Home Video Exclusives

[JohnIan101]

Past Tense - Twirl Girl Part I


[An earlier version of this PT was originally posted on February 20th, 2014 on JoBlo's "DVD, Blu-Ray & Home Theater Discussion" forum.]

Get your star-spangled granny panties, we're jet riding this out in three parts with vintage "Wonder Woman"...



"Wonder Woman: The Complete Third Season" was released on home video on June 7th, 2005.

It streeted against "Seed Of Chucky", "Star Trek: Insurrection - Special Collector's Edition", "Stripes: Extended Cut" and "Lois & Clark: The New Adventures Of Superman - The Complete First Season".

This release originally came with a non-embossed foil slipcase holding four, double sided discs in a digipak. There was a single insert; folded booklet with other Warner Bros. shows on DVD (fifteen of them) with a rebate offer. Purchase any two season sets, receive $10.00 in the mail with proof of purchase tabs. Twenty dollars back with any three; thirty dollars back with any four; forty dollars with any five and fifty dollars with any six WB TV titles. Offer expired on June 30th, 2006.

Lynda Carter so proud.

- - -

This exclusive is a bonus disc, but not linked to any store, but rather the first pressing. Hey, it counts.



Limited edition DVD; "Warner Bros. Television - '50 Years Of Quality' Commemorative DVD: Volume 8". Came in a printed cardboard sleeve inside S3 box. Limited quanties, do not know how many were issued.

Run time is 21:05 minutes with three chapters. Episode is presented in full screen and in need of SERIOUS remastering; watchable, but not much more.

Gonna talk about Best Buy, as said - was available everywhere DVDs were sold. Their weekly ad gave zero indication a bonus was included. At this particular store, season three sold for $32.99 or $27.99 if you were a Reward Zone member.

The extra is the premiere episode of "Shazam!" live action kids show (based on the DC comic book), "The Joyriders" aired on September 7th, 1974. Sorry no menu screen, it just plays. This had not been released on DVD until then; not part of a larger release - at least not yet.

- - - - - - - - - -

Footnotes.

An appropriate bonus would be an episode of "The Secrets Of Isis", another live action kids show from the same time produced by the same company, Filmation Studios. Man, I'm dating myself. I was super young at the time.



JoAnna Cameron as Andrea Thomas a.k.a. Isis. There's a reason why she was excluded. Warner Bros. owns the rights to "Shazam!", but not "The Secrets Of Isis". This is owned by Entertainment Rights, a British firm.

Man, this is crap on a cracker. "Shazam!" (CBS) tells the story of Billy Batson (Michael Gray) who has been gifted by the Gods to become an adult, Captain Marvel (Jackson Bostwick, later by John Davey). Think Superman, 'nuff said. So Billy rides around in an RV with his guardian, Mentor (Les Tremayne).

They stop each week for gas and stuff and find trouble. Once above his head, Billy would evoke the word 'Shazam' and become Captain Marvel who would save the day and give life lessons - along with Mentor.

It has NOT age well. Words fail to describe how bad this is, like a poor student film turned into a series. Barely remember watching when it first aired.



Should you care or a need to self-inflict pain; complete series was released as part of "Warner Archive collection"; official DVD-Rs.

This streeted on October 23rd, 2012 for $34.95. A three disc set (twenty-eight half hour episodes, zero extras).

Above left; the limited edition cover, drew by DC Comics artist Jerry Ordway, only available on the pre-orders. The right is the regular edition.



"The Secrets Of Isis: The Complete Series" (CBS too) was released on July 24, 2007 from BCI Eclipse for $29.98. Twenty-two half hour episodes on three DVDs (with extras).

The story of Andrea Thomas, a high school science teacher (Cameron) in Egypt at an archaeological dig. Thomas finds an magical amulet that gives her powers; flight, running fast, super strength and command the elements: earth, wind and fire. Plus mastery of phasing, she can pass through solid matter. And can see into the past within the jewel in her headband, the recent past. Lastly she has a pet crow named Tut.

She uses her new abilities to fight crime and give life lessons. Her students, Cindy Lee (Joanna Pang) and Renee Carrol (Ronalda Douglas) do not know the secret, nor does her co-worker Rick Mason (Brian Cutler). There were crossover episodes with "Shazam!".

Isis would be more appropriate as the bonus; she came before "Wonder Woman" - the very first female super hero on television with her own show.

It is out of print, now going for $139.99, new on Amazon. I missed my opportunity to buy. I recall seeing it on sale at Circuit City. Too late now.



What I DO want is the 1976 live action kids show, "Electra Woman And Dyna Girl". I remember watching this before going to school; I think this was in syndication at the time.

'Electra' program was a female version of the 1966 "Batman" TV series; capes, tights and camp. It had a super catchy opening theme too.

It was part of the larger, "The Krofft Supershow". This element within Krofft had sixteen episodes, each roughly twelve minutes long. There has not been any official DVD release. There was an effort to revitalize in 2001, an unsold WB pilot of the same name.

It continued the original series, now twenty-five years later. Lori (played by Markie Post) a.k.a Electra Woman has retired and has a crappy post-super hero life. She lives in a disheveled trailer, practically an alcoholic. Her best friend/sidekick Dyna Girl (who split to become a supermodel) - Judy ran off with Lori husband.

She's a cynical woman. Did for forget to mention the pilot was a parody? An adult take on the kids show. A fan (journalism student played by Anne Stedman) tracks down her idol and tries to bring her back to her glory days, she becomes Dyna Girl 2.0. The adventures begin anew.

That would be a nice extra on that wishful DVD, the pilot. All of this could fit on two discs. Maybe throw in some interviews and such. Had the pilot got picked up, we would learn that the show's main villain would be none other than the first Dyna Girl - Judy has issues, that's a great idea.

The '76 series was done in a serial format (eight of them), cliffhangers and was pure cheese. So bad it's good, unintentional comedy (shot on video). One of the baddies was called Glitter Rock, I'll let you fill in the blank. *smile* Electra Woman was played by future soap opera actress, Deidre Hall and Dyna Girl by Judy Strangis. Their day job was as reporters, working for Newsmaker magazine.

Someone I left out, Frank Heflin, played by Norman Alden. He's the tech guy who apparently lives at ElectraBase, their headquarters. He's in charge of their master computer - CrimeScope. Try to imagine a creepy old man, the kind you would find in a 1970s adult bookstore. That's him! I can so see him peeping on the girls while they change, having an ElectraBoner.

Speaking of porn, If they ever made a X-rated version (all the rage now) it could be called 'Nypho Woman And Gyna Girl'; her sidekick, a lesbian. But Nypho would be VERY bi, so it's a win - win. They would have sexier costumes, maybe with fishnets and thongs, very sway.

