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Scream Factory / Sacred Bones Records The Fog Blu-Ray + 7″ Vinyl Set – PRE-ORDER

Thursday, August 18th, 2022

I’m a huge fan of John Carpenter films (as if previous posts didn’t make that clear), and I’ve been pretty on top of collecting the Scream Factory/Sacred Bones Records collaborative Blu-Ray and vinyl releases of some of his most famous and beloved films. The most recent film to be added to this collection is 1980’s ‘The Fog’. Like the other films in this collection, the set consists of a special slip cover with art by Chris Bilheimer, containing a Blu-Ray collectors edition release of the film, and a 7″ vinyl record of music from or related to the film; for The Fog, it’s the main theme, and a newly-recorded rendition of the track “Walk to the Lighthouse”.

This is a pre-order item, and is set to release on September 13th this year.

www.sacredbonesrecords.com/products/sbr302-john-carpenter-the-fog

Good, Bizarre, and Bad Tactical Reloads in Movies

Friday, May 20th, 2022

Hollywood gets a lot wrong in regards to guns. So much so that we give them a ton of credit when they get it right. Today we are looking at tactical reloads in movies and TV shows. I started looking for good examples of reloads, but then I got deep into the subject and found some very bizarre examples of reloads and some examples of the lack of reloading that are hilarious.

I’m betting most people expect to see John Wick on this list regarding reloads. Yep, lots of great reloads, but I’m making an exception and leaving John Wick off because I could complete the entire best reloads portions with the three John Wick films. So let’s take a peek at the Hollywood Reload and the good, the bad, and the bizarre.

The Best Hollywood Reloads

Tactical Reload from Heat

The bank robbery escape firefight in Heat is legendary. It’s huge, with loud and brutal gunfire, and full of good tactics that might be dated today. However, Michael Mann always does firearms and tactics well, including accurate magazine sizes and appropriate reloads. In Heat, we see one of the best reloads come from Val Kilmer.

Tactical reload from Heat

Amid a gunfight with the police, ole Val runs dry with his Colt 733. Not only does he reload quickly and efficiently, but he does so smartly. First, he takes cover behind a vehicle, and on the way to his knee, he manually strips the magazine from the gun. Then, he grabs a spare, jams it in, hits the bolt release, and keeps on rocking and rolling.

According to internet rumors, this tactical reload was shown at Army/Marine Corps boot camp, but I never saw it at boot camp. Even so, it’s an impressive reload, and I wouldn’t be surprised if it’s used as an example of a speed reload.

Tactical Reload from Wind River

I took way too long to watch Wind River. But, holy crap, is it a great movie and a solid modern western. The film stars Elizabeth Olsen as a rookie FBI Agent paired with a professional tracker investigating the death of a Native American woman. It’s not an action flick, but the action scenes are well done. The movie is very not Hollywood. It’s not all dolled up and clean, and that reflects in several scenes. One of these scenes is a tactical reload committed by Olsen.

Wind River fight

Hot damn, being maced and in a gunfight would suck

She’s just been maced, and she charges headfirst, by herself, into a run-down trailer with multiple potential threats. Her vision is crap, and the film shows it, yet she charges forward, Glock at the ready. She uses cover, moves carefully, and even keeps her distance from cover. When someone takes a shot at her, she empties her magazine into the guy.

Tactical reload by Elizabeth Olsen

Olsen does a great job with her tactical reload

On the move, she reloads. It’s not super fast or sexy like a Wick film, but it’s pretty realistic. She’s a rookie agent, and most FBI agents aren’t gunfighters. She just got maced and shot at, and adrenaline is jacked. Her reload isn’t a time setting best, but it’s competent and realistic for the scene.

Tactical Reload from Wonder Woman

Yep Wonder Woman, the 2017 film, has a little gunplay. Our titular character doesn’t sling guns and prefers a sword and shield. However, her compatriots are soldiers, and her love interest, pilot, commando guy Steve Trevor carries the legendary Winchester 1897 Trench Gun. A weapon made famous and downright legendary by its use in the trenches of World War 1.

Tactical reload in Wonder Woman

Running a shotgun dry would suck, but knowing how to reload makes things easier

Shotguns require constant reloading, and admittedly the movie doesn’t show much reloading, but it also doesn’t show the trench gun dropping two dozen rounds without reloading. In a scene, Trevor runs his gun dry, and the enemy is fast approaching. With an empty shotgun in hand, what does he do?

Winchester 1897 Tactical Reload

Trench guns are too cool

He slams a 12 gauge round into the port, runs the action forward, and deals with the situation. This is maybe the second port reload I’ve ever seen in a film, with John Wick 2 having a notable port reload.

The Bizarre

Terminator 2 – The T-1000 Multitasks

I don’t know anything about piloting a helicopter, but I know a thing or two about reloading a gun. The T-1000 knows how to fly a chopper and reload and do so simultaneously. In the scene, he chases Sarah Connor and company in the helicopter, and he fires an MP5K through the windshield.

