Horror 2024 Countdown: Land of the Dead (2005)

Land of the Dead (2005), dir. George A. Romero, Atmosphere Entertainment MM/Romero-Gruenwald Productions/Wild Bunch S.A. Rangerkim

While the dead slowly make their way back to their graves and we move into the time of turkeys and fat men in red, George Romero hadn't made a zombie film in twenty years. Would the master still have the skill?

Horror 2024 Countdown: Spider (2002)

Spider (2002), dir. David Cronenberg, Catherine Bailey, Ltd/Grosvenor Park Productions/Davis Park

As Devil's Night comes to a close and the day of All Hallow's draws ever closer, we take a look at a film more than a few called Cronenberg's transitional film.

Horror 2024 Countdown: The Mangler (1995)

The Mangler (1995), dir. Tobe Hooper, Allied Film/Distant Horizon 

Ah, Mr. Hooper. Was there ever a director with such an uneven filmography? Surely having him adapt a Stephen King short story would be a good thing, right?

Horror 2024 Countdown: Shocker (1989)

Shocker (1989), dir. Wes Craven, Alive Films 

Wes Craven would end the 80's on either a darn silly note or a vastly underrated one.

Horror 2024 Countdown: Body Bags (1993)

Body Bags (1993), dir. John Carpenter/Tobe Hooper, 187 Corp./Showtime Networks

Got a twofer this time out, as both John Carpenter and Tobe Hooper worked on this anthology. I was tempted to have this for both men's entries this year but we'll have this under Carpenter as he did the lion's share of the work. 

Horror 2024 Countdown: Explorers (1985)

Explorers (1985), dir. Joe Dante, Paramount Pictures 

Last year we looked at Joe Dante's last full length feature but before we close the book on him, I thought it only fair to look at some of his other offers that we overlooked throughout the years. Explorers was such a film, and it might have been a vision of things to come regarding his career.

Horror 2024 Countdown: House of Usher (1960)

House of Usher (1960), dir. Roger Corman, Alta Vista Productions

I considered not reviewing this, mostly due to Dr. Gangrene's brilliant look back at Vincent Price's career covered everything with such detail I doubted I could do better; then again I do love me some Vincent Price, so why not?

Horror 2024 Countdown: I Saw What You Did (1965)

I Saw What You Did (1965), dir. William Castle, Universal Pictures

William Castle's career continued well into the 60's more or less unchanged. He did manage to snag the use of Joan Crawford for a few days, so that's something.

Horror 2024 Countdown: Spellbound (1945)

Spellbound (1945), dir. Alfred Hitchcock, Selznick International Pictures/Vanguard Films 

Moving into our directors' section, this time we kick off with not only Alfred Hitchcock but also Salvador Dali. 

Horror 2024 Countdown: The Beast with Five Fingers (1946)

The Beast with Five Fingers (1946), dir. Robert Florey, Warner Bros. Pictures 

So we end our lookback with Peter Lorre's last film for Warner Bros. and arguably the last A picture of the 1940s.

Horror 2024 Countdown: Arsenic and Old Lace (1944)

Arsenic and Old Lace (1944), dir. Frank Capra, Warner Bros. 

At this point, Lorre was now a full character actor. Granted, the character was usually a twitchy weirdo but every so often he would play something different.

Horror 2024 Countdown: The Boogie Man will Get You (1942)

The Boogie Man will Get You (1942), dir. Lew Landers, Columbia Pictures 

Jumping ahead a few years, and Lorre was trying to shake his horror persona. He was still getting big pictures but they tended to be small parts. Working with Boris Karloff probably didn't help shake the horror image either.

Horror 2024 Countdown: Crack-Up (1936)

 Crack-Up (1936), dir. Malcolm St. Clair, 20th Century Fox

Lorre's career was holding steady, 1936 saw him playing the lead in the Mr. Moto series but here he started to work for Fox. 

Horror 2024 Countdown: Mad Love (1935)

Mad Love (1935), dir. Karl Freund, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer

After M, Peter Lorre fled Germany for the safer climes of Hollywood. When a sound remake of the Hands of Orlac was announced, more than a few felt that film cinched this role for Lorre. 

Horror 2024 Countdown: M (1935)

 M (1935), dir. Fritz Lang, Nero-Film, A.G.

Now we move into our special section. We've looked back at the films of Lugosi, Karloff, Chaney Jr., and Carradine. This year we'll focus on the films of Peter Lorre and his role in the first talkie film from Fritz Lang.

Horror 2024 Countdown: Thirteen Women (1932)

Thirteen Women (1932), dir. George Archainbaud, RKO Radio Pictures 

So we end our lookback at slashers with that what a few folks have called the very first one, or at least the earliest film I think of with the old 'wronged person gets some revenge'.

Horror 2024 Countdown: Maniac Cop 2 (1990)

Maniac Cop 2 (1990), dir. William Lustig, Fadd Enterprises/Medusa Pictures/the Movie House Sales Company/Overseas Film Group

When we last the Maniac Cop, Matt Cordell (Robert Z'Dar) murdered the cops who sent him up the river. He also got a pipe shoved his chest but from the last shot of the film he clearly got over it.

Horror 2024 Countdown: Halloween Kills (2021)

Halloween Kills (2021), dir. David Gordon Green, Miramax/Blumhouse Productions/Trancas International Films/Rough House Pictures

It is often mentioned that some sequels can surpass the original. It's rare to see a sequel that seems determined to ruin the previous.

Horror 2024 Countdown: Countess Dracula (1971)

Countess Dracula (1971), dir. Peter Sasdy, Hammer Film Productions

We'll be ending our look at Hammer with this one. They made quite a few about Dracula, why not one about Countess Elizabeth Bathory?

Horror 2024 Countdown: Vampire Circus (1972)

Vampire Circus (1972), dir. Robert Young, Hammer Films Productions

A few folks have called this Hammer's finest vampire film. 

Horror 2024 Countdown: When Dinosaurs Ruled the Earth (1970)

When Dinosaurs Ruled the Earth (1970), dir. Val Guest, Hammer Films

Did you know, aside from dinosaurs, cavemen had to deal with a lack of Moon? Yup, seems dinos are older than the MOON. Not sure I can add to that.

Horror 2024 Countdown: Moon Zero Two (1969)

Moon Zero Two (1969), dir. Roy Ward Baker, Hammer Films 

Hammer's science fiction offerings tend to be a mixed bag. When mixed with fantasy or horror, they are striking and memorable. When they go the 2001 route?

Horror 2024 Countdown: The Lost Continent (1968)

The Lost Continent (1968), dir. Michael Carreras, Hammer Films/Seven Arts Productions 

Moving into the Hammer section of our countdown and the late 1960's was an interesting period. The beginning of the end, if you will. 

Horror 2024 Countdown: The Phantom of the Mall: Erik's Revenge (1989)

Phantom of the Mall: Erik's Revenge (1989), dir. Richard Friedman, Fries Entertainment 

Moving into our homage section, we see a take on Leroux's antihero that somehow is the most 80's thing we'll see this month.

Horror 2024 Countdown: The Invisible Man (2020)

The Invisible Man (2020), dir. Leigh Whannell, Blumhouse Productions/Goalpost Pictures/Nervous Tick Productions 

Ah, the Dark Universe, what wonders it could have shown. Universal opted to farm the individual films out to different companies. Would the end result be better than the last two attempts?

