Venganza Media Gazette

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Friday the 13th (2009) – Revisited

by Arnie Carvalho

“No matter how much you love the original films in the Friday the 13th series,
 it’s virtually indisputable that the 2009 remake/reboot/re-
imagining is far and away the best made of all of them.” 
— Adam-Troy Castro, Syfy.com

“Can we now admit ‘Friday the 13th’ 2009 was damn good?” 
— Michael White, Bloody-Disgusting.com

“It is one of the best film franchise reboots put out in theaters in the past 15 years.” 
— Jason Parker, Friday The 13th Franchise.com

“I’ve always been of the mind (and it’s a hill I’ll die on), that it kinda just 
makes no sense to be a fan of the original Friday the 13th movies and yet not
 a fan of Friday the 13th ’09”
 — John Squires, Editor in Chief of Bloody Disgusting.com, on Twitter

“Stay away from this movie. It really is one of the bad ones…
Run from this movie. Do not reward the makers with your money” 
— Arnie, Now Playing’s 2009 Podcast review

“In three years no one, absolutely no one, will remember that they saw it, that
 they liked it, it will have no aftertaste whatsoever. People will remember 
the original, they will not remember this movie.” 
— Stuart, Now Playing’s 2009 Podcast review

Still Now Playing 10 Years Later…

Today is a momentous day in my life. It’s a birthday of sorts.

While Now Playing Podcast started in 2007 it (like many shows, TV, radio, podcast, and otherwise) went through some growing pains. Cast changes, an irregular release schedule, and format changes all marred the first two years.

That began to change on January 9, 2009 — the date we released the first episode in our first retrospective series: a review of 1980’s Friday the 13th leading up to the 2009 reboot. The show went from two hosts to three (that would begin rotating later that same year). The “Recommend/Not Recommend” finale was solidified, as were patterns of series-specific opening credits, art, and titles for each film series.

Yet it’s arguably today, Friday, February 13th, that could be seen as Now Playing’s true 10th anniversary. It was the day we recorded our final Friday the 13th review. By that point we knew the retrospective was a big hit. Despite initial misgivings, we decided to immediately continue the format and review Star Trek leading up to its reboot. Stuart even went out and bought a microphone and literally stopped “phoning it in.”

I’ll never forget the night of Friday, February 13th, 2009. I was in New York City covering Toy Fair International. I went to see the Friday the 13th reboot in a Times Square movie theater, accompanied by my wife Marjorie. The excitement that caused me to begin the retrospective series was reaching its peak as the lights went down and the movie started.

Flash forward to five hours later. I’m in our hotel room (small, as most all NYC rooms are). I’m pacing. My iPhone 3G is hot against my face from being on a call for so long. I’m on a telephone recording my disappointment with the 2009 Friday the 13th reboot. Brock is in Chicago recording the call, and he would edit the show released to our listeners the following Monday.

All three of us had very similar reactions, and the reboot became the fourth Friday the 13th, out of 12, to get three red arrows on our website.

I honestly never looked back.

“Distance not only gives nostalgia, but perspective, and maybe objectivity” — Robert Morgan

As the 10th anniversary of the Friday the 13th reboot approached I came upon an interesting and unexpected turn of events: a number of think pieces were published celebrating the film. Even those who had reacted poorly to the movie initially had come around and not only enjoyed but celebrated director Marcus Nispel’s fresh take on iconic slasher Jason Voorhees (played by Derek Mears).

I started to question my own memory. Could they be right? Could that movie have aged well?

Having been a movie critic for over a decade I know from experience one of the hardest things to do when reviewing a film is to separate expectations from the final product. Movies are marketed to create expectations–to get you into a theater seat and spending money expecting delivery on what trailers, interviews, and even posters have sold.

Going into Friday the 13th in 2009 my expectations were sky high. I had loved Nispel’s Texas Chainsaw Massacre remake far more than the original Tobe Hooper film. I loved Jason as a killer. Jason’s last appearance on screen in 2003’s Freddy vs Jason was one of his best, and that movie’s writing team of Damian Shannon and Mark Swift were writers for the remake.

Could the movie have been good, or at least recommendable, but simply not met my expectations?

10 years have passed, so I decided to find out. For this re-review of 2009’s Friday the 13th I watched the extended “Killer Cut” released on Blu-Ray and Video on Demand. This cut was nine minutes longer than what I saw in theaters.

The Review

I watched the movie having not listened to our 2009 podcast since it was released. I remembered very little going in, only that Stuart thought Jason was a pothead. Then after watching the movie I listened to our old podcast to see what it was that got me so worked up.

SPOILERS BELOW for this 10-year-old movie!

I liked the opening. This is a reboot, and people want Jason as the killer, not old lady Pamela Voorhees. Yet Pamela’s plight from Sean S. Cunningham’s 1980 original Friday is integral to the Jason mythos. To have the climax of the original movie done in montage fashion pays homage and checks the boxes. It does create a confusing timeline as to Jason’s supposed drowning, but handled well.

Then we have the second prologue and, not having seen the movie in a decade, I was faked out. I thought this would be the movie and these five characters, Wade (Jonathan Sadowski), Richie (Ben Feldman), Mike (Nick Mennell), Whitney (Amanda Righetti), and Amanda (America Olivo), were going to be our core cast. They actually seem like a fun group and call back to so many earlier Friday the 13th casts where there’s couples hooking up…and the lonely odd man out. That Jason comes in and killed so many so quickly was a shock.

Then comes our new Jason by Derek Mears. One of my big problems in 2009 goes back to expectation: I was used to the Jason played by Kane Hodder. Jason had gone through many iterations, from bag-wearing woodsman to space-zombie, but the walking after people who run, the nearly supernatural way of catching the prey, seemed like a staple.

This Jason was fast and aggressive. He killed brutally. And he used tools and more thought power than earlier Jasons. Hanging one woman over the campfire to burn while setting a bear trap for another victim really wasn’t in Jason’s modus operandi. But then I had to remember, this is a reboot, not a remake. The Friday the 13th series had lost its luster by doing the same things again and again. In 2009 I couldn’t reconcile this Jason with the ones before. Now I realize this reboot gives us an entirely new Jason.

If I just accept this is a new character, perhaps call him “Jimmy Voorhees”, I’d have no trouble with these new killings. Nispel wanted to revitalize the character and return him to his violent, horror roots. Nearly 30 years had passed since Jason first wielded his machete. It may not be the Jason I wanted, but this viewing I can accept this “Jimmy Voorhees.”

The two characters coming upon Jason’s cabin (plus the bag over Jason’s head) took me back to 1981’s Friday the 13th Part II, and I can go with it.

Not only did the prologue surprise me in killing (seemingly) everyone so fast, I also understand the need to have a body count. One of the pressures with each new horror movie installment was to have more kills. Here, we establish Jason as a badass killer, and we got five good kills. And for those who expect topless women in your Friday films, you got that out of the way too.

Plus, the gore! I was watching the unrated cut, but I marveled at how freely the blood flowed.

Then we actually get to the movie. Again, my expectation was, since we had Shannon and Swift writing again, that we would have a group of fun, believable characters like they gave us in Freddy vs. Jason. Instead, we have a group of character types that would never be friends. I had a real problem with that in theaters.

Yet, when watching it at home on a television, I found myself more forgiving. How many groups of totally different people went camping together in the past? Sure, Parts 1 and 2 made them counsellors thrown together, and 8 had them as classmates, but the victims in parts 3 and 4, and especially 7, don’t feel like they’d hang out together either. So, is this bad writing…or is this an intentional homage to the bad writing in previous installments? More, if I can accept these weird groups in earlier films, why not here too? So, I compartmentalized that complaint and, instead, found these seven young adults appealing, flawed characters, most of whom were obviously going to end up impaled on a machete.

Trent (Travis Van Winkle) is a great douche you love to hate (and with a rich boy name like Travis Van Winkle I wonder how much he was acting). Bree (Julianna Guill) is a wonderful seductress, and the attraction Chewie (Aaron Yoo) shows for Bree takes me back to Crispin Glover’s character in The Final Chapter.

Lawrence (Arien Escarpeta) is a stoner that feels like he would hang out with Chewie. The other couple of Chelsea (Willa Ford) and Nolan (Ryan Hansen) aren’t in the film long enough for me to get a bead on them.

Which does raise one flaw–this group is too big to keep track of. They’re here for a body count, but I’m not sure they are disparate enough where I can even assign them tropes of “the smart one” and “the shy one”, etc. Especially Chelsea and Nolan, they are the flattest of characters.

Then we have typical last-girl Jenna (Danielle Panabaker). Like so many Jason survivors in films past, she’s a brunette, she’s smart, she doesn’t smoke weed, and she doesn’t get naked. And when she encounters, and partners with, Clay Miller (Jared Padalecki) who is searching for his missing sister Whitney, I’m taken back (in a positive way) to the similar plot in The Final Chapter.

The kills also are varied. I had a problem with Jason using an arrow to kill Nolan, but he used a crossbow in Part II so this wasn’t so far off. And again, this is the new “Jimmy Voorhees.” He’s a survivalist. He has to hunt to survive. It makes sense he’d be good with a bow. (It equally makes sense that this Jason is far more intelligent than the previous incarnations and so he uses Kerosene to power his home). And Chelsea’s machete-in-the-head gave Jason his usual, nearly supernatural sense of where his victims hide.

So halfway in the movie I wonder…was I too harsh on Friday the 13th? Did I allow my expectation to cloud what was delivered?

The answer is….partially, for the movie really does fall apart in the second half.

Nispel was best known (and may still be best known) for his Texas Chainsaw reboot. I don’t know if Nispel rewrote any of Shannon and Swift’s script, but the second half does turn this new Jason into a wannabe Leatherface. Why are there catacombs underneath Camp Crystal Lake? It makes no sense. Why did Jason kidnap Whitney? It makes no sense. Why does Whitney look so good after six weeks of captivity? It makes no sense.

Yet the deaths continue to impress. In this “Killer Cut” Chewie’s slow death in the tool shed was painful to watch as he writhes, groans, and bleeds for a very long time. Lawrence’s kill by Jason throwing an ax goes back to the survivalist skills, and creates a more “realistic” Jason who can’t just walk after every person who runs.

The best death/fake-out may belong to Trent, though. Waving down a tow truck, a silent hand waves Trent to get on. Can this Jason drive a car? No…it’s an old man on oxygen, unable to shout to the young man whose hesitation results in his being impaled on the truck as it drives away.

Yet another decent fake-out is Jenna. She seemed like the perfect “last girl” and, echoing The Final Chapter‘s Trish, I thought it was a given she’d escape. But two brunettes is one to many in a Friday the 13th film so when Whitney is discovered alive Jenna had to die.

The rest is pretty rote action with Jason just dead enough for a climax, yet, of course, always ready to come back for another sequel.

The Verdict

So, was I too harsh on the 2009 Friday the 13th? Yes, I clearly was. My expectation of what the previous Fridays had given clouded my ability to appreciate the changes Nispel tried to bring to make a Jason that could be scary in the 21st century.

Yet, the writing becomes very lazy in the second half. The film is almost a straight downward line, its quality decreasing with every passing frame of film, start to end. At no point does the body of the film reach the highs of its two prologues.

While this is a totally new Jason, much of the film, including the group of victims, is a throwback to the installments released 1980-1984. I wasn’t a fan of many of those early groups, so this is not a success, but it’s not worthy of the damnation I gave on the podcast.

So is it a recommend or not recommend?

It is on the borderline. I think that slasher fans will have a lot to enjoy, while old school Friday the 13th fans will have a lot to swallow.

The ridiculous ending, including everything after the rescue of Whitney (the tunnels under the camp, the convenient machinery, the obvious final “jump scare”), make me stand by my red arrow. But it’s a close call, and it’s what I’d call on the podcast “A very weak not recommend”…which is the most positive thing said about this movie in the entire history of Now Playing Podcast.



(the tunnels under the camp, the convenient machinery, the obvious final “jump scare”), make me stand by my red arrow. But it’s a close call, and it’s what I’d call on the podcast “A very weak not recommend”…which is the most positive thing said about this movie in the entire history of Now Playing Podcast.

Yet the film has had a longer lifespan than I had imagined ten years ago today and, had it not been for endless legal wrangling over Friday the 13th’s IP rights, I have no doubt “Jimmy Voorhees” would have returned to slay again.

Yet while lawsuits continue over who has the right to make the next Friday film, I look forward to it. Ten years is the longest Jason has ever gone without a movie since his inception in 1980. He is missed, and hopefully Jason Voorhees, not “Jimmy”, will return to the silver screen again in the near future.

Agree? Disagree? Let us know in the comments below!

Hear Now Playing Podcast’s original retrospective series, 12 reviews of Friday the 13th films (plus a bonus recap episode), all available now at NowPlayingPodcast.com

February 13, 2019 Posted by | Movies, News, Now Playing Podcast, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 3 Comments

Star Wars Toy Sales Down as “Movie Fatigue” Sets In

Are you suffering from “Movie Tie-In Fatigue?”

Per a Bloomberg article, Star Wars toy sales are down. Specifically adult collectors are still buying (but, judging by some “fan” sites, they’re complaining the entire time they shop); however, kids have less interest in the Star Wars toys.

The article states: “While ‘Star Wars’ was still the top-selling toy line during the nine-week holiday period, sales fell from 2016 and the brand lost its No. 1 position for the year…This was despite “Last Jedi” being the top-grossing film released in the U.S. last year “

The most telling quotes? “Adult collectors, who grew up with the brand, are still buying a lot of merchandise when the toys come out, but demand dies down afterward… That doesn’t bode well for Hasbro, which has the main “Star Wars” toy partnership, or Jakks Pacific Inc., which has a secondary license. ”

What do you think? Is the problem fatigue? Is a new movie per year too much? Is it the types of toys offered? Why do YOU think sales are down?  Let us know in the comments!

