Category: Movies & Television (Videos)

UNDERTAKER VS. TRIPLE H – “HELL IN A CELL” (WWE WRESTLEMANIA 28: Taped April 1, 2012)

Post author By oddmoonmediareviews
Post date October 26, 2020

SUMMARY: RUNNING TIME: Approx. 31 Min. +

In a sequel to their brutal encounter at WrestleMania 27, this WrestleMania rematch one year later pits Triple H against the Undertaker in what could quite possibly be The Game’s most iconic match. Shawn Michaels steps in to referee this Hell-in-a-Cell cage match. From Sun Life Stadium in Miami, Florida, on April 1, 20212, Jim Ross, Jerry ‘The King’ Lawler, and Michael Cole call the action in this ‘End of an Era’ bout.

As for the match’s run time, when looking at it from the entrance of Shawn Michaels to the mesmerizing finish, it lasts a whopping 50:22. However, in terms of actual ring time, the match goes for 30:40. Calling it a slobber-knocker would be an understatement! This match appears on the WrestleMania 28 DVD and Blu-Ray sets.

REVIEW:

Though Triple H has a reputation for not jobbing to many, he sells very well here.. Not to say that he doesn’t get his fair share of offense, but it takes a while. “A vile, vicious, malicious attack,” as called by J.R., sums up what lengths The Cerebral Assassin is willing to go to prevail. In total, Triple H performs about five moves that aren’t in conjunction with a foreign object. This could show a lack of wrestling skill or maybe his will to win, but, either way, The Game doesn’t impress from an in-ring standpoint. Maybe it’s him getting carried up the rampway, then a cut above his eye, or showing just pure exhaustion, Triple H does pull off acting skills that makes anyone wonder why he didn’t co-star alongside The Rock in The Tooth Fairy. In all seriousness, however, he does a great job conveying the battle-tested veteran finally meeting his toughest match.

The Undertaker has had arguably the greatest career in pro wrestling history. Decades after decades of consistent gold, this classic shows that even while pushing 50, he can still look like the most dominant force in the company. With hard hitting strikes and ruthless aggression, he looks like he wants to send Triple H home on a stretcher. Though not as heavily reliant on weapons as Triple H, Undertaker’s relentless rights and lefts make up most of his offense.

Despite having the durability of a slice of soggy bread, Shawn Michaels contributes to makes this match great. Sure, he isn’t wrestling, but his facial expressions and reactions truly convey someone with as many mixed emotions as he has. His distressed/torn apart look is probably the best part of the bout. Does Shawn align himself with his friend Triple H? Or does he side with The Undertaker … the same man who retired him just two years prior? It keeps anyone guessing as to what The Heartbreak Kid will do next!

WrestleMania XVIII is the best-selling WWE PPV in history, and this match clearly shows why. On its surface, this match is a slow-paced, half-hour brawl heavy on weaponry. Yet, all of this doesn’t matter. The so-called ‘End of an Era’ earns its hype, as this brawl marked the last time Triple H or The Undertaker performed at an exceptionally high level. Now, yes, they could’ve looked good because the match is fixated on weapons rather than wrestling, but they both come out better than they did coming in. Even when, at times, it oozes of WWE’s scripted stench, this slugfest should be on anyone’s WrestleMania radar!

ROSCOE’S ODD MOON RATING: 8 Stars

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Blu-Ray Digital Movies & TV DVD Sports (TV & Videos) WWF/WWE (Pro Wrestling)

BRET “HITMAN” HART VS. “MR. PERFECT CURT HENNIG (WWE Entertainment: Taped April 29, 1989)

Post author By oddmoonmediareviews
Post date October 26, 2020

SUMMARY: RUNNING TIME: 25 MIN.

Filmed by the WWE on/about April 29, 1989, at a house show at Toronto’s Maple Leaf Gardens, it’s Bret “Hitman” Hart vs. “Mr. Perfect” Curt Hennig. “Gorilla” Monsoon and “Lord” Alfred Hayes are the commentators – it’s possible that they recorded voice-overs for this match, since they aren’t actually visible on-screen at ringside.