Terminator T 1000 Tactical reload

Multitasking is a lot easier when you can grow extra arms

When the gun runs dry, he reloads. It takes two hands to fly a chopper and two hands to reload. So what does he do? He grows extra arms to both fly the chopper and handles the gun. The T-1000 has hands down the coolest of the movie reloads.

Tomb Raider – Akimbo Done Right

Wielding two guns simultaneously is a prevalent movie trope and part of the Tomb Raider Legacy. Laura Croft has always been a two-gun gal, and the films reflect that with the HK USP Match pistols. However, the film also solves a problem long plagued by dual wielders…how do you reload?

Tactical reload Tomb Raider

Tomb Raider figured out how to reload akimbo guns

You need to drop one gun, reload the other, then rinse and repeat. Laura has two magazines installed on each side of the belt, facing forward, allowing her to slam the guns downward onto the belt to reload. It’s an efficient solution to a real problem.

Mad Max Needs a Friend

Mad Max Fury Road is one of my all-time favorite action flicks. In an early part of the film, Mad Max tangles with Furiousa. They get into a nasty, all-out brawl, and it’s one of the best. It involves Max chained to a War Boy as he brawls it out. Then, Furiousa frees a Glock 17, and they tangle over it.

Mad Max Glock

Everyone needs a friend sometimes

The magazine gets ejected, and the round in the chamber gets fired into the air. They fight, the War boy recovers the mag, and Max gets the gun. They dive together, and the War Boy holds the magazine as Max slams the weapon on it. Finally, he racks the weapon by slamming the sights against his belt or boot and fires a warning shot. This ends the fight, and they all become friends.

The Bad (The Lack of Reloads)

The Walking Dead Infinite Ammo Hack

In season 2 of the Walking Dead, Hershel carries a magical pump shotgun. As the zombies approach, he calmly stands his ground and fires what feels like 50 rounds of 12 gauge. Even when he’s not on the screen, we can hear the gun firing. He doesn’t even look stressed, and recoil isn’t an issue as he gently pumps the action and pulls the trigger. Reloads? Herschel needs no reloads.

Hershel shotgun

Hershel’s magical shotgun doesn’t need to reload

Commando

Is Commando the ultimate 80’s action flick? It sure feels that way. Like all great 80’s action flicks, our hero is shirtless, muscle-bound, and firing an M60 from the hip. He doesn’t need to reload in this scene because his ammo belt continually grows between shots. It’s an impressive feature, and Arnold makes it work.

Rambo Machine Gun

Arnold’s belt of ammo is like his biceps… constantly growing

21 Bridges

21 Bridges is the other Russo Brothers movie with Chadwick Boseman where no one is a superhero. In the film, two thugs rob a cocaine stash, shoot some cops, and everything goes to hell. Those two bad guys with SMGs seemingly firing hundreds of rounds without reloading. It’ gets absurd for a movie that takes itself so seriously. The Scorpion and Micro Uzi Pro are cool.

21 Bridges no tactical reload

No reloads, but hundreds of rounds fired in full auto

Tactical Reload It

Hollywood might not get it right often, but it’s worth mentioning when they do. When they don’t get it right, I can at least appreciate the creativity they use. When they get it wrong, it’s a great way to get dragged out of the movie. These are just a few of my favorites. What are yours? Share below.

About The Author:

Travis Pike is a former Marine Machine Gunner, a lifelong firearms enthusiast, and now a regular guy who likes to shoot, write, and find ways to combine the two. He holds an NRA certification as a Basic Pistol Instructor. is the world’s Okayest firearm instructor, and a simplicisist when it comes to talking about himself in the 3rd person. Hit him up on Instagram, @travis.l.pike, with story ideas.

Travis Pike

Guns of the MCU: Marvel Universe Movie Blasters

Wednesday, March 30th, 2022

Marvel movies, comics, and television shows might mostly be about super-powered people, but there is a healthy amount of firearms in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Some are handled realistically. Some, well…not so much.

“You can tell it’s a fantasy because Bucky’s SAW runs rifle mags without issue.”

Guns of the MCU

by Travis Pike

The guns of Marvel include a little bit of everything. I mean everything, from Intratec’s Derringers to handheld M134 miniguns. Today, let’s take a little peek at the guns used by major characters throughout Marvel films and television shows.

Groot and Rocket Raccoon

Rocket Raccoon uses some interesting weaponry but not much you’d see at your local range. We’ll look at some of those below.

Captain America — M1911A1

Captain America wields a period-appropriate M1911A1 during Captain America — The First Avenger. It’s a perfect companion for his shield and offers him some long-range firepower. Well, maybe not long-range, but further than he can throw a punch anyway.

Capt. America and his M1911A1

Of course, Cap uses an M1911.