Now you might be wonder why this sounds semi-familiar. The concept was reimagined in 2016 with Grace Hilbig and Hannah Hart in the roles.



It's okay, but too modern and predictable. The duo have no ElectraBase or anything. They're two average women from Akron, Ohio who don homemade outfits to fight crime (in a world where super heroes are common). Along the way they become famous (get new, better costumes); causes a rift - which gets resolved in the end when the Big Bad shows up, Empress Of Evil.

They all too hard to be funny - humor should've been from the insanity around them.

Anyhow...

"The Krofft Supershow" (an ABC series) consisted of the following mini shows:

"Dr. Shrinker" - a group of teens stranded on an uncharted island are shrunk in the lab of a mad scientist, they escape and are hunted.
"Wonderbug" - a group of teens with their magical dune buggy (it talks and flies) solve crime and have adventures.
"Magic Mongo" - group of teens find a genie in a bottle and subsequently have adventures.
"Bigfoot And Wildboy" - a sasquatch and a feral teen solve crime and have adventures - this later got their own (half hour) series.
"Electra Woman And Dyna Girl" - spoken already.

[JohnIan101]

Past Tense - Twirl Girl Part III




Who?

Model/actress/singer Nina Bergman as the character. In late February 2013, she and stuntman-turned director, Jesse V. Johnson (also wrote it) released a fan made trailer for their favorite super heroine. It went viral among fans. It's quite good, had the right amount of money behind it. I can see this being more than a couple minutes.

Go to YouTube, type in "Wonder Woman Fan Film Trailer" in search. Or if you know how, "0NT7JaQkLUA". It's still there (as of writing). Do check it out.

I appreciate that she looks like she can beat the crap out of you, yet still retains her femininity - a hard balance. She looks the part. Bergman has done a few movies that I've never heard of. And I haven't heard her sing.

The fake movie trailer also stars Timothy V. Murphy, Peter Storemore, Matthias Hues and Lillianna Munro. Music by Sean Murray.

- - -



There are several Blue Cinema interpretations.

In 2010 there was "Wonder Woman XXX: A Hardcore Parody" starring Tori Black (now retired) from Mile High Distribution. A run time of two and a half hours. It co-stars, Gracie Glam, Carolyn Reese and Diamond Foxxx along with Anthony Rosano, Bill Bailey, Mikey Butders and Ralph Long.

The Iraqi government has once again penetrated US soil and has sent their top spy to infiltrate America's most lucrative business, the Porn Industry. Through the help of a sultry US informant, the Iraqi spy has gained access to California`s biggest porn production sets in order to steal their secrets and bring them back home. There is only one person that can stop the Iraqi insurgence. There is only one person who can make a man crumble to his knees and beg for mercy, Wonder Woman. Will the Iraqi spy succeed in his mission to rip off America's beloved porn or will be succumb to the wealth and riches of the most sought after pu$$y on the plant. Will Wonder Woman save the day or are her powers futile against the terrorist attacks of the Iraqi infidels.

- the back cover

Directed by former adult starlet, Ashlynn Brooke (Google her, if over 18); took a whopping three days to film. For a blue flick that's usually shot in a day, it was a big deal. The DVD's only extras are a photo gallery and money-shot gallery.

I saw it.

The story, what little - made absolutely no sense, if you're gonna do something like this, have a decent yarn to tell. Hell, the rear box cover has better narrative than the video. Should you see it (if you're over 18)? That's tough. I adore Tori Black, she's so... very. But it was a mess.

The scenes were okay. No, not porn for the sake of seeing people get intimate, just for fanboys' and fangirls' curiosity. By the way, Black did some cosplay as Wonder Woman (again), this time her outfit had effort put into it and shows. She's hot, nice boots too. The costume in the parody feels like something slapped together.



Miss Black also did another X homage, "Batman XXX: A Porn Parody" (2010 too). Haven't watched it, but I have seen stills. A lot of money was spent on production. The characters look as they should - from 1966 "Batman". Black was hot and perfect casting of Lexi Belle as Batgirl. Man, Randy Spears looks so much like Cesar Romero's 'The Joker', damn impressive. This also starred Alexis Texas, Andy San Dimas, Kimberly Kane, Dale Dabone, James Deen, Syren Sexton and Ron Jeremy (in a cameo). It's 119 minutes long.

When The Riddler kidnaps Bruce Waynes fiancé, Commissioner Gordon calls Batman and Robin to the rescue. But when Batman gets drugged and kidnapped as well, its up to Robin and Batgirl to untangle the mystery. They soon discover that Catwoman and The Joker are also behind the devilish scheme to get rid of the dynamic duo forever. Will this be the end for the Caped Crusader and the Boy Wonder?

DVD has a unique special feature... story! Just the plot, minus the sex (25 minutes, like the TV show). How great is that? Other extras are behind-the-scenes footage and casting call.

This video is not sponsored, endorsed by or affiliated with DC Comics General Partnership, Warner Communications Inc. or E.C. Publications, Inc. or any other person or entity affiliated with any of them.

In case you were wondering how they can get away with it; from the Bat-cover.

Black wasn't the last blue starlet to don the Wonder Woman attire, the following year, Chanel Preston played the Amazonian in "Justice League Of Pornstar Heroes: An Extreme Comixxx Parody". Ron Jeremy played The Penguin. Preston's costume was more in line of Lynda Carter's outfit. Extras on the two disc set included behind-the-scenes footage, cast interview and more from Exquisite Pleasures. The same company also did a Supergirl parody starring Alanah Rae later in 2011.



There was another XXX production. Kimberly Kane in "Wonder Woman XXX: An Axel Braun Parody" (2015) from Vivid Entertainment. There was some outcry that Kane's outfit looked so superior to the costume that Palicki wore. The porno was truer to the comic.

There are other adult WW videos out there (generic), a lot actually, but I'm not going to cover them all.

One more, for the sake of originallity - "Wonder Woman Interactive: A XXX Adventure Game Parody" (2012) from Extreme Comixxx.

This stars Chanel Preston in the title role with granny panty.



The DVD is a two disc set. D1 is a choose your adventure movie. D2 is hard core with you picking what Preston does to you - shot in first person (you looking down). The movie part co-stars Lexi Swallow, Lea Lexus, Izzy Ryder, Kerry Louise, and Ashli Ames.

This 2-disc set starts with Wonder Woman enlisting you for a super secret mission where you play a game, making choices and navigating your way through the mission. Make the right choice, and you continue playing maybe even getting blown along the way. Make the wrong choice, and you die and start your mission over. Make it all the way to the end, and receive a code which allows you to unlock disc-2, you Wonder Woman interactive sex experience.

