At this point, it’s almost become cliché to state the obvious: that Halloween wasn’t what it once was 40, 30, or hell even 10 years ago. The magic and beautiful mayhem of it has been lost by flashy, cheap décor, over-the-top yet underwhelming haunted houses, and what little treats given on Halloween night are simply pathetic compared to the spooky delights of yesteryear. I mean, yeah sure, I’m the Halloween nostalgic Queen and all, so I may be a bit biased, but I’d take the Universal Monster Pepsi Challenge any day of the week with anyone that wants to argue with me.
Just don’t forget the Ranch dip to go with some Cooler Ranch Doritos because you’re going to need the calories to fight me on this one.
Speaking of glorious Halloween commercials, exactly how often do we see them these days? Modern technology of streaming apps and social media has pretty much wiped out any television advertising for both big and small business brands and solely rely on platforms such as TikTok and Instagram and willing “influencers” to do their bidding for them without shelling out the big bucks for any advertisement slots. Shit, the commercials we DO see on streaming services such as HULU, are all ads for big pharma and greasy politicians. It’s such an eyesore to my senses and what I wouldn’t give to just see Captain Lou Albano pimping out a local Pharmacy for their on the spot Halloween deals…
Oh, wait… YOU ABSOLUTELY CAN NOW!
Emmy award-winning producer and nostalgic VHS warlock, Eddie Spuhghetti, has opened the doors to the memories of what once was (so long as you have a VCR anyway). Eddie has curated several series’ of VHS tapes dedicated to the Halloween season that are fully-loaded with 6 hours of commercials from the 70s, 80s, and 90s, Halloween special episodes, one movie, and seasonal bumpers galore. It’s enough to make any retro Halloween maniac to have countless spookgasms during a viewing.
I spent a week watching volume 3 and although you would think most of the placements would be totally random; they most certainly aren’t. Each commercial, bumper, and television special are meticulously placed to keep a flow of what you would naturally see if you were watching television on a crispy 80s October night. Though I don’t want to give too much away as far as what’s exactly on there, because I feel like you should be surprised like I was, I can say it’s a stream of Halloween fuzzies that made me sore from smiling so much. Worth mentioning, the movie I got to see on Volume 3 was custom converted to black and white, and it’s an 80s film. Never did I think this film would look amazing this way, but considering the material, it works- and it works WELL. The only clue I’ll give you is that it’s a 1983 movie and a sequel. That’s actually probably too much of a hint, but it’s devastating to have to keep something like a secret. What I can say, though, in no doubt, is that my absolute favorite thing about the tapes, is the LOCAL bumpers and commercials that are mixed in with mainstream ones. It’s exactly what I would remember watching when I was a kid, with short ads for local pharmacies and costume stores promoting their October specials. Also worth mentioning the movie that’s inserted in each tape, Eddie made custom “We’ll be right back” bumpers to add to the local TV movie feel of it.
It’s just too damn glorious.
Oh, and then there’s this guy. You might see him around from time to time.
Eddie Spuhghetti started creating tapes 12 years ago, and it started with a Halloween companion that was the meal of the hour at Halloween parties. While studying TV Broadcasting, he figured out how to capture and record content to use in course projects, and before he knew what he had, he had created a prototype for what would turn into a series of themed 6 hour-long VHS tapes that range from Halloween, to Summer vibes, to even Christmas ones as well! All without one piece of repeated content!
Interest rose from horror blogger friends, and he made the tapes available through a website and brand he created, HERELIES.COM.
Via Eddie Spuhghetti:
“I made the tapes available for purchase via donating towards my horror project (costs for shipping accessories, the tape media itself, etc…). This evolved into four proper Halloween Companions, one Xmas tape (another one is in the works) and a Summer series that focuses on late night TV during specific time periods. I aim in giving the viewer an experience that entertains but also hits some emotional tones-unlocking some forgotten pleasant memories while bringing new light to things they never knew existed! The tapes also work great for background atmosphere while you work, at parties or live events!”
As someone who watched an entire six hours of footage on one of these, he absolutely hit the nail on the head with what he set out to do.
For the Halloween tapes in particular, each VHS is a flat $15 donation with the exception of the newest addition, Volume 4 which contains 3D parts and comes with 3D glasses which runs at $25; all with a $10 shipping fee. If you own a VCR, and bask in the nostalgia of yesteryear, this is a no-brainer must have companion. Grab your copy of choice HERE at HERELIES.COM!