January 19, 2018 Posted by | Comic Books, Movies, Movies & Television, News, Now Playing Podcast, Podcasts, Star Wars, Star Wars Action News | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

New Podcast — Books & Nachos: Leviathan: The Story of Hellraiser and Hellbound: Hellraiser II by Christian Sellers and Gary Smart

Hosted by Arnie Carvalho

 

Clive Barker’s Hellraiser and it’s immediate follow-up Hellbound: Hellraiser II were low-budget productions, shot in the UK. Despite their small beginnings their impact was global, skyrocketing Clive Barker to fame and fortune and terrifying a generation. How did that happen? The book Leviathan: The Story of Hellraiser and Hellbound: Hellraiser II details the making of these first two Hellraiser films. What insights does it provide, and is it worth a read? Join Arnie on this review to find out!
Source: Books and Nachos

November 5, 2017 Posted by | Books, Books & Nachos, Movies, Podcasts | | Comments Off on New Podcast — Books & Nachos: Leviathan: The Story of Hellraiser and Hellbound: Hellraiser II by Christian Sellers and Gary Smart

New Podcast – Books & Nachos: The Hellbound Heart by Clive Barker

Download this episode (right click and save)

Hosted by Arnie Carvalho

In 1987 Clive Barker took the world by storm with his film Hellraiser, but his first draft of that movie wasn’t in screenplay form–it was a short story. Written with the express intent of being a low-budget movie, Barker explores the concepts of love, deceit, murder, and damnation. It became his defining work, but how good is it? And how does the prose differ from the film? Open the box, unchain this podcast, join Arnie in Hell, and find out!
Source: Books and Nachos

 

October 29, 2017 Posted by | Books, Books & Nachos, Movies, Now Playing Podcast, Podcasts | | Comments Off on New Podcast – Books & Nachos: The Hellbound Heart by Clive Barker

New Podcast – Marvelicious Toys Issue 185: Messin’ With HASCON

Hosted by Justin Kozisek, Arnie Carvalho, and Marjorie Carvalho
Video by Daryl Whitlow

HASCON — it was Hasbro’s first attempt at running their own convention. But now it’s Hasbro’s game…Hasbro’s rules. What is a convention like without any vendor booths? What do you do at a Hasbro-con? And what does Flo Rida have to do with all this?

On this issue of Marvelicious Toys Arnie reports first-hand from Hascon, held in Providence, RI. He got to meet James Gunn, he got the exclusive figures, and he is here to tell you if HASCON ’18 should be a “must do” for you! Plus he also has an interview with the Hasbro Marvel brand team!

And next up–New York Comic-Con! The hosts run down the exclusives and prepare for that big event!

All this and plus a brewing rumble between Arnie and Justin in Marvel vs Capcom Infinite in this episode of Marvelicious Toys!
Source: Marvelicious Toys

 

September 29, 2017 Posted by | Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | | Comments Off on New Podcast – Marvelicious Toys Issue 185: Messin’ With HASCON

New Podcast – Marvelicious Toys Issue 184: SDCC ’17 Rear View Mirror

Hosted by Justin Kozisek, Arnie Carvalho, and Marjorie Carvalho
Video by Daryl Whitlow

Hasbro Legends, Hot Toys, Sideshow Statues, Kotobukiya exclusives, and more are the topics for today’s Marvelicious Toys Podcast! Arnie, Marjorie, and Justin reflect on all the new merchandise hitting shelves, and the massive amounts of upcoming Marvel toys shown at SDCC!

All this and plus news on where to get toys and statues at 50% off in this new issue of Marvelicious Toys!
Source: Marvelicious Toys

 

August 24, 2017 Posted by | Marvelicious Toys, Podcasts | | Comments Off on New Podcast – Marvelicious Toys Issue 184: SDCC ’17 Rear View Mirror

New Podcast – Books & Nachos: The Dark Tower: The Art of the Film by Daniel Wallace

Hosted by Arnie Carvalho

Gunslinger Roland Deschain had a long quest in his search for The Dark Tower. So too did filmmakers toil long to transform Stephen King’s eight-novel series to the big screen. This journey is chronicled in pictures and prose in the book The Dark Tower: The Art of the Film.

Join Arnie on this episode of Books & Nachos as he reviews this work. Then he is joined by Daniel Wallace, author of The Art of the Film, to discuss the process of producing this type of book!
Source: Books and Nachos

 

August 16, 2017 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on New Podcast – Books & Nachos: The Dark Tower: The Art of the Film by Daniel Wallace

Issue 183: San Diego Spider-Con

San Diego Comic-Con is one week away. Soon Funko, LEGO, Hasbro, Diamond Select Toys, Kotobukiya, eFX Collectibles, and many more toy companies will reveal new products. Plus…exclusives! On this episode of Marvelicious Toys, Justin, Marjorie, and Arnie give you the run-down of what you’ll need to get!

Plus, this past weekend another hit Marvel movie came out: Spider-Man: Homecoming! Join the hosts for their thoughts on the film, and the toys! Including the Toys ‘R’ Us exclusive Spider-Drone!



All this and more in this new issue of Marvelicious Toys!
Source: Marvelicious Toys

July 13, 2017 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 183: San Diego Spider-Con

On 10th Anniversary, ‘Now Playing’ Hosts Talk Milestones, Memorable Moments

Let’s jump back in time 10 years to summer 2007. Sam Raimi had just tanked the Spider-Man franchise, the Fast & Furious films had stalled with Tokyo Drift, and nobody knew if George Lucas would ever launch another Star Wars trilogy.

This was when Now Playing Podcast first went on the air. Back when we still believed Crystal Skull might be good and before they rebooted Freddy’s origin story to make it, just, icky.

Not only does 2017 mark Now Playing’s 10th anniversary, the upcoming War for the Planet of the Apes review marks its 700th episode. That’s a lot of movies (and also the occasional failed TV pilot or one of those superhero shows that played theatrically in Bulgaria or wherever).

To mark the occasion, the show’s hosts came together for a Q&A about their time behind the mics and what’s changed during the last 10 years.

Venganza Media Gazette: What do you remember thinking after you heard your voice for the first time on Now Playing?

Arnie: “Well our first episode was recorded in a car in the parking lot of a Toys r Us. So my thought was, ‘For being in a car that doesn’t sound TOO bad.’”

Marjorie:I was used to hearing my voice on Star Wars Action News but I still thought I sounded under 13. And then you have the thoughts such as ‘I really sound like that?’ or ‘What if people find my voice irritating?’”

Stuart: I like to be behind the scenes — directing, writing, evaluating other people’s art. It was pretty painful to step in front of a mic and even more awkward listening to myself on some of my early shows. I was grateful that there weren’t too many listeners back in 2008 and early 2009.”

Jakob: “I was no stranger to hearing my voice; I had sang in bands and had been podcasting on and off for a few years prior. But at the time a huge part of our listenership were horror fans, a genre I wasn’t very familiar with. So there was some anxiety with having my introduction with the SAW movies and having to speak about a genre I just didn’t have a lot of exposure to.”

Venganza Gazette: What’s changed about you as a host?

Jakob: “I watch a lot more movies and I discuss them a lot more — not just with my co-hosts, but with my family. We spend a lot of time discussing why a film does or doesn’t work.”

Marjorie: I have a different view of movies now. I see so much more that goes into a movie. More than just ‘it was good.’ I also can’t ever ‘turn off’ reviewing. When I see movies I’m not reviewing, I tend to dissect them.” 

Jakob: “My wife and I share what we consider great scenes with our girls, even if they may be too young for the entire movie. Is it crossing a line that we reenacted the ‘I drink your milkshake’ scene from THERE WILL BE BLOOD for our 10 and 6-year-old?”

Stuart: ”The biggest change for me is the zip code where I record. I’m no longer ‘Stuart In L.A.’ When I started Now Playing I always worried that things I said might come back to haunt me working in the Los Angeles entertainment industry. Now that I’ve stepped away from that scene, I sleep better at night.”  

Arnie: The differences are greater than the similarities, in my mind. What’s the same? A rotating cast of hosts and we devote one episode to one movie. What’s different? Everything else. Now Playing started as a show where we would record short, spoiler-free movie reviews.”

The first Now Playing Podcast episode, a review of "Spider-Man 3" was released on May 4, 2007.

The first Now Playing Podcast episode, a review of Spider-Man 3 was released on May 4, 2007.

Stuart: “A long show in 2007 was 30 minutes. Now we go twice as long on an episode of Twin Peaks.”

Arnie: “They weren’t going to be edited at all, as editing takes five-to-10 times the length of a given show.”

Brock: I do remember editing the first show I did with my wife – back then it was a two person review show, much like what Arnie and Marjorie do on Star Wars Action News.”

Arnie:As I had Star Wars Action News already I didn’t feel I had the time to undertake more editing. So they would be instant reaction thoughts, recorded immediately upon leaving the theater, and published as-is [with] minimal editing, [and] we also were going to focus on new releases only. Now we go through the history of film, with spoiler-filled critiques that are very long, and very well edited by a great team including Heath and David.”

Jakob: “We just go so much more in depth now. But for me, personally, I approach the show with a different attitude. When I first came on, I had a MST3K mentality. I mean, I had to review a bunch of SAW films — not really my thing — so I thought, ‘How many jokes can I make?’ Now, while we still shoot for humor at times, I try focus on the filmmaking and storytelling so I can articulate how those contribute to a film, good or bad.”

Brock: “Today we are a well-oiled machine, even more comfortable sharing our opinions and talking with one another. The shows back then, and especially when we started the roundtable format, had the best we could do technically at the time, and now the production values are insanely great thanks to our equipment, sure, but mostly because of the countless hours Arnie puts in producing each and every episode. And also the incredible, tireless work of our talented editors who make us all sound so good.”

Marjorie: “We are all so much older and wiser! I think that we all found our rhythm with each other. I have a natural rapport with Arnie because we are married and therefore spend a lot of time together. But Stuart, Jakob and myself had to build that.” 

The July 14 review of War for the Planet of the Apes will mark Now Playing Podcast's 700th episode.

The July 14, 2017 War for the Planet of the Apes review marks Now Playing Podcast’s 700th episode.

In addition to hitting the 700th episode milestone, several of the hosts are racking up big numbers behind the microphone. When the War for the Planet of the Apes review is released, Arnie will have hosted 676 Now Playing episodes, Stuart will have hosted 618, and Jakob will have hosted his 469th show.

Venganza Gazette: Do you have a favorite Now Playing episode?

Stuart:INCEPTION was an early favorite of mine because I think it was such a turning point for the show. Now Playing proved in that podcast that we could do more than heckle. On top of really liking the movie, I was proud of the way we broke down all of Nolan’s multi-level storylines and daunting thematic readings in a very concise 73 minutes.”

Arnie: I really am proud of PROMETHEUS. That was a film with disparate, and surprising, opinions from the hosts, and yet the conversation was always lively, and I think everyone made such great points. I re-listened to that show recently because of ALIEN: COVENANT and so it’s recent to my memory, but even before that it was a go-to for me to see three of the hosts bringing their A-game.”

Brock:I really liked what the guys did with RAIDERS OF THE LOST ARK. Sometimes with a really good movie, a classic, practically flawless movie the show can be a little harder for us panelists to do. You can’t tear it apart, and there aren’t always opportunities to make jokes because the jokes have been made for 30 years already. Everyone is so familiar with the movie itself and the behind the scenes information already and on top of that the listeners know going in it that the hosts are all going to give it a green arrow. The team embraced all these challenges and showed us why Now Playing is as good as it gets with review shows. The guys did a great job with the commentary, the trivia, and played off one another beautifully making an entertaining show that was structurally and technically proficient. So much so that I have enjoyed listening to that show multiple times over. A highlight for me is when Stuart brought up the CASABLANCA correlation; not many people get that aspect of RAIDERS and I’m glad he did and shared it with the audience.”

Jakob: “I’m really enjoying our current Now Peaking discussions for TWIN PEAKS: THE RETURN. What’s fascinating is we had the chance to do a whole David Lynch retrospective building up to this new series. With Lynch, as an auteur, there is so much of him in this return to Twin Peaks. It feels like a culmination of his entire aesthetic and viewpoint. Within the first two episodes we had brought up the influences of ERASERHEAD, BLUE VELVET, LOST HIGHWAY, MULHOLLAND DRIVE, and INLAND EMPIRE. I’m still not sold on this third season, but it has been insightful to discuss it in the context of Lynch’s complete works and not just the original run of the television show.”

Venganza Gazette: What’s the most positive feedback you’ve ever received from a listener?

Arnie: I can’t begin to express how touched I am by some listeners’ messages to us.  From troops stationed overseas who use our show to experience movies they can’t yet see to adults who say our show is like a conversation with friends, each message means so much.”

Marjorie: There have been a few people who have written to us about how listening to Now Playing got them through a rough patch in their life. And I think it’s utterly amazing that, even remotely, I was able to help someone.” 

Stuart: I never thought three people riffing on movies had the potential to heal, but I have been incredibly moved by all the stories fans have shared over the years about how we helped them laugh away depression, death, and some real big life challenges.”

Arnie:A handful of people have e-mailed with a very specific message and I’m humbled every time I read them.  These are people who have been in bad situations: illness or accident, divorce, job loss, the death of someone close to them, or sometimes a combination of those.  These are people who tell us they felt hopeless.  One person said, ‘I felt like I would never be able to laugh again.’  A couple people mentioned contemplating suicide.  These are deeply personal moments being shared via e-mail with us. Then their notes change tone and discuss how our show helped them through. We entertained them, in that one case we gave him the first laugh he’d had. We took their minds off their troubles and brought them a bit of happiness. That is my dream come true — to be able to entertain people and give them a few moments where they aren’t thinking about their day, their responsibilities, and their problems.”  