Horror 2024 Countdown: Curucu, Beast of the Amazon (1956)

Curucu, Beast of the Amazon (1956), dir. Curt Sidomark, Jewel Productions 

Moving into the Universal adjacent section, we open with the other film on the Mole People double feature. 

Horror 2024 Countdown: The Land Unknown (1957)

The Land Unknown (1957), dir. Virgil W. Vogel, Univeral International Pictures 

Closing out our look at the Universal Pictures section, we end with a solid B picture, but at least it has dinosaurs.

Horror Host 2024 Retrospective: Dr. Scar

Dr. Scar

Real name: Jack Jacobson

Years active: Late 1960s to 1970s

And thus we end our look back at horror hosts with the last host from Arizona. Dr. Scar hosted Big 9 Chiller on KGUN-TB Channel 9 in Tuscon. I've read he also hosted Science Fiction Theater at roughly the same time. 

Like many hosts, Dr. Scar was also the host of the local kid show. Marshall KGUN is an odd name for a cowboy, but what do I know?

Dr. Scar seem to be your typical sardonic host but he sounded like he was having fun with the role. 

Horror 2024 Countdown: The Deadly Mantis (1957)

The Deadly Mantis (1957), dir. Nathan H. Juran, Universal-International

Hey, it was the 1950's. Vampires and werewolves were passe; giant monsters were in so why wouldn't Universal want some of that kaiju pie?

Horror Host 2024 Retrospective: Ghoulina/Ghoulia

 Ghoulina/Ghoulia?

Real name: Shirl Selman

Years active: 1957 to 1958

As we move into the Grand Canyon State of Arizona we have a mystery here folks. Most of my sources say the first host in the state was Ghoulina yet all the main published works talk of a Ghoulia. Misspelling? Mandella Effect?

Ghoulia hosted Classic Nightmares on KOLD-TV Channel 12 in Tuscon. I found more information on the children's show she hosted than anything else and while some tidbits on her station's history were nice, I fear info on the show itself was a bit flat. She seemed to be of the Vampira school of hosting, emerging from a coffin and a set decorated with a large lizard. 

Horror 2024 Countdown: The Incredible Shrinking Man (1957)

The Incredible Shrinking Man (1957), dir. Jack Arnold, Universal-International Pictures Co., Inc.

We continue our look into the 1950s Universal Sci-Fi with a film I've seen described as both a classic and unbearably corny. Which is it?

Horror Host 2024 Retrospective: Ghost Host

Ghost Host 

Real name: George Lewis

Years active 1971 to 1985

Host of Ghost Host Theatre on WBFF Channel 45, out of Baltimore, this will end our look back at the hosts of Maryland. The Ghost Host was also Captain Cheapskate during the day. 

The show was fairly cheap, with the same footage of the host being used every episode only with new dialogue being dubbed over. He later moved to Pennsylvania, as best as I can tell. 

He tried and I suppose that will have to do. 

Horror 2024 Countdown: The Mole People (1956)

  The Mole People (1956), dir. Virgil Vogel, Universal International Pictures

Moving into the Universal section of our countdown and yeah, a lot of 1950's sci-fi is considered boring. This doesn't buck that feeling.

Horror Host 2024 Retrospective: Dr. and Mrs. Lucifer

 Dr. and Mrs. Lucifer 

Real names: Richard and Nancy Lee Dix

Years active: 1957 to 1959

This year we'll start our horror host lookback in the Old Line State, Maryland. Dr. and Mrs. Lucifer (no relation to Nashville's Dr. Lucifer) hosted Shock! at WBAL Channel 11 out of Baltimore. 

A mad scientist with a bountiful wife/assistant, Dr. Lucifer was more comedic than his Nashville counterpart. There were running gags and overall the doctor seemed more bumbling than anything else. 

The show ended after a short run but Richard Dix went on to a long career in local theater

Horror 2024 Countdown: The Nutty Professor (1963)

The Nutty Professor (1963), dir. Jerry Lewis, Jerry Lewis Films

Kicking off another year and we stat as usual with a pinch of mad science, this time with history's greatest monster. 

TFtember: Five Faces of Darkness, Part 4

"Five Faces of Darkness, part 4", the Transformers, September 18, 1986

Last cartoon of the year and we get a shake up. The Decepticons, the ones lead by Galvatron, arrive on Goo and attach his disyoal follows. The Quintessions manage to talk him down but as that is going on, Rodimus takes a trip inside the Matrix and we learn the orgins of the Transformers!

It seems the Quinessions built them, with the Autobots coming from their consumer good line and the Decepticons coming from their military hardware

The Constructicons haven't been idle either. On Earth they unleash their latest creation: Trypticon!

Rodimus comes out of his dream walking with a warning-they have to get to Cybertron!

On Earth, the Decepticons are gearing up for an invasion. Can the Autobots stop them?

TFtember: Transformers#70

    "The Price of Life" the Transformers#70 (September 1990) with credits to Simon Furman (script), Andy Wildman (pencils), Stephan Baskerville (inks), Nelson Yomtov (colors), Rick Parker (letters), and Rob Tokar (editor)

Last comic of the year and woof. The shocker from last issue? Megatron and Ratchet are alive! Fused into one horrible screaming amalgamation of metal but alive. 

Naturally the issue is, what to do? Separating them is impossible. They can keep Ratchet alive but that goes for Megatron too, so what now?

Grimlock is searching for a way to make himself stronger but we'll get into that later. 

Honestly this is a highlight of the series both in terms of body horror and the questions it raises. What is Optimus going to do?

Tftember: Scavenger

Scavenger  

The last toy review of the year and let's give him a hand. Seriously, he's Devestator's right hand. 

The toy is rather decent, going from robot to excavator from the Diaclone line. Scavanger got reissued a few times, once in a giftset and the others were redecoed into a yellow robot. 

The file card paints him in a dim light. He thinks he's fairly useless and is constantly digging up things to try and prove his worth. 

The comics had him as one of the first Decepticons born on Earth and that was about the full extent of his character. He showed up alongside the rest of the Constructicons and mostly played a roll with them. He did survive to the end of the Marvel book, so that's something.

Don Messick voiced him. That doesn't clear up the utter Gordian knot that is the Constructicons origins in the show and at this point I think I'll skip trying to explain. He was mostly there and that's about all I can say about him. Individually he did very little but he was part of a larger crew so there's that. 

TFtember: Five Faces of Darkness, Part 3

 "Five Faces of Darkness , Part 3", the Transformers, September 17, 1986

Picking up from the last episode, the Autobots manage to escape the exploding Quintessa, but their ship is damaged. Floating freely in space, they resolve to relax and enjoy the ride. 

Galvatron is trying to assert his leadership over the Decepticons but it growing clearer that his mind is gone. 

The Quintessons, meanwhile, are most put out to learn that Rodimus Prime lives. Perhaps an alliance with the Decepticons? They make an offer the energy starved 'cons can't refuse although Blitzwing is the sole holdout. When Galvatron finally returns, he is not happy. He is not happy at ALL.

The Autobots finally crash land on the alien world of Goo. Yes, it is as disguisting as it sounds. Things should be looking up finally when the Decepticons attack...