The match is included on the WWE’s 2013 Bret Hart: The Dungeon Collection DVD and Blu-Ray sets.

REVIEW:

As Hart attests in his autobiography, he and Hennig, as second-generation performers in their prime, were so evenly matched (and worked safely together) that their WWE house show battles made for professional bliss. It’s no wonder that their chemistry could steal a house show’s audience from the main event on any given night. Including their standard-issue finish (or maybe just a slight variation of it), this particular showcase is no exception.

Hennig (i.e. his sheer athleticism; a few of his patented flops/pratfalls) demonstrates why he was the best technical heel in North America in 1989 – with the possible exception of the NWA’s Ric Flair. Noticeably, Hennig’s ‘Mr. Perfect’ gimmick is still in development, as his in-ring style here resembles his 1987-88 heel run as AWA World Champion.

Still a part-time singles performer at this juncture, Hart already exudes the legendary presence he would have in the 90’s. Unsurprisingly, this showdown (including some friction after the bell) is a terrific prelude to their Intercontinental Title showdown at SummerSlam 1991, in spite of Hennig’s real-life back injury. A subtle bonus is that Monsoon & Hayes playfully nail their commentary track observing these guys work with methodical precision.

Considering the match doesn’t embrace the WWE’s cartoony style, this low-key Hart vs. Hennig battle is a treat for fans.

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 8 Stars

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Decorations Dolls, Statues, & Busts Movies & Television (Videos) Toys & Games

ELVIRA (FUNKO’S ROCK CANDY VINYL STATUETTE)

Post author By oddmoonmediareviews
Post date October 26, 2020

SUMMARY:

Released in 2017, this Rock Candy vinyl collectible by Funko presents actress Cassandra Peterson’s legendary Elvira, Mistress of the Dark. Faithfully recreating her sultry black evening gown (including a jeweled dagger) and over-the-top make-up, this statuette is approximately 5½ inches tall. Its packaging includes two small head shots of the real Elvira to compare with one of the same size of this cartoony counterpart. The collectible has large foot pegs in case one wishes to pose her on a display base (which isn’t included).

REVIEW:

Including a spot-on paint job, Funko’s sculpted rendition of Elvira is flawless. The minute details extend to her black fingernail polish, the gleam off her black patent leather pumps, and even a dimple on her right cheek. The sole oddity are the foot pegs, as they aren’t even necessary. This statuette stands perfectly well because the molded black dress effectively anchors her. To Funko’s credit, the well-designed packaging allows consumers to see the statuette through clear plastic to confirm that it does indeed match exactly the gothic promo photo on back. Considering its tongue-in-cheek potential as a desk or shelf decoration, this vinyl statuette would make an amusing gift for any Elvira fan.

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 9 Stars

Action Figures Movies & Television (Videos) STAR WARS-Related Toys & Games

STAR WARS – THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK’S BESPIN HAN SOLO (HASBRO ‘BLACK SERIES’ — SDCC 2018)

Post author By oddmoonmediareviews
Post date October 26, 2020

SUMMARY:

It was initially released by Hasbro as a “Star Wars – Black Series” exclusive at the 2018 San Diego Comic Con (SDCC). This six-inch Bespin Han Solo recaptures actor Harrison Ford’s look from 1980’s Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back. It’s barely distinguishable from the figure’s subsequent mass-market release; specifically, there’s a subtle change made to Han’s left hand.

This SDCC version allows Han to grip his blaster with either hand. The mass release version allows him to grip the blaster accessory with his right hand only, with his left hand changed to more of a finger-posing pose. Either rendition is the first-ever Bespin Han Solo action figure with a close resemblance to Ford’s likeness.

REVIEW:

Including a commendable paint job, this figure’s sculpting faithfully recreates Harrison Ford’s Empire look. The distinctive part down the middle of his sculpted brown hair and even a few creases in his forehead add welcome touches of realism. This sturdily-built Han Solo figure has better-than-expected articulation. Specifically: 1. His head nods and turns a full 360-degrees. 2. His arms rotate 360-degrees and bend at the elbows and the full-rotating wrists. 3. The figure can bend into a bowing position. 4. Though his knees bend, the articulation itself is minimal. 5. His booted ankles bend and move the feet more than expected. 6. Han’s legs are remarkably spry to simulate walking; running; kicking; and action-pose shooting. Even better, it’s easy to position Han in a standing display pose without a base.