The Colt M1911A1 served the United States for over 70 years as the sidearm of choice for American soldiers, sailors, Marines, and airmen. It’s a simple gun with a single stack magazine full of big fat 45 ACP slugs. For a WW2 movie, it fits perfectly beside Cap’s shield.

Ultimately Cap leads the charge over and over with the M1911, fighting the technologically infused Hydra soldiers. The Colt M1911A1 fits the movie to a T and is not just one of the guns of Marvel but an American classic. In this time period, it’s one of the more robust guns that’s second only to the younger, sexier Hi-Power.

Nick Fury — Smith and Wesson M&P

It’s tough being in the Marvel world without any superpowers or super suits. You’re gonna need a gun, and Nick Fury certainly has his favorite. Throughout the Marvel cinematic universe, Fury has wielded the S&W M&P series of polymer-frame, striker-fired pistols. This full-sized sidearm makes sense as a military man’s pistol.

Nick Fury using an S&W M&P

Nick uses a pragmatic and effective firearm.

This modern handgun offers you a very reliable pistol with a 17 round (or more) capacity magazine, a rail, polymer frame and allows you to swap backstraps for various hand sizes. It’s a simple, practical pistol.

The M&P is rather boring for the guns of Marvel, but it makes total sense as it is a practical pistol that’s extremely functional and reliable. Fury isn’t the type to get emotional about choosing his gun. He wants a gun that works the M&P works.

The Winter Soldier — M249 SAW

In Captain America: The Winter Soldier, Bucky Barnes wields tons of guns throughout the series. Including the M1941 Johnson rifle, a Skorpion, a COP Derringer, and more. Yet, he consistently wields the M249 SAW. At least in three movies, he chooses the SAW.

Bucky Barnes with the M249 SAW

You can tell it’s a work of fantasy because mags work in the SAW without issue.

The M249 SAW came from the FN Minimi, and America issued it as a squad support weapon. It’s a belt-fed, air-cooled, light machine gun. Oddly enough, the M249 SAW he utilizes never sees a belt of ammunition. Instead, it uses the awkward and rather silly magazine port with a Surefire 100-round casket magazine. I’ve used mags in a saw…they tend to be rather unreliable.

Bucky’s a beast and wields the so-called light machine gun with relative ease. I guess a metal arm helps. He uses a Leupold HAMR 4X sight with a red dot mounted atop of it, as well as the para barrel and stock. Combined with the casket mag, it does look more like one of the guns of Marvel than it does your regular SAW.

 

Falcon — Steyr SPP

Falcon goes akimbo pretty much all the time. Fast-firing machine pistols make sense for a high-flying commando. They’re light, won’t burn up fuel due to weight, and allow you to dispense lead rapidly on a fly-by. That’s seemingly how Falcon wields the Steyr SPPs.

Falcon dual-wielding the Steyr SPP

The Steyr SPP Allows Falcon to dump rounds during a fly-by. (Courtesy IMFDB)

In real life, the Steyr SPPs are semi-auto variants of the TMP, an actual machine pistol. In the films, the guns operate at full auto and provide some compact firepower to the mechanically improved Falcon. SPP stands for special purpose pistol and was produced to complement the TMP on the civilian market.

SPP pistols use polymer frames, 30 round magazines, and a rather large layout for a handgun. However, they look cool and fit in well with the other guns of Marvel. Machine pistols actually make sense. When you are doing a fly-by you have limited time to dispense lead. The high rate of fire and dual nature makes it easy to hit your target via accuracy by volume.

Black Widow — Glock 26

Like Falcon and Fury, Black Widow exists as a normal person in a super-powered world. She most certainly needs guns, and for a long time, she turned to the Glock 26 pistols. She carried two of these 9mm handguns on what appear to be Blackhawk Serpa leg rigs that ride way too low (as with most leg rigs – in the movies, and in real life).

Black Widow uses the outdated Glock 26

The Glock 26 is small, but effective, albeit outdated in 2021.

The ole Glock 26 isn’t a fancy pistol. It’s a double-stack, subcompact, 9mm handgun with ten-round OEM magazines. However, it can take any Glock 9mm double-stack magazine, so the capacity can go to 50 rounds via a drum magazine

Black Widow deals with threats to the universe with the same gun a ton of people use to deal with criminals when concealed carrying. It’s not imaginative, but after several films, they’ve earned their places as guns in the Marvel universe. If I had to fight an intergalactic threat led by a Nordic god I’d likely bring a rifle but to each their own!

Blade — MAC 11

Blade made the MCU or at least helped it pop off with one of the first good comic book movies and gives us one of my favorite guns of Marvel. Blade grabbed that R rating and enjoyed it. Part of that R rating comes from the violence caused by Blade’s custom machine pistol. This futuristic-looking hand cannon is actually a MAC-11.