- the back cover

A backtrack.

One of the "Electra" serials ("The Pharoah" story line) has been released on DVD, part of the "The World Of Sid & Marty Krofft" release (streeted February 12th, 2002 from Rhino Home Video), a three disc set. Retailed for$27.97, but now sell for $89.95, new - long out of print.

And there's another, "Sid & Marty Kroffts Saturday Morning Hits" (November 30th, 2010), a single disc, retailed for $14.93 from Vivendi Entertainment. Has the "Ali Baba" storyline, can be found now for about five bucks.

A PT revision...

It is out - in Australia!



"The World Of Sid And Marty Krofft's: Electra Woman And Dyna Girl: The Complete Original Series" from Beyond: Home Entertainment, a single disc DVD. No bonus features, but the disc is Region 0; U.S. compatible.

The series have been remastered, retails for $19.99. Don't know when it came out.

I WANT!

- - - - - - - - - -

Rant.



Miss Gadot doesn't look the part. I know I'm not the only one - too skinny. Yes, she did bulk up for the role. But not nearly enough. Look at those images of Bergman above.

A woman who can kick ass. Add to that is age.

Gadot looks like she's in her early twenties, she should be older - late twenties or early thirties.

As for the costume, it works and appears functional, real world base. But I do have a complaint. It should have some color. Or rather, more color; not bright mind you, not so muted. I know, lots of folks have compared the outfit it to Xena, I'm fine with it. She is suppose to be an Amazonian, that's a compliment and besides; Xena was a badass.

So?

What was that KDOC program synopsis?

Here's the the screen snap I took:



That's why I donate to the Greystoke Monkey Torture Institute; keeping apes at bay since 1912.

Man, TV in the 1970s was different.

- - - - - - - - - -

Just Because.



There something about this image - I just can't put my finger on it. Hmmm.

It should be noted that the back cover of season three has this very image - cropped just below the waist... I wonder why? *wink* There was another picture I found... I couldn't use it, that was nearly pornographic; the outift is a like a second skn. We can conclude, she's an innie. And she wasn't wearing a bra.

Come back here on June 22nd, 2017 for a classic; car chases, beer and dog named Fred, not in that order.

[JohnIan101]

Target - June 13th, 2017

Lego Batman
Exclusive packaging with Batgirl mini-fig and 3 postcards; BD/DVD/DC combo $24.99

- - - - - - - - - - -

CD available 06/13/17

"Hey Violet - From The Outside" with 2 exclusive bonus tracks $11.99
"Katy Perry - Witness" deluxe edition with 2 exclusive bonus tacks $12.99 (available now)

[JohnIan101]

Best Buy - June 18th, 2017


South Park: The Complete Twentieth Season (available now)
Exclusive sleeve packaging; BD/DVD combo $29.99

Spider-Man Legacy Collection (available now)
Exclusive steelbook; BD only $54.99

John Wick 2 (available now)
Exclusive steelbook; BD/DVD/DC combo $24.99

Transformers: Age Of Extinction (available now)
Exclusive steelbook; BD/DC combo $12.99

Transformers: Dark Of The Moon (available now)
Exclusive steelbook; BD/DC combo $12.99

Transformers: Revenge Of The Fallen (available now)
Exclusive steelbook; BD/DC combo $12.99

Transformers (available now)
Exclusive steelbook; BD/DC combo $12.99

[JohnIan101]

Past Tense - Like A Dog With A Bone Part II


Things go well; arrive at pick-up point early, load up - ready to race.



Things run afoul when Bo saves a runaway bride (in full dress) Carrie (Sally Field) who's fleeing a passionless (borderline retarded) marriage with the son of a Texas Sheriff, Junior Justice (Mike Henry).

Yes his first name is "Junior", which would make him Junior Justice, Jr., just go with it.

Little did he know, Bandit in helping, has greatly insulted the honor of the man's father - Sheriff Buford T. Justice (Jackie Gleason).



This will not stand, not humiliated.

This man will go down, jurisdictions be damned!

Justice and son give chase in their police cruiser and soon have valid reasons to apprehend; vehicular violations.

Now more than a race; our heroes are helped along the way by various fans and fellow truckers via the CB radio network. Lots of colorful peripheral characters. This was one of the movies that made CBs popular. Another is "Convoy" (1978; special edition DVD and BD released in 2015). CB = Citizen's Band (civilian radio for communication).

They get so close when the big guns are called; roadblocks, police helicopter and a serious number of cruisers all hunting Bandit and Snowman. Four miles to go, might as well be a million. It is Cledus who decides, it's worth the trouble and charges the blockade; because of insurmountable odds - Bo had given up.

A path is made, Bandit follows; in the chase, other cop cars crash into each other, creating a new barricade, keeping all the other police cruisers out. Our gang reach their destination with ten minutes to spare, the speedway race, still on going - no winner yet. The fuzz is coming in less than a minute.

Not wanting to be caught, Bo, Carrie and Snowman take an additional challenge, double-or-nothing; Little Enos wants clam chowder from Boston - in less than eighteen hours. They agree, the four (hey, Fred counts) escape in Big Enos' Cadillac, ditching the Trans Am and big rig.



All this time, Justice did not know the identity of the trucker or Bandit.

As a sign of respect for all the trouble caused, he reveals himself to the rage filled law man as he drives by Justice's wrecked car; 'catch me if you can.'

A new chase.... the end.

It's a quick ninety-six minutes flick. And I'm not doing... justice to all the various moments, like the diner scene, pissed off bikers, unfinished suspension bridge and girls in hot pants among others.



You have good plot outline, but more happens. Funs stuff and so many memorable one liners. Most of Gleason's dialog was improvised.

Case you're curious, Snowman drove a 1974 Kenworth W900.

- - -

So - why called "Smokey"?

This is because of State Patrol trooper's hats; they look like the hat worn by "Smokey Bear" (the U.S. Forest Service mascot). Some other vintage slang for law enforcement is "Local Yokel" and "City Kitty".

'City Kitty And The Bandit' doesn't have the same ring, though that sounds like a cartoon for kids.

- - -

Lets do this chronologically, but deal with the movies first.

As I wrote, this was a huge hit and Hollywood doesn't like leaving money at the table. So two sequels were made.

"Smokey And The Bandit II" (1980). And "Smokey And The Bandit Part 3" (1983). The last one is considered the worst. But there is an urban legend attached; an alternate cut...