To Hasbro’s credit, this Han Solo figure (along with its “Black Series” Star Wars IV: A New Hope counterpart) presents Han’s finest-ever depiction in six-inch form. All that’s missing is a carbonite-encased version.

ADDITIONAL CONTENT:

While his air mask and/or some extra hands would have been appreciated, Han’s trusty blaster is the sole extra. This pistol snugly fits in his right-leg holster. Despite foot pegs in his boot heels, a display base isn’t included.

PACKAGING:

Hasbro does a superb job displaying the figure. Everything inside the product box a consumer needs to see is readily visible.

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 9 Stars

Notes: In 2020, Kenner has re-released the mass-market figure as part of its own six-inch Star Wars merchandise. Its packaging features a photo image of Ford posed as Solo in The Empire Strikes Back. Also, a six-inch ‘Han Solo in Carbonite’ figure exists, but this reviewer hasn’t seen it in person.

Action Figures Movies & Television (Videos) STAR WARS-Related Toys & Games

STAR WARS – THE FORCE AWAKENS’ FINN ON JAKKU (2015 HASBRO ‘BLACK SERIES’)

Post author By oddmoonmediareviews
Post date October 26, 2020

SUMMARY:

Released in 2015 by Hasbro as part of its ongoing 6-inch ‘Black Series,’ this action figure closely resembles actor John Boyega as Finn.

REVIEW:

Sporting a top-caliber paint job, this Finn ’s costume faithfully recreates his incognito post-Stormtrooper attire he wears on planet Jakku. Curiously, unlike his molded sleeves, Finn’s jacket can be removed from the figure (with some effort), making it into a vest. In terms of articulation, this Finn is solid. Specifically: 1. His head turns slightly in both directions. 2. His arms move only fairly well, but both the forearms and hands have full 360-degree mobility. 3. The figure’s upper body can bend down into a bowing pose. 4. The legs are surprisingly nimble, as they can also rotate the full 360-degrees. 5. Due to flexible knee and ankle joints, Finn’s pose options (running, walking, kicking) are certainly available. 6. Though a display stand isn’t included, there are peg holes in the bottom of his feet for bases that will fit him.

Considering all its practical advantages (including an impressive likeness to John Boyega), this sturdy Finn action figure is ideal for either playtime or as a display item.

ADDITIONAL CONTENT:

Although not seen below, this figure comes packed with a gold-and-silver-plated blaster, which frankly looks like a glorified power tool.

PACKAGING:

The figure is well-protected by Hasbro’s product box, which is decorated by Boyega’s image as Finn.

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 8 Stars

Action Figures Toys & Games WWF/WWE (Pro Wrestling)

WWE BROTHERS OF DESTRUCTIONS – KANE & THE UNDERTAKER (MATTEL/WWE ACTION FIGURES BATTLE TWO-PACK)

Post author By oddmoonmediareviews
Post date October 26, 2020

SUMMARY:

Released by the WWE through Mattel in 2017 as part of its 43rd series, this ‘battle’ two-pack features The Brothers of Destruction: Kane and the Undertaker.

REVIEW:

These two ‘basic’ figures definitely live up to that branding. This means that the figures have limited articulation, as compared to their higher-end (and higher-priced) counterparts, but that’s okay. When trying to replicate two fifty-something guys as action figures, it’s probably more accurate to say they can’t move quite as freely. This set also comes with a shovel to use as a weapon or a burying tool (for landscaping purposes).

Starting with The Undertaker, this version of ‘The Deadman’ is very reminiscent of his SummerSlam 2015 look. The main issue is that this figure’s eyes are bugged out, making it more of a distraction than a help. One good thing about this figure is that his tattoos are accurate; however, they’re all with brown printing, unlike higher quality alternatives. Besides that, he’s not that bad — but the figure just feels cheap. The same cannot be said for Kane. ‘The Big Red Machine’ has great red stitching, plus a flame running up his left leg. The face is really detailed, though it’s still inaccurate. This figure feels more like the menacing Kane from the late 90’s in a newer outfit rather than a 51-year old part-timer. Still good though!