Blade the Vampire Hunter using a MAC 11

Blade paved the way for the MCU…With a MAC 11. (Courtesy IMFDB)

The MAC 11 in real life is a 380 ACP variant of the MAC-10. MAC-11s are much smaller than the big, blocky MAC-10. You have to be superhuman to effectively wield a machine pistol without a stock, and luckily Blade fits the bill. It makes a better-looking handgun and would be much easier to control than the MAC-10.

A MAC-11 fitted into a futuristic-looking shell. Blade wields it mostly one-handed and seems to control the blank dispensing hellfire producing pistol. He kills tons of vamps with the gun and even occasionally reloads, which is rare for a late 90s action flick.

Emil Blonsky — DefTech 40mm Multi-Launcher

Emil Blonsky decided he’d take on the Hulk with nothing more than a little super-soldier serum and a 40mm grenade launcher. Specifically the DefTech 40mm Multi-Launcher. These revolver-type grenade launchers seem to be pump-action designs.

DefTech 40mm: Emil Blonsky

A 40mm only makes sense if you wanna gunfight a super-powered bruiser…well if you’re fighting most bricks anyway. Maybe not The Hulk.

Emil dumps 40mm HE into the Hulk and even seemingly makes him take cover. However, Emil then reverts to his handgun, which totally seems to work. I mean, if a 40mm won’t work, why not try a 9mm Sig P226R? They should have brought more grenade launchers and fewer assault rifles to this fight.

Multiple grenade launchers bring a lot of fire to the fight…at least for the first six rounds. After that, they reload slowly. What’s impressive is that Emil’s so effective without any kind of sights. Also, to hell with arming range!

The Punisher — Kimber Warrior

The Punisher uses a ton of different firearms in the two seasons of his television show and his guest-starring part in Daredevil Season 2. I chose the Kimber Warrior not because it’s my favorite gun but because Frank wields it in Daredevil and both seasons of his television show.

The Punisher, carrying a Kimber Warrior

Better make those eight rounds count. (Courtesy IMFDB)

The Kimber Warrior is a modern 1911 complete with Novak sights, aggressively textured grips, and a rail. Plus, they damn sure look cool, and looking cool is half the battle. It’s still just an M1911 with its rather outdated design. It packs eight rounds at most with the flush-fitting mags.

I guess it’s a good thing he knows how to reload.

At least as far as Frank goes. Frank plays a special ops commando with a history as a Marine. The Marine Corps clung to the M1911 for much longer than most forces, specifically their Force Recon Commandos. As far as the guns of Marvel go, the Kimber Warrior does a great job of matching the character.

The Guns of Marvel

In a universe where aliens, interdimensional demons, monsters, supernatural creatures, and literal superheroes exist, guns don’t seem to be all that handy. Yet, we’ve seen a wide variety of bad guys put into the ground via a few well-placed rounds. Seriously, guns have always been the great equalizer, so guns are likely more necessary in the Marvel world than anywhere else. And sometimes they even change their respective gun’s magazines.

So, what’s your favorite?

Which ones did I miss? Does Deadpool’s Desert Eagle deserve a spot?

Let us know below.

 

About the Author: Travis Pike is a former Marine Machine Gunner and lifelong firearms enthusiast turned regular guy. Now that he no longer works the 240B like Charlie Parker did his sax across the “Graveyard of Empires,” he likes to write, shoot, and find ways to combine both activities. A self-proclaimed tactical hipster with an unhealthy flannel shirt addiction, Travis holds an NRA certification as a Basic Pistol Instructor and is the world’s okayest firearms teacher. You can connect with him on Insta if you’re so inclined: @travis.l.pike.

Travis Pike, former Marine machine gunner and writer for hire

John Wick: Chapter 4 is now in production

Monday, June 28th, 2021

I just got this alert. I’m hoping the tone down the scale a bit, because the series has been getting pretty silly.

LEGO Star Wars Boba Fett Helmet Model Kit

Monday, July 13th, 2020

Fans of constructor sets and arguably the most standout charcter in the original Star Wars trilogy may want to give The LEGO Star Wars Boba Fett Helmet Model Kit a look. The LEGO Star Wars Boba Fett Helmet model kit is a LEGO set designed more for experienced LEGO builders, and adult fans, with an 18+ age rating. It consists of 625 pieces, so it’s fairly elaborate, but that shows through its impresive level of detail. When fully constructed, the helment measures 8.5″ x 4.5″ x 4.5″, and sits on a base with nameplate, so it won’t take up much space on a desk or shelf.

www.lego.com/en-us/product/boba-fett-helmet-75277

There’s also an equivalent set for the Stormtrooper helmet, if you’re preferential towards the Empire’s elite shock troops, or want a complete set.

www.lego.com/en-us/product/stormtrooper-helmet-75276

Happy 4th of July, Everyone!