TFtember: Transformers#69

      "Eye of the Storm" the Transformers#69 (August 1990) with credits to Simon Furman (script), Andy Wildman (pencils), Harry Candelario & Bob Lewis (inks), Nelson Yomtov (colors), Rick Parker (letters), and Don Daley (editor)

Things are rushing to a climax. Grimlocks wants to lead again. Optimus Prime fears the only way to defeat Unicron is to work with the Decepticons. Nightbeat, meanwhile, is assigned to find Ratchet. 

On the Decepticon side, Galvatron is brought to the present day and made to work for Unicron. There's even greater dissention among the ranks, as some Decepticons do NOT handle Scopinok welcoming back Starscream, for reasons that should be painfully obvious. 

I won't spoil the final page, but damn. 

TFtember: Roadbuster

Roadbuster 

Odd one this one time, as this wasn't a Diaclone or Takara toy. No, Roadbuster started life as Mugen Calibur, part of Special Armored Battalion Dorvack line. Made by Takatoku Toys, the company went bust before being absorbed by Bandai in 1984. 

The toy is rather neat, larger than the average Transformers toy and way more detailed. The file card would be the most characterization he'd get for years. According to the card, he's brave, fearless and loves nothing than blasting Decepticons. Outside of combat, he's quiet and bores easily. 

The comics were pretty nonexistent, at least here in the states. He did show up in the UK series and more recent stuff. The most consistent element is his being a member/leader of the Wreckers, an elite squad of Autobot warriors. He's at least been in comics in some form. To date he's never been animated. 

Disappointing, because he seems like cool character. Lot of potential to play off of other characters. 

TFtember: Five Faces of Darkness, part 2

"Five Faces of Darkness, part 2", the Transformers, September 16, 1986

When we last left our heroes, Rodimus Prime and Grimlock were discovered by the energy starved Decepticons. Springer and Arcee arrive in the nick of time but Rodimus seems to be gravely injured. 

Remember the Autobots who were kidnapped? Turns out it was the Quintessons (introduced in the film, floating heads obsessed with kangaroo courts)! Rodimus figures this out when the Matrix tells him. 

Galvatron is found but he's gone crazy. Ultra Magnus, Kup, and Spike are sentenced to death and dumped in a robotic shark infested pool. The Aerialbots manage to rescue them, but the Quintessons are sore losers so they set about blowing up their own planet...

Moving right along, but if you failed to catch the movie you'd be really lost here. 

TFtember: Transformers#68

     "The Human Factor!" the Transformers#68 (July 1990) with credits to Simon Furman (script), Dwayne Turner (art), Nelson Yomtov (colors), Rick Parker (letters), and Don Daley (editor)

Remember RAAT? Yeah, they're gone. GB Blackrock, however, points out there are still some killer robots on the loose. Maybe someone should so something?

Enter Thunderpunch and Rapture! Two (mutants? metahumans? the text is a bit vague) people with powers. They're both jerks but they agree to work with Blackrock for the moment.

Their first mission? Find the mysterious Mister X, who destroyed Decepticon Air Strike Patrol singlehandedly. This gets him on Blackrock's radar, as well as Starscream and Circuit Breaker (remember her?).

A three way fight breaks out, each side trying to recruit Mister X, now calling himself Dynamo. Starscream tries to cheat, naturally, but he is exposed, with Dynamo and Circuit Breaker throwing in with Blackrock.

Starscream manages to survive, however, but who's looming over him but Shockwave!

Different direction, that's for sure. The humans, later dubbed the Neo-Knights seemed posed to be the spinoff characters and is handled with all the subtility of a brick.   

.  

TFtember: Red Alert

Red Alert 

The security chief of the Autobots. Odd aside, Red Alert was released in the first wave of toys everywhere except the US. The toy was yet another reuse of the Sideswipe mold, that mold being a New Countach LP500S Police Car. Only in this case, Red Alert is a fire chief's car (which just makes him stand out even more); the file card has him as overly cautious and capable of picking up anything even the seemingly minor details. 

The American comics was sparse, with his only appearance in the Transformers/GI Joe crossover. He had a bit more face time in the UK books. 

The cartoon version fared a bit better. Voiced by Michael Chain (in an almost Richard Nixon like voice), Red Alert did get one episode to himself where his paranoia almost ended him (Auto Berserk) but after that he was regulated to the background. He was scripted to die in the movie but he managed to escape death. He did manage to do one of the few PSA's the Transformers did before the concept was abandoned. 

Interesting character; his paranoia was the biggest thing about him and yes, that defined his character pretty much forever. 

TFtember: Five Faces of Darkness, part 1

"Five Faces of Darkness, part 1", the Transformers, September 15, 1986

 It is now 2005. Unicorn is defeated and his head orbits Cybertron as its' new moon. The Decepticons have formerly lost the Great War and now eek out a living as raiders. Cyclonus realizes something needs to change, but what?

Elsewhere, Rodimus Prime is now overseeing the first Galactic Olympics. During the ceremonies, Ultra Magnus, Kup, and Spike are kidnapped! Acree and Springer take off in pursuit. On Earth, Blaster and Outback head to the nation Carmobya, finding Decepticons Dirge and Ramjet, despite the president assuring them he would never harbor crimianls. 

Cyclonus, meanwhile, has tracked down Galvatron and starts the process of reviving him. Rodimus and Grimlock track the Decepticons back their base as Galvatron starts to rise, but who could be behind the kidnappings?

Bit to unpack with this one. Season three and have an almost entirely new cast. The 'Carmbobya' bit would be enough to make Casey Kasem quit. Can't say as I blame him.  

I get wanting to make Galvatron's return a big deal but honestly the whole thing is a bit muddled and the animation errors are getting bad enough for even me to notice. 

TFtember: Transformers#67

    "Rhythms of Darkness!" the Transformers#67 (June 1990) with credits to Simon Furman (script), Jose Delbo (pencils), Danny Bulanadi (inks), Nelson Yomtov (colors), Jim Massara (letters), and Don Daley (editor)

It's 2009 and the Deceptions rule the Earth. America has fallen and the European Crisis Coalition is planning on nuking the continent, all in a last ditch effort to kill Galvatron. Spike and the few remaining Autobots has their own plans. Can they seize the Decepticon power base?

Bit of a shock reading this after the last issue, eh? The ending does faintly reek of a desu ex machina but I admit it is something I didn't see coming. 

TFtember: Ramjet

Ramjet 

Back to the Decepticon jets, and a conehead to boot. Ramjet started out as a Diaclone Jet Robo Acrobat Type, based on the F-15 Eagle. Like the other jets, pretty simple transformation although you can alter his head to make it more show accurate. 

The file card has a rather personality, in that he takes his name very literally. Yup, nothing he loves more than crashing into other jets or planes. He doesn't even do it to complete the mission. Nope, the skies are his castle and he likes to live alone. 

The comic didn't come across as well developed. He was a Lord Straxus supporter but threw in with Megatron. That was about it as he usually was regulated to background fights. He survived the end of the series, so there's that. 

The cartoon was almost as bad. Voiced by Jack Angel, Ramjet was mostly a background guy but he did seemingly die in the movie, but he got over it. 

TFtember: Transformers: The Movie (1986)

 Transformers: The Movie (1986) dir. Nelson Shin, Sunbow Productions/Marvel Productions/Toei Animation

So, while the series went into reruns, August saw the debut of the Movie. My Little Pony: The Movie was a bust, would this be different?

