winning web series that I am one of the producers (and production designer) of. The new season stars 5 of the original cast members (Sam Pancake, Stacy McQueen, Dee Freeman, Terri Simmons and Michael Taylor Gray). Joining the regular cast fulltime is last season's guest star Kirsten Vangsness (CRIMINAL MINDS). Returning guest stars this season include Denise Alexander (GENERAL HOSPITAL, ANOTHER WORLD)), Melissa Peterman (REBA, THE SINGING BEE) and the hysterical stage actress Madeline Long. New guest stars include Genie Francis (GENERAL HOSPITAL, YOUNG & THE RESTLESS), Martha Byrne (AS THE WORLD TURNS), Mary Beth Evans (DAYS OF OUR LIVES, THE BAY), Melanie Hutsell (SATURDAY NIGHT LIVE, BRIDESMAIDS), Anthony Anderson (ANACOSTIA), Brendan Bradley (SQUATTERS) and Kevin Stea (NAKED BOYS SINGING)! Plus more delicious cover versions of our award-winning theme song, "Gumdrop the Unicorn". There are plenty of twists and turns ahead for the Champagne family this season, so to catch up, you should check out the first two seasons here. Thanks!

More MAN FROM ATLANTIS

2011-08-09T00:00:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I blogged about MAN FROM ATLANTIS - the TV series. Now let's take a look at some cool Mark Harris ephemera.

I believe this psychedelic key art is from the VHS release of the TV-movie pilot. What the hell is wrong with his eye?

This is the cover of a British annual. Notice how the mysterious Mr. Schubert is looking at Mark!

Here's a Tiger Beat Magazine profile of dashing young heartthrob Patrick Duffy! "Here He Is!"

"The Man Who Makes THE MAN FROM ATLANTIS Live". A bit hyperbolic?

Here's a gallery of underwater pulchritude courtesy of the Marvel Comics Group.

A couple of more slabs of beefcake from the Might Marvel Bullpen.

Interesting how Mark only has nipples some of the time. I guess it depends on how cold the water is?

Here's an in-house trade ad ("Mighty Marvel Does It--AGAIN!") and a cast pin-up by future PUNISHER artist Mike Zeck. I think there's a hint of nip there.

And finally - here's a print ad for a Dip Dots Painting Design Book. I guess you could paint your own nipples on Mark using the pink paint. Or not. Well, that's all the crap I have on MAN FROM ATLANTIS, probably more than you ever thought you'd want to see, eh? I'm just waiting for some studio to announce a MAN FROM ATLANTIS feature film. Who would YOU cast as Mark Harris?

MAN FROM ATLANTIS

2011-08-08T00:03:00.000-07:00

MAN FROM ATLANTIS was one of those childhood memories that I thought I would never get a chance to relive. Now, thanks to the like-minded individuals who run The Warner Archive Collection, the adventures of Mark Harris are back to thrill a new generation of underwater adventure fans!

The dvd release of the original 1977 pilot has now been followed by the release of the TV-movie collection and the entire series - truly a dream come true for anyone who remembers this show from it's initial NBC run.

The original pilot aired in 1977 up against SONNY & CHER on CBS and THE BRADY BUNCH VARIETY HOUR on ABC. Talk about your proverbial "Sophie's Choice!" What was a gay 13 year old boy to do??? Especially since VHS and DVR had yet to be invented!

I opted to watch MAN FROM ATLANTIS, because it was the closest thing to Aquaman or Sub-Mariner that I would probably ever see on network TV and I could always catch those dumb old variety shows in reruns. Smart thinking!

I remember sitting on our plastic-covered living room couch, Mego Aquaman by my side as the opening tiles began.

Pretty soon we were introduced to young Patrick Duffy (a very youthful 32 years old) as an amesia victim who washes up on the shore all blue and covered in seaweed. When doctors try to save his life to no avail, brazen young Dr. Elizabeth Merrill (played by Belinda J. Montgomery) steps in realizes what this dude needs is to be thrown back in the water. Before you know it, he begins to heal and Doc Merill nurses him back to health.

The Foundation for Ocean Research decide to call him "Mark Harris" through tests they determine that he has special abilities, such as super strength, the ability to breathe under water and to leap from the water into the air. Basically, they notice his physiogamy is similar to that of a dolphin, so they begin to treat him like one!

See how this scene is faithfully recreated in the Marvel Comics' adaptation...