Saturday, July 4th, 2020

Happy Independence Day, everyone! As you enjoy the 244th anniversary of our country’s founding, don’t forget what the day celebrates: the adoption of the Declaration of Independence by the Second Continental Congress and the official establishment of the United State of America.

In any event, enjoy the above inspirational and on-topic scene from an unlikely but welcome source: Big Trouble in Little China.

The Hacksmith – Predator Thermal Vision Helmet

Sunday, June 21st, 2020

YouTube Channel The Hacksmith created a thermal vision helmet inspired by the ones worn by the Predators/Yautja from the series of the same name. They accomplished this by utilizing several off-the-shelf camera and computer components, including a FLIR Lepton 3.5 thermal censor pulled from a FLIR ONE Pro thermal imaging camera, and mating them to a Zeiss Cinemizer headset, all mounted within a Predator-themed motorcycle helmet cover. However, they didn’t stop there, as they also utilized a Wicked Lasers LaserCube with a custom 3D-printed shoulder mount to replicate the Predator’s laser cannon. The end result is a working helmet that can switch between various vision modes, and a shoulder-mounted laser that projects a triangular reticle, and can pop balloons almost instantly; in short, it’s pretty damn cool.

You can check out more of The Hacksmith’s videos via their YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjgpFI5dU-D1-kh9H1muoxQ

In Search of Tomorrow – The Definitive 80’s Sci-Fi Documentary (Official Trailer)

Sunday, May 17th, 2020

80s Sci-Fi movies get a bit of play here on this site, so it seemed appropriate to bring up a 4 hour documentary on the very subject. ‘In Search of Tomorrow’ is intended as the “Definitive 80’s Sci-Fi documentary”, consisting of “interviews with actors, directors, writers, SFX experts, and composers” of these beloved films.

Movies such as Escape from New York (one of my personal favorites, if it wasn’t clear), Predator, Aliens, RoboCop, The Wrath of Kahn, and much more will be the focus of the documentary. Cast and crew alike have been interviews, discussing the characters, special effects, production design, socio/political context, and legacy of these films, so it’s shaping up to be a pretty comprehensive documentary.

It’s currently up for funding on Kickstarter, but has blown past it’s initial goal of $40,000 and is currently up to a bit over $520k at the time of writing, with only 10 hours to go on the campaign – this one’s a sure thing.

All the same, you can check out the link below to pledge to the campaign, maybe have your name as part of the credits:

www.kickstarter.com/projects/creatorvc/in-search-of-tomorrow-80s-sci-fi-documentary

Flash Gordon – 4k Restoration

Monday, May 11th, 2020

French film production and distribution company StudioCanal, which late last year released 4k restorations of some of John Carpenter’s most iconic films, is adding the cult classic Flash Gordon to their 4k restoration offerings. No word on a theatrical release for this one, however like the previously mentioned Carpenter films, the Flash Gordon 4K restoration is receiving its own 4K UHD Collector’s Edition set:

As you can tell from the picture alone, this set comes loaded to the brim with add-ins, including:

● Bonus Blu-Ray Disc of LIFE AFTER FLASH
● Soundtrack
● 32 page booklet
● 16 page Titan mini book (The Story of Flash Gordon)
● Reproduced booklet of the first strip of original comic books
● Poster of original artwork

In addition to a copy of the movie, commentary tracks, documentaries, ect.

It is currently available for pre-order from Amazon.uk, but unfortunately will not ship to the States, so you’ll need to find friends in Transatlantic places, or find another way to get a copy imported if you’re on this side of the pond.

www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B087XLTTB8

Reebok – U.S.C.M. Bug Stomper Shoes

Monday, April 20th, 2020

Inspired by the United States Colonial Marines garb as seen in 1986’s Aliens, these Bug Stomper shoes are pretty rad looking. Consisting of a full-grain leather upper, the Bug Stompers feature USCM camouflage accents, Velcro straps, and a ‘Bug Stomper’ label, as well as the Bug Stomper ‘We Endanger Species’ motto on the right shoe rear pull tab.

Here’s the full feature set as pulled direct from the product page:

Full grain leather upper
Soft, supportive feel
Die-cut EVA midsole for lightweight cushioning
Moulded sockliner offers durable cushiony comfort
High-abrasion-resistant rubber outsole adds durable responsiveness

The U.S.C.M Bug Stomper Shoes will be made available this coming Saturday, 4/25 at the link below. They’ll be available an an extravagant markup on eBay shortly afterwards.

www.reebok.co.uk/u.s.c.m.-bug-stomper-shoes/FV5052

Sideshow Collectables – M56 Smartgun Prop Replica by Hollywood Collectibles Group

Monday, April 13th, 2020

Hollywood Collectables Group has come out with another awesome movie-accurate prop replica weapon from Aliens, this time the M56 Smartgun, as wielded by PFC Vasquez in the film. Made of fiberglass, metal, resin, and mixed media, each M56 Smartgun prop is hand-painted and authentically weathered. They’re authentically-sized as well, coming in at 48″ long complete with a themed tabletop display stand; you’ll have to source your own rig and harness if you plan on carrying this one around.