TFtember: Transformers#66

   "All Fall Down" the Transformers#66 (May 1990) with credits to Simon Furman (script), Geoff Senior (art), Nelson Yomtov (colors), Jim Massara (letters), and Don Daley (editor)

So Unicron is on the move, eating planets and unleashing heralds. Hook, Line, and Sinker (no relation to the Constructicons); Thunderwing meanwhile has been using the Creation of Matrix (mostly as a club). 

Everything is building up as the fight continues. Is Thunderwing controlling the Matrix or is it controlling him? The Matrix Quest is finally over but it is a bit underwhelming. The Autobots fail and barely do anything, Optimus gives a speech. Pretty boilerplate stuff. 

TFtember: Powerglide

Powerglide 

Always a personal favorite of mine. 

Only one toy in the Generation 1 line but it's a beaut. Robot to an A-10 Thunderbolt II, better known as the Warthog and boy, the articulation was crazy good for the time and the line. 

He was also the first Autobot that could fly, ignoring the mail in ones. The file card shows him as somewhat arrogant, sometimes getting into more trouble than he can handle. 

The comic didn't really do the character justice. He was introduced as part of Blaster's rebel cell. His next big part was being decoration for RAAT's wall as he was disassembled. He stayed loyal to Blaster even when Grimlock took over the Autobots...and then he got blown up for real. 

Voiced by Michael Chain, Powerglide was portrayed as your typical hotshot pilot. He did get an entire episode to himself, "the Girl who Loved Powerglide" which raises a BUNCH of questions that frankly I'm not sure I'm certified to answer. The rest of the time he tended to stay in the background. He apparently got killed but got better, so there's that. 

TFtember: B.O.T.

"B.O.T.", the Transformers, January 9, 1986 

I know the phrase 'Worst Episode EVER' gets tossed around quite a bit, but here it might be fully justified. 

The Combaticons and Defensor duke it out because, that's why. Bruticus ends up in pieces, save for Swindle. Being the big hearted guy he is, takes them off to be repaired, except he actually sells key parts of them to 'El Presidente' becuase, that's why.

Megatron is working on yet another big laser thing. 

Oh, and two creepy highschoolers mess with their science teacher's laser. For punishment, he forces them to work with his star pupil, although I thought he was supposed to be punishing them? Inspired by the Protectorbots they decide to build a robot. Using the same junkyard Swindle dumped the parts he couldn't sell they end up creating B.O.T.

Swindle, by the way, has a bomb in his head and he only has fifteen hours below it goes off. So he'd better get Bruticus back on line, right?

Yeah, this one is rough. This has been called not only the worse episodes of G1 but possibly the worst episode of the entire franchise. Weird to think that THIS could have been the episode to end things on, eh?

Tftember: Transformers#65

  "Dark Creation" the Transformers#65 (April 1990) with credits to Simon Furman (script), Geoff Senior (art), Nelson Yomtov (colors), Jim Massara (letters), and Don Daley (editor)

We've had noir, westerns, and Moby Dick. Why not an Alien knockoff too?

We learn the history of the Matrix and not all of it is good, as while it has known the feelings known as 'goodness' it is rather curious about the ones known as 'evil'. 

The Autobots and Decepticons end up in the ruins of a planet when the Matrixspawn (as it's been dubbed) lurks and boy is it hungry!

Shockwave is also alive, but we'll get to him later. 

As the unholy beast attacks every side, who will finally come back with the power?

Bit of a twist at the end but honestly just a rather run of the mill Alien knockoff. 

Tftember: Perceptor

Perceptor 

An odd one this time. Instead of a car or plane, we have a microscope (also a kind of tank/mobile lab if change him the other way). It was a real working microscope too, although nothing serious. The file card had him as your classic absent minded professor but devoted to finding ways for the Autobots to adapt to Earth. 

The comic was very different. He was leader of an Autobot faction, although Blaster tended to take most of the attention. When he finally lands on Earth, he ends up getting his head cut off and mounted on a wall. He did get killed off before the end but Optimus Prime made sure to mourn him. 

Voiced by Paul Eiding, he was closer to the file card in the cartoon, being the Autobot's top science guy. Unlike Wheeljack, his projects didn't go wild and try to team up with the Decepticons. His mind did end up in a robot geisha for a bit and that was the last time we'd see him. 

A decent character, filled a niche. Made Wheeljack irrelevant but some could argue that was a feature and not a bug.  

TFtember: Masquerade

"Masquerade" the Transformers, December 16, 1985

Interesting idea. The Stunticons are tasked by Megatron to steal various items. The Autobots manage to stop all the robberies, but how can they figure out Megatron's plan?

Simple-they will disguise themselves as the Stunticons and take their place! The plan works pretty well for a bit, but when the real McCoys break free, what will the Decepticons do with two Menasors?

Like I said, interesting. Actual robots in disguise as other robots. Rather surprised this never came up again. I'm also surprised they never did any toy repaints. Reissue Dead End and call him Jazz or vice versa.

TFtember: Transformers#64

    "Deadly Obsession" the Transformers#64 (March 1990) with credits to Simon Furman (script), Jose Delbo (pencils), Al Williamson & Dan Reed (inks), Nelson Yomtov (colors), Jim Massara (letters), and Don Daley (editor)

Well, we had noir and a western. Why not Moby Dick?

Mostly told in flashback, a group of Pretenders end up on the planet Pequod, as the spotting of the massive creature known as the Klud would suggest the hand of the Matrx. Pity that rogue Autobot Longtooth is obsessed with killing it as it took his leg.

So the Autobots and the Decepticons find themselves at a rather odd standoff. Decepticon Thunderwing wants to spare the creature, mostly due the thing might lead them to the Matrix, whereas the Autobots focus on trying to stop Longtooth. 

Not bad and heck, who saw a Herman Melville reference in Transformers?

TFtember: Omega Supreme

Omega Supreme

Certainly the biggest toy we've looked at so far. 

As far as toys go, only two in Generation One. The first is the best known and certainly the best. Omega Supreme was unique in that he didn't go from a car or a plane, no, Omega was a BASE, complete with motorized tank, rocket and track for the tank. He could also walk on his own. Not a lot of movable parts but the actions from robot to base aren't crazy complicated. Not crazy possible but given the time period I suppose that couldn't be helped. 

The second toy was part of the Action Masters, but it was never released in America. Also called 'Omega Spreem' for some reason but the transforming action seemed design to make the thing fragile as hell so good luck find one in even halfway decent condition. 

The file card has him as the last line of defense. Grim, serious, and almost unstoppable. 

The comic had him being built on Earth. For the most part he matched his file card, even he got knocked down by Buzzsaw. He was later killed by Starscream and his corpse later taken over by the Decepticon Sports Car Patrol. He was later shut down as the series ended. 

The cartoon, where he was voiced by Jack Angel, didn't leave him with much to do. In the show, he was shown as the leader of the Guardian robots and fond of Crystal City until it was destroyed by the newly brainwashed Constructicons. He chased them across the galaxies for centuries until he found them on Earth although that it rarely brought up.

He also exploded a lot. He survived the movie and made smaller cameos until "Grimlock's New Brain"

TFtember: The Revenge of Bruticus

"The Revenge of Bruticus" the Transformers, January 8, 1986

Following up from the previous episode, Starscream is not happy at his being banished and remembers he can fly, so he does. Tragically he forgot that two members of the Combaticons can also fly. Blast Off flies off, the asteroid in tow to Cybertron. 