Dr. Merrill takes a liking to Mark, even though he can't communicate with her. He does hang on her every word and stare deeply into her eyes with his colorful contact lenses.

The Foundation begins to have secret meetings about Mark and how he can be useful to them.

They determine that he can do all their dirty work and since he can't talk back, they'll be very little resistance. He does resist at first, and even escapes, but the good Doc knows just how to reach out to him.

He shares a tender moments with Doc Merrill. Oh by the way, he's got webbed feet and hands! Only his nails are a bit manky. Paging Madge and her Palmolive! Pretty soon we find out that Mark is super-intelligent and speaks English. But he lacks human emotion, you might say he's bit of a "cold fish".

So Mark begins helping out the Foundation and swimming in his tank wearing his skimpy yellow shorts. In fact the camera lingers on his tight little bathing suit quite a bit. Little does he know he's being watched...and not just by gay 13-year old boys (33 years later) but by the villainous Mr. Schubert (played by the immense Victor Buono), who hopes to use Mark for his own evil schemes!

You see, Schubert has a cult of very schlubby people working for him, even a lady who looks like Vivian Vance!

All of Schubert's people wear the same costume. Oh, except for this one guy. Didn't he get the memo?

Well after a lot of boring underwater bullshit concerning bombs and whatnot, Schubert finally tells Mark that he just wants to be "his friend."

His special friend?

Mark ponders the friendship as he stands there dripping in his tighty yellows.

As Schubert (and the viewers) ponder Mark's buns.

Some crazy shit happens, things blow up, water fills Schubert's secret lair and people drown. Then Mark is given a secret identity...as Stephen Colbert!

After his heroic deeds, Mark is given the opportunity to leave and search for his people.

But it turns out he can't say goodbye to Elizabeth...and thus we have the premise for the weekly series.

And the series of novels...

And the monthly comic book...

And so the saga of the MAN FROM ATLANTIS begins...and I'll be back tomorrow with more Mark Harris and Patrick Duffy goodies. Now eat your kelp!

More Random TV GUIDE Ads - Boy, Did I Get a Wrong Number!

2011-08-07T00:01:00.000-07:00

God I loved this movie as a kid - a silly sex comedy with Bob as a nervous husband, Elke Somer (before her feud with Zsa Zsa Gabor) covered in buddles and my favorite atheist Republican Phyllis Diller playing (essentially) herself. What a riot. What's not to love?

More Random TV GUIDE Ads - HERE'S LUCY

2011-08-06T00:01:00.000-07:00

Continuing my little tribute to Lucy on her 100th birthday, here's a couple of great TV GUIDE ads for HERE'S LUCY.
First up, Desi Jr. is making a porno and mom's in the cast! Well, that's what the brilliant minds at CBS wanted us to think. Actually the concept of Desi Jr. making porn puts him years ahead of Dick Smothers Jr., who took that career path in real life. Though Dick appeared in front of the camera, as well as behind. That's a subject for an entirely different blog post. Shades of Helen Wood/Dolly Sharp. Anyways, back to Lucy.

This second ad is mostly great because of the font known as Braggadocio. This stencil-based type style was introduced in the 1930s, but made a big resurgence in the late 1960s and early 1970s. As a child I often practiced drawing this font, most notably due to my obsession with the Motown "M".

Wow. Can't believe I just linked Lucy with Motown. Sort of. Back to the ad: guest Johnny Carson jumps networks to appear as himself on HERE'S LUCY. I think that was a rarity back then. In the days of the "big three" networks there were celebrities who were loyal to certain networks - only appearing on that particular one. Bob Hope and Johnny Carson on NBC, Lucy and Carol Burnett on CBS, Dick Clark and Dick Cavett on ABC. Over the years this changed, but usually when someone guest starred on a sitcom, it was someone who was appearing on that very same network. I'm sure someone out there will write to me proving me wrong, but that's how I remember it. There you have it - porn, Motown and fonts. Happy birthday, Lucy!

Where's Lucy?

2011-08-05T00:01:00.000-07:00

In honor of Lucille Ball's 100th birthday, here's a repost. While many people love Lucy Ricardo and her "Ricky...I wanna be in the show" antics and some people prefer Lucy Carmichael and her ongoing battle with Mr. Mooney (Gale Gordon) - I was always drawn to Lucy Carter, the middle-aged widow stuck in a generation gap with her two mod teen-agers.
That's right, America. You can keep your I LOVE LUCYs, LUCY-DESI COMEDY HOURs (now syndicated as WE LOVE LUCY) and your LUCY SHOWs, I'm a HERE'S LUCY kinda guy. Yes, I know the first series is an absolute classic and the hour-long follow-up series is quite charming, but the Lucy I grew up with (I was 4 years old when HERE'S LUCY premiered on CBS) will always be my favorite.