Stuart: “I never expected to have such impact on anyone, and I’m incredibly humbled by that.”

Arnie:It took me a while to figure out what I wanted to do with my life. I considered being a lawyer or a stockbroker. But in high school I realized the importance of entertainment in my life.  I had my own dark days in my teen and early adult years. What got me through those times were video games, movies, television, books – entertainment. So starting in high school, and really for the rest of my life, my goal has been to entertain. I wanted to give people that escape the way Gene Roddenberry, George Lucas, Will Wright, and Stephen King helped me to escape. My path to finding podcasting as that vehicle was a winding one, but it was the outlet I found. And I can’t express how touched I am when I read what we do does provide that for some of our listeners.  It fills me with purpose, and reminds me that we’re not just discussing the eighth in a bad series of direct-to-video sequels, we’re hopefully also entertaining and informing at the same time.”  

Venganza Gazette: What’s the strangest feedback you’ve ever received from a listener?

Brock: “I was at a Comic Con, talking to the vendor on the other side of the table about an action figure or something, and this guy standing next to me exclaimed ‘Hey, you’re Brock! I recognize your voice!’ That was pretty cool to be picked out by my voice alone.”

Marjorie: “I had some weird messages from guys who liked my voice.” 

Stuart:It was pointed out very bluntly a few times on Facebook that I have a ‘squeaky voice’ when I get excited. Hey, I’m not going to say that’s untrue, but there’s only so much I can do about that until I finish going through puberty. How I wish I could hire Barry White to say all the things I’ve got to say!”

Brock: “There was this one [comment] we received years ago that accused me of trying to sound professional, putting on a radio voice when I talk or something. Arnie told Stuart and I about this thing one night when we were recording, and we all got a great laugh because this is how I talk! I wouldn’t have the patience or the discipline to put on a fake voice for hours on end, each and every time we do a recording session. I mean, I guess that is sort of a compliment, that my voice sounds that way, but the guy clearly didn’t have a clue about what he was talking about.”

Jakob: “One listener offered to pay for my dental work after he punched my teeth out because of my views on one film. I wonder if the police I had to involve became fans of Now Playing after I reported [him]?”

Arnie: I need to be vague about this for privacy, but a listener wrote in and told me how, in 2012, he had a workplace encounter with Bradley Cooper [and] he ended up turning Cooper on to Now Playing, specifically our HOWARD THE DUCK show. The next day Cooper told him he laughed his ass off listening to that podcast. He said he downloaded some other shows, including our ROCKY reviews. That is totally surreal to think of the voice actor who performed in GUARDIANS has listened to our HOWARD THE DUCK review.”  

Stuart: We get a lot of positive feedback when we slam a problematic movie like HOWARD THE DUCK or HALLOWEEN III.”

Venganza Gazette: What’s the one film you’re still waiting to review?

Jakob: I’d love the work through Paul Thomas Anderson’s THE MASTER. It’s a film that I’ve done a complete 180° on since its theatrical release. Originally, I recognized the amazing acting but the story left me cold. I recently re-watched it with my wife, who is a huge Phillip Seymour Hoffman fan. As we worked our way through the film, she helped me realize what a heartbreaking romance it is in the midst of some heavy ideas about religion and post-war America. I would love to discuss such a dense piece of work.”

Stuart:THE MANITOU! There is no crazier horror movie from the 1970s. It would be a perfect Easter Egg pairing with THE OMEN and ROSEMARY’S BABY franchises.”

Marjorie: “I would love to do a 70s disaster movie retrospective. There was a small heyday of disaster movies.”

Arnie: DONNIE DARKO is a favorite film of mine that I think is so rich for analysis, even if the director did make it so obvious with various supplements and the director’s cut.  

Brock: BUTCH CASSIDY AND THE SUNDANCE KID. It’s my favorite movie, and the first movie I say when people ask me for a film recommendation. Every time. Not enough people watch it anymore but they really should. It’s not a traditional western, but can be a hard sell to people who deeply dislike westerns. Perhaps we can bundle it THE STING and that sequel they made in 1979 with Tom Berenger. I have avoided watching that sequel but I’d watch it for Now Playing.”

Arnie:I made a vow to never watch S DARKO, the cash-grab DONNIE sequel with hardly anyone from the original involved.  If we reviewed DONNIE I’d probably have to watch S, and I really don’t want to taint my love of the original with a super-shitty sequel.”

Now Playing Podcast will release its War for the Planet of the Apes episode as part of its 2017 Spring Donation Drive. Supporters of the show can hear the review, along with all of the episodes in the Planet of the Apes series, at NowPlayingPodcast.com.

 

July 10, 2017 Posted by | Now Playing Podcast, Podcasts | , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 9 Comments

Issue 182: All That and a Bag of Chips

Marvelicious Toys is back! Join Arnie, Justin, and Marjorie for the latest Marvel Legends news — including the SDCC Exclusives! Plus a look at Sideshow’s 12-inch Thor, the Spider-Man/Mary Jane Toys R Us Legends 2-Pack and more.

Also on this episode, Guardians of the Galaxy…is it the best movie of 2017? The hosts discuss the movie, and give a review of…the Doritos bag soundtrack?

It’s all on this return episode of Marvelicious Toys!
Source: Marvelicious Toys

June 6, 2017 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 182: All That and a Bag of Chips

Twin Peaks: The Secret History of Twin Peaks by Mark Frost

Before the new season of Twin Peaks started on Showtime, series co-creator Mark Frost wrote a book to tide over anxious fans. That book was The Secret History of Twin Peaks. An in-universe history of this fictional town finds its citizens have ties to Lewis & Clarke, the Masons, the Illuminati, and events at Rosewell and Area 51. Wait…isn’t this a book about Twin Peaks? Maybe. Arnie and Stuart are here with a review to try and make sense of it all!



Listen to this book review, then hear reviews of EVERY Twin Peaks episode, including the new Showtime episodes, at NowPeakingPodcast.com
Source: Books and Nachos

May 19, 2017 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Twin Peaks: The Secret History of Twin Peaks by Mark Frost

Catching the Big Fish by David Lynch

As Inland Empire hit theaters Lynch was also prepping a big release…for the bookstores. Catching the Big Fish is Lynch’s combination of autobiography and advertisement for his Transcendental Medication. Join Arnie and Stuart to find out what insights Lynch’s writing may provide into the man, his works, and his meditations.

Listen to this book review, then hear reviews of EVERY Twin Peaks episode at NowPeakingPodcast.com
Source: Books and Nachos

May 17, 2017 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Catching the Big Fish by David Lynch

Welcome to Twin Peaks: Access Guide to the Town by Mark Frost

By the time Welcome to Twin Peaks was released ABC was already telling that town “Goodbye.” The series’ cancellation had been announced but the tie-in merchandising continued with this pamphlet that is a guidebook to the sights, places, flora, and fauna of Twin Peaks. What does this book add to the mythology of the series? And does its fictitious maps and places match up with any of the real filming locations? Join Arnie and Stuart for this review for those answers!



Listen to this book review, then hear reviews of EVERY Twin Peaks episode at NowPeakingPodcast.com
Source: Books and Nachos

May 2, 2017 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Welcome to Twin Peaks: Access Guide to the Town by Mark Frost

Issue 181: My Figuarts Sense is Tingling

Old Man Logan, Colossus, Polaris, and Dazzler–these are just four of the eight mutants released in Hasbro’s new wave of Marvel Legends figures. On this episode of the Marvelicious Toys podcast Arnie, Marjorie, and Justin unbox and review the seven basic figures and the build-a-figure: Warlock!Also on this week’s show, Toy Biz Spider-Man figures from…Hasbro? SpiderManCollector.net has posted detailed photos of this upcoming 3.75-inch Amazon exclusive 7-pack. Is this nostalgic perfection, or an idea gone too far? Our hosts discuss this upcoming figure set.With a look at the Guardians of the Galaxy merchandising blitz (Skittles, Juicy Fruit, and Doritos are hitting the grocery aisle), a review of NECA’s life-sized Groot and a look at two new, coveted, S.H. Figuarts figures, it’s all in this week’s Marvelicious Toys podcast!And don’t forget, Marvelicious Toys needs your help to keep operating. To support our show and get exclusive rewards Check out our crowdfunding campaign, live now on PodBean
Source: Marvelicious Toys

April 5, 2017 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 181: My Figuarts Sense is Tingling

Twin Peaks: The Autobiography of FBI Agent Dale Cooper — My Life, My Tapes by Scott Frost

Twin Peaks’ cancellation was all but certain in May, 1991. Yet that is also when series writer Scott Frost’s Agent Cooper book My Life, My Tapes was released. Unlike The Secret Diary of Laura Palmer, Cooper’s backstory was mostly unready by a waning fan base. Now the book commands top dollar on the secondary market. Is it worth the price?



Listen to this book review, then hear reviews of EVERY Twin Peaks episode at NowPeakingPodcast.com
Source: Books and Nachos

March 28, 2017 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Twin Peaks: The Autobiography of FBI Agent Dale Cooper — My Life, My Tapes by Scott Frost

Issue 180: Fing Fang Foolery

Marvelicious Toys is back! On this new issue join Arnie, Marjorie, and Justin as they catch you up on the past few weeks in Marvel collecting. This episode features a review of the movie Logan. The hosts reflect on the highlights of Toy Fair from Kotobukiya, Mezco, and Hasbro. They discuss the new Guardians of the Galaxy and Captain America prop replicas from eFX Collectibles. And a discussion of the bootleg Marvel Legends spreading across the collecting market. All this and more in the return episode of Marvelicious Toys!And don’t forget, Marvelicious Toys needs your help to keep operating. To support our show and get exclusive rewards Check out our crowdfunding campaign, live now on PodBean
Source: Marvelicious Toys

March 21, 2017 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 180: Fing Fang Foolery

Twin Peaks: Diane – Twin Peaks Tapes of Agent Cooper by Scott Frost

As Twin Peaks’ second season began the merchandise machine was gaining speed. First came Jennifer Lynch’s Secret Diary of Laura Palmer. Hot on its heels came “Diane…” – The Twin Peaks Tapes of Agent Cooper. Combining TV-show audio with newly recorded bits this audiobook catches you up on the mystery, but are there new clues revealed in the tapes not seen on TV?

Listen to this book review, then hear reviews of EVERY Twin Peaks episode at NowPeakingPodcast.com
Source: Books and Nachos

March 13, 2017 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Twin Peaks: Diane – Twin Peaks Tapes of Agent Cooper by Scott Frost

Twin Peaks: The Secret Diary of Laura Palmer by Jennifer Lynch

In the summer of 1990 everybody was discussing Twin Peaks – the television phenomenon that kept people in suspense during their season break. Tidbits were teased to fans, including that in Season 2 the secret diary of Laura Palmer would be found. What secrets would it hold? Would it reveal her killer? Viewers would find out, but fans didn’t have to wait! Before Season 2 started The Secret Diary of Laura Palmer was released in full to bookstores! Not only officially sanctioned, it was written by Jennifer Lynch, daughter of Peaks co-creator David Lynch. Now Stuart and Arnie discuss all that was found, and how it was made so quickly!

Listen to this book review, then hear reviews of EVERY Twin Peaks episode at NowPeakingPodcast.com
Source: Books and Nachos

March 12, 2017 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Twin Peaks: The Secret Diary of Laura Palmer by Jennifer Lynch

Issue 179: Groot Scootin' Boogie

Marvelicious Toys is Dead no More, and back to bring you all the latest Marvel Collecting news from this weekend’s Toy Fair International!To prepare for the event, join Arnie, Marjorie & Justin for a run down of the latest news. Plus you can hear reviews of NECA’s new Quarter-Scale Deadpool figure and Hasbro’s danging, music playing toddler Groot from the upcoming Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2.Plus you can win a Sixth-Scale Deadpool figure from Marvelicious Toys and Sideshow Collectibles! Listen to find out how to win!

And don’t forget, Marvelicious Toys needs your help to keep operating. To support our show and get exclusive rewards Check out our crowdfunding campaign, live now on PodBean
Source: Marvelicious Toys

February 14, 2017 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 179: Groot Scootin' Boogie

Children of Dune by Frank Herbert

No, Stuart was not eaten by a sand worm, he’s back to discuss Children of Dune — Frank Herbert’s third novel in the Duneverse. Focusing on the children of Paul, this book has incest, political intrigue, and a twist ending. Join Stuart for his thoughts on this novel!
Source: Books and Nachos

February 1, 2017 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Children of Dune by Frank Herbert

Issue 178: Toys of Future Past 2016 Pt 2

From Deadpool to Doctor Strange, 2016 was a big year for Marvel Comics-based movies…and with Logan and Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 2017 is poised to be even bigger! In this second part of our 2016 Year-in-Review show join Arnie, Justin, and Marjorie as they are joined by Jerry, Geof, and Marvel Toy News.com’s Dabid as they reflect on the best and worst films of ’16, and which they’re most excited for coming up!And with the movies come the toys! On this episode the panel looks back at the non-Hasbro collectibles, from Tsum Tsums to Hot Toys to S.H. Figuarts and everything in between!

And don’t forget, Marvelicious Toys needs your help to keep operating. To support our show and get exclusive rewards Check out our crowdfunding campaign, live now on PodBean
Source: Marvelicious Toys

January 17, 2017 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 178: Toys of Future Past 2016 Pt 2

Issue 177: Toys of Future Past 2016

Hasbro Marvel Toys — each year they seem to outdo the last. From the Absorbing Man wave through the Sandman wave, there have been dozens of new Legends figures. Plus several waves of the 3.75-inch figures, high-end role play items, a new 12-inch Legends line, Hasbro has been killing it this year!On this first 2016 Year-in-Review show join Arnie, Justin, and Marjorie as they are joined by Jerry, Geof, and Marvel Toy News.com’s Dabid as they look back at the best, and the worst, the year had to offer!Then come back in 2 weeks for Part 2 of the discussion!