While the Autobots and the Decepticons duke it out again, and Spike gets an astronomy lesson from Perceptor (which I'm sure won't have any bearing on the plot), the Combaticons take out Shockwave and come up with a nifty idea to get ride of their foes. Why not use the Space Bridge to transport the Earth into the Sun?

Starscream runs into Shockwave and the two team up to save their world, but Starscream got to Starscream and he blasts Shockwave and issue an ultimatium to Megatron-surrender leadership of the Decepticons to him or burn!

Can the Autobots and Decepticons put aside their differences long enough to save themselves?

Decent, although I'm curious why this couldn't have been a two parter but eh. Good introduction to a new toy set. 

TFtember: Transformers#63

   "Kings of the Wild Frontier" the Transformers#63 (February 1990) with credits to Simon Furman (script), Jose Delbo (pencils), Dave Hunt (inks), Nelson Yomtov (colors), Jim Massara (letters), and Don Daley (editor)

The Western issue

The hunt for the Creation Matrix is still going on; this time out we focus on the Triggerbots as they search the desert planet Cheyne. The Autobots aren't there for a few panels when they spot some riders trying to run down a child. Dogfight, living up to his name, charges in the fray and chases the riders off. 

The boy, Hud, is grateful and takes the 'bots back to his parent's farm. It seems they were run off by greedy land speculators as the 'bots seem to be more concerned about helping about on the farm. Pretty soon they've even forgot their names.

Decepticon Thunderwing arrives and even tries fighting Dogfight but seems the bot in his amnesic state a far crueler fate than anything he could devise. Dogfight manages to free himself of this mental fog, but can he resuce his friends in time?

Good subversion of Western cliches and settings. I'm not sure if I've ever seen 'poor ranchers are actually vampires' bit done before. 

TFtember: Natron

Natron

Odd one here. We look at the Autobot racer. Yeah, this and Freezon came with the Transformers Electric Racing Set. Pretty much the same toy; it pops into a robot when racing. Simple transforming action but the idea is neat. They race around the track and that's about it. 

No file card, comic, or cartoon appearances so yup, pretty flat guy. 

TFtember: Starscream's Brigade

"Starscream's Brigade" the Transformers, January 7, 1986

The origin of Bruticus

Starscream finally makes his play to lead the Decepticons, i.e. he shoots Megatron in the back and declares himself leader. Megatron no sells this and finally wises up, banishing Starscream from the Decepticon ranks.

This annoys the Air Commander to no end and he ends up being dumped on the island of Guadalcanal. This is relevant as back in 1943 there was a battle, with several vehicles being dumped there in the battle's aftermath. Seeing the potential, Starscream steals some personality components and pops them in the vehicles. Pity those components were some of the worse Decepticons around, but Starscream has a plan. Seems he left out the energy absorbers, so unless the new recruits want to starve to death they had better look sharp and obey his orders. The Combaticons, as they are dubbed, agree (for now at least).

From there, they shill the new figures before everything resets. 

Not awful, even if the animation is wonky in several bits. The Combaticons won't get any real personality here (although Swindle gets some moments later on) aside from angry. Even as a toy shilling episode it's a bit weak. 

TFtember: Transformers#62

  "Bird of Prey!" the Transformers#62 (January 1990) with credits to Simon Furman (script), Geoff Senior (art), Nelson Yomtov (colors), Jim Massara (letters), and Don Daley (editor)

Skipping the whole 'awakened our ancient god' thing to focus on Nightbeat. 

Autobot teams have been assembled and sent across the galaxy. Their mission? Hunt down the Creation Matrix, possibly the only thing capable of stopping Unicron. 

Nightbeat and his team up in a wretched hive of scum and villainy, a fact that overjoys Nightbeat, as his main characteristic is he a cop. What better story for a cop than a film noir?

Hitting the town, they get dragged into a detective story when a dying alien passes a statue to a confused Siren (Nightbeat's partner on this case). Siren and Hosehead want to continue the mission but Nightbeat thinks the statue plays a part. Miss Fatale introduces herself. She couldn't help but eavesdrop. If the Autobots are willing to do a short hike, what they seek might at the top of a nearby mountain. All she wants in exchange is a statue of a bird. It was stolen from her and she is ever so anxious to get it back. 

Nightbeat smells a rat. Can this dame be trusted?

Decent yarn. Maltese Falcon + Transformers? Not the first two things I would combine but a good effort. 

TFtember: Mixmaster

Mixmaster

Moving into the proper toys, we have the left leg of Devestator. Mixmaster began life as a Diaclone Construction Vehicle, going from robot to cement mixer. The transformation is fairly simple but making him the left leg is a neat feature. 

For the file card, his main job is materials fabrication, using everything from unliving rock to living robot to make base components, a living chemistry lab on wheels.

Yeah, yeah, insert Breaking Bad memes here.   

In the Marvel comics, he didn't do a whole lot on his own. As a Constructicon, he was part of the first Decepticons to made on Earth. He mostly stayed with them in the issues they were focused on, but he did make it to the last issue.

The cartoon is a mixed bag. Voiced by Frank Welker, he and his teammates are bogged down with multiple origins that contradict each other. Aside from that, he doesn't really have any individual moments to shine. He appears in quite a few episodes and even is shown mixing things, but he never takes the lead.  

TFtember: Cosmic Rust

 "Cosmic Rust", the Transformers, December 26, 1985

Ending 1985 with an odd one. 

Megatron and few other Decepticons are in deep space when they stumble upon a planet with a giant Autobot symbol. Landing, they discover a warning in ancient Autobot, telling them to leave or never return to Cybertron and also a giant laser cannon. Megatron blows the warning off, thinking they have just found the perfect weapon to destroy the Autobots, and best of all it's from their own side!

An asteroid flies after them after they leave. When Megatron blasts it, a small fragment hits his shoulder...

Back on Earth, Perceptor is being awarded for his latest invention, a solution that destroys rust and preserves whatever is coated with it. He only has enough to preserve the Statue of Liberty at the moment.

Megatron, however, is need of that stuff or Perceptor at the moment as his entire body is slowly being eaten by rust-cosmic rust!

Perceptor is kidnapped and he makes a most unusual discovery. The ancient weapon that Megatron found and is using with some frequency is making his rust worse. Can the Autobots save Perceptor? Can they stop the menace of cosmic rust?

Not bad, even if the science is utterly wonky. That asteroid that infects Megatron? It had to go through Astrotrain first, yet he's never shown being infected. 

TFtember: Transformers#61

 "The Primal Scream" the Transformers#61 (Mid-December 1989) with credits to Simon Furman (script), Geoff Senior (art), Nelson Yomtov (colors), Jim Massara (letters), and Don Daley (editor)

So we met Primus this issue. 

Yeah, when Bludgeon sabotaged the Autobot's ship they ended up crashing into the center of Cybertron, where they encounter an ancient Transformer who states he is the Keeper, i.e. keeping the head of Primus. Who is Primus?

God, more or less. Grimlock is less than impressed so the Keeper spins a yarn. To wit, ages ago Primus and Unicron were locked in a deadly stalemate. They end up trapped, locked into the forms of two metal planets. Unicron manages to shape his prison to his will and moves about the cosmos in search of his old enemy. Primus, by comparison sleeps and avoids detection. He also managed to create a smaller race of robots in his image mostly to find Unicron. 