Snowman took over the Bandit role which is the theatrical release. But early on there were talks that none other than Jackie Gleason would play two roles, Bandit and Sheriff Justice, a meta performance. It is said, it was filmed; test audiences were so confused, so all the Buford-Bandit scenes were reshot with Snowman. Before the alleged reshoot, Jerry Reed wasn't cast. In fact the teaser trailer didn't list him.

Some claim to have seen production photos of Gleason in the Bandit outfit.

Real? An early title - "Smokey Is The Bandit: Part 3".

Don't know. Man, that would be strange to see. What actually keeps this Hollywood legend alive is the teaser with Justice addressing the audience...

I finally figured out a way to trap him. I have put myself in his place. Also his boots and his shirt and his hat and his coat. And his mustache. In short, I have succeeding in becoming my own worst enemy - The Bandit. So if you think the first two go arounds was something, you just watch my smoke this time.

Only "II" is on DVD separately; I own it, but I'm missing the insert. The third has yet to be released on its own.



A trilogy was released on DVD on January 20th, 2004, "Smokey And The Bandit: Pursuit Pack" for $19.98. All of the films presented as non-anamorphics with no extras, minus their trailers; three movies on two discs, no slipcase.

Wait, I take that back. The "Pursuit Pack" also has first film in mono too.

This was a cheap cash grab, folks were disappointed.

But as I wrote, Hollywood doesn't like leaving money at the table - so a second collection was released, six years later.

October 12th, 2010, streeted "Smokey And The Bandit: The 7-Movie Outlaw Collection" for $26.98. A four disc set. This can be found now for less than ten bucks. It came with an insert, no slipcase.



Now, you are asking - but you said there was three movies? Yup, there were - and in 1994 part of a syndicated movie series, "Action Pack" (in Los Angeles, aired on KTLA, channel five); there were four TV movies. Don't get excited. Far lower budget with a discount Reynolds in (80s teenage heartthrob) Brian Bloom as the Bandit:

"Bandit Goes Country" (January 30th, 1994), "Bandit Bandit" (March 13th, 1994), "Beauty And The Bandit" (April 3rd, 1994) and "Bandit's Silver Angel" (April 10th, 1994).

"Action Pack" had a rotations of movies; "Hercules" (before it became a series), "TekWar" (based on William Shatner's novels), "Midnight Run" (based on the 1988 feature), "Vanishing Son" and "Bandit".

The first one was directed by Needham and co-starred Elizabeth Berkley as Beth. These TV movies were loosely based on the feature. Here Bandit is helped by the governor's son Lynn (Brian Krause). None of the other original characters are portrayed or actors appear.

The car now is a Dodge Stealth.

I remember when these first aired - mediocre. Anyhow, the theatrical movies - the first two are presented in anamorphic widescreen (same individual release of "II"). Part 3 is letterbox. And all the TV movies are full screen as they were when they aired. This collection had no extras, minus the trailers from the theatricals.

- - -

Various special editions of the first movie.



The first special edition was DVD only on May 30th, 2006 for $19.98. It came with a foil slipcover that mirrored the wraparound. It opens up (like a book) with film trivia inside.

This is when the movie got a new audio remix and the various annoyances it brought. There is no mono track for the film.

As mentioned earlier, Universal Studios re-released various catalog titles, now with a foil slipcover celebrating their 100th Anniversary. These things opened up like a book with a time line of popular Universal titles in that decade.



The film, as that special edition was re-released June 5, 2012 on DVD ($14.98) and BD for $19.98 (also with slipcover).

Pretty much all of the DVDs were repackaged with these new slipcovers, no new mastering or bonuses.

Now including digital copy inserts.

I can name a few; "The Incredible Shrinking Man" (1957), "Airport" (1970), "Despicable Me" (2010), "Jaws" (1975), "The Birds" (1963), "The Blues Brothers" (1980), "Imitation Of Life" (1934/1959; both original and remake set), "Babe" (1995), "Earthquake" (1974), "The Bourne Identity" (2002), "The Bourne Supremacy" (2004) and "The Bourne Ultimatum" (2007).



Then re-re-released on January 7th, 2014; the same prices on DVD an BD as the 2012 editions. This is the exact same version, the only difference is a new (basic) slipcase that reads "1970s Best Of The Decade". There were several other 1970s movies which got this slip.

Before you ask - don't know if the '14 titles came with digital copies; never bought them.

There you go.

Come back on July 6th, 2017 for another slice of store swag. July's theme is "Master". It's not like you have something better to do. Don't give me that look. C'mon, the internet was made for porn and goofing off. And I AM the latter. And I think I do a mostly competent job.

Take that, guidance counselor!

Have a safe and enjoyable Fourth.

[JohnIan101]

Best Buy - June 27th, 2017


Power Rangers
Exclusive packaging and cards; BD/DVD combo $21.99

[JohnIan101]

Past Tense


Like A Dog With A Bone Part I

A brand new entry!!!

This time out - we get pursued by 'The Man' who wants to kill our buzz in "Smokey And The Bandit"...



The motion picture opened on May 27th, 1977. It was made with a budget of $4,300,000 (estimated) and grossed over $126 million during its U.S. theatrical run; counting foreign receipts it made over $300,000,000. My data is limited. Don't know its box office week rankings or what it opened against, other than "Star Wars".

This post is for 2017's "40th Anniversary Edition" DVD.

This release originally came with a non-embossed cardboard slipcover which mirrored the case's wraparound. There was no insert.

This title was also issued as a combo; BD/DVD/DC - came with one insert, digital copy instructions sheet. Since I did not buy it, I do not know the expiration date. It also came with slipcover too, same image.

- - -



This is a Wal-Mart, limited time store exclusive. The DVD retailed for $9.99 and the BD combo sold for $14.96. Both streeted on May 2nd, 2017.

This will have regular street on July 11th, 2017; DVD $14.98 and BD combo for $19.98. Yeah, a short exclusive window, kinda puzzled by it.

Part of the store's "Father Day's" offerings. Yes, I know Father's Day is in June, but the store likes to get a month ahead of the holidays; big ones like Thanksgiving and Christmas often two or more months ahead. Which leaves Halloween getting screwed (my favorite jubilee).

New here is the making-of documentary "The Bandit"; anamorphic widescreen, 1:26:18 minutes which aired on CMT (Country Music Television) on cable, August 6th, 2016.



There are nine chapters in it. 40th Anniversary carries all the extras from the first special edition. But there is something to note on the combo set; this is also a two disc set. There is no "Bandit" documentary for the DVD. That is part of the BD disc only. The doc is on disc two of the DVD version - be aware when buying.

Something else.