And don’t forget, while out shopping for the holidays, Marvelicious Toys needs your help to keep operating. To support our show and get exclusive rewards Check out our crowdfunding campaign, live now on PodBean
Source: Marvelicious Toys

December 27, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 177: Toys of Future Past 2016

Dune Messiah by Frank Herbert

Everybody wants to rule the galaxy…but is it all it’s cracked up to be? Now Emperor, Paul Atreides must balance his leadership with numerous plots to undermine him. After the great success of Dune, can Frank Herbert match with the sequel: Dune Messiah? Join Stuart in this review to find out!
Source: Books and Nachos

December 20, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Dune Messiah by Frank Herbert

Dune by Frank Herbert

Frank Herbert’s 1965 landmark novel DUNE is one of the most celebrated works of the science fiction genre, but does today’s reader have to be a Mentat in order to wrap their mind around its dense mythology? Host Stuart In LA promises, “there’s nothing to fear…. fear is the mind killer.” Join him as he dives headfirst into this first chapter of his six podcast exploration of the Duneverse.
Source: Books and Nachos

December 7, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Dune by Frank Herbert

Issue 176: Sweet Christmas 2016 – Black Friday & Holiday Shopping Guide!

Happy Thanksgiving, Marvelicious Toys listeners! And welcome to our 7th Annual Holiday Shopping Guide!In this issue Marjorie, Arnie, and Justin run down all the major Black Friday toy sales. Find out where to get Marvel Legends, movies, games, and other toys with the biggest savings! Then follow us on Facebook and Twitter for the best online Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals!Then the hosts, aided by the entire Marvelicious Toys team, run down the best Marvel themed gifts for 2016. With prices from $5 to $800, there’s something for fans of all ages and interests! What are the must have collectibles this year? Join us to find out!All this and a 2016 Toys For Tots Challenge in this issue of Marvelicious Toys!And don’t forget, while out shopping for the holidays, Marvelicious Toys needs your help to keep operating. To support our show and get exclusive rewards Check out our crowdfunding campaign, live now on PodBean
Source: Marvelicious Toys

November 23, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 176: Sweet Christmas 2016 – Black Friday & Holiday Shopping Guide!

Issue 175: Deadpool — I Am So Touching My Hot Toys Tonight

In a year that saw four Marvel Comics movies, including Civil War, Doctor Strange, and X-Men: Apocalypse only one came out of nowhere to turn the genre on its ear: Deadpool. Now, nine months later, Hot Toys has given birth to their Deadpool figure, based on the movie outfit. It’s sold out almost everywhere, but is the figure as good as the movie? Justin, Marjorie, and Arnie break the fourth wall to tell you!



Speaking of Marvel movies, Doctor Strange hit U.S. theaters last week. Our hosts give their impressions of the film, and how it fits in the Marvel Universe.With a tale of two Captain America shields from Hasbro, an expensive Spooktaculer, and Marvel Hot Toys figures under $100 shipped, it’s all in this loaded issue of the Marvelicious Toys podcast!



And don’t forget, Marvelicious Toys needs your help to keep operating. We need to add new team members and hopefully bring back the regular full-video episodes. To support our show and get exclusive rewards Check out our crowdfunding campaign, live now on PodBean
Source: Marvelicious Toys

November 9, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 175: Deadpool — I Am So Touching My Hot Toys Tonight

Issue 174: People Are Strange When You're a Doctor

It’s a magical time for Marvel fans! Next week Doctor Strange gets released to theaters across the US. It is already vexing audiences overseas. So to prepare for the new film, Justin, Marjorie, and Arnie are reviewing the new Doctor Strange wave of Hasbro’s Marvel Legends. With three different versions of Strange himself, plus Nico, Brother Voodoo, Enchantress, Iron Fist, and more–and the build-a-figure Dormammu! Join them to find out which figures are repaints, which are new, and which you must have for your collection!

Also on this week’s show, the hosts review Hasbro’s Marvel Legends Electronic Iron Man Helmet. Plus looks at the new trailers for Logan and Guardians of the Galaxy 2, all in this special 100-minute issue of Marvelicious Toys!

And don’t forget, Marvelicious Toys needs your help to keep operating. We need to add new team members and hopefully bring back the regular full-video episodes. To support our show and get exclusive rewards Check out our crowdfunding campaign, live now on PodBean
Source: Marvelicious Toys

October 26, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 174: People Are Strange When You're a Doctor

Issue 173: New York Comic Con 2016

This weekend saw over 160,000 fans converge at New York City’s Javitz Center. They were all there for one thing: New York Comic Con! Marvel fans found much to do, including getting autographs from John Bernthal and Evangeline Lilly, art from Adi Granov and Mark Brooks, and exclusive toys and comics galore!

For collectors NYCC holds lots of surprises. Hasbro revealed new Marvel Legends figures, Kotobukiya showed off their upcoming Bishoujo and Art-FX statues, plus displays by Sideshow, Mezco, NECA, and a dozen more companies. Even Cross Pens and Hallmark had new things for die-hard Marvel fans.

Marjorie and Arnie were on site all four days. In this issue of Marvelicious Toys you can see all the upcoming toy reveals. Plus join them for exclusive interviews with Kotobukiya, Hasbro, and John Tyler Christopher — the artist behind all the awesome action figure variant covers!

And don’t forget, Marvelicious Toys needs your help to keep operating. We need to add new team members and hopefully bring back the regular full-video episodes. To support our show and get exclusive rewards Check out our crowdfunding campaign, live now on PodBean
Source: Marvelicious Toys

October 12, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 173: New York Comic Con 2016

Issue 172: Pumpkin Spice Goblin

The Marvelicious Toys crew is back with Venom…in space! On this new podcast they review the Space Venom wave of Marvel Legends including two Ultimate Spider-Men, Silk, Electro, Ashley Barton Spider-Girl, and Hobgoblin!

Also, next week is New York Comic Con and Marjorie, Arnie, and Justin run down the exclusive toys you should hunt for at the con. And if you’re going to NYCC be sure to say “hi” to our hosts!

With a new thin crust Hot Toys figure and more, it’s in this new issue of Marvelicious Toys!

And don’t forget, Marvelicious Toys needs your help to keep operating. We need to add new team members and hopefully bring back the regular full-video episodes. To support our show and get exclusive rewards Check out our crowdfunding campaign, live now on PodBean
Source: Marvelicious Toys

September 28, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 172: Pumpkin Spice Goblin

Issue 171: Nothing Can Stop the Juggernaut

They’re Uncanny! They’re Astonishing! They’re Extraordinary! They’re the Figures of the Atom — Hasbro’s new X-Men wave of Marvel Legends. Gather Phoenix, Rogue, Kitty Pryde, Cable, Havok, Iceman and Wolverine and then you can build The Unstoppable Juggernaut! Oh yeah, did we mention there’s a Deadpool figure in there too? Join Arnie, Marjorie, and Justin on this issue of Marvelicious Toys for an in-depth look at this hard to find figure wave!

With a look at Iron Studios new Winter Soldier statue, Sideshow’s Wolverine vs Hulk Maquette, the NYCC exclusive Daredevil from One:12 Collective and more, it’s all in this issue of Marvel-X-ious Toys!

And don’t forget, Marvelicious Toys needs your help to keep operating. We need to add new team members and hopefully bring back the regular full-video episodes. To support our show and get exclusive rewards Check out our crowdfunding campaign, live now on PodBean
Source: Marvelicious Toys

September 14, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 171: Nothing Can Stop the Juggernaut

Mallardlicious Toys

August, 1986 was a landmark for Marvel Comics fans. After years of seeing DC heroes in theaters, Marvel struck back. The very first Marvel Comics movie was released by Lucasfilm, starring actors from Back to the Future, Amadeus, and Top Gun. Before there was Iron Man there was…Howard the Duck!!

Now celebrate 30 years of duckiness! Howard the Duck stars Lea Thompson and Ed Gale join Arnie, Marjorie, and Justin on this look back at the movie–and all the collectibles from it! Candy cigars, trading cards, View-Master slides, Laserdiscs, DVDs, video games, and more — all based on Lucasfilm’s adaptation of Howard.

They’re not just toys, they’re Mallardlicious!
Source: Marvelicious Toys

August 31, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Mallardlicious Toys

Issue 170: The Raft – JAILBREAK!

Abomination. Purple Man. Spider-Man. Enchantress. Sandman. Dread Knight.
What do these disparate Marvel Comics characters have in common? They
are the characters Hasbro bundled together in their 2016 San Diego
Comic-Con Exclusive Marvel Legends set — The Raft! ​They sold out at
the show and last Tuesday online, but now you can join the Marvelicious
Toys crew as they review these six figures! And they tell you how you
can get most of them soon.



Also
on this week’s show are reviews of the new Marvel Legends Role Play
Captain America shield. Priced at about $100, this is Hasbro’s first
entry into high end Marvel collectibles. There’s a metal shield coming
this Fall, but should you jump on the current (cheaper) version? Find
out on this show.



With
reviews of Jada Toys’ Black Widow figure, some great bargains on Marvel
Legends figures, and so much more, it’s all in this issue of
Marvelicious Toys!

And don’t forget, Marvelicious Toys needs your help to keep operating. We need to add new team members and hopefully bring back the regular full-video episodes. To support our show and get exclusive rewards Check out our crowdfunding campaign, live now on PodBean
Source: Marvelicious Toys

August 17, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 170: The Raft – JAILBREAK!

Issue 169: Marvel Collecting at San Diego Comic-Con 2016

For Marvel collectors, keeping up with all the news out of 2016’s San Diego Comic-Con International can be overwhelming. Waves of new Legends from Hasbro, new Hot Toys sixth scale figures on display, Kotobukiya, Gentle Giant, Mezco, NECA, Sideshow Collectibles, and so much more!

If you couldn’t keep up, or if you want to experience the excitement of the convention, join Arnie, Marjorie, and Justin in this full-video coverage of San Diego Comic-Con! Recorded live on the floor, plus around the convention, the Marvelicious Toys hosts run down the most exciting news and reveals from the show!

Plus watch exclusive interviews with Hasbro, Gentle Giant, Kotobukiya, Jada Toys, and Diamond Select Toys.

It’s like being at the con without the sore back and tired feet! So watch this super-sized Marvelicious Toys show now!

And don’t forget, Marvelicious Toys needs your help to keep operating. We need to add new team members and hopefully bring back the regular full-video episodes. To support our show and get exclusive rewards Check out our crowdfunding campaign, live now on PodBean
Source: Marvelicious Toys

July 28, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 169: Marvel Collecting at San Diego Comic-Con 2016

The Bourne Ultimatum by Robert Ludlum

In 1990 Robert Ludlum returned to Jason Bourne one last time for The Bourne Ultimatum. This story finds Bourne once again in the crosshairs of Carlos the Jackal. It was a book intended to set a legacy for many Bourne novels to follow in the hands of other writers. So why is this the worst book ever reviewed at Books & Nachos? Join Stuart in L.A. as he tears into The Bourne Ultimatum and tells you why this is a novel you should avoid at all costs!



And if you enjoy Books & Nachos, support the show through our PodBean Crowdfunding Page!
Source: Books and Nachos

July 18, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on The Bourne Ultimatum by Robert Ludlum

The Bourne Supremacy by Robert Ludlum

Bourne is back! Robert Ludlum had never written a sequel to any of his novels before. That streak ended in 1986 when Jason Bourne (or really David Webb) has to travel to China in search of the men who kidnapped his woman. This novel bears virtually no resemblance to the Matt Damon film, but is it worth a read? Join Stuart in LA in this review to find out!



And if you enjoy Books & Nachos, support the show through our PodBean Crowdfunding Page!
Source: Books and Nachos

July 11, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on The Bourne Supremacy by Robert Ludlum

Issue 167: Tickets to the Gun Show

Convention
season is in full effect! This past weekend saw major cons in D.C.,
Phoenix, and California. For our Marvelicious hosts Arnie and Marjorie,
however, the place to be was Philadelphia, PA — along with Lea
Thompson, Chris Evans, Chris Hemsworth, Hayley Atwell, Dominic Cooper,
Stanley Tucci, and Tom Hiddleston! All these celebrities, and dozens
more, were gathered at Wizard World Philadelphia. On this show, hear a
report from the floor — the good, the bad, and the photo ops!

But
coming soon is the world’s bigest convention: San Diego Comic-Con
International! Every year the exclusives are enough to fill a room and
break the bank, and the reveals and pre-orders have already begun!
Kotobukiya, Mezco, Monogram International, and Diamond Select toys all
have revealed some or all of their offerings — and it appears Hasbro’s
3.75-inch Legends set has leaked to eBay! Listen to find out what has
been revealed and how much you should budget this year.

Finally,
on this show hear an overview of the new Marvel Legends 6-inch figures
put up for pre-order. Three new waves, X-Men, Spider-Man, and Captain
America, all went up for order–and one of those waves is already
selling out across the web!

All that and more in this jam-packed Marvelicious Toys Podcast!

And
don’t forget, Marvelicious Toys needs your help to keep operating. We
need to add new team members and hopefully bring back the regular
full-video episodes. To support our show and get exclusive rewards Check out our crowdfunding campaign, live now on PodBean
Source: Marvelicious Toys

July 6, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 167: Tickets to the Gun Show

Issue 168: The Collector's Paradise

Two weeks from tonight begins San Diego Comic-Con International 2016! The reveals, the exclusives, the panels, the giveaways, the celebrities, and the fans! There covering all the new Marvel collecting news is the Marvelicious Toys team, and on this podcast they run down all the new exclusive reveals. Plus, they have a hands on review of the still unannounced Hasbro 3.75-inch exclusive set featuring The Collector, Cosmo the Spacedog, Moon boy, Lockjaw, and Howard the Duck. Find out if this is a set you’ll need to have in your collection.