I also goddamn appreciate the fact that the Halloween 4 intro was placed in my version and remixed with Halloween III synth wave music. You have a fan for life, sir.
Admittedly this is the kind of thing you’d come to expect at the beginning of the year and not a whole month later. However, I have been dealing with health complications and a sheer bout of laziness, which caused the delay. Last year was a fantastic year for me in terms of toy collecting, and there were so many incredible releases. Honestly, it would be a sin not to take a moment to comment on some of the best of the best releases that I picked up in 2023.
Besides, I have a passion for discussing toys whether they be old or new. I’ve also been tinkering with the idea of creating toy reviews for some time now, and this is simply a fun way to showcase some of the most prized possessions in my ever-expanding collection. This list is comprised of items that I’ve personally picked up, so if some more popular items are not mentioned here (Like Warduke by NECA), it’s not from a lack of interest but is simply because I can’t collect everything I see, no matter how much I may want to.
So without further ado here are my top favorite figures from last year
Ultimate Dracula by NECA
NECA did an impeccable job with their Universal Monsters line, and we’re particularly impressed with their work on Dracula. Universal’s Dracula stands as the first talky horror film and quickly transformed Univeral Studios into the macabre House of Horrors. The role made Bela Lugosi a household name and has invaded the nightmares of generations. It’s appropriate that NECA put so much into bringing this iconic character -that means so much to so many horror fans worldwide – to thrilling (un)life.
Dracula is my favorite gothic horror. However, at first, I passed on this guy. Somehow the figure in-box wasn’t doing much for me and I almost let this one slip through my fingers. It took a little convincing from my best friend at the time but finally, my iron will caved in thanks to relentless peer pressure and – since Best Buy only had one left – I wound up buying the figure.
Glad I did too because this figure looks way better out of box. He instantly became a prime set piece during Halloween and I found myself going back to the shelf to check out the Prince of Darkness.
Overall Dracula is home among his brethren and enhances my horror collection
Megatron – MDLX
I love what MDLX is doing with the Transformersline. Of course, I also recognize how controversial that is to admit. I’ve gotten some slack from my fellow collectors (and especially from Transformers fans) over my thundering hard-on for the MDLX line. Those who criticize the line justify their irritation because the toys do not in fact transform. ‘That defeats the purpose’ they say.
Well, I don’t give a flying fuck through a rolling Fruit Loop about that. I already owned a pretty sweet Megatron that does transform into an intergalactic battle tank.
What I love about the MDLX line is all the amazing points of articulation their figures come with. Seriously, Megatron stands as a dominating work of art on my shelf thanks to all the many (and imposing) stances the figure can take. Not to mention how the metallic sheen of the figure gives him an intimidating adamantium presence. Also, this guy has some serious weight to him and doesn’t feel all flimsy and loose.
The battle between the Autobots and Decepticons continues on.
Serpentor – G.I. Joe Classified
When I was a little kid, I wasn’t a die-hard G.I. Joe fan, but I always thought the characters looked cool. It wasn’t until I saw Serpentor at a local Hills store that I became interested in the series. Serpentor was dressed in golden armor that resembled a cobra, and I was instantly drawn to him. At the time, I had no idea what his role was, but I knew that I had to have him. Fortunately, I was visiting my Granny, and she saw how mesmerized I was with the figure and bought it for me.
When I used to play with Serpentor, I didn’t know who he was, so I pretended he was an evil sorcerer. His appearance suited the role. It wasn’t until I became an adult that I discovered that Serpentor was, in fact, the EMPEROR OF COBRA! This imperial threat to all mankind was brought to life by combining the DNA of the world’s most ruthless warriors and tyrants from throughout history. Genghis Khan, Attila the Hun, and Alexander the Great are just a few of the historical figures that make up the genetic code of this badass villain
Last year, I was floored when they announced the return and intended update planned for Serpentor. The cruel leader of Cobra was making a comeback and, just like before, I couldn’t help but be captivated by him. He’s the nostalgic figure I remember but masterfully detailed now. Honestly, I never thought I would own this guy and couldn’t believe my luck when I found him at a toy show. However, I have to admit, that even if this wasn’t in my personal collection, it would still be one of my favorite toys released last year.