Before we can get into any more theology, the Decepticon Mayhem Squad attacks and kills the Keeper. 

Scorpionok, on the other hand, is not having a good day either. His decision to bring Starscream back into the fold is NOT popular and the troops are growing restless. Scorpionok argues that by having the Air Commander in their ranks he can keep a better eye on him which fails to produce anything other than sullen rage. 

The fight between the Autobots and the Mayhem Squad ends with the Autobots winning, albeit with Primus getting shot and screaming. Bumblebee tries to assure Grimlock that no one could possibly have heard the ancient god screaming...

Well, this is a bit different. I wasn't sure we needed an in-depth look at the theology of a toyline of robots that turn into things but we got it. Interesting mythology, I'll give them. 

TFtember: Mini-cars

Mini-cars 

Bringing this back to close out 2024 and we open with certainly an odd choice. 

The toys were randomly inserted with the new line of mini vehicles and the rerelease of the previous mini vehicles from series one. At random you could have a pick of one of four cars; a jeep, a dune buggy, a sport car (based on a Toyota concept car), and a Porsche with colors of blue, white, or yellow. 

The trick is the rubsign. Is it an Autobot? A Decepticon? You'll have to buy the figure to know! Not bad, kind of simple but the idea is cute. 

No file cards and as far as the comic and cartoon go, they did show up in the Dreamwave series for a bit and they pop up in a commercial.

Minispies, basically. Tiny robots that are designed to sneak into or around places without the other side seeing them. Which doesn't really make them all that distinict from the regular Transformers but I disgress. 

Aroma of Troma: Return to Return to Nuke 'Em High AKA Vol.2 (2017)

Return to Return to Nuke 'Em High AKA Vol.2 (2017), dir. Lloyd Kaufman, Troma Entertainment 

And so it ends with what a few folks have called the endgame of Troma. Everything Kaufman has been building to explodes across the screen in glorious bodily fluids of every type. You decide if that's a good thing or a bad thing.

Aroma of Troma: Sgt. Kabukiman N.Y.P.D. (1990)

Sgt. Kabukiman: NYPD (1990), dir. Lloyd Kaufman/Michael Herz, Namco Limited/Gaga Communcations/Troma Entertainment 

A film comes along every so often that you wish the making of would be the focus instead of the story we see on screen.

Aroma of Troma: The House on Tombstone Hill (1989)

The House on Tombstone Hill (1989), dir. James Riffel, Troma Entertainment 

Comedy and horror can work, as Sam Raimi can attest but brother if you don't get the mixture right you can have a real mess. 

Aroma of Troma: Beware! Children at Play (1988)

Beware! Children at Play (1989) dir. Mik Cribben, Troma Entertainment 

This might be the worst thing Troma has ever done, at least until this point in their history.

Aroma of Troma: Dialing for Dingbats (1988)

Dialing for Dingbats (1989), dir. Peter Slodczyk, Troma Entertainment 

Moving back into comedy and tackling the growing scourge of phone sex!

Aroma of Troma: Jakarta (1988)

Jakarta (1988), dir. Charles Kaufman, Medusa Distribuzione/Parkit Films/Troma Entertainment 

Good Lord, a Troma with actual actors and location shooting? I thought that died out. 

But seriously, here we see what would become a hallmark of Troma at this point, rescuing low budget films and inserting more money and or marketability into them. 

Falco (Christopher Noth) isn't doing too well these days. Once, he was the CIA's top man in Asia but a mission in the Indonesian capital went sour and a gal he was sweet on, Esha (Suzee Pai) died...or did she?

Regardless, the agency needs him back and needs him in Jakarta. One kidnapping later, Falco is back in his old stomping grounds and what do you know, Esha is alive!

Then things get complicated

Yeah, not the worst film Troma ever did but the whole things feels like a tax shelter than a film. 

Aroma of Troma: Lust for Freedom (1987)

Lust for Freedom (1987), dir. Eric Louzil, Mesa Films/Troma Team

Bring this feature too, so why not kick things off with a women in prison flick?

Wild Wild West 3: Or Why I Don't Write Movies for a Living

 Had an idea, so why not bring this one back?

Shark Week: Tentacles (1977)

Tentacles (1977), dir. Ovidio G. Assonitis, A-Esse Cinematografica/Cherkaway Ltd. 

So, mercifully, thankfully, we bring this segment to an end for another year. We've spent all week on sharks, so why not formally end with a Jaws rip-off?

Shark Week: Sharknado (2013)

 Sharknado (2013), dir. Anthony C. Ferrante, the Asylum/SyFy Films 

Nearing the end, so why not end on a high note?

Shark Week: Shark in Venice (2008)

 Shark in Venice (2008), dir. Danny Lerner, Nu Image Films/Venice Sharks

David Franks (Stephan Baldwin) and his girlfriend Laura (Vanessa Johansson) are in Venice, but it isn't a romantic getaway. No, they are in the canaled city looking into the disappearance and more than likely death of David's father. 

David and a red shirt fellow slip into some wetsuits and go exploring under the city. They find two things; 1) sharks that promptly eat the other guy and 2) a room filled with treasure. David manages to snag a brooch before slipping away and passing out thanks to blood lose.

After David recovers, he and Laura are more or less forced to meet with Vito Clemenza (Giacomo Gonella). Vito is VERY interested in the brooch, and if David could maybe get him all the treasure, well that would be great. 

Can David stop the sharks? Will anything be resolved by the end?

Yeah, not great. Are the sharks in Venice (the film was shot in Bulgaria, for added hilarity) a result of weather change or did Vito do something? The film seems a bit confused on this point. 

Not really worth the effort.

Shark Week: Malibu Shark Attack (2008)

 Malibu Shark Attack (2008), dir. David Lister, Insight Film Studios/Limelight International Media Entertainment 

Half way finished, and we have another SciFi Channel made for tv flick.

Shark Week: Marina Monster (2008)

 Marina Monster (2008), dir. Christine Whitlock, CJ Creative Productions 

Bit of an odd one. Apparently the third film in a trilogy, I skipped over the first two as neither one dealt with sharks. 

Earl Molar (Trevor Crane) is just a working class joe, earning his pay at the Center of Inland Waters. He's dating Oceana Anchor (Michaelle LaHaise), daughter of his father's rival. Oh, and a bull shark as set up shop in the marina.

Will the shark be stopped? Will Commodore Molar (Ray Kohler) and Commodore Anchor (Andre Ciere) stop having sex with all the available women long enough to care? Will people stop pushing other people directly into the shark's path?

Yeah, a kill count of about 40, with most of a result of people either pushing, dragging or in one case, leaping directly in front of the shark. I know we make jokes about people watching films rooting for the monsters, but yeah, you WILL be cheering for the shark in this one, never mind how obviously fake it looks. 

Shark Week: Shark Swarm (2008)

 Shark Swarm (2008), dir. James M. Contner, Larry Levinson Productions/RHI Entertainment/Silverstar Ltd. 

Apparently there is an entire series called Maneater?

Shark Week: Hammerhead (2005)

  Hammerhead (2005), dir. Michael Oblowitz, Millennium Films/Equity Pictures Medienfonds GmbH & Co. KG II/Active Entertainment/Harbor Productions 

Bringing this back, because why not?