It is limited to only 600 units, with an estimated ship date between May and June 2020.

Fun fact: the original M56 Smartgun from the movie Aliens was constructed from an MG42 rigged up with a steadycam harness and various motorcycle parts.

www.sideshow.com/collectibles/aliens-m56-smartgun-hollywood-collectibles-group-906248

ANR Design – Snake Plissken Camo Holsters

Sunday, April 5th, 2020

This post was originally featured on Soldier System Daily.

ANR Design is doing a limited run of their holsters and mag pouches in the famous camouflage pattern worn by Snake Plissken in “Escape from New York.”

You can build full covert and overt loadouts with the Builder. It allows you to pick an inside the waistband holster if you want, or the tactical Nidhogg which is their outside the waistband overt holster as well as mag pouches for pistol and rifle.

To use their Snake Plissken Camo Builder, visit www.anrdesignkydexholster.com/product/snake-plissken-camo-builder.

Chef’s Creations – Colonial Marine USCM BDUs

Wednesday, February 19th, 2020

Chief’s Creations is a UK-based maker of expert-quality, highly-detailed props and costumes, and with the motto ‘Building Better Costumes’ and their Wayland-Yutani inspired company logo, you’d be safe in assuming they’re pretty big on the Aliens franchise.

So proven by their Colonial Marine USCM BDUs. And, right of the bat, it’s worth mentioning how dedicated Chef’s Creations is to living up to their motto: they went through the effort of accurately recreating the ‘Frog Leaf’ USCM camouflage from scratch, based on a swatch of screen used fabric. A British Army textile contractor prints the camouflage onto sheet, from which the BDUs are constructed by hand, made to order.

The BDUs are also patterned accurately after those seen in the film, as the prop house had the opportunity to study a set of ‘screen used’ BDUs; every pocket, seam, and button was studied in detail to create as accurate a reproduction as possible. The BDUs are made using heavy weight cotton drill material, sewn with strong thread, and reinforced “beyond the screen used items for longevity.” Simply put, if you want to make as accurate a USCM cosplay as possible, these are the guys to contact.

https://www.chefscreations.co.uk/portfolio-item/colonial-marine-uscm-bdus/

They also make a kick-ass set of Colonial Marine USMC M3 Armor, and a few other movie-accurate accessories, if you want to complete the look.

REAL PARTS: Star Wars ANH (1977) X-Wing Pilot Helmet

Tuesday, January 7th, 2020

One of the things that makes the original Star Wars so great is the plethora of props that are inspired by or outright formed from old military weapons and gear. Such is the case with the Rebel X-Wing pilot’s helmet, which was based on a Gentex APH-6 flight helmet. This video by YouTube channel Mike’s Tiny Shop details a bit of this history, and even shows the channel owner’s father’s own Vietnam-era restored APH-6. This is then compared to a replica of Wedge Antilles’ helmet from Episode 4: A New Hope, which the owner created using a helmet shell and miscellaneous parts.

It’s a cool video to check out, whether your a fan of props, military gear, or tales of a long time ago in a galaxy far, far away.

By Popular Demand, Peter Jackson’s Unforgettable Documentary ‘They Shall Not Grow Old’ Will Return to Movie Theaters In December for Encore Presentations in Both 3D and 2D

Thursday, November 14th, 2019

WHAT: One of the most acclaimed and highest-grossing documentaries ever made, “They Shall Not Grow Old” is director Peter Jackson’s extraordinary look at the soldiers, the events, the sounds and the sights of World War I. After hearing from moviegoers nationwide who wanted to relive this unique cinematic experience in 3D, Fathom Events and Warner Bros. will bring “They Shall Not Grow Old” back to movie theaters across the country for three days only this December. The film will also be available in 2D in select locations.

On December 7, 17 and 18, more than 800 cinemas throughout the U.S. present the film the New York Times called “a brisk, absorbing and moving experience,” and about which Rolling Stone wrote, “You won’t believe your eyes.” Initially released by Fathom Events and Warner Bros. in December of 2018, “They Shall Not Grow Old” has become one of Fathom’s most successful and most requested titles. The December presentations will include both an introduction to the film by Jackson as well as a post-film exploration of how the film was made.

For generations, World War I has only been experienced through grainy, silent black-and-white footage. With unprecedented digital restoration, meticulous colorization and revelatory use of sound, “They Shall Not Grow Old” was nominated by BAFTA and the Critic’s Choice Award for Best Documentary, and won the Motion Picture Sound Editor’s Golden Reel Award. “They Shall Not Grow Old” opens a window to the past in a way that has never been seen or heard before.

WHO: Fathom Events and Warner Bros.