Is this pair worth tracking down? For younger kids, sure! One thing about having two figures is that siblings can trade off on them and play WWE wrestling together. As for adult collectors, this isn’t anything more than a run-of-the-mill attempt to cash in on fans of either Kane or The Undertaker.

BONUS FEATURES:

The bonus is the gray plastic shovel for them to share.

ROSCOE’S ODD MOON RATING: 7 Stars

Action Figures Toys & Games WWF/WWE (Pro Wrestling)

BRITISH BULLDOG – WWE SUMMERSLAM 1992 (MATTEL BASIC WWE ACTION FIGURE)

Post author By oddmoonmediareviews
Post date October 26, 2020

SUMMARY:

From Mattel, this ‘basic’ (approximately six-inch) WWE figure represents “British Bulldog” Davey Boy Smith. Specifically, it’s Smith’s look for his pivotal title showdown vs. WWE Intercontinental Champion, former tag-team rival, (and real-life brother-in-law) Bret “Hit Man” Hart at London’s Wembley Stadium in August 1992. To describe WWE ‘basic’ figures, it means: 1. This figure’s limited articulation doesn’t allow his abdomen & ribs to bend; 2. The legs can bend at the knees, but they can’t extend into splits; and 3. His calves won’t rotate.

REVIEW:

In terms of a facial likeness, there’s no mistaking it’s Davey Boy Smith. The limited articulation provides the ability to bend elbows; swivel his waist; rotate wrists and ankles; and expand his arms just barely for a classic curled bicep pose. In terms of its production quality, the figure is impressively sculpted and sturdily built. The paint quality is also high-caliber, but his entire outfit is a paint job, including the white left pantleg lacing. For posing purposes, the figure is stiff, but it stands up well when the feet are properly positioned. There are holes in the bottom of the feet for pegs, but a display base isn’t included. For the most part, this British Bulldog is a solid buy at its standard retail price.

ADDITIONAL CONTENT:

It’s disappointing that there aren’t any accessories, such as a WWE I-C title belt, Winston the Bulldog, or his sparkling Union Jack ring robe. Those types of extras are reserved for WWE’s ‘elite’ figures.

PACKAGING:

The packaging is simplistic but effective. Its theme predictably reflects SummerSlam 1992.

ROSCOE’S ODD MOON RATING: 6 Stars

Action Figures Toys & Games WWF/WWE (Pro Wrestling)

BRITISH BULLDOGS (2003 WWE/JAKKS PACIFIC ACTION FIGURES TWO-PACK)

Post author By oddmoonmediareviews
Post date October 26, 2020

SUMMARY:

From JAKKS Pacific in 2003, this two-pack commemorates a prominent WWE tag team of the 1980’s: Tommy “Dynamite Kid” Billington (approximately 6¾-inches) and cousin Davey Boy Smith (approximately 7-inches) as “The British Bulldogs.” Their classic Union Jack attire is painted on consisting of: blue-red-and-white tights (with tightly-attached rubber knee pads – the grinning Smith has blue knee pads and Dynamite has black pads); white wrist tape; and matching white-blue-and red boots with white lacing.

Their limited articulation and ripped sculpting serves as a precursor to that of WWE-Mattel ‘basic’ figures. Specifically, each figure’s articulation points allow or won’t allow: 1. Their heads will turn slightly both ways. 2. 360-degree rotations are possible with the arms. The arms also bend at the wrists and elbows, so a classic bicep curl pose is possible. 3. The upper body will bow, but the waist & abdomen don’t move. 4. Sporting decent flexibility, the legs will bend at the knees and ankles, but they can’t extend into splits. Walking and kicking poses are at least workable. 5. Neither the legs nor the calves rotate.