Also on this week’s show, a look at a new and shiny Hot Toys exclusive Iron Man, a review of the Walgreens exclusive Marvel Legends Namor figure, and a Podbean backer picked review of a Deadpool collectible!



All that and more in this extra-long episode of the Marvelicious Toys Podcast!

And don’t forget, Marvelicious Toys needs your help to keep operating. We need to add new team members and hopefully bring back the regular full-video episodes. To support our show and get exclusive rewards Check out our crowdfunding campaign, live now on PodBean
Source: Marvelicious Toys

July 6, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 168: The Collector's Paradise

The Bourne Identity by Robert Ludlum

This summer is a great time to be re-Bourne! Matt Damon is returning to play Jason Bourne for the fourth time. For many Bourne fans, however, it may be surprising to find out how different these Damon films are from Robert Ludlum’s original novels.

On this episode of Books & Nachos, join Stuart in L.A. as he gives a spoiler free review of this book, outlining the creator’s original vision for this spy who can’t remember his past.



And if you enjoy Books & Nachos, support the show through our PodBean Crowdfunding Page!
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July 5, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on The Bourne Identity by Robert Ludlum

Independence Day: Crucible by Greg Keyes

20 years have passed between the 1996 sci-fi hit Independence Day and this summer’s new Independence Day: Resurgence. That time passed in our real world–but it also went by for the fictional characters who survived that alien assault. Fans have long wondered–what happened on July 5, 1996? Were all the aliens killed when the ships went down? Some of this will be revealed in the new movie, but those wanting a fuller explanation can find it in the new novel Independence Day: Crucible by Greg Keyes. It spans all 20 years and follows old characters, like David Levinson and Steve Hiller, as well as new players like Jake Morrison and Dikembe Umbutu.



Did anything happen in that 20-year span to warrant a novel? Join Arnie in this Books & Nachos episode as he summarizes and reviews this new story — and the comic series Independence Day: Dark Fathom!



And if you enjoy Books & Nachos, support the show through our PodBean Crowdfunding Page!
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June 27, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Independence Day: Crucible by Greg Keyes

Issue 166: I Can Do This All Day

Captain America: Civil War is a bona fide blockbuster, but more importantly it was a great movie! This superhero monster mash had action and heart. But now that we’ve seen the movie, it’s time to talk about the toys! Join Arnie, Marjorie, and Justin on this Marvelicious Toys Podcast as they review the Giant Man wave of Hasbro’s Marvel Legends, including the Civil War incarnations of Cap, Iron Man, Black Panther, and Scott Lang Giant Man.



Also on this week’s show, the hosts look at the new pre-orders for the Iron Studios’ Black Panther, S.H. Figuarts’ Tony Stark (from Iron Man 3), and more!



And don’t forget, Marvelicious Toys needs your help to keep operating. We need to add new team members and hopefully bring back the regular full-video episodes. To support our show and get exclusive rewards Check out our crowdfunding campaign, live now on PodBean
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May 25, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 166: I Can Do This All Day

Issue 165: Push It. Push It Real Good!

Salt and Pepper’s here, and they’re pushing it with awesome quarter-scale, high quality custom statues–with exceedingly low production numbers. Spider-Gwen, Magneto, Spider-Ham, Captain Marvel, and more have been released. Marjorie and Arnie just got their hands on the Spider-Gwen — listen in for a full review!

Also on this week’s show, it’s CIVIL WAR! Arnie and Justin are #TeamIronMan, and Marjorie is #TeamCap. How do the three get along after seeing the new Captain America movie? Listen to see if they fight their way out of this one.

With a new (ish) wave of Marvel Legends only available in the UK, more chase Funko POP! Deadpools, a look at the new Civil War Legends 3-Pack, and so much more, it’s all in this new issue of Marvelicious Toys!



And don’t forget, Marvelicious Toys needs your help to keep operating. We need to add new team members and hopefully bring back the regular full-video episodes. To support our show and get exclusive rewards Check out our crowdfunding campaign, live now on PodBean
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May 11, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 165: Push It. Push It Real Good!

The Dead Zone by Stephen King

The Dead Zone was Stephen King’s follow-up to The Stand. This new novel, about a man who gained psychic powers after a head injury, became the author’s first number 1 best seller. It has gone on to be adapted to film by David Cronenberg, and a long-running cable TV series.

In this episode of Books & Nachos, Arnie looks back at the book that started it all. He analyzes King’s influences that led to the creation of the novel, and deconstructs the characters and plot. So now join him for a review of Stephen King’s novel over a year in the making!

And if you enjoy Books & Nachos, support the show through our PodBean Crowdfunding Page!
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May 1, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on The Dead Zone by Stephen King

Issue 164: we know we'll get more hits if we put SPIDER-GWEN in the title

Call this episode of Mavelicious Toys “Bounty” because we’re all about absorption! Join Marjorie, Arnie, and Justin as they provide hands-on reviews of all 8 figures in the Marvel Legends wave of Spider-Man themed figures and an Absorbing Man Crusher Creel Build-A-Figure. From Morbius to Beetle, Venom to Jack-O-Lantern, and the super-popular SPIDER-GWEN, we review them all!



Also on this week’s show, a look forward to Captain America: Civil War! It’s out next weekend, and the hosts are hyped. Find out about even more exclusives from Funko and your local movie theater.

With a silly hunt for Playmation figures, three new burning hot Hot Toys, and more, it’s all in this week’s Marvelicious Toys podcast!

And don’t forget, Marvelicious Toys needs your help to keep operating. We need to add new team members and hopefully bring back the regular full-video episodes. To support our show and get exclusive rewards Check out our crowdfunding campaign, live now on PodBean
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April 27, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 164: we know we'll get more hits if we put SPIDER-GWEN in the title

Issue 163: I Have Protection

This episode of Marvelicious Toys is jam-packed with collecting and convention goodness!



First, join Marjorie, Arnie, and Justin as they look at the recent conventions — Wizard World St. Louis, Wizard World Madison, Emerald City Comic-Con, and even a look ahead to San Diego Comic-Con International!



Then the hosts go to Civil War over all the new toys and products being released. From a bevy of food tie-ins to Hasbro’s Titan Hero figures to Jada Toys Die-Cast Cap and Iron Man, it’s all covered in this show.



Plus Hot Toys has two new figures up for pre-order: Ant-Man and Black Panther! Those are covered, along with the upcoming exclusive Deadpool Blu-ray sets, Diamond Select Toys’ new Retro Deadpool and Disney Exclusive Spider-Man Select, and more.



To top it all off, this show reviews not one but two high-end Hulk vs Hulkbuster Age of Ultron sets — the Cosbaby three-pack from Hot Toys, and the Egg Attack exclusive set.



All this and a in-depth discussion on protecting your POPS, it’s all in this Marvelicious Toys podcast!

And don’t forget, Marvelicious Toys needs your help to keep operating. We need to add new team members and hopefully bring back the regular full-video episodes. To support our show and get exclusive rewards Check out our crowdfunding campaign, live now on PodBean
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April 13, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 163: I Have Protection

Issue 162: C2E 2 Illigit to Quit!

Last weekend at Chicago’s C2E2 convention was a rare gathering of Arnie, Marjorie, Justin, and other Marvelicious Team Members. Together they shopped, they chatted, and they partied with some listeners. Of course, they also recorded a new episode of Marvelicious Toys!Gathered in person, our hosts looked at the Square Enix Variant Play Arts Kai figures. Standing about 10-inches tall, they reviewed Captain America, Thor, Spider-Man, Black Widow, Iron Man, and Venom! But there’s a twist…! After recording the hosts found out half the figures were Chinese bootlegs! So after the con the team reconvened to compare these fakers with the real deal, and tell YOU how to spot the difference! It’s all in this mega-episode of Marvelicious Toys!This episode of Marvelicious Toys is a full video episode–but those will be the exception going forward. To bring back the full video shows we need listener help to keep the show growing! Check out our crowdfunding campaign, live now on PodBean
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March 29, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 162: C2E 2 Illigit to Quit!

Watchmen by Alan Moore

Watchmen. It was the only comic listed on Time Magazine’s List of the 100 Best Novels list. It also was in The Comic’s Journal’s list of the Top 100 Comics of the 20th Century. It has been revered by comic lovers and neophytes alike. Now Arnie and Jakob come together to review all 12 issues of this series, and also give a brief look at the recent Before Watchmen prequel series!



Then head to Now Playing Podcast to hear Stuart, Jakob, and Arnie review crew’s thoughts on Zack Snyder’s film adaptation!
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March 21, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Watchmen by Alan Moore

Issue 161: Bark at the Moon

To build up to Captain America: Civil War Hasbro has released a new wave of Marvel Legends themed for that first Avenger. Agent 13, Mockingbird, Captain America, Taskmaster, and others gather to build the giant figure of Red Skull as Onslaught. On this issue of Marvelicious Toys, Marjorie, Arnie, and Justin review all eight figures in this wave and tell you which are worth the hunt!

Plus the Marvelicious Toys team is ready for March Marvel Madness! Every day from now through April 5, heroes from the Marvel Cinematic Universe will be going head to head, and you decide who wins! Can Winter Soldier take Luke Cage in a fight? Is Star-Lord able to overcome Rocket Raccoon? Head to VenganzaMedia.com each day to cast your vote. You can even download your own bracket to make your predictions!

With C2E2 and more to come, it’s all in this new issue of Marvelicious Toys!

And we need listener help to keep the show growing! Check out our crowdfunding campaign, live now on PodBean.
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March 15, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 161: Bark at the Moon

Issue 160: Feelin' Grooty

The list has leaked! Circulating the internet has been a rumor list of all the Marvel Legends figures Hasbro has planned for 2016, including Venom: Space Knight, Eel, and more! Join us as we run down the list of all the possible figures in your future!



Also on this show, Factory Entertainment proved themselves the company to watch at Toy Fair this year. With their Captain America and Deadpool motion statues, Daredevil and Spider-Man walking sticks, and Jim Lee monolith, they were taking statue collecting in exciting new areas.



Now, to follow up on the Toy Fair report, Justin, Marjorie, and Arnie look at Factory Entertainment’s Dancing Groot Premium Motion Statue. A full-scale replica, with a bit of motion in his pot, join the Marvelicious hosts to find out how Groot influences their future orders!



And finally, this weekend was Wizard World Cleveland, where the mighty Chris Hemsworth came to sign autographs, pose for photos, and answer fan questions. Marjorie and Arnie were on hand for the event. They run down the shopping, the celebrities, and more!



All this plus a power-ful Captain America shield and a Marvel Collector Corps unboxing in this jam-packed issue of Marvelicious Toys!



Want more bonus Marvelicious Toys shows? We need listener help to keep the show growing! Check out our crowdfunding campaign, live now on PodBean.
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March 1, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 160: Feelin' Grooty

Issue 159: Toy Fair 2016 Pt 2 — Kotobukiya, Mezco, and more!

With Hasbro, Hot Toys, Comicave Studios, Ban Dai, Tamashii Nations, and others, Marvel action figure collectors have a wide selection of lines. But the choice is about to get more difficult as Mezco joins the scene! Their One:12 Collective line of figures are 6.5-inch scale, well articulated, highly detailed, and clothed in amazing soft goods. Join Marjorie, Arnie, and Justin as they tell you why this is their most exciting new reveal at Toy Fair 2016! And watch an exclusive interview with One:12 Project Manager Pierre Kalenzaga!

Also in this show is even more Toy Fair International coverage. Kotobukiya gives us an exclusive reveal on their new Spider-Man Art-FX+ line. Diamond Select Toys shows off new Marvel Select figures, Minimates, statues, and their new PVC line. Uncle Milton unlocks the secrets of the universe, and Monogram International has a heavy reveal.

Get all this information and more in this giant-sized bonus issue of Marvelicious Toys!

Want more bonus Marvelicious Toys shows? We need listener help to keep the show growing! Check out our crowdfunding campaign, live now on PodBean.
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February 21, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 159: Toy Fair 2016 Pt 2 — Kotobukiya, Mezco, and more!

Issue 158: Toy Fair 2016 Pt 1 — Hasbro, LEGO, Comicave, and more!

Hasbro has done the stuff of LEGENDS at the 2016 Toy Fair International in New York City! They have announced 4 different toy lines, all with the name of “Legends” — 3.75-inch scale, 6-inch scale, 12-inch scale, and life-sized prop replicas! Confusing? Join Marjorie, Arnie, and Justin as they sort it all out and discuss the best new toys coming later this year!

Also on this show, LEGO has a bridge to sell you — and it has a taxi hanging off of it! The hosts go through the cool new Civil War, Ultimate Spider-Man, and Avengers LEGO sets on display at Toy Fair.

With a look at new offerings from Comicave Studios, new Re:Edit figures, and more — it’s all in this LEGENDS issue of Marvelicious Toys!
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February 13, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 158: Toy Fair 2016 Pt 1 — Hasbro, LEGO, Comicave, and more!

Issue 157: I Aint 'Fraid of No Hulk!

Marvel Legends show no sign of slowing down! The new Absorbing Man wave of figures is on pegs across the country, and the Onslaught wave is close behind! But before the Marvelicious Toys hosts can get to these new ones, they have some old business to attend to–the Hulkbuster wave! Join them on this Marvelicious Toys as they look at the final wave of 2015 with Iron Man, War Machine, Thundra, Blizzard, and more!

But that’s not the only Mark featured this show. Just shipping now is the new Play Imaginative Die Cast Iron Man Mk 38 — the IGOR Armor! Produced by Comicave Studios, is this 8.5-inch beast worth adding to your heavy metal house party? Find out in this show!