WHEN: Saturday, December 7, 2019 – 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. (local time)
Tuesday, December 17, 2019 – 7:00 p.m. (local time)
Wednesday, December 18, 2019 – 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. (local time)

WHERE: Tickets for “They Shall Not Grow Old” can be purchased at www.FathomEvents.com or participating theater box offices. For a complete list of theater locations visit the Fathom Events website (theaters and participants are subject to change).

LEGO – 1989 Batmobile

Sunday, November 10th, 2019

Pay tribute to the Batman who killed goons on screen years before Batfleck in BvS with this LEGO Batmobile set. Designed specifically for older fans (it’s ages 16+ rated right on the box) this set is modeled after the batmobile from the 1989 Tim Burton Batman film, and consists of just a hair over 3300 pieces. The completed model comes in at over 60cm long, and features a slide-open cockpit with brand-new wraparound windshield element introduced with this set. Two hidden machine guns can pop out by turning the turbine exhaust, and this Batmobile also features decorative grappling hooks on either side.

This set also marks the first appearance of three new exclusive minifigures: Batman (w/ new torso decoration), The Joker (w/ new face and torso decoration), and Vicki Vale (w/ new torso and legs), all modeled after their appearance in the 1989 Batman film, along with a brick-built display stand.

This set will be made available on November 29th, and can be pre-orded direct from LEGO at: www.lego.com/en-us/product/1989-batmobile-76139

Sacred Bones Records – Halloween “Target Practice” Poster

Thursday, October 3rd, 2019

In the article when I first brought up Chris Bilheimer’s ‘Target Practice’ art made for the Halloween 2018 soundtrack, and subsequently available on a t-shirt and enamel pin, I mentioned how it was unfortunate that it wasn’t available as an actual target. Well, it’s not quite there yet, however it is now available as an oversized, 23″x34″ stand-alone poster. At $15/ea, this isn’t one you’d buy just to shoot at the range, but it’d still be a cool wall piece.

www.sacredbonesrecords.com/collections/john-carpenter/products/john-carpenter-target-practice-poster

Anovos – STAR WARS: RETURN OF THE JEDI Boba Fett EE-3 Blaster Kit

Tuesday, October 1st, 2019

Anovos, noted manufacturer of licensed prop replicas and costumes from properties such as Star Wars and Marvel, currently has a build kit of Boba Fett’s EE-3 Blaster from Return of the Jedi up for pre-order. The kit, a 1:1 replica based on scans, measurements, and photographs taken of the original screen use production assets, ships in 7 parts, and does require clean up and physical assembly. It also comes in a solid safety orange color, so you’ll also have to paint this one for it to be 100% display or cosplay ready. It’s so accurate, in fact, that you can see some of the detail from the original 37mm Webley & Scott No.1 Mark 1 Flare Gun the EE-3 screen model was built around.

www.anovos.com/products/star-wars-boba-fett-ee-3-blaster-kit

Evil Dead 4k Restoration Limited Theatrical Event Schedule Revealed

Wednesday, September 25th, 2019

Grindhouse Releasing has revealed the initial round of dates for the Evil Dead 4k Restoration. As expected, it’s a mix of small arthouse theaters and conventions around North America, principally the US. Showings are scheduled through December, and are at a pretty wide variety of locations, so chances are decent you’ll be able to find a showing within a reasonable distance. What constitutes “reasonable” might depend on how much of an Evil Dead fan you are; luckily for me there are multiple showings extremely close by through October, and I’ve already got my ticket!

As a reminder, this is a 4k restoration of the original ‘Evil Dead’, with the restoration done from the original 16mm print – and in close collaboration with original director Sam Raimi. The release will also feature a brand new 5.1 surround sound mix, and a completely reimagined soundtrack by original composer Joseph LoDuca.

You can check out the full list at: http://grindhousereleasing.com/?p=1123

Halloween – ‘Target Practice’ T-Shirt

Tuesday, September 10th, 2019

This shirt, related to the ‘Halloween’ 2018 sequel/reboot film, features a pretty cool design of Michael Meyers/The Shape as a paper shooting target. The artwork was designed by Chris Bilheimer, and is printed on an olive drab 100% cotton t-shirt. Available in sizes X-Small – 2XL.

www.sacredbonesrecords.com/products/target-practice-t-shirt

It’s also available in pin form, for those who’s interest lies more in pins than t-shirts.

www.sacredbonesrecords.com/collections/john-carpenter/products/halloween-target-practice-enamel-pin

Of course, the real shame here is that the paper target itself is not available for purchase in an official capacity. Definitely looks like something Laurie Strode would have had hanging up in her backyard range in the recent film.