Info came down from various philes. The audio was re-remastered from the 2012 BD released (covering in a few) - which had sound effect issues and slight synch problems. Sound effects happening mirco-seconds before it they should. This repairs the problem. Sadly the sound effects are the same; wrong engine sounds. Car purists know the difference, some of which called it 'atrocious'; inaccurate Trans Am noises and other wrong Pontiac sounds. Yes, this is a thing.

Before you ask, I'm not that anal.

However, the Digital Copy isn't the 40th version, it's the 2012 mix which was the 2006 mix (also covering in a few).

The combo set has somethings not on the DVD version.

Missing are the featurettes "100 Years Of Universal: The 70s" and "100 Years Of Universal: The Lot". Both have zero to do with the movie; studio fluff pieces. Those same featurettes have appeared in various other BD titles - part of Universal's "100th Anniversary" re-releases.

Those two are carry overs from the 2012 BD release. 2017 has something new, BD only; Dolby Digital 2.0 mono. The film was not made in stereo.

The 40th DVD has the newer audio mix; Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound and DTS 5.1 Sound. The original mono is not available here.



If you want the original audio on DVD, you need the 1998 release (streeted October 27th), retailed for $24.95. The film is presented in non-anamorphic widescreen. The only extra is production notes and trailer. Also came with chapter listing insert, no slip.

Anyhow, the documentary is well worth the price of rebuying; tons of interviews with Burt Reynolds new and archival as well as his friend, stuntman, "Smokey" director Hal Needham (died October 25th, 2013), he's in clips only; passed before the doc was made. The man was quite a character.

Hal Brett Needham was the inspiration for the lead character, Colt Seavers (Lee Majors) on the ABC series, "The Fall Guy" (1981); a movie stunt man who moonlights as a bounty hunter. It ran for five seasons, only season one is on DVD. It has aged gracefully, still somewhat cheesy - the good kind.

The doc has many clips from various TV interviews like Merv Griffin, Dinah Shore, Dick Cavett , Phil Donahue and Barbara Walters. And Steve Martin who was guest hosting "The Tonight Show". Plus movie behind-the-scene footage and production photos. And various stories; like how things almost turned tragic, a car crash into a stadium full of people. Some of the impact footage shown. Nobody died.

Highly recommended.

- - - - - - - - - -

Rant.

Many online reviews and blogs call "Smokey And The Bandit", a precursor to "The Fast And The Furious" (2001) and I'll echo that sediment, rather true. The same kind of over the top action with shades of "The Transporter" (2002), minus the creative martial arts.

In the late 70s to early 80s, Burt Reynolds was 'The Dude', the guy who redefined suave-badass. That position would not be taken over until the late 1980s by Bruce Willis in his breakout role as John McClane in "Die Hard" (1988).

This is a movie about transporting illegal cargo, across four states in less than twenty-eight hours while being relentlessly pursued by a hard-ass sheriff. Mixed with comedy gold, car chases and great chemistry - a recipe for a hit. After all was said and done for 1977, this movie was the only one who could keep up with "Star Wars" - coming in second in that year's box office receipts. That's truly amazing.

And the most in your face, blatant product placement which is why it even existed - "Coors" beer. *laughs*

I need to take a big step back for newbies in the dark, things were quite different in the 1970s. The whole story is based around something that is obsolete now like "Green Stamps"; just Google it.

A history lesson.



You could NOT buy "Coors" East of Oklahoma, it was illegal to sell and ship. East of Mississippi River, you were out of luck. Why?

"Coors Banquet" beer (made in Colorado) was not pasteurized and did not have preservatives nor additives - which means it can spoil in less than a week, more so depending on how hot it is outside. It needs constant refrigeration to be safe (transportation and storage). Only eleven Western and Southwestern states could sell it.

This made the beer prized, sought after - future President Gerald Ford hid cans in his luggage; a trip from Colorado to Washington. President Dwight D. Eisenhower had a regular supply shipped to Washington by the Air Force, no BS. So many stories of fans, like actors Paul Newman, Dean Martin and rocker Keith Richards. The beer was beloved, considered the finest in the U.S..

Few big rig at the time were refrigerated. So it was hard to transport over long distances. One the stories that came out of the era was of Frederick Amon. Who smuggled beer from Colorado to North Carolina in a refrigeration truck, where he sold them, four times the retail price to thirsty customers at country clubs and restaurants... one dollar a can. A six pack sold for $1.50 in Colorado. *ka-ching*

And yes, there were other beer smugglers, was profitable. Add to that - gas prices were super cheap then.

It became moot in 1991; Coors developed cold filtering and utilize aluminum cans with a fleet of refrigerated trucks. Nobody thinks twice now. But those old enough to remember, still long for the original brew.

Okay, you have the background. The movie - as the anniversary title gives - is forty years old. So I'm not holding back. From here on, full spoilers.

Rich people problems...



Texas millionaire Big Enos Burdette (Pat McCormick) and his son (proto Mini-Me), Little Enos (Paul Williams) are throwing a huge shindig in Atlanta, Georgia. Big, sponsored a race car driver who he's absolutely sure will win. And wants the celebration to be bigger than life with the best beer in all of America, but have come across the problem as described above.

At a truck rodeo at the Lakewood Fairgrounds (Atlanta) they come across legendary driver, Bo "Bandit" Darville (Burt Reynolds). A retired fellow who would rather nap than work. But the offering of $80,000 for a single job, spurs his attention.

The task - transport 400 cases of "Coors" from Texarkana, Texas to Atlanta; do it in less than twenty-eight hours.

Nods and hand shakes. More than just beer, the Burdette are high stake gamblers.



Bandit recruits his best friend, truck driver Cledus "Snowman" Snow (Jerry Reed) as well as his dog, Fred (just because).

Snowman drives the truck. Bandit drives his Pontiac Trans Am as recon, ahead of Cledus; effectively a scout and blocker - the car that gets the attention of the police while the main vehicle continues.

Game on.

[JohnIan101]

Target - June 27th, 2017


Power Rangers
Exclusive steelbook with 54 page graphic novel; BD/DVD/DC combo $19.99

[JohnIan101]

Best Buy - July 2nd, 2017


Resident Evil: The Final Chapter (available now)
Exclusive steelbook; 4K BD/BD combo $19.99

Spider-Man Legacy Collection (available now)
Exclusive steelbook; BD only $49.99

[JohnIan101]

Past Tense - Gotta Catch Them All Part I


[An earlier version of this PT was originally posted on November 13th, 2014 on JoBlo's "DVD, Blu-Ray & Home Theater Discussion" forum.]

This time out - we chase and become chased, sail boat style in "Master And Commander: The Far Side Of The World"...



The motion picture opened on November 14th, 2003. It was made with a budget of $150,000,000 (estimated) and grossed over $93 million during its U.S. theatrical run; counting foreign receipts it made $212,011,111. The film opened number two at the box office, the following week it dropped to number four.