Like many other items on this list, the packaging really drew me in and proves to be half the value of the figure itself. This is nothing short of a work of art. I mean it’s so good it’ll stomp your face into the ground. It’s something I want to frame on the wall and make every guest who walks in bow down to it.
Overall the figure lives up to its imperial title and even comes with his infamous air chariot shaped like a divine cobra. Otherwise, you’d have to buy that stupid thing separately so I appreciated the fact it was included. I hadn’t bought anything G.I. Joe-related in decades, but after purchasing Serpentor, I was compelled to then go get Cobra Commander and a few other members of the Cobra organization. Anything that impresses me enough to suddenly build upon its franchise out of the blue has really done its job a little too well. Way to go, guys.
Edgar Allan Poe’s Masque of the Red Death – Figure Obscura, Four Horsemen Studios
I’m currently obsessed with the amazing holiday-inspired figures released by Figure Obscura over the past few years. Their Krampus figure, released a few Christmases ago, really caught my attention and since then, I have been eagerly waiting for their annual special figure releases for Halloween and Christmas. I already got my hands on the Headless Horseman figure that was released for Halloween in 2022 and it is one of the top 10 figures in my collection
I couldn’t resist when they announced that their Halloween 2023 release would be based on my favorite Edgar Allan Poe story. The figure itself is both macabre and beautiful. The haunting Red Dead is a thin ghoul draped in a blood-like shroud, standing upon an issue of flowing blood that spreads from beneath an obsidian grandfather clock. The figure awaits to carry the damned away in his scarlet embrace. I particularly like how a raven adorns the crown of the clock, which is yet another nod to the great writer’s dark imagination. Anyone familiar with this gothic horror tale will recognize every reference included here.
It’s worth noting that the figure comes with a beautifully illustrated copy of the Masque of the Red Death, which might be new to you if you’re unfamiliar with the story.
The artwork on the packaging of the Red Death is exceptional. There are several backdrops available that you can use as a background, including one that I personally use for Dracula. Figure Obscura is a game changer and I’m excited to see what they release this Halloween.
Eastman and Laird’s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles by NECA
When NECA does something right they really, and I mean really, do it right. One of the best things to come out last year was their insane four-pack release of the iconic heroes in a half-shell inspired by the Mirage comics.
Wow… just WOW! This is a must-have for any TMNT collector. Especially if you love that retro look. Each of the four figures is high quality and comes with their signature weapons as well as a set of ninja stars and other weapons just to really kick it to the Foot.
NECA is well-known for its various Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles lines. They’ve released TMNT movie-inspired figures, cartoon-inspired figures, and even video game-inspired figures. NECA and TMNT are symbiotic at this point. However, out of all the turtles they’ve released, the only set I had to buy was the Eastman and Laird release seen here. Maybe I’m biased, but in my opinion, nothing NECA’s released beats this radical four-pack
I originally bought this four-pack as a birthday gift for my cousin but ended up loving it so much that I had to buy one for myself as well. NECA did an excellent job with this product, and it was worth spending my money twice for it
Regarding the topic of Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, two other NECA figures deserve an honorable mention: battle-damaged Shredder and The Last Ronin armored figure. In my opinion, the turtles’ diorama wouldn’t be complete without Shredder as their main adversary. Moreover, The Last Ronin figure represents the future of the turtles, which makes it an essential addition to the collection. All these elements tie in to create a cohesive storyline.
Deluxe Skeletor – Mondo
It should honestly come as no surprise that my favorite figure of 2023 is Skeletor, my all-time favorite villain. To think I almost missed the opportunity to purchase it, but thankfully my best friend helped convince me to secure a pre-order just in time.
As for my overall toy collection, I primarily focus on Masters of the Universe (shocker there right?) and it’s not limited to the vintage line alone but also includes figures/vehicles/playsets from Origins, Masterverse, and Classics. Each line holds a special place in my heart and all for different reasons be it quality or nostalgia, but the stuff Mondo puts out there, in my opinion, is the best of the best. I keep saying that if Classics is the gold standard then Mondo is the platinum.
Even though I’ve never really been fond of the 1:6 scale, I make an exception for Mondo since their figures are of exceptional quality. The size of the figures enables you to appreciate all the intricate details that make them stand out above anything previously yet seen. I mean I was staring at the little details etched into the rings of the Havoc Staff.