LEGO – Ultimate Collectors Series – Imperial Star Destroyer

Sunday, September 8th, 2019

LEGO will soon be releasing not just one of its largest Star Wars sets, but one of its largest sets yet released in general: the Imperial Star Destroyer ‘Devastator’ from the opening scene of Star Wars Episode 1: A New Hope. Consisting of almost 4800 pieces, this set is sized 14″ H x 43″ L x 26″ W fully constructed; 17″ high when set on its included display stand. It features swiveling guns, a tilting radar dish, huge engine exhausts, and intricate surface detailing. While it’s designed so that it can be picked up and handled, this is one by its very nature that’s designed to go straight into a display case.

Unfortunately, the included Minifigures are a bit limited: you get an Imperial Officer and Imperial Crewmember, each with their own pistol weapons. However, the set comes complete with a scale model of the rebel Tantive IV ship, and a TIE Fighter, both of which can be set within the docking bay, which is pretty cool.

Check out the video below to see LEGO Senior Designer Henrik Andersen go over the set and his process for designing it:

The Imperial Star Destroyer ‘Devastator’ set releases October 1st, or September 18th for LEGO VIP members.

www.lego.com/en-us/product/imperial-star-destroyer-75252

Factory Entertainment – James Bond – The Golden Gun Limited Edition Prop Replica

Friday, August 30th, 2019

Factory Entertainment is releasing a seriously high-quality prop replica of assassin Francisco Scaramanga’s titular Golden Gun from the James Bond film ‘The Man With the Golden Gun’. A 1:1 scale replica, this prop is officially licensed by Danjaq LLC and EON Productions, and was created after extensive study of the props in EON Productions’ archives and interviews with the cast and crew. But the coolest thing about this particular prop is, it actually disassembles and reassembles just like the one in the film:

– Fountain Pen Barrel
– Lighter
– Cigarette Case
– Cufflink
– Replica bullet

According to the description on the product page, these components are made of machined metal, and will be 18ct gold plated, so this is sure to be a pretty expensive prop.

Pre-orders go up on September 1st, with delivery noted to be sometime in Fall of 2020.

www.factoryent.com/James-Bond-The-Golden-Gun-Limited-Edition-Prop-p

Evil Dead 4k Restoration Limited Theatrical Event

Wednesday, August 28th, 2019

Grindhouse Releasing is bringing the original Evil Dead back to theaters for an extremely limited engagement throughout the US. In celebration of the 4k release of Evil Dead on Blu-ray, this theatrical release of Evil Dead will also be in 4k, with the restoration done from the original 16mm print – and in close collaboration with original director Sam Raimi. The release will also feature a brand new 5.1 surround sound mix, and a completely reimagined soundtrack by original composer Joseph LoDuca.

Information on when the showings will be, and at which theaters is woefully limited. However, Grindhouse Releasing only recently posted the announcement, and they’re sure to put up the official schedule on their site in due time: grindhousereleasing.com

Expect this one to pop up at arthouse theaters and Alamo Drafthouses across the US soon!

Smith & Bradley SANS-13 2.0 Watch is the lead prop in upcoming film ’10 MINUTES GONE’

Monday, August 19th, 2019

As the title states, the Smith & Bradley SANS-13 2.0 is the lead prop in the upcoming film ’10 MINUTES GONE’, staring Michael Chiklis and Bruce Willis. According to Jerommie Smith, the president of Smith & Bradley, S&B worked directly on set and made all the prop watches in the film, which are featured in a shot in every scene.

You can check out the trailer for ’10 MINUTES GONE’ below:

Jasco Games is bringing an Evil Dead 2 board game to Kickstarter

Friday, August 16th, 2019

Las Vegas-based Jasco Games, designer and publisher of various types of tabletop and card games, has announced that they’re soon going to be putting an Evil Dead 2 board game up on the crowdfunding platform, Kickstarter.

Here’s a bit of background that lead to this announcement: there was an earlier attempt by Bellingham, Washington-based Space Goat Productions to fund an Evil Dead 2 boardgame via Kickstarter. Unfortunately, despite funding from 6000+ backers, Space Goat revealed they would be unable to complete the game and had no concrete solution for the issue. Normally, that would be the end of it, the game would have fallen into obscurity, and all the backers of the original project would go empty-handed.

However, Jasco Games, in partnership with board game designers Lynnvander Studios, have obtained the board game rights for Evil Dead 2, and will be creating their own Evil Dead 2 board game. This new Evil Dead 2 board game, which is also going up on Kickstarter, will have some of the elements from the Space Goat game integrated into its design, and Jasco Games will also be donating a copy of this new game to a backer of the Space Goat version, for every copy funded in the new campaign.

It’s easy to recognize the irony in crowdfunding the revival of a game that failed to be created after its own crowdfunding campaign fell through. However, Jasco Games has a lot of great games based on famous properties under their umbrella, so they’re probably the best bet to actually seeing this project through.

Here’s a link to the official announcement: jascogames.com/jasco-games-looks-to-revive-evil-dead-2-the-official-board-game

Stay tuned for more info on the Kickstarter campaign when it goes live.