The feature opened against "Elf", "The Matrix Revolutions", "Scary Movie 3" and "Love Actually".

The regular edition was not issued a slipcover. It came with two inserts; 1) Chapter listing with 36 chapters. 2) Small two page 20th Century Fox ad for other DVDs (eight titles shown: "Cast Away", "The Last Of The Mohicans", "A High Wind In Jamaica", "The League Of Extraordinary Gentlemen", "Anna And The King", "Pirates Of Toruga", "For the Moment" and "Romper Stomper".

- - -

Welcome to another theme month; July is "Master". Time to get readin'!

Costco had a long box packaging for the regular edition with a booklet on the production. This sold for $18.23 and streeted on April 20th, 2004. The box had a gatefold opening (showcasing a map with film trivia). I do not have. Found out about the exclusive through my research. Sounds interesting, would like to own.



Best Buy had the more substantial exclusive, a bonus disc. Sorry, do not have the weekly ad pix, pre-dates my archive. As such, had to extrapolate the price (did try to find with no luck). I took studio release and original retail prices into consideration. The best match I could muster is "The Girl Next Door" (2004) which also had a bonus disc from the same studio (a previous Past Tense). So...

Gonna call this as $14.99 (same street). The bonus DVD has a run time of 29:22 minutes. The disc came inside the case within a CD envelope. I believe this exclusive was available for the widescreen and full screen editions. My bonus was inside the WS.

The next is something I haven't run into before - a regional exclusive; only available on the East Coast. A preview disc (DVD) for the New York Post newspaper. It was issued before the film's theatrical release. Do not know the copy's price nor the date. It's rare - the disc, but not the content.

Had the featurette, "Behind The Seas: A Filmmaker's Journey", the very same item on the Best Buy bonus.

- - - - - - - - - -

Rant.

My tastes in films has changed over the years. When opened and later came on home video, had zero interest in pursuing. Can't really pinpoint why it surfaced on my radar, it just did.

Wait, I think...



Saw "Mutiny On The Bounty" (1962 remake with Marlon Brando) in May of 2013, the Two Disc Special Edition. I bought it a few months earlier as a lark from Big Lots!. In fact I had to buy it twice. The first purchase had scratches on the discs.

I opted to watch to see if I wanted to re-buy... squat. Huh?

Both discs were blank!!! I kid you not. Printed labels on each disc. This title had a major technical error. On the rebuy, both were mint and playable. So weird.

So here's a legitimate question... does that make that defected copy a collectible? To be safe - I still have mine.



Later in 2014, bought the 1935 version. I liked it. Charles Laughton's Captain Bligh was a cartoon villain. All that was missing was him twirling a mustache.

Anyhow, this was something I didn't expect to like; films set in the 1700s don't usually do it for me. That's why the Russell Crowe film popped in my noggin'. *nods* Yes, the Crowe feature is set in 1805, you know what I mean.

So in March of '14, went looking. I knew of the Best Buy bonus and the Collector's Edition which I'll talk about later. Both were found and bought through Ebay. Got good deals on both, especially the CE, most sway.

I'll be honest, the first half of the film didn't do it for me. The second half caught my interest, won me over. And now its part of my collection.



One of the factors of my dislike is the hues. I'm not expecting a colorful film, a palette of bright pigments. The motion picture is very muted on the color wheel. It feels depressing and not in a good way. But I guess that's what director Peter Weir's wanted.

Did like Paul Bettany as Dr. Stephen Maturin. He usually good in whatever he's in. The first saw him in "A Knight's Tale" (2001), a solid flick. I do have him in the Past Tense entry for "Legion" (2010).

The other bit is the regular edition release; makes no sense for such a big budget film - the DVD is bare bones. The only extras on the single disc isn't even about the feature; behind-the-scene promos and trailers for OTHER 20th Century Fox then upcoming releases. What the frack!

Not even the trailer is present, that's messed up.

Why should I spend $29.99 on a no frills title? If you're gonna pull that, the thing should cost no more than ten bucks - I'm not joking. Would've been pissed if I were interested in 2004.



Above is the cover for the bare bones DVD which had the exclusive.

- - - - - - - - - -

Void.



Since this post is shorter than I like; decided to do an additional write up. A topic that ticks me off. The subject is pornography, I'm pro-porn.

So close the window if you're not interested. This is gonna get verbose; I'm gonna go in different directions, but hope to focus towards the end. But don't hold me to it.

The sad state of XXX home video sales.

It's so easy to wag fingers at piracy; tube sites and bit torrents taking the bulk of the condemnation. But that's not whole, it's a deeper problem than that.

People who steal content are those who don't have any money (like kids) and those who don't think a product's worth paying for. In both cases, stopping piracy, even if possible, wouldn't result in any sales gain. The poor can't buy, the indifferent refuse to.

- Sam Sugar

In the past you had no way of really knowing what you bought until you viewed (at home usually; very few are comfortable watching a porno at the store - viewing booths). Sure, you have some reviews and perhaps the store would showcase a particular title at the front of their shop. But that is somewhat artificial - the most popular being highlighted; not best reviewed or even energetic.

Nothing has changed, mainstream rental shops still do it - the popular.

And don't start with the heighten cost equals the danger the performers endure - sexually transmitted diseases. That's part of the job, the same as coal miners. Their paycheck reflects the occupation - plus the talent are only paid once, no residuals. Not unless you're a mega star like Jenna Jameson, which is the exception; who owns her name as a trademark.

So you bought THAT video, got home - discover you've been scammed. The girl on the cover is nowhere in the release or her screen time is so limited, shouldn't warrant that big of a mention, if not at all. This happens a lot. Great cover, lousy product - money down the toilet. This kind of fraud came about due to the falling price of productions.

The trend started in the 1990s with John Stagliano a.k.a., "Buttman". His concept was Gonzo, reality based porn. Performers acknowledge the camera and interact with it - voyeurism in purest form; there is zero pretense of a story, the ladies get to their endeavors right away (teasing optional).

For a time Stagliano was king.

The style was ultra cheap to produce. Anybody with camcorder and willing girls (note, I didn't say attractive) could make their own X-rated flick. Jump to the present...

The market is saturated with gonzo; cheap ass productions with girls who really shouldn't be doing porn (apperance and/or wholeheartedness) and box covers that have the ladies so airbrushed, some don't even look human, more akin to apparitions. People have been burned buying this regurgitated gruel.

Adult videos are no longer the commodity they once were with the avalanche of new videos and streaming websites services filling each particular desire. Furthermore it is no longer the subject of hushed whispers and perpetual shame. XXX is mainstream and part of daily life.