With an update on the Art of Daredevil and Jessica Jones books, clearance sales across the country, a Deadpool Hot Toys and more, it’s all in this Marvelicious Toys!
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February 2, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 157: I Aint 'Fraid of No Hulk!

Issue 156: Toys of Future Past 2015 Part 2

Was 2015 the best year ever for Marvel Hot Toys? From the Age of Ultron line to throw-backs to all three Iron Man films, it was a good (if expensive) time to be a collector!



On this issue of Marvelicious Toys, Justin, Marjorie, and Arnie are again joined by Scott from the Action Figure Blues podcast, and Dabid from Marvel Toy News, and other Marvelicious team members. They talk about the Hot Toys, Funko POPs, Sideshow Statues, and more that made up all the non-figure collecting of the year!

Then they look forward to 2016 and the hot films and collectibles coming. So watch right now this gala issue of the Marvelicious Toys podcast!
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January 19, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 156: Toys of Future Past 2015 Part 2

Issue 155: Toys of Future Past 2015 Part 1

2015 was a great year for collectors! Dozens of new Marvel Legends figures arrived on store pegs. Long-promised 3.75-inch scale Marvel Infinite Series figures finally joined your collection. Plus movie figures tying into Age of Ultron and Ant-Man.

Now it’s time for Marvelicious Toys’ annual Toys of Future Past show! This year Arnie, Marjorie, and Justin are joined by Scott from the Action Figure Blues podcast, and Dabid from Marvel Toy News, and other Marvelicious team members. Join them as they look back at one Legend-ary year!
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January 5, 2016 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 155: Toys of Future Past 2015 Part 1

The Marvelicious Toys Holiday Special

It’s Christmastime at Marvelicious Toys! Now Arnie, Marjorie, and Justin are inviting you to spend the holidays with them in The Marvelicious Toys Holiday Special!

Learn Justin’s secret hot cocoa recipe! Marjorie will teach you how to make a star spangled tree topper! And Deadpool brings his own brand of holiday cheer with gifts and a special Christmas story!

With bonus reviews and unboxings, it’s a special stuffed fuller than your stocking!
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December 23, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on The Marvelicious Toys Holiday Special

Issue 154: Play Imaginative – The Die is Cast

Marvelicious Toys awarded Play Imaginative’s one-twelfth line “Best in Show” at San Diego Comic-Con. No other company had as fresh a display, as attractive a price-point, and as high quality an item. The only problem is…that was San Diego Comic-Con in 2013.

In the years since Play Imaginative has put out figures in the one-quarter and one-sixth scale, but their six-inch figures faced one delay after another.

But finally the figures have shipped! Iron Man Mark 42, War Machine Mk 2, Iron Man Mark 40 (Shotgun Amor) and Iron Patriot — all have started shipping worldwide. And Justin, Marjorie, and Arnie have them in hand! Were they worth the wait? And are there quality issues with the figures? Watch this episode to find out!

With a rundown of some great bargains (and even better Toys For Tots donations), a new Hot Toys Iron Man, and more, it’s all in this issue of Marvelicious Toys!
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December 8, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 154: Play Imaginative – The Die is Cast

Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins

Last week the fourth, and final, Hunger Games film Mockingjay Part 2, dominated theaters. Now that you’ve had a chance to see how the movie concludes the story of Katniss Everdeen you can join Stuart for his review of Collins original Mockingjay novel.

Then head to Now Playing Podcast’s donation page to hear Stuart, Jakob, and Arnie review crew’s thoughts on all the Hunger Games films! Those movie reviews are only available during the Fall, 2015 donation drive, so donate today!
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November 26, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins

Issue 153: Sweet Christmas 2015 – Holiday Gift Guide & Black Friday Sales

Happy Thanksgiving to all the Marvelicious Toys community!

While your family rehashes bad memories and watches football we give you our 6th annual Sweet Christmas Holiday Gift Guide. Do you have a Marvel collector in your life and are stumped for a gift? Or do you want to give your loved ones ideas for gifts for you? Arnie, Marjorie, and Justin give dozens of gift ideas here in this show. From stocking stuffers to action figures to high end statues and figures, the whole range is in this guide!

Plus the Black Friday sales are about to start. As early as 6 a.m. on Thanksgiving morning stores are starting their deep discounts for the holiday season. What bargains are worth braving stores for Marvel collectors? Listen to find out.

And be sure you get, and give, a Marvel themed gift this year! Our annual holiday gift X-Change registration is open. Sign up before Dec 2 to join in this fun Secret Santa type fun. Find out all the details and sign up now.
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November 24, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 153: Sweet Christmas 2015 – Holiday Gift Guide & Black Friday Sales

Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins

In 2009 Catching Fire fanned the flames of Hunger Games fans worldwide. Continuing the adventures of Katniss Everdeen, Collins’ novel puts her back in the arena for another adventure. In preparation for tonight’s release of The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2 movie, join Stuart in L.A. for a look back at Collins’ middle novel in the trilogy.

Then head to Now Playing Podcast’s donation page to hear Stuart, Jakob, and Arnie review crew’s thoughts on all the Hunger Games films! Those movie reviews are only available during the Fall, 2015 donation drive, so donate today!
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November 19, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

The Hunger Games novels topped the New York Times best seller lists and went on to become Amazon’s all-time top selling book series (outselling even Harry Potter). It has since gone on to become a billion-dollar film franchise. In anticipation of the upcoming The Hunger Games: Mockingjay Part 2 Stuart in LA is here to review the original novels.

In this episode Stuart looks at the original The Hunger Games. Is this the next Twilight, or is it the next The Running Man? Join Stuart in L.A. now for this review, then head to Now Playing Podcast’s donation page to hear Stuart, Jakob, and Arnie review crew’s thoughts on the film! Those movie reviews are only available during the Fall, 2015 donation drive, so donate today!
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November 12, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins

Issue 152: Karma Chameleon

The holiday shopping season started November 1st, and that means a bevvy of new Marvel Legends figures on store pegs! Plus deep discounts on the new waves from Amazon, including the Rhino wave. On this week’s show Justin, Marjorie, and Arnie look at the eight new figures in this set: Scarlet Spider, Superior Venom, Ghost Rider, Kraven the Hunter, Chameleon, Misty Knight, White Tiger, and Rhino!

Plus a bonus Legends review of Pepper Potts’ armored identity Rescue. The figure was exclusive with a 2016 Marvel Unlimited subscription. How does the figure compare to the one teased at 2013’s SDCC? Listen to find out.



And from the biggest figures to the smallest, the Walgreens exclusive Diamond Select Toys’ Marvel Minimates are showing up. On this show get quick reviews of the four packs released thus far, including Venom, Hulk, Crossbones, Rocket Raccoon, and more! Then we run down the next four packs coming soon.



With news on Play Imaginative, the first Hot Toys figure with wrinkled hands, and more, it’s all in this gala 5th Anniversary issue of Marvelicious Toys!
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November 10, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 152: Karma Chameleon

Battle Royale by Koushun Takami

In 1999 Japanese author Koushun Takami gained global notice for his novel Battle Royale. In this ultraviolent, 600-plus page dystopian novel the Japanese government holds an annual competition where Junior High students must kill each other. The last student to survive is the “winner.” The book has been released multiple times in English, been the inspiration for the Battle Royale film series, and had a manga adaptation. And Hunger Games author Suzanne Collins has been accused of plagiarizing Battle Royale for her hit trilogy.

Is the novel worth the fuss? Join Stuart in L.A. now for this review of the English translation of Battle Royale. Then head to Now Playing Podcast’s donation page to hear Stuart, Jakob, and Arnie review crew’s thoughts on the film! Those movie reviews are only available during the Fall, 2015 donation drive, so donate today!
Source: Books and Nachos

November 5, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Battle Royale by Koushun Takami

Issue 151: You Can Do Magik

Magik was all around us at San Diego Comic-Con…as thousands of Marvel collectors picked up their Book of Vishanti set of Marvel Legends. Featuring five figures found nowhere else, this set comes with a translucent “astral projection” Dr. Strange, his long time enemy Dormammu, former Sorcerer Supereme Brother Voodoo, Hela the Norse goddess of the underworld, and Strange’s pupil Magik of the X-Men. On this issue of Marvelicious Toys the hosts conjure up a review of this set!




With a review of the Walgreens exclusive yellow-and-brown Daredevil Legends figure, new Art-FX+ statues from Kotobukiya, and a chance to win a Marvel mini-bust from Gentle Giant, it’s all in this issue of the Marvelicious Toys podcast!
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October 27, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 151: You Can Do Magik

Issue 150: YOU Have a Hulk

Kotobukiya’s Art-FX+ statues have always been great for Marvel collectors. Detailed, affordable, gorgeous, and sized perfectly so you can put a group together on one shelf, this line of vinyl figurines has been many collectors’ first foray into high-end collecting. But in 2015 they have released their best set yet — the Hulkbuster and Hulk from Age of Ultron! In this issue of Marvelicious Toys Justin, Marjorie, and Arnie review these newly released statues, as well as the Entertainment Earth Exclusive Rampaging Hulk statue variant!

And you can win one of the Entertainment Earth exclusive Hulk statues! Watch this week’s show, then head over to the contest to enter!



Also on this week’s show is the complete coverage of all the New York Comic-Con reveals! Find out about the new Legends figures, 6 and 3.75 inch, headed your way!
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October 13, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 150: YOU Have a Hulk

Issue 149: Legends of Ant-Man Part Two

On the last episode of Marvelicious Toys the hosts reviewed all the Marvel Legends Ant-Man figures. Now they continue reviewing the latest Marvel Comics Ant-Man figures.

First, they review the San Diego Comic-Con Ant-Man box set. Is it a Marvel Universe set? Marvel Legends? Justin, Marjorie, and Arnie debate that topic and tell you if collectors should hunt this exclusive down on eBay!

Then they look at the smallest Marvel SDCC exclusive from Hasbro yet — the Ant-Man figure in the matchbox. Find out what completists need to know about this tiny toy!

With a look at the upcoming Rhino and Hulkbuster waves of legends, a deal of Figuarts Avengers, a report from Wizard World, and so much more, it’s all in this issue of Marvelicious Toys!
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September 1, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 149: Legends of Ant-Man Part Two

Issue 148: Legends of Ant-Man

Ant-Man was yet another feather in Marvel’s cap – a solid film that entertained most people. Now on Marvelicious Toys, Justin, Marjorie and Arnie look to see if the toys match the quality of the film!

In this first part of a 2-podcast series, the Marvelicious hosts review all eight of Hasbro’s Marvel Legends figure released under the Ant-Man logo: Ant-Man, Wasp, Bulldozer, Tiger Shark, Grim Reaper, and Giant Man and then the Build-a-Figure: the movie version of Ultron!

The eighth Legend figure is the Walgreens exclusive Eric O’Grady version of Ant-Man in his black suit.

Hear reviews of all these figures, plus more more collectibles news and updates in this issue of Marvelicious Toys!



Then come back in 2 weeks as we look at the San Diego Comic-Con exclusive Ant-Man figures
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August 18, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 148: Legends of Ant-Man

Issue 147: What a Box of A-Holes

Guardians of the Galaxy was a smash hit film, bringing these comic characters into the spotlight like never before. In addition to a number of comics and an upcoming animated series, the Guardians have new toys in the form of an Entertainment Earth exclusive box set. On this issue of Marvelicious Toys Justin, Marjorie, and Arnie review this set, tell you what’s new and what’s reused, and if you should buy this box of A-Holes!

Also in this week’s show, Pepper Potts gets her own Hot Toys figure, details on the upcoming Marvel Cinematic Universe Blu-Ray releases, and a chance to win a Guardians of the Galaxy Marvel Legends Set!
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August 4, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 147: What a Box of A-Holes

Issue 146: A Tour of the SDCC Show Floor!

This year’s San Diego Comic-Con was huge for Marvel toy collectors. New items were revealed from Hot Toys, Sideshow Collectibles, eFX Collectibles, Gentle Giant, and more. Plus Hasbro revealed upcoming waves of Marvel Legends and Marvel Infinite Series figures stretching into 2016!

Join Marjorie, Arnie, and Justin now for a floor tour of the hottest booths for Marvel collectors. With a look at the upcoming figures, a close-up look at the Ant-Man prop replica helmet, and even exclusive interviews with Hasbro, Gentle Giant, and Diamond Select Toys! It’s all in this gala issue of Marvelicious Toys!
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July 24, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 146: A Tour of the SDCC Show Floor!

Issue 146: A Tour of the SDCC Show Floor!

This year’s San Diego Comic-Con was huge for Marvel toy collectors. New items were revealed from Hot Toys, Sideshow Collectibles, eFX Collectibles, Gentle Giant, and more. Plus Hasbro revealed upcoming waves of Marvel Legends and Marvel Infinite Series figures stretching into 2016!

Join Marjorie, Arnie, and Justin now for a floor tour of the hottest booths for Marvel collectors. With a look at the upcoming figures, a close-up look at the Ant-Man prop replica helmet, and even exclusive interviews with Hasbro, Gentle Giant, and Diamond Select Toys! It’s all in this gala issue of Marvelicious Toys!
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July 24, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 146: A Tour of the SDCC Show Floor!

Issue 145: We Want the Funko (2015 SDCC Exclusives)

One week from tonight it’s Preview Night at San Diego Comic-Con. There will be plenty of news, reveals, celebrities, and more — but most of all there will be exclusives!

On this issue of Marvelicious Toys Marjorie, Arnie, and guest host Geof run down the full list (so far) of exclusive items from this year’s big show. If you’re going to the convention, which items should you buy first? If you’re not going, what items can you buy online (and which will command top dollar on eBay)? It’s all revealed in this issue!