From it's brilliant animated opening sequence to it's ridiculously asinine plots, there's always been something about this version that spoke to me. After the show left CBS in 1974 (when MAUDE took over it's timeslot - something I'm sure made Vera Charles very happy-that's a MAME reference), daytime reruns continued until 1977. Back in those days the 3 networks often reran prime-time comedies as part of their daytime line-ups, usually airing before game shows in the morning or after the soaps in the afternoon.

The show was essentially a continuation of THE LUCY SHOW which ran on CBS from 1962 til 1968. THE LUCY SHOW was #2 in the ratings, but Lucille Ball wanted to make some changes. Having recently sold Desllu, Miss Ball set up her own production company and tinkered with the show's format. Lucy Carmichael became Lucy Carter and now lived in Los Angeles and worked for her brother-in-law Harry at the Unique Employment Agency - thereby giving her many opportunities to interact with guest stars (either playing themselves or characters).

HERE'S LUCY was syndicated in the early 1980s, and in New York it aired back-to-back with the MARY TYLER MOORE show on NBC affiliate WNBC, channel 4 in the 4-5PM slot. Reruns were later relegated to the wee hours of the morning. Often airing at 3 or 4 AM.. After this run, I thought I'd never see the show again.

In 2004, Shout! Factory released a 24-episode "best of" set which featured episodes from the series entire run as well as many fun and informative extras. It was great to see Lucy Carter, her kids Kim (Lucie Arnaz) and Craig (Desi Arnaz Jr.) again along with their cantankerous Uncle Harry (again, the usually over-the-top Gale Gordon) and the cavalcade of guest stars that parade through Lucy Carter's living room. This collection kept me wanting more, but it seemed like Shout! Factory didn't plan on following up with any further releases, so I had to suffice with my memories of the rest of the series' episodes.

Later MPI gained the rights to the series and began putting the show out in season sets.

With guest stars including Jack Benny, Jackie Gleason, Shelley Winters (in a story about her weight!), Eva Gabor, Wayne Newton, Vivian Vance, Wally Cox, Carol Burnett, Van Johnson and Cesar Romero - the show is a star-studded exercise in stunt-casting. The outrageous plotlines, corny pop culture references and silly sight gags add up to a noisy, but lovable treat.

In many ways, HERE'S LUCY was a bridge between the innocent sitcoms of the 50s and 60s and the youth-oriented shows of the early 70s. Having her talented teens on board for the series gave the show plenty of reasons to invoke references to pop music of the day and other youth-oriented fads and trends. In the first 20 episodes, there have been at least three references to spies and/or secret agents.

You have to hand it to Lucy. She found a way to keep her show fresh, but yet familiar enough to not scare away her loyal fans who still tuned in for her hilarious hijinks and predictable pratfalls. Ms. Ball was 57 when the series began and was supposedly playing a character in her 40s. There's even a joke in one episode referring to the actress in YOURS, MINE & OURS (played by Lucy) being too young to cast opposite Henry Fonda. Yes, Lucy was a bit long-in-the-tooth to be doing some of the same schtick she had been doing almost 20 years earlier, but the gal had spunk. Though the character Lucy Carter can sometimes be exasperating and shrill, the show is somehow comforting. I'm not sure if it's the garish mustard furniture in Lucy's home or the well-place antique props in Uncle Harry's office, but the detail to production design was something that I remembered noticing even as a child.

Episode #18, filmed entirely on location at Los Angeles Airport, is a standout because it looks like a short film rather than a typical sitcom episode. Now if someone would only put LIFE WITH LUCY out on DVD! For more Lucy fun, check out STONE PILLOW.

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The legendary Bette Davis starred in this madcap pilot for a weekly series that never materialized. The reference to a Bond villain in the headline is no coincidence since this British-produced thriller was designed to TV's version of 007. Davis' supporting cast included Robert Wagner and a bevy of Brits including Denholm (A ROOM WITH A VIEW) Elliot, Gordon (UPSTAIRS, DOWNSTAIRS) Jackson and Catherine (SPACE: 1999) Schell. It would have been interesting to see Bette chew the scenery each week as a madwoman achieving world domination. Note: this was many years before Oprah took on this role.