Rebooking for UWF Fury Hour Episode 106

  10-2-1992

Reseda Country Club

Announcers: Craig DeGeorge and Captain Lou Albano

Blackjack Brawl fallout!

Captain's Corner

Jerry Lynn sits down with Captain Lou. He's doing better, but he has a message for Kevin Von Erich. He could have left him to Allen, could have taken the win, but he didn't. He's just curious what Mr. Brawl winner has to say about that. 

Kevin Von Erich comes out. He's darn grateful, so much so he's willing give any of the number one contenders to him, no match or anything. Jerry narrows his eyes and points to the World title. Kevin looks taken back for a second, but after a few seconds slowly nods his head and gives the title shot to Lynn. 

Herb Abrams comes out and He's fit to burst. Best show they've ever done, so far! And 2 bits of news. Rampage will return, so keep an eye out for that. 

The second bit of news is the addition of a new title belt and a slight change to the program. After the Brawl, the owners of the Global Wrestling Federation have thrown in towel, as it were and on top of that there is the matter of the GWF Light Heavyweight championship. 

The Lightning Kid comes out, belt in hand. Since the Kid spends so much time here in the UWF, it was decided to simply bring the title in, its history will be respected, but the Kid will be treated as the first champ. 

Colonel Red tries to have an interview with David Strong but the Dogs of War aren't happy. The Blackhearts kept their titles, but Robin losing the title and Allen's lack of showing at the Brawl? Well, David is laying down the law. Any more losses and Jason the Terrible is going to be busy. He turns his attention to Rude. Starting next week, Rude is going on the offense and he is going to take that title!

Herb comes out and has another announcement-Fury Hour is no more! No, they're not going under. What with the influxes of titles and the GWF roster, Fury Hour is simply UWF Fury and it will be TWO Hours!

The rest of the show is a video package on the currents champs. Next week will be Dr. Death defending his title against Jerry Lynn!

UWF Blackjack Brawl PPV

 9-27-1992

Las Vegas Convention Center 

Announcers: Craig DeGeorge and Captain Lou Albano

Exhibition match

UWF VS All Japan

Tina Moretti VS Manami Toyota

Winner: Moretti gets the win via piledriver in 8. 

UWF Women's Championship 

Rotten Robin (c) VS Luna Vachon 

Winner: Explosive way to kick off the PPV, with Luna rushing the ring and putting Robin on the defensive. Robin starts to get the upper hand after an eye rake, but Luna busts out some proper grappling and just power bombs the hell out of the champ in 10.

Exhibition match

UWF VS AAA

Los Conquistadores VS Los Gringos Locos (Art Barr and Eddie Guerrero)

Winner: Eddie does a classic tights pull to get the win after Barr hits #1 with a Frog Splash in 10

Title Unification 

UWF SportsChannel Television Championship/GWF Television Championship

Bam Bam Bigelow (c) VS Michael Worthington Davis III

Winner: The snotty Davis tries to weasel his way out of the match every step of the way but Bigelow wins the crowd over by slamming the tar out of the rich boy for the win in 8

Exhibition match

UWF VS All Star Wrestling 

Blue Demon Jr. VS Dave Taylor

Winner: Blue Demon gets the win via Boston crab in 15

Title Unification 

UWF Tag Teag Championship/GWF Tag Team Championship

The Blackhearts (c) VS The Black Birds (c)

Winner: So, Apocalypse and Destruction taking on Iceman King Parsons and Action Jackson. The masked men full on cheat, doubling teaming Jackson and getting the pin and the gold in 15

Ivan Koloff VS Reno Riggins

Winner: Despite Riggins' best efforts, Koloff takes the win by stretching Riggins out in 10

UWF Brass Knuckles Championship

Falls Count Anywhere/No DQ match

Cactus Jack (c) VS Jason the Terrible

Winner: Jason isn't playing around, rushing to the ring ax handle in hand. Jack takes a beating and gives a beating too via steel chair. The ref gets knocked out, but both men don't care. The match spills out into the street, with Cactus doing a dive off a garbage truck and crack Jason's hockey mask with an elbow drop. Cactus dumps Jason in the back of the garbage truck before limping away in 25

Title Unification

UWF North American Championship/GWF North American Championship

"Dr. Death" Steve Williams (c) VS Rod Price (c)

Winner: Barely a contest, with Williams straight up overpowering Price in 10

Blackjack Brawl

The match is laid out as such. Three steel cages, stacked atop each other.

Tier 1: 10 people enter at once. After five minutes, the door to tier 2 opens and closes in three. Whoever is left is counted out. 

Tier 2: 5 men (based on their win/loss record) are already there. After ten minutes, the door to tier 3 opens and closes in three. 

Tier 3: Ladder in the center, all the marbles suspended. To win, you have to climb the ladder, grab the bag and escape through the roof. 

Tier 1: Bull Nakano, Ken Patrea, the Dark Patriot, Miss Texas, Jerry "the King" Lawler, Jerry Lynn, Bob Backlund, David Power, Larry Power, Greg "the Hammer" Valentine 

Patera is a house of fire, but the heels collectively team up to knock him out. When the door opens, Jerry Lynn, Bob Backlund make a rush while the Dark Patriot barely makes up. The masked man pulls the ladder up behind him, leaving the rest of them stranded below. 

Jerry Lynn, Bob Backlund, Dark Patriot pass

Tier 2: Bad News Allen, Booker T, Stevie Ray, Joshua Ben-Gurion, Kevin Von Erich

Bad News Allen plays it smart and lets the other guys fight. When the door opens, Von Erich and Jerry Lynn make it up as Allen struggles but makes before the door shuts.

Tier 3: Jerry Lynn, Kevin Von Erich, and Bad News Allen

Now all three men are fighting for the ladder. Lynn makes it up as Allen locks Von Erich in an armbar, but at the last second jumps off, breaking the hold and freeing Kevin. Kevin grabs the sack and scrambles up the ladder, winning the brawl and the number 1 contender to everything in 50 minutes. 

Rebooking for UWF Fury Hour Episode 105

 9-25-1992

Reseda Country Club

Announcers: Craig DeGeorge and Captain Lou Albano

Just forty-eight hours from Blackjack Brawl!

UWF Television title

Bam Bam Bigelow (c) VS Billy Jack Haynes 

Winner: Bigelow in 10

Herb Abrams comes out. He's bandaged but walking. The footage is shot on video and he seems to some height off the ground. 

He's there in Las Vegas, overseeing the final preparations for the Blackjack Brawl. It will be a first in North America, and, he hopes, a first for you viewers at home. It will be of the same excellence that you come to expect from the UWF.

Sunny Beach VS Rip Rogers

Winner: Beach, looking more intense than usual, is a house of fire. Rogers is overwhelmed in 10 and Beach stomps off after the ref raises his hand. 

The Dark Patriot VS Stevie Ray

Winner: Ray does his best, but the Dark One gets him in a Texas Cloverleaf for the win in 15

Blue Demon, Jr. VS Dan Spivey 

Winner: Blue Demon in 24. Spivey nails the masked one with a DDT but Demon fights his way out of the pin and hits him with the huracanrana before slapping the scorpion deathlock on Spivey for the win. 

We end with a small promo for the show.