[JohnIan101]

Past Tense - Gotta Catch Them All Part II




Great example above; Jessica Alba as Molly from the 1999 horror-comedy feature "Idle Hands". She was eighteen at the time.

This had a nationwide theatrical release.

NOBODY cared that this young woman was wearing a "Pussy Starlet" baby-tee as bedroom attire (a high school student). That's how far we've come.

We have adult starlets who have done mainstream movies and TV shows.



Sasha Grey is the current Queen; episodes of "Entourage"; films "I Melt With You" (2011), "Open Windows" (2014) and "The Girlfriend Experience" (2009) to name a few, her filmography is growing. A musician, author and multi-award winning adult star and music video vixen.

Okay, some gonzo titles/series have focused on impressive, glamorous women and hot action. The excellent side of the genre, but they are few among bottom feeders. For every HardX, Jules Jordan, Erotica X, Elegant Angel and Zero Tolerance there are dozens and dozens of wannabes and pale imitators.

Even with the deluge of cheap productions, one has remained constant - retail price. You pay pretty much the same for crap as you do for the magnificent, years be damned.

Golden era of sales (pre-internet, 1980s); VHS movies cost nearly a hundred and adult vids more. XXX prices have not changed enough with the times. While no longer over $100, they do no reflect real life. Any given blockbuster feature, two disc/deluxe edition can to taken home for under 20 bucks, months after their initial home release.

Adult DVDs and BDs are priced much higher, like Disney titles.

DreamWork's animated, "Shrek" came to home video in 2001, retailed for $26.98, but can now be bought for five dollars (or less). Disney and adult studios are still behaving like they have something intrinsiclly unique.

Those high prices reflected a period when pornographic titles had intimidating outlets. 1) Go see it on the big screen like the former nationwide Pussycat Theater chain. Where you will encounter the sights and sounds of deprave patrons. 2) Go to an adult store and try not to be photographed coming in or out by religious do-gooders for supporting smut. 3) Order the video from home, have it mailed to you - XXX catalogs. A premium price for peace of mind, your inner wants kept secret; between you and your VCR.

This explains the higher retail, but that particular moment; no - generation has grown up. Which made the Pussycat Theaters extinct, not even a redundancy. Like the automobile plowing the horse and carriage - progression of pop consumption.

An example; the film "Brooklyn" (2015) streeted on March 15, 2016 on DVD for $19.98. On February 5th of this year ('17) it then sold for $7.99. The time to discount can even be even shorter. The remake of "Carrie" (2013) was less than eleven months. It streeted on January 14th, 2014 for $19.98, but could be bought for five bucks in October of that year!

Today it can be found at your local Wal-Mart, the former five dollar bin for $3.74. As well as sixty, eighty million dollar plus motion pictures. These productions had more performers and crew working on them. Hell, they probably paid more in catering than a XXX title cost to produce.

Discounts on X-Rated flicks are weak, adult studios remain under the illusion - sex on camera exclusive to "professional" pornographers; business men and women. It is everywhere on the web... much of free, from the comfort of home. Yes, quite aware - I'm repeating myself, stressing a point.



Prices? It range from $39.97 to $49.95 for a DVD that's close to a decade old. Where's the real discount? True, you can find some good deals at such net locales as Adult DVD Marketplace, but brand named studios are still selling unrealisticly given their age.

Better product equals higher price? Yes - to an extent.

Pornography shelf life is worse than mainstream entertainment, more akin to dairy products, limited freshness. There is SO much of it; new girls, familiar gals and maturer provocateurs, all seductively eyeing your wallet. The constant inflow of product; make room on the shelves for the New. The life of home video, insatiable demand.

Let's be honest, this was created with a single purpose - release. Once done - it's over. It is immediate and disposable, moving onto newer content.

You're not going to re-watch, gain a better subtly in story. Few actually collect porn, I count myself in that minority. Price is a big factor.

Perfect sense that adult titles reflect reality. After X amount of time, price falls. As more time passes, it drops again. And so on, leveling at five bucks. Doesn't need to happen in eleven months or even a year. But after a period, it discounts to that price point.

The industry barks that piracy mangled their home video sales. That statement isn't true and only an element of the problem. The real culprit is their own greed. I am NOT paying forty bucks or even twenty for a eight year old title.



Yes, I enjoy the women and their performances (yes, it is an art), but it should be five bucks or so. Don't care if its from pedigree studios like Jules Jordan or Erotica X if enough time has gone by drop the price. They need to stop treating as if it's ALWAYS current.

And NOT genuine - some studios are guilty of facilitating piracy on tube sites. Giving content in exchange for clicks. Yet bitch about how such locations are killing their businesses, hypocrites. No dude, that's not what's wrong! Lame rhetoric, not a misconception.

Here's the bruise; these poorly made videos find easy outlets from gas stations to convenience stores. You're not going to find the better flicks since they cost more for proprietors to stock; buckets of crap and mediocrity for you - with pimpled, fat rumps.

Five dollars after X amount of years, regardless of the studio. Do this and see home video sales soar. C'mon, it's far easier to part with five bucks than with forty. Impulse buys - you could purchase that digital copy or own a real thing. It cost far too much to collect, make it affordable like a fast food meal or Starbucks coffee.

Another issue - talent; it takes a special gal who not only steams up a room with her beauty and intimacy that gets the viewers to salute, but can also convey (or at least imitate) excitement.

Simple noun - 'enthusiasm', real or otherwise matters.

Ladies like Tori Black, Stoya, Kagney Linn Karter, Holly Michaels, Jynx Maze, Abella Anderson, Lexi Belle, Alexis Texas, Katja Kassin, Megan Rain and Jenna Haze (to name a few) got their stature because they could portray charm, accessibility and passion.

Hot girls are easy to come by, but 'presence' - not so much. Most of the women mentioned have retired. But are still remembered and appreciated for what they brought to the small screen.

A bit curious - seeing an adult flick on the sliver screen. But there was too much risk involved. And I mean watching a flick from the past ten years, not a porno from the '70s. *shutters*

One more thing, Lisa Ann was not a cougar. That term is for women who prowl for younger men. She doesn't have to seek, they come to her for obvious reasons. *wink*

- - - - - - - - - -

Footnotes.

Back to main topic.

As mentioned earlier, there was a second - much better release "Collector's Edition", which is bad sportsmanship in my opinion. If you wanted extras you needed to shell out $39.98 for the two disc edition.



It came with a twenty-eight page production booklet, a fold out map of H.M.S. Surprise's journey, two page booklet with chapter listing and bonus content index. Also with the same two page, small ad insert that accompanied the basic edition.