So watch this week’s new show, and join us next week on Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube as we bring all the news from the show itself!
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June 30, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 145: We Want the Funko (2015 SDCC Exclusives)

Issue 145: We Want the Funko (2015 SDCC Exclusives)

One week from tonight it’s Preview Night at San Diego Comic-Con. There will be plenty of news, reveals, celebrities, and more — but most of all there will be exclusives!

On this issue of Marvelicious Toys Marjorie, Arnie, and guest host Geof run down the full list (so far) of exclusive items from this year’s big show. If you’re going to the convention, which items should you buy first? If you’re not going, what items can you buy online (and which will command top dollar on eBay)? It’s all revealed in this issue!

So watch this week’s new show, and join us next week on Twitter, Facebook, and YouTube as we bring all the news from the show itself!
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June 30, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 145: We Want the Funko (2015 SDCC Exclusives)

The Lost World by Michael Crichton

Michael Crichton never intended to write a sequel to his bestselling novel Jurassic Park. But when Stephen Spielberg’s film was a smash success and the director, and fans, requested a follow-up, Crichton obliged. What were the results? Join Stuart in L.A. for this review of Crichton’s novel, then head to Now Playing Podcast’s donation page to hear that crew’s thoughts on the film! Those movie reviews are only available until July 31, 2015, then they become extinct like the dinosaurs, so donate today!
Source: Books and Nachos

June 26, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on The Lost World by Michael Crichton

Issue 144: Welcome Back, Mego!

Mego action figures were the start of collecting, and comic book love, for many collectors from Generation X. With the soft goods outfits, removable boots, varied accessories and more, these figures have become harder to find but that doesn’t stop collectors from trying. But now Diamond Select Toys has the license to reproduce classic Mego action figures! The first three are out – Spider-Man, Captain America, and one never made in the classic Mego line: Wolverine! In addition to being nostalgic throw-backs, DST is also including upgraded outfits and alternate outfits, all expanding the Mego line while paying homage.

On this issue of Marvelicious Toys, Marjorie and Justin join long-time Mego lover Arnie to review these three figures. Joint hem to find out if these are faithful representations, and if the toys are just for older collectors or for everyone!

But while older collectors love the toys of their youth, younger fans prefer the simple pleasures — such as Hasbro’s Titan Hero Tech figures. On this issue the hosts review three of the Age of Ultron Titan Tech figures, as well as the two Entertainment Earth exclusive Titan Heroes: Hawkeye and Iron Legion!

With a preview of this year’s hottest San Diego Comic-Con exclusives and more, it’s all in this week’s Marvelicious Toys!
Source: Marvelicious Toys

June 16, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 144: Welcome Back, Mego!

Issue 144: Welcome Back, Mego!

Mego action figures were the start of collecting, and comic book love, for many collectors from Generation X. With the soft goods outfits, removable boots, varied accessories and more, these figures have become harder to find but that doesn’t stop collectors from trying. But now Diamond Select Toys has the license to reproduce classic Mego action figures! The first three are out – Spider-Man, Captain America, and one never made in the classic Mego line: Wolverine! In addition to being nostalgic throw-backs, DST is also including upgraded outfits and alternate outfits, all expanding the Mego line while paying homage.

On this issue of Marvelicious Toys, Marjorie and Justin join long-time Mego lover Arnie to review these three figures. Joint hem to find out if these are faithful representations, and if the toys are just for older collectors or for everyone!

But while older collectors love the toys of their youth, younger fans prefer the simple pleasures — such as Hasbro’s Titan Hero Tech figures. On this issue the hosts review three of the Age of Ultron Titan Tech figures, as well as the two Entertainment Earth exclusive Titan Heroes: Hawkeye and Iron Legion!

With a preview of this year’s hottest San Diego Comic-Con exclusives and more, it’s all in this week’s Marvelicious Toys!
Source: Marvelicious Toys

June 16, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 144: Welcome Back, Mego!

Jurassic Park by Michael Crichton

Today the words Jurassic Park bring to mind a T-Rex roaring at a car, Sam Neil running through a pack of CGI dinosaurs, and John Williams score–all from Steven Spielberg’s hit 1993 film. But before it was a movie, Jurassic Park was a bestselling novel by sci-fi author Michael Crichton. The book and the movie share some basic plot elements, but there are also key differences. How do they compare? Join Stuart in L.A. for this review of Crichton’s novel, then head to Now Playing Podcast’s donation page to hear that crew’s thoughts on the film! Those movie reviews are only available until July 31, 2015, then they become extinct like the dinosaurs, so donate today!
Source: Books and Nachos

June 4, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Jurassic Park by Michael Crichton

Issue 143: Marvel's X-Tinction Agenda

Arnie, Marjorie, and Justin are back with a jam-packed new episode of Marvelicious Toys!

On this show we tell you where you can find the latest Marvel Legends, including Daredevil, Spider-Woman, and Hulk! Plus we look forward to some new Hasbro figures on the horizon. Plus a look at several new online orders, including Hot Toys’ Vision, Iron Legion, and Iron Man Mk 45, and Sideshow Collectibles’ new Premium Format Spider-Man statue. With a look at the most exclusive Hulkbuster toy yet, and review of Marvel’s new Secret Wars action figure comic covers, it’s all in this jam-packed issue!
Source: Marvelicious Toys

June 2, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 143: Marvel's X-Tinction Agenda

Issue 143: Marvel's X-Tinction Agenda

Arnie, Marjorie, and Justin are back with a jam-packed new episode of Marvelicious Toys!

On this show we tell you where you can find the latest Marvel Legends, including Daredevil, Spider-Woman, and Hulk! Plus we look forward to some new Hasbro figures on the horizon. Plus a look at several new online orders, including Hot Toys’ Vision, Iron Legion, and Iron Man Mk 45, and Sideshow Collectibles’ new Premium Format Spider-Man statue. With a look at the most exclusive Hulkbuster toy yet, and review of Marvel’s new Secret Wars action figure comic covers, it’s all in this jam-packed issue!
Source: Marvelicious Toys

June 2, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 143: Marvel's X-Tinction Agenda

Issue 142: Leapin' Legends!

Tomorrow the Age of Ultron begins as the biggest Marvel movie of Phase II hits theaters! To celebrate, we bring you a special, bonus Marvelicious Toys show with plenty of Avengers assembled!

Hasbro’s newest Marvel Legends figures tie into Age of Ultron as the movie likenesses of Hulk, Captain America, and Iron Man ship with comic-based Hellcat, Spider-Woman and Batroc. Get all six and you build the mad titan Thanos! Join Arnie, Justin, and Marjorie for reviews of all seven figures in this wave!

And also in this show, Marjorie & Arnie attended C2E2 in Chicago this weekend! From the vendors to artist’s alley to the autograph hall, they run down the experience, and recall a purchase that (Hulk)busted Arnie’s wallet!

With two new Hot Toys and an Age of Ultron S.H. Figuarts that’s even harder to assemble than the other Avengers, it’s all in this bonus Marvelicious Toys!

Plus follow @thearniec on Twitter as he attends the 11 movie AMC Marvel marathon! He’ll be tweeting the experience on Wednesday the 29th and Thursday the 30th!
Source: Marvelicious Toys

April 29, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 142: Leapin' Legends!

Issue 141: The Legends of Daredevil

In this issue there is a totally new Marvelicious Toys team-up! With Marjorie and Arnie crossing over to another series (Star Wars Action News) Justin joins forces with Geof to host this week’s episode of Marvelicious Toys!

In this episode the dynamic hosting duo look at the new Avengers: Age of Ultron figures coming from Ban Dai’s S.H. Figuarts line! Geof’s superpower is his focus on international toys and so he helps you figure out if these foreign figures are worth your dollar!

But then Marjorie and Arnie cameo to join Justin for a review that will make you crawl the walls–Hasbro’s Spider-Man wave of Marvel Legends! With Spider-Man 2099, Spider-Girl, Spider-Woman, and Anti-Venom, these figures are hitting stores now and we review them all! Plus in the wave is Daredevil–star of the new Netflix series!

With a look at the new toys hitting stores, a review of Spaghetti Webz accessories, and more, it’s all in this jam-packed Marvelicious Toys show!

Then join us next Wendesday for a bonus Avengers: Age of Ultron episode with even more Marvel Legends reviews!
Source: Marvelicious Toys

April 22, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 141: The Legends of Daredevil

Issue 141: The Legends of Daredevil

In this issue there is a totally new Marvelicious Toys team-up! With Marjorie and Arnie crossing over to another series (Star Wars Action News) Justin joins forces with Geof to host this week’s episode of Marvelicious Toys!

In this episode the dynamic hosting duo look at the new Avengers: Age of Ultron figures coming from Ban Dai’s S.H. Figuarts line! Geof’s superpower is his focus on international toys and so he helps you figure out if these foreign figures are worth your dollar!

But then Marjorie and Arnie cameo to join Justin for a review that will make you crawl the walls–Hasbro’s Spider-Man wave of Marvel Legends! With Spider-Man 2099, Spider-Girl, Spider-Woman, and Anti-Venom, these figures are hitting stores now and we review them all! Plus in the wave is Daredevil–star of the new Netflix series!

With a look at the new toys hitting stores, a review of Spaghetti Webz accessories, and more, it’s all in this jam-packed Marvelicious Toys show!

Then join us next Wendesday for a bonus Avengers: Age of Ultron episode with even more Marvel Legends reviews!
Source: Marvelicious Toys

April 22, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 141: The Legends of Daredevil

Issue 140: Agents of CHiPs!

In the original Avengers films the Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D., Nick Fury, Maria Hill, and Phil Coulson, loomed large. Yet none of those characters received any attention in Hasbro’s Marvel Legends line–until now! With the upcoming sequel Avengers: Age of Ultron Toys R Us is now selling the exclusive Legends 3-pack with those characters! Join the Agents of Marvelicious, Justin, Marjorie, and Arnie, to find out if this set should be on your Most Wanted list!

But Age of Ultron is not confined to the toy aisle–it’s coming everywhere! Tie-ins are hitting hard in cereals, snack foods, and breakfast waffles. The biggest tie-in is Doritos with their numerous chip bags – one flavor for each Avenger, creating a conundrum for food packaging collectors. The hosts review and evaluate if these are collectibles they’re hungry for.

With a Spider-Man plushie that brings a special package, the largest scale Hot Toys figure to date, and more, it’s all in this issue of Marvelicious Toys!
Source: Marvelicious Toys

April 8, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 140: Agents of CHiPs!

The Long Walk by Stephen King (as Richard Bachman)

King’s first novel wasn’t Carrie, it was The Long Walk written while the author was a college freshman. It tells of a dystopian, alternate America in which the national pastime isn’t Baseball, it’s a contest of stamina and will–The Long Walk. King’s story of one of these Walks, and walker Raymond Garraty, wouldn’t be published for over a decade, until it was released in 1979 as the second novel by King’s pen name “Richard Bachman.”

In this episode of Books & Nachos, Arnie reviews and analyzes this early work by the bestselling author. Join him now in this review of the second Bachman Book!
Source: Books and Nachos

March 30, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on The Long Walk by Stephen King (as Richard Bachman)

Issue 139: Gone Groot'n

In two months Avengers: Age of Ultron hits theaters–but the toys are here! New figures are hitting stores harder than a Hulkbuster hits a Hulk! Marvel Legends, Funko POP! vinyls and Dorbs, and more are at retail–and in collectors’ hands! On this Marvelicious Toys hosts Justin, Marjorie, and Arnie run down their latest finds and tell you the best places to shop for the newest figures!

It’s not just the stores getting hit, online sales are burning up! Hot Toys has released their Hawkeye and Black Widow figures from Age of Ultron, plus a series of Cosbabies from the new film! Plus Iron Man III armors still showing up, and more!

With a report from the Indiana Comic-Con, a Rocket Raccoon sighting at the Toy Man Toy Show, and a slip of the tongue you won’t soon forget, it’s all in this episode of Marvelicious Toys!
Source: Marvelicious Toys

March 25, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 139: Gone Groot'n

Issue 139: Gone Groot'n

In two months Avengers: Age of Ultron hits theaters–but the toys are here! New figures are hitting stores harder than a Hulkbuster hits a Hulk! Marvel Legends, Funko POP! vinyls and Dorbs, and more are at retail–and in collectors’ hands! On this Marvelicious Toys hosts Justin, Marjorie, and Arnie run down their latest finds and tell you the best places to shop for the newest figures!

It’s not just the stores getting hit, online sales are burning up! Hot Toys has released their Hawkeye and Black Widow figures from Age of Ultron, plus a series of Cosbabies from the new film! Plus Iron Man III armors still showing up, and more!

With a report from the Indiana Comic-Con, a Rocket Raccoon sighting at the Toy Man Toy Show, and a slip of the tongue you won’t soon forget, it’s all in this episode of Marvelicious Toys!
Source: Marvelicious Toys

March 25, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 139: Gone Groot'n

Issue 138: Thunder, Thunder, Thunder God — HO!

As Age of Ultron draws near the toys are hitting stores hard! Toys R Us and Targets are full of new Marvel Legends…but are they worth buying? On this issue of Marvelicious Toys the Allfather wave of Marvel Legends are reviewed. Hawkeye, Captain Marvel, Scarlet Witch, Thor, Machine Man, Iron Fist, and Sentry–and get them all to build Odin or King Thor! Watch for reviews of all nine characters!

Also on this week’s show we look at the new releases from Hot Toys, both the Hulk and the Hulkbuster! This new Iron Man armor is the biggest Hot Toys figure in the Marvel line–and the most expensive. Is it worth it? Listen to find out!

With a review of the only Jubilee statue ever made–the Kotobukiya Bishoujo statue, a look at the new Age of Ultron trailer, a discussion of the 11-movie Avengers marathon and more! It’s all in this giant-sized Marvelicious Toys!
Source: Marvelicious Toys

March 11, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 138: Thunder, Thunder, Thunder God — HO!

Issue 138: Thunder, Thunder, Thunder God — HO!

As Age of Ultron draws near the toys are hitting stores hard! Toys R Us and Targets are full of new Marvel Legends…but are they worth buying? On this issue of Marvelicious Toys the Allfather wave of Marvel Legends are reviewed. Hawkeye, Captain Marvel, Scarlet Witch, Thor, Machine Man, Iron Fist, and Sentry–and get them all to build Odin or King Thor! Watch for reviews of all nine characters!

Also on this week’s show we look at the new releases from Hot Toys, both the Hulk and the Hulkbuster! This new Iron Man armor is the biggest Hot Toys figure in the Marvel line–and the most expensive. Is it worth it? Listen to find out!

With a review of the only Jubilee statue ever made–the Kotobukiya Bishoujo statue, a look at the new Age of Ultron trailer, a discussion of the 11-movie Avengers marathon and more! It’s all in this giant-sized Marvelicious Toys!
Source: Marvelicious Toys

March 11, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 138: Thunder, Thunder, Thunder God — HO!

Issue 137: Toy Fair 2015 Part 2 – Funko, Diamond, and More!

Toy Fair International is where all the toymakers preview all the new figures, toys, and collectibles that will be released throughout the year. For Marvel collectors there was some great news in regards to announcements based on Avengers: Age of Ultron, Ant-Man, and, of course, the comics themselves!

On this first part of their Toy Fair coverage, Justin, Marjorie, and Arnie look at all the new 2015 sets coming from LEGO. With a macro-scale Ant-Man set, an Avengers Tower, and a Helicarrier that has to be seen to be believed, it’s all on this episode!

Then Hasbro may be having their biggest year yet–in terms of figure sizes! The Marvel Brand Team announced half a dozen waves of new Legends figures, plus tons of store exclusives as well! With news on the Infinite Series line and much more, it’s in this show. Plus listen for an exclusive review with Hasbro’s Dwight Stall about SDCC exclusives and more!

Then come back next week for a bonus episode and even more Marvelicious Toy Fair news!
Source: Marvelicious Toys

February 25, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 137: Toy Fair 2015 Part 2 – Funko, Diamond, and More!

Issue 137: Toy Fair 2015 Part 2 – Funko, Diamond, and More!

Toy Fair International is where all the toymakers preview all the new figures, toys, and collectibles that will be released throughout the year. For Marvel collectors there was some great news in regards to announcements based on Avengers: Age of Ultron, Ant-Man, and, of course, the comics themselves!

On this first part of their Toy Fair coverage, Justin, Marjorie, and Arnie look at all the new 2015 sets coming from LEGO. With a macro-scale Ant-Man set, an Avengers Tower, and a Helicarrier that has to be seen to be believed, it’s all on this episode!

Then Hasbro may be having their biggest year yet–in terms of figure sizes! The Marvel Brand Team announced half a dozen waves of new Legends figures, plus tons of store exclusives as well! With news on the Infinite Series line and much more, it’s in this show. Plus listen for an exclusive review with Hasbro’s Dwight Stall about SDCC exclusives and more!

Then come back next week for a bonus episode and even more Marvelicious Toy Fair news!
Source: Marvelicious Toys

February 25, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 137: Toy Fair 2015 Part 2 – Funko, Diamond, and More!

Issue 136: Toy Fair 2015 Part 1 – Hasbro and LEGO

Toy Fair International is where all the toymakers preview all the new figures, toys, and collectibles that will be released throughout the year. For Marvel collectors there was some great news in regards to announcements based on Avengers: Age of Ultron, Ant-Man, and, of course, the comics themselves!

On this first part of their Toy Fair coverage, Justin, Marjorie, and Arnie look at all the new 2015 sets coming from LEGO. With a macro-scale Ant-Man set, an Avengers Tower, and a Helicarrier that has to be seen to be believed, it’s all on this episode!

Then Hasbro may be having their biggest year yet–in terms of figure sizes! The Marvel Brand Team announced half a dozen waves of new Legends figures, plus tons of store exclusives as well! With news on the Infinite Series line and much more, it’s in this show. Plus listen for an exclusive review with Hasbro’s Dwight Stall about SDCC exclusives and more!

Then come back next week for a bonus episode and even more Marvelicious Toy Fair news!
Source: Marvelicious Toys

February 17, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 136: Toy Fair 2015 Part 1 – Hasbro and LEGO

The Secret Service: Kingsman by Mark Millar, Dave Gibbons, and Matthew Vaughn

Mark Millar’s comic Kick-Ass was adapted to film by director Matthew Vaughn. Now the two have teamed up again with Kingsman: The Secret Service, an idea the two men spawned while filming Kick-Ass. The story tells of Gary, a juvenile delinquent who’s given one last chance at a legitimate life–as a British secret agent! A clever twist on the old James Bond formula, is this comic worth reading? Join the hosts to find out, then join them LIVE, Tuesday Feb 17th at 9:30 pm EST at NowPlayingPodcast.com for the review of the movie Kingsman: The Secret Service.
Source: Books and Nachos

February 15, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on The Secret Service: Kingsman by Mark Millar, Dave Gibbons, and Matthew Vaughn

Issue 135: I Want to Hold Hulk Hand

For Captain America the shield is more than defense–it’s a symbol of America and taking “the American Dream and make it an American reality.” Now, nearly 75 years after first appearing in Captain America Comics #2, Captain America and his shield serve as a symbol, both in the Marvel Universe and in the real world, of strength, idealism, and patriotism. And as seen in The Avengers and the two Captain America movies, it’s pretty darn cool as well!

In 2014 eFX Collectibles’ gave fans their chance to be like Stephen Colbert and put Captain America’s shield on their walls with their Avengers Captain America Shield Prop Replica. A full scale collectible cast from the original molds of the prop used in The Avengers, this eFX prop had been teased for years. Even with an edition size of 1,500 it sold out quickly. But the Marvelicious Toys hosts have one in-hand and review it on this episode!

Also on this show, a quick review of the new Ultimate Spider-Man Web Warriors figures from Hasbro, a look at the new Thanos and Captain America figures from Hot Toys, and a preview of the new LEGO UCS LEGO set.

So what are you waiting for? Marvelicious Collectors Assemble for this week’s new show!
Source: Marvelicious Toys

February 4, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 135: I Want to Hold Hulk Hand

Issue 135: I Want to Hold Hulk Hand

For Captain America the shield is more than defense–it’s a symbol of America and taking “the American Dream and make it an American reality.” Now, nearly 75 years after first appearing in Captain America Comics #2, Captain America and his shield serve as a symbol, both in the Marvel Universe and in the real world, of strength, idealism, and patriotism. And as seen in The Avengers and the two Captain America movies, it’s pretty darn cool as well!

In 2014 eFX Collectibles’ gave fans their chance to be like Stephen Colbert and put Captain America’s shield on their walls with their Avengers Captain America Shield Prop Replica. A full scale collectible cast from the original molds of the prop used in The Avengers, this eFX prop had been teased for years. Even with an edition size of 1,500 it sold out quickly. But the Marvelicious Toys hosts have one in-hand and review it on this episode!

Also on this show, a quick review of the new Ultimate Spider-Man Web Warriors figures from Hasbro, a look at the new Thanos and Captain America figures from Hot Toys, and a preview of the new LEGO UCS LEGO set.

So what are you waiting for? Marvelicious Collectors Assemble for this week’s new show!
Source: Marvelicious Toys

February 4, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 135: I Want to Hold Hulk Hand

Issue 134: We Are Groot

I Am Groot!

With those words the Guardians of the Galaxy’s biggest hero rooted his place in the hearts of Marvel Movie fans. His prowess in battle escaping the prison, his genuine smile during the final battle, and his end-credits dance are all stand-out moments and helped Guardians become the biggest movie of 2014!

Now the hosts of Marvelicious Toys review a handful of toys and collectibles based on the lumbering alien. Funko’s Baby Groot Pop! Vinyl, the animatronic dancing Baby Groot toy, Dragon Models’ life-sized Baby Groot Model Kit, and Gentle Giant’s Groot Holiday Statue — all are given in-depth reviews in this show!

With a bonus review of Funko’s Howard the Duck Pop! Vinyl bobblehead, news on new figures hitting stores, and more, it’s all in this gala issue of Marvelicious Toys!
Source: Marvelicious Toys

January 21, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 134: We Are Groot

Issue 134: We Are Groot

I Am Groot!

With those words the Guardians of the Galaxy’s biggest hero rooted his place in the hearts of Marvel Movie fans. His prowess in battle escaping the prison, his genuine smile during the final battle, and his end-credits dance are all stand-out moments and helped Guardians become the biggest movie of 2014!

Now the hosts of Marvelicious Toys review a handful of toys and collectibles based on the lumbering alien. Funko’s Baby Groot Pop! Vinyl, the animatronic dancing Baby Groot toy, Dragon Models’ life-sized Baby Groot Model Kit, and Gentle Giant’s Groot Holiday Statue — all are given in-depth reviews in this show!

With a bonus review of Funko’s Howard the Duck Pop! Vinyl bobblehead, news on new figures hitting stores, and more, it’s all in this gala issue of Marvelicious Toys!
Source: Marvelicious Toys

January 21, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 134: We Are Groot

The Stand by Stephen King – Part 6

With his fifth published novel Stephen King went big–a tale about God and demons with the backdrop of a dystopian future. Involving fears both realistic and fantastic, many King fans cite this as the author’s best work to date. Now Arnie continues his reviews of all King’s works with this multi-part podcast series reviewing The Stand.

In this final segment of this review Arnie gives is final review on the book, discusses which of the three print editions is best, and also reviews Marvel Comic’s 31-issue comic series based on King’s novel.
Source: Books and Nachos

January 10, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on The Stand by Stephen King – Part 6

The Stand by Stephen King – Part 5

With his fifth published novel Stephen King went big–a tale about God and demons with the backdrop of a dystopian future. Involving fears both realistic and fantastic, many King fans cite this as the author’s best work to date. Now Arnie continues his reviews of all King’s works with this multi-part podcast series reviewing The Stand.

In the fifth part of this review Arnie looks at The Stand’s climax, which reaches biblical proportions, and compares the ending in the original and the 1990 unabridged versions.
Source: Books and Nachos

January 9, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on The Stand by Stephen King – Part 5

The Stand by Stephen King – Part 4

With his fifth published novel Stephen King went big–a tale about God and demons with the backdrop of a dystopian future. Involving fears both realistic and fantastic, many King fans cite this as the author’s best work to date. Now Arnie continues his reviews of all King’s works with this multi-part podcast series reviewing The Stand.

In the fourth part of the review Arnie looks at Book II of The Stand, including the survivors’ struggles in Boulder and King’s own struggles with the narrative.
Source: Books and Nachos

January 8, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on The Stand by Stephen King – Part 4

Issue 133: Guardians of the Podcast Part 2

With 2014 behind us and 2015 ahead, the crew at Marvelicious Toys deliver their second roundtable discussion looking back at 2014 and forward to 2015.

First, Arnie, Marjorie, Justin, and their guest hosts, look back at the high end collectibles in 2014. Kotobukiya. Hot Toys. Sideshow Premium Format Figures. Bowen Designs Statues. Gentle Giant Mini-Busts. XM Studios quarter-scale statues. These high-end items have been hitting hard and fast for Marvel collectors making fans think hard about where to spend their money. Join them as they determine who made the best expensive toys of the year!

Then they look forward to 2015. With Toy Fair just over a month away they say what they want to see, and what they expect to see, going forward!

All that and more in this episode of Marvelicious Toys!

We want you to join our team! We have openings currently for video editors, audio editors, and photo editors! Find out all the details in our forums!
Source: Marvelicious Toys

January 7, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on Issue 133: Guardians of the Podcast Part 2

The Stand by Stephen King – Part 3

With his fifth published novel Stephen King went big–a tale about God and demons with the backdrop of a dystopian future. Involving fears both realistic and fantastic, many King fans cite this as the author’s best work to date. Now Arnie continues his reviews of all King’s works with this multi-part podcast series reviewing The Stand.

In the third part of this review Arnie analyzes the evil characters in the novel, including Randall Flagg, Lloyd Henreid, and The Trashcan Man. Also a look at the book’s supporting characters Harold, Nadine, Glen, and Rita, and the thought that they may all be psychic!
Source: Books and Nachos

January 7, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on The Stand by Stephen King – Part 3

The Stand by Stephen King – Part 2

With his fifth published novel Stephen King went big–a tale about God and demons with the backdrop of a dystopian future. Involving fears both realistic and fantastic, many King fans cite this as the author’s best work to date. Now Arnie continues his reviews of all King’s works with this multi-part podcast series reviewing The Stand.

In the second part of this podcast series Arnie explores the heroic characters featured in The Stand, including Stuart Redmond, Fran Goldsmith, Larry Underwood, and Nick Andros. He also analyzes the deadly superflu Captain Trips, and the start of the novel’s biblical allegories.
Source: Books and Nachos

January 6, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on The Stand by Stephen King – Part 2

The Stand by Stephen King – Part 1

With his fifth published novel Stephen King went big–a tale about God and demons with the backdrop of a dystopian future. Involving fears both realistic and fantastic, many King fans cite this as the author’s best work to date. Now Arnie continues his reviews of all King’s works with this multi-part podcast series reviewing The Stand.

In the first part of this podcast series Arnie reveals the history of the stand and how it was inspired by Patty Hearst and some dead sheep. He also provides an analysis of the original, iconic cover art, and how George Lucas and J.R.R. Tolkien factor into this 1978 novel!
Source: Books and Nachos

January 5, 2015 Posted by | Podcasts | | Comments Off on The Stand by Stephen King – Part 1