Rebooking for UWF Fury Hour Episode 104

 9-18-1992

Reseda Country Club

Announcers: Craig DeGeorge and Captain Lou Albano

UWF Television title

Bam Bam Bigelow (c) VS Don Muraco

Winner: Very close, but Bigelow retains in 8.

Barry Horowitz VS Brian Lee

Winner: Barry gives it his best shot but Lee simply slams him over and over. 6 mins.

Terry Gordy VS Jay Strongbow, Jr. 

Winner: Gordy easily smacks the 2nd generation guy around and pins him after a clothesline. 8 mins

Bob Backlund VS Greg "the Hammer" Valentine 

Winner: Lot of mat action but Bob gets the Hammer to submit in 15

Herb Abrams comes out. Just ONE more show before Blackjack Brawl. There's going to be thrills, celebs...but before he can say anymore Jason the Terrible shows up and toss him through the set wall before silently stomping off. 

UWF Tag Team titles

The Blackhearts (c) w/David Strong VS the Power Brothers

Winner: The brothers working face for the first time but the Blackhearts are better oiled and quickly get the win with a good old fashioned ref distraction in 15. 

Wendi Richter comes out. She noticed that, and Strong is going to have put ALL his titles on the line. Frankly she's getting tired of the cheating and his boys running amuck. So, as empowered by Mr. Abrams, if any of his Dogs of War lose at Blackjawk Brawl, they will be suspended!

Rebooking for UWF Fury Hour Episode 103

9-11-1992

Reseda Country Club

Announcers: Craig DeGeorge and Captain Lou Albano

UWG Television title

Bam Bam Bigelow (c) VS Buddy Roberts

Winner: Bigelow in 10. Roberts tries to cheat, but Bigelow muscles through every eye rake and pulled tights. Terry Gordy runs out to assist, but Bigelow smacks him down with a steel chair before pinning Roberts. 

Super Ninja VS Sam Houston

Winner: the Ninja takes the win in 7 mostly via a black egg and some well placed smoke bomb for a quick pin. 

Herb Abrams comes out. As he said, all titles will be on the line, but there will also be some champions from around the world. All-Japan, CMLL, hell, initials you've never even heard off, all appearing at Blackjack Brawl.

And what is the brawl? It will be the most intense match ever seen in UWF. 30 men and women will enter the ring. 60 minutes to declare one winner. The exact stipulation of the match will be kept secret until the day of the event but expect chaos!

UWF Women's title

Rotten Robin (c) VS Xochitl Hamada 

Winner: Robin retains in 14 with a handful of tights. 

Wendi Richter comes out and confronts Robin. She makes it clear such cheating will not go unpunished. She's been talking to Luna Vachon and Luna will be her opponent at Blackjack Brawl-in a cage match!

Dan Spivey VS Lightning Kid

Winner: Spivey with a DDT in 10. The Kid tries but Spivey just overpowers him and takes the win. 

The Dogs of  War come out and confront Spivey. They might have a place, maybe. He brushes them off but Jason the Terrible attacks. We end with the cameraman being superkicked and the camera going flying. 

Rebooking for UWF Fury Hour Episode 102

  9-4-1992

Reseda Country Club

Announcers: Craig DeGeorge and Captain Lou Albano

UWF Television title

Bam Bam Bigelow (c) VS the Intern

Winner: Not even a contest. Bigelow retains in 3.

Joshua Ben-Gurion VS the Viking 

Winner: This one gets ugly. Ben-Gurion takes the win after a series of powerbombs in 8.

Blue Demon King VS Sam Houston 

Winner: Despite Houston's best efforts, the Demon King slaps a sleeper hold on him that he can't get out of and thus the King wins in 6

The Fabulous Freebirds VS Reno Riggins, Steve Simpson, and Chris Walker

Winner: The Freebirds brawl and outfight the faces, with Gordy getting the pin on Simpson in 10. 

Kevin Von Erich vs Bob Backlund 

Winner: Backlund manages to get the win via chicken wing in 20. Both men shake hands afterwards. 

Herb Abrams comes out. Next week we'll taking a look at the card for the Blackjack Brawl!

UWF Tag Team titles 

The Blackhearts (c) VS SD Jones and Chris Michaels 

Winner: Jones tries to take both men on, but a set of brass knuckles takes him down in 8. The Dogs of War come out to pose over the prone Jones. 

Rebooking for UWF Fury Hour Episode 101

 8-28-1992

Reseda Country Club

Announcers: Craig DeGeorge and Captain Lou Albano

UWF Television title

Bam Bam Bigelow (c) VS the Viking 

Winner: Bigelow moves like a cruiserweight and powerbombs the Nordic nomad for the pin in 10.

SD Jones VS Rip Rodgers

Winner: Jones comes in like a house of fire and gets the win with a headbutt in 8

Luna Vachon VS Miss Texas

Winner: Luna hits the Luna Bomb in 7

Captain's Corner

Lou Albano sits down with Reno Riggins. He's rested, he's charged, and he's ready to show the world what he can do at Blackjack Brawl!

Colonel Red sits down with the Fabulous Freebirds but the trio seem more interested in having a good time than answering the colonel's questions. He gets frustrated enough to sic the Super Ninja on them, but 1 on 3 aren't great odds and the masked man is beaten down for his trouble. 

Stan Hansen VS Steve Simpson 

Winner: Hansen with the lariat in 6

Jerry Lynn VS Fire Cat

Winner: Despite the cat's best efforts, Lynn takes the win in 8

"Gentleman" Chris Adams VS Steve Ray, with Sunny Beach

Winner: Ray gets the upset in 6 with a surprise roll up into a schoolboy pin. The former tag champs split as Adams rages in the ring as we fade out. 

Rebooking for UWF Fury Hour Episode 100

8-21-1992

Reseda Country Club

Announcers: Craig DeGeorge and Captain Lou Albano

Herb Abrams comes out. "100! One Hundred episodes! When we started the Universal Wrestling Federation, a lot of people said we were crazy, but I think we've proven them wrong, right?

Now, down to business. After a bit of searching, we have appointed a new commissioner."

Wendi Richter steps out in a neatly tailored suit. She promises to keep things in line and deliver some of the best wrestling on the planet!

UWF Televison title

Bam Bam Bigelow (c) VS the Gladiator 

Just two big 'ol dudes beating the daylights out of each other. Bigelow takes the win with a splash. 10 minutes. 

UWF Tag Team titles

The Blackhearts (c) VS Steve Simpson and Kevin Von Erich

The faces do a good job, with Von Erich doing most of the heavy lifting but in the end two superkicks take him down. 10 mins. Luna Vachon rushes out from the back with a steel chair and starts wailing on the masked men. Security drags her off as she swears vengeance.

UWF Women's title

Rotten Robin (c) VS Malia Hosaka

Malia gives it a good try but Robin takes her to the mat too many times. 10 mins. Luna runs out and attacks Robin after the match. Robin, battered and bloody, makes it clear she is sick of Luna's tantrums. If she wants the title so bad, then she can meet her in the ring-at Blackjack Brawl!

UWF North American title

"Dr. Death" Steve Williams VS Cactus Jack

If the last match was bloody, then this is a massacre. Both men start out grappling but that gets tossed out. Dr. Death finally piledrives Jack enough times to knock him out. 25 mins of pure carnage with Williams leaving battered and bloody.