I keep finding little details like that to awe over. I love that a metal vertebra is decorated on the back of Skeletor’s chest guard or how skulls adorn each of his leather straps.
This deluxe version of Skeletor is also highly versatile which basically makes him three figures in one. Firstly, you get the classic Skeletor look and a wired cape that offers your figure a more regal appearance. You can also remove his harness and give him that awesome Battle Armor assemble.
Alternatively, you can equip him with his dragon armor that comes with the lethal dragon which has the power to spit toxins at the Masters. The dragon is articulated (which he didn’t need to be so nice touch, Mondo), has real chains, and comes with attachable toxic fumes that can be fixed to the beast’s maul.
It’s also worth noting the figure comes with a pair of Terror Claws, so in essence, Skeletor offers four iconic variants in one figure.
This is as close to perfection as I’ve ever seen in a single figure. I’m amazed by the fact that MOTU’s celebrated 40 years and still to this day companies like Mondo can still floor fans like me with something as incredible as this single figure.
With 2024 just starting out the year’s already proving to be amazing for collectors what with the Turtles of Grayskull (a fusion of MOTU and TMNT) already on their third wave and Mondo’s deluxe Orko preorder come and gone. Who knows what will prove to be my absolute favorite stuff this year? Time will tell.
What about you? What did you add to your collection last year and what really stood out? Be sure to let us know in the comments. In the meantime happy hunting, fellow collectors!
Just in case you’re new here, video store promos and displays are something I search far and wide for, hoping to add to my collection that will probably never be completed, (especially in today’s economy). But even if my sad-looking bank account won’t allow it, merely gazing at what is now a lost art, is enough to soothe my soul more so than listening to some Pure Moods from the 90s.
And let me tell yah, “Return to Innocence” and “Tubular Bells” are pretty high up there.
If ye’ old video store promos and movie displays are something that brings a little bit of joy into your soul, or collection, then forget about browsing eBay because I got you covered as I have compiled a sweet stack of some pretty attainable and AWESOME items from the original auction/buy it now site that may or may not have you reaching deep into your pockets to fulfill all your mom-and-pop video store fantasies. So let’s dive right in it!
Larry Cohen’s THE STUFF had some pretty cool merch and displays during its promotional run and this is one of them. Per the description:
“This is a rare and original standee display for the 1985 horror movie “The Stuff”. The perfect addition to any horror movie memorabilia collection. It has never been used so I did not bend the back folding part in the picture to put it together. This came directly from a video store that shut down in the 90’s.
Another really cool promo item from THE STUFF, is this inflatable beach ball probably given exclusively to video store owners. Measuring about 12-16 inches in diameter featuring the colors known for the packaging in the film, The Stuff logo is prominently displayed on three sides of the ball.
These are probably some of my favorite items on this list, and the most affordable at $25 a pop! Both sold from eBay seller Video Sanctum, the Gargoyle and Mummy paper mask from the TALES FROM DARKSIDE MOVIE are something I’ve never personally seen and in pretty great condition for being almost 35 years old!
This 1988 giant inflatable pumpkin, that stands nearly 4 feet, was a video store promo for Halloween and the release of FRIDAY THE 13TH PART VII: THE NEW BLOOD. And it’s very much so, one of my favorites here as it combines two of my favorite things: Jason and Halloween.
Another cool video store promo for THE NEW BLOOD was this light-up display usually hung around the counters. Bold move considering I’d be the first person trying to steal that.
For the ultimate screwhead! This MEGA RARE EVIL DEAD 2 display is pretty damn cool, regardless of the wear on it. That’s history right there folks. $350 worth.
Oh how I love thee video store promo poster, let me count the ways: TROLL, THE NIGHT DRACULA SAVES THE WORLD, AND RE-ANIMATOR. This is an original vintage release placed in someone’s mom and pop video store, probably around 1987-1988. I’m insanely jealous of whoever ends up with this.
This little bastard has been sitting on eBay, and my radar, for a while. Note, this isn’t an originalGHOULIES inflatable, but rather a reproduction made by Faint of Heart Creations of the toilet display that was seen in several video stores promoting the movie in 1985. Regardless, I would love one of these to stick in my guest bathroom for when my parents come over.
In promotion with the VHS of THE FLY II, video stores had this little bugger usually hanging from the ceilings. Now you can have a little Son of Brundlefly of your very own to display your home! Screw the plants, make room for MartinFly.