REVIEW:

In terms of their resemblance to the Dynamite Kid and Davey Boy Smith, their likenesses are relatively close. It should be noted, however, that Smith didn’t actually sport a dreadlocks hairstyle until his solo WWE return in early 1991. Also, the Dynamite Kid figure represents one of the few ever made of him — quite possibly, it’s the only one for now. In terms of production quality, the figures are impressively sculpted and sturdily built for the Bulldogs’ roughhouse style of wrestling. Their paint quality is also high-caliber.

For posing purposes, one’s options are limited, but the Bulldogs stand up well when their feet are properly positioned. However, there aren’t peg holes in the bottom of their feet for display bases. Their elongated feet are instead protected by a ring at the bottom of each boot sole to provide balance for standing poses. For those remember Smith & Dynamite’s hard-charging style blending aerial tactics with high-impact moves, seeing this fan-friendly duo again really is a welcome treat.

ADDITIONAL CONTENT:

The extras are a WWE World Tag Team Title belt (why JAKKS Pacific didn’t include two of them is unknown) and their mascot: a rubber bulldog representing their mascot, Matilda.

PACKAGING:

The packaging is simplistic yet effective. It offers some cool nostalgia re: the Bulldogs’ enduring contribution to ‘80s tag team wrestling.

BRIAN & ROSCOE’S ODD MOON RATING: 7 Stars

Decorations Dolls, Statues, & Busts Movies & Television (Videos) Toys & Games

MARRIED WITH CHILDREN’S AL BUNDY (FUNKO STATUETTE)

Post author By oddmoonmediareviews
Post date October 25, 2020

SUMMARY:

Meant to resemble actor Ed O’Neill as downtrodden Al Bundy from the 1987-1997 Fox TV series, this vinyl Funko was released in 2018. It is the standard Funko size (about 3.75 inches tall). Al is depicted wearing his standard shoe salesman work attire, with the right hand gripping his beloved TV remote and the left hand is relaxing, well, uh, somewhere else. Let’s just call it a vintage Al Bundy pose.

Note: Al Bundy is Funko # 688. Also available separately is his ‘beloved’ family: wife Peggy Bundy (Funko # 689); daughter Kelly Bundy (Funko # 690); and son Bud Bundy (Funko # 691).

REVIEW:

Funko definitely captures the vintage Al Bundy look, even down to the minute details of stripes on his tie. The paint job is terrific but not flawless. There may be some minor paint bleeds in various places (i.e. on Al’s left sideburn), which can be spotted upon close inspection. Still, considering all factors (particularly, its amusing potential as a desk or shelf decoration), this Funko Al Bundy makes a fine gag gift to any Married With Children fan.

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 8 Stars

Decorations Dolls, Statues, & Busts Toys & Games WWF/WWE (Pro Wrestling)

DIAMOND DALLAS PAGE (WCW BOBBLEHEAD STATUE)

Post author By oddmoonmediareviews
Post date October 25, 2020

SUMMARY:

At eight inches tall (including its 1¼-inch display base), this hand-painted bobblehead statue depicts pro wrestling icon Diamond Dallas Page in his ‘Bang’ taunting pose. The “Bang! Diamond Dallas Page” wording is written/engraved in black pen. This bobblehead was evidently released sometime in the later nineties (maybe 1997 or 1998) as official WCW (World Championship Wrestling)/NWO (New World Order) merchandise. However, it can’t be confirmed whether or not Page’s autograph is legitimate.

The smooth and rock-hard texture of the wrestling ring display base suggests that it is perhaps made with a resin.

Note: This loose statue was purchased as is, without packaging and missing the fourth ring post.

REVIEW:

Despite so little info available about its manufacturer, this bobblehead is still impressive. Re: his ceramic head, its spot-on paint job and detailing (including Page’s molded dirty blondish-brown hair and beard) are superb, right down to his mocking sneer. Attached to a most likely ceramic body (which even replicates his upper arm tattoos), this bobblehead makes for a mini-masterpiece. The hardened support base is plenty durable, as its thin black fabric-covered band effectively acts as the ring ropes. Whoever sculpted this statue deserves kudos for a top-tier homage to Diamond Dallas Page.

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING: 8 Stars