Yes, pretty extensive, a seventy minute documentary on the making along with various featurettes and deleted scenes (galleries too). The regular edition should have at least had the deleted moments.

This has the teaser and trailer.

Another moan - the inside flap that holds the print collectibles. It's too big or rather too loose. Unless you're holding the digipak carefully - all content tumbles out. It's happened to me a few times.

I'm trying to keep them in mint condition - this isn't helping.

Anyhow, I have the exclusive bonus with the single disc movie - moved into a two disc case. Why? Sometimes you just want the film. And besides, the nubs on the CE are hard to remove the DVDs; great for disc storage, but a pain when you want to play.

So... was this production booklet, the same booklet inside the Costco long box? I don't know, perhaps.

Man, this took a life of its own.

"Master" month continues on July 27th, 2017 - another sex injected entry. Got your attention? A naughty TV series with a docudrama flavor. See you then.

[JohnIan101]

Best Buy - July 11th, 2017


The Fate Of The Furious
Exclusive steelbook; BD/DVD/DC combo $22.99

Spider-Man Legacy Collection (available now)
Exclusive steelbook; BD only $59.99

Transformers (available now)
Transformers: Revenge Of The Fallen (available now)
Transformers: Dark Of The Moon (available now)
Transformers: Age Of Extinction (available now)
Exclusive steelbooks (BD/DC combo); purchase all four for $40.00

- - - - - - - - - -

CD available now

"Faith Evans - The King & I" with exclusive bonus track $11.99

[JohnIan101]

Best Buy - July 18th, 2017


Kong: Skull Island
Exclusive steelbook case; 4K BD/3D BD/BD combo $34.99

Spider-Man Legacy Collection (available now)
Exclusive steelbook; BD only $59.99 - with $10.00 Reward Certifcates

[JohnIan101]

Best Buy - July 25th, 2017


Boss Baby
Exclusive lunch box with receipt of movie purchase $4.99

Ghost In The Shell
Exclusive steelbook; BD/DVD combo $21.99

The Walking Dead: Season Seven
Free tote bag with preorder

[JohnIan101]

Past Tense - Naughty Science Part II


What sucks bad here is that two versions were shot for each episode. One for television broadcast, the other uncensored for the later DVD. A home video release never happened. It kinda bombed in the ratings. I would totally buy it. I know I'm not the only one.

There is a chance that perhaps Mill Creek Entertainment may release it in the future. The company has a long history of being the welfare of DVD distributors. Poorly authored and manufactured discs. But as of the past couple of years, they've made stride to change that. Even addding extras.

Years ago it talked about (since I brought up "Mad Men"), that the show would end in the 1980s with an elderly Draper clinging to be relevant in a track suit.

But that didn't happen.



Another solid mention is "Manhattan" from WGN, the series about the creation of the first nuclear bomb; the families of the men who cracked the atom. Both seasons are on DVD. Good show, recommended. And "The Hour" a BBC series set in 1956 from 2011. Haven't seen it, but have heard good things. I need to pick that up on DVD, both seasons (only two were made).

Then there is this...

Can't say if its any good though; kept forgetting to watch and by the time I remember - too late.

Canceled.



The ABC period series, "The Astronauts Wives Club" set in the 1960s; the spouses of the "Mercury Seven" astronauts. Based on the book of the same name by Lily Koppel. The 2015 TV show lasted ten episodes. As I understand it was made as a limited run series.

The intent was having a new season set in a different period with new set of wives under intense stress.

Series finally comes to DVD on September 12th, 2017 from Mill Creek Entertainment for $24.98; no extras.

- - - - - - - - - -

Rant.

In the outskirts and in the fringes. On the edge and off the avenue.

- Suzanne Vega



"Masters Of Sex" was a blind purchase. And it took four episodes for me to get into it.

The series' main character - Dr. William Masters (played by Sheen) is very off putting. Four episodes to make me care about him. He's a narrow minded ass. Or I suppose you could say, laser focus on work to the detriment of those around him.

Next was Dr. Ethan Haas (Nicholas D'Agosto); lab coat, above pix. I don't like women getting hit. He does that early on. He's a belligerent drunk. Haas hasn't hit the sauce so much, I'm conflicted. He seems like a nice guy, but the whole punching thing continues to bother me.

Yes, a punch.

Anyhow, on the fourth episode we got some humanity out of Masters, tragedy hits him. It gave the man some much needed humility. It's pretty simple for me; get me to care and I'll follow you - no matter how insane your story is.

The show is dead, cancelled after four seasons. But only one and two are on home video. When will the other two come out? I would like to see them - don't have cable.

There could be a combo season if it ever comes out. This is a season show with limited episodes. Season one had twelve as did two and three, but four had ten. So a season three and four set would have twenty-two programs; a six disc DVD release. Would buy it on street.



Now the question that is on the tongue - how's the nudity? Yes. Yes there is. *smiles* Some very lovely ladies grace the show. Indeed. Let me make this clear, this is an adult series as in content, not hard core acts.

Four episodes to get into?

The biggest number by the way was thirteen for "Pretty Little Liars" season one. I bought the DVD on Black Friday 2012, was a blind buy at Target. I spent close to two hours in the checkout line that morning. I damn well was going to watch this box considered the effort I put into purchasing.

Did NOT like it... until episode thirteen.

It was like a switch had gotten pulled. All the stupid and utterly juvenile subplots were tied up. And now we got highly addictive and complex story lines. Boom! I'm in. Been a fan ever since.

Something I don't like; the open credits for MOS. Don't know, it feels so kitschy. Maybe that's what they were going after. I think of the opening credits to "Magic City" or "Mad Men" and it feels right.

This was a show that slipped under my radar. It was an issue of Playboy which ran an ad for the show - the same poster on the top of this PT entry. When Playboy had nudity and bite, not what it later became; which is why I didn't renew my subscription after nearly twenty-five years. Wow, that's a long time.

Have since re-subscribed - they brought the nudity back.

*pause*

When saw the first episode I was confused. Masters' wife, Libby (Caitlin Fitzgerald) calls her husband - "Daddy". Ahhhhh.



The woman is younger than him (not a lot, but noticeably younger) and did not know she was his wife at the time.

Is he's screwing his daughter? She seems happy about that.

So weird, then we find out Libby is the wife. So there. But still, "Daddy"? I guess things were different back then.

There you go folks. We come to the end of another Past Tense. Was it good for you?

Come back on August 10th, 2017 for another flash of goodness, a month long entrée about a contrived situation that lasted three seasons.

Now remember, pickup ALL your clothes. Don't think of it as a walk of shame - think of it as the start of our next meeting.

Feel the goose bumps. See you then.