Author: oddmoonmediareviews

ODD MOON MEDIA REVIEWS

Welcome! This consumer blog reviews books, movies, CD’s, comics, TV episodes, toys, video games, and other media-related products vying for your downtime. We’ll cover a gamut of mainstream items to the more obscure. Hopefully, our assessments will provide some helpful shopping insights. Our Odd Moon ratings system allots 0-10 stars. For instance, a 5-7 star range indicates an ‘average’ score.

This blog’s intent isn’t to push or knock certain manufacturers & retailers. Still, our reviews might recommend alternatives and/or other items of similar interest. By this same token, unless asked, we won’t speculate on a product’s realistic market value.

Please contact us at oddmoonmediareviews@gmail.com for further details. You can expect a prompt reply. On that note, we wish you good fortune with your treasure-hunting!

BDC
October 2020

Categories
Agatha Christie-Related Books & Novels Mystery & Suspense

AMD THEN THERE WERE NONE

Written by Agatha Christie

SUMMARY:

Originally published in 1939, this 247-page softcover edition was released by publishing imprint William Morrow (through HarperCollins) in 2011. 

Ostensibly invited for a weekend house party on secluded Soldier Island off the Devon coast, eight British strangers are lured there under varying false pretenses.  The guests are: alcoholic Dr. Edward Armstrong; elderly General John MacArthur; chilly spinster Emily Brent; tortoise-like Justice Lawrence Wargrave; roguish mercenary Captain Philip Lombard; demure secretary Vera Claythorne; undercover ex-cop William Henry Blore; and obnoxious stud Anthony Marston.  Joining them at the island’s mansion is a low-key servant couple, Thomas and Ethel Rogers.  The nursery rhyme, “Ten Little Soldiers,” is viewed with mild amusement as the manor’s omnipresent theme.    

After dinner, an ominous recording from their absent host, ‘U.N. Owen,’ accuses his guests of ghastly crimes that had evidently eluded justice.  Friday night frivolities instantly cease.  Inside of twelve hours, two corresponding toy soldiers from a dining table decoration vanish. 

Horrific reality sets in that an enigmatic predator is stalking the marooned captives; each one is systemically killed, in accordance with the rhyme’s suggestive lyrics.  With a violent storm bearing down, will anyone survive the death trap of Soldier Island?

Note: The novel’s U.S. title was previously Ten Little Indians, though the term ‘soldiers’ is substituted for ‘Indians’ in the storyline.    

REVIEW:

Despite its contrivances (i.e. the omniscient culprit), Christie’s bleak novel remains a masterpiece long after this premise practically spawned its own suspense genre.  In large part, the plot’s brilliance is attributable to Christie plausibly conveying distinct personalities without resorting to caricatures.  Without a super-detective like Poirot, Marple, or even Inspector Battle on hand, Christie’s unlikable captives are imbued with everyday reality that spell out increasingly desperate shades of human nature.

Unlike its sanitized film and stage adaptations, this novel’s intensity ranks among Christie’s darkest material, with Endless Night and Crooked House completing that Top Three.  For fans of vintage murder-mysteries that don’t resort to cheap cop-outs, And Then There Were None is truly a ‘dark-and-stormy night’ experience.  As a high-quality softcover book, this particular reprint is definitely recommended!  

ADDITIONAL FEATURES:

Quoted from her autobiography, Christie provides a brief note.  The publisher also includes Christie’s mini-biography.  Again inserting the less-offensive term of “soldier,” poet Frank Green’s notorious 1869 ‘nursery’ rhyme is reprinted.      

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING:                      10 Stars

Note: Of its numerous film and TV adaptations, arguably its best comes first. Starring Barry Fitzgerald and Walter Huston, the same-named 1945 film (based on Christie’s less-intense play) is top-caliber black-and-white entertainment. Otherwise, the most faithful renditions belong to a 1980’s Russian adaptation and the recent BBC mini-series.

Categories
Anthologies Books & Novels Mystery & Suspense

THE MYSTERIOUS WEST

Edited by Tony Hillerman

SUMMARY:

First compiled in 1994 as a hardcover, HarperTorch Publishers subsequently released this 451-page paperback edition in 2003.  In this short story anthology, mystery novelist Tony Hillerman introduces twenty tales (each by a different author) all set somewhere in the present-day American West. 

Not all of these stories (all copywritten for 1994) are murder-mysteries – some sleuths take a break from an ongoing series — others are grim dramas – and some don’t really fall into a particular genre.  As one can imagine, it’s the locales that supply the enigmatic backdrop.  The stories are:  

  • “Forbidden Things” by Marcia Muller: Leaving Los Angeles for a fresh start, young Ashley Heikkinen is eerily drawn to a sleepy little town on California’s northern coast called Camel Rock.   
  • “New Moon and Rattlesnakes” by Wendy Hornsby: A woman named Lise cunningly hitch-hikes and thieves her way out of Arizona on a desert road trip towards a vengeful destiny outside Palm Springs.   
  • “Coyote Peyote” by Carole Nelson Douglas: Starring ‘Midnight Louie,’ the cruel poisonings of several coyotes sends the feline sleuth to infiltrate an upscale housing development outside Las Vegas. 
  • “Nooses Give” by Dana Stabenow: In remote Alaska, reclusive Aleutian sleuth Kate Shugnak tracks down an unrepentant bootlegger after the double murder-suicide of three local teenagers.    
  • “Who Killed Cock Rogers?” by Bill Crider: In a small Texas cattle town, rising animosity aimed towards a local radio personality leads to murder. 
  • “Caring for Uncle Henry” by Robert Campbell: Already coping with dementia, elderly widower Henry Ridder finds himself saddled with two greedy relatives that he would have preferred remain long-lost heirs.   
  • “Death of a Snowbird” by J.A. Jance: Retired blue-collar couple Agnes and Oscar are at odds over a Native American relic he stumbles upon in the desert outside Tombstone, Arizona.   
  • “With Flowers in Her Hair” by M.D. Lake: Forty-something Kate Austin spends a post-Christmas vacation visiting family in Minnesota, only to increasingly ponder the cryptic death of a teenage friend decades before. 
  • “The Lost Boys” by William J. Reynolds: For a bereaved client, a private eye travels to South Dakota to question the long-estranged ex-husband re: two missing teenage sons.   
  • “Tule Fog” by Karen Kijewski: Sacramento private detective Kat Colorado helps a family friend at a Bakersfield farm unravel odd recurring flashbacks re: an incident from childhood.    
  • “The River Mouth” by Liz Matera: On a secluded hike off Oregon’s Klamath River, a couple’s private talk is interrupted by a strange interloper.   
  • “No Better Than Her Father” by Linda Grant: In Southeastern Colorado, seasoned forty-something journalist AJ Thomas and her cagey father are threatened re: a mysterious crate he acquired at auction.   
  • “Dust Devil” by Rex Burns: Boulder, Colorado private eye “Snake” Garrick looks into a shady horse sale.    
  • “A Woman’s Place” by D.R. Meredith: A small Texas town’s first-ever female Justice of the Peace, Elizabeth Walker, investigates a county employee’s peculiar death.   
  • “Postage Due” by Susan Dunlap: Police negotiator Jill Smith contends with both a self-righteous troublemaker holding the Berkeley, CA post office hostage and a pompous Acting Postmaster. 
  • “The Beast in the Woods” by Ed Gorman: The mentally-handicapped adult son of a distraught Iowa farmer becomes involved in a darkly tragic series of events rapidly spiraling out of control.  
  • “Blowout in Little Man Flats” by Stuart M. Kamisky: In rural New Mexico, a skeptical sheriff must protect his prime suspect in a triple-homicide from suffering local mob justice. 
  • “Small Town Murder” by Harold Adams: Two part-time sleuths discreetly look into the suspicious Midwestern death of a small-town lawyer. 
  • “Bingo” by John Lutz: Living in a Phoenix retirement community, Harry & Gretta Archambault’s mundane existence is disrupted by Harry’s small-time yet increasingly brazen fraud schemes.   
  • “Engines” by Bill Pronzini: Fate and attempted suicide bring together two strangers deep within Death Valley. 

REVIEW:

Reminiscent of the Malice Domestic anthology series, this well-written collection’s niche works best as a sporadic read: i.e. bedtime, road trips, etc.  A few tales, such as “Nooses Give;” “Tule Fog;” and, surprisingly, the manure-themed “Who Killed Cock Rogers?” might deserve multiple looks.  However, the bulk of these stories are one-and-done reads where only the scenic details leave lasting impressions.

Still, none are flat-out duds — the slice-of life “Bingo” comes closest, as its mundane plot opts for an oddly pointless finish.  The runner-up is “New Moon and Rattlesnakes,” as no likable characters (aside from a loyal dog) are to be found on this premise.  Most of these tales pursue reasonably satisfying arcs, but only “Coyote Peyote” and, to some degree, “Engines” resort to disappointingly icky twists that savvy readers will likely sense coming. 

Ultimately, The Mysterious West is an intriguing adult read (in terms of sample stories re: Kate Shugnak, “Snake” Garrick, ‘Midnight Louie,’ and Kat Colorado), but it isn’t necessarily a long-term keeper.    

ADDITIONAL FEATURES:

Hillerman thoughtfully introduces each tale, commenting on the author, his/her prior work, and/or the story’s theme.

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING:        7 Stars

Categories
Books & Novels Reference & Science

ATTACK OF THE FACTOIDS: UNCLE JOHN’S WORLD OF TRIVIA

Written by Uncle John’s Bathroom Reader’ Institute Staff

SUMMARY:

Published in 2014 by Portable Press, this 403-page softcover edition is a variant of the long-running Bathroom Reader series.  With far fewer digest-style articles, there is a far stronger emphasis on trivia and quotes this time.  The various topics are divided into familiar Bathroom Reader categories.  Still, multiple articles (i.e. the origin of the abandoned Comic Book Code; and Russia’s female fighter pilots of World War II known as “The Night Witches”) offer some insightful reading.    

REVIEW:

Think of it as a teens-and-up digest read.  Still, the tale re: “The Night Witches,”  for instance, is well worth perusing.  Even if this book isn’t an absolute keeper, it could serve as an ideal white elephant gift for trivia aficionados.       

ADDITIONAL FEATURES:

There is both a table of contents and a helpful index.  The authors also include a thank-you page.

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING:                               6½ Stars

Categories
Books & Novels DC-Related MARVEL-Related Reference & Science

SCIENCE OF SUPER-HEROES

Written by Lois Gresh & Robert Weinberg

SUMMARY:

Published John Wiley & Sons, Inc. in 2002, this 200-page hardcover explores the general physics and scientific reality behind the super-powers for Spider-Man; Superman; Batman; the X-Men; and several others.  Playing along with acknowledged comic book explanations for their super-powers, co-authors Lois Gresh and Robert Weinberg put these dubious origins under a critical microscope.  In Superman’s case, the authors spell out why his powers don’t make sense, and how the Man of Steel is really a fantasy based on ‘pseudo-science.’  Following a preface and a brief review on frequently-discussed concepts, such relativity and the speed-of-light, the authors designate certain heroes to specific topics:

  • Re: Superman – The section discusses the supposed quasi-science justifying Superman’s vast powers; the possibility of alien visitors reaching Earth, including a history of ‘The Drake Equation;’ the possibility of Earth-like worlds; and why neither gravity nor a yellow sun could generate Superman’s powers.
  • Re: The Fantastic Four and the Incredible Hulk – It’s explained how cosmic rays, gamma rays, and nuclear radiation would actually ravage human beings.  Included is a section describing how a ‘GFP Hulk” might hypothetically exist.
  • Re: Batman – The technological realities of his utility belt is analyzed, as is a well-known storyline from his comic book series: the Gotham City Earthquake.
  • Re: Aquaman & Sub-Mariner – This section primarily examines the possibility of humans living underwater and aquatic communication.
  • Re: Spider-Man – His supposedly spider-like powers are analyzed, as is the scientific possibility of cloning humans.
  • Re: Green Lantern – Potential sources for his power ring are examined, including black holes and white holes.  It’s also revealed why yellow light really isn’t a logical reason for neutralizing his power ring.
  • Re: the Atom and Ant-Man / Giant Man – The realities of humans shrinking to microscopic size and expanding into giants are examined.
  • Re: the Flash – The numerous problems with super-speed are analyzed.
  • Re: the X-Men – Examining the potential for human mutation and whether or not if ‘real’ X-Men could be created is discussed.
  • Re: Sci-Fi Heroes (i.e. Adam Strange) – The possibilities for time travel, Earth’s destruction, and alternate realities (including ‘The Grandfather Paradox’) is analyzed.
  • Re: Donald Duck – How much correct science did writer Carl Barks deploy penning a quarter-century of Donald Duck comics?  The answer is surprising.

REVIEW:

Though the lengthy analysis of debunking Superman is complex, this intriguing book is still a real treat for super-hero enthusiasts.  It isn’t a shocker that most of the included heroes are deemed impossible (with the exception of Batman, of course).  However, there are occasional lapses – i.e. re: the Flash, where the authors don’t address basic human limitations (i.e. fatigue; getting one’s body burned or ripped to shreds by friction; or the likelihood of suffering a massive heart attack), as to the impracticalities of super-speed.  One can only presume the absence of stating such obvious restrictions is to make clear that, even without them, such super-powers are still pure fantasy.   

Exploring other vaguely hypothetical possibilities re: Green Lantern, Aquaman, and the X-Men is certainly worth the read.  The section pertaining to a possible ‘Incredible Hulk,’ for instance, is really a great ‘what-if.’  Their ‘GFP (Green Fluorescent Protein) Hulk’ originates through a case of severe anabolic mega-steroid abuse and rage-induced adrenaline, with a GFP gene siphoned from a species of jellyfish.  Curiously, the authors don’t mention that this wild concept really isn’t that far off from Lou Ferrigno’s TV Incredible Hulk (at least, as a less toxic substitute for gamma radiation).

For comic book aficionados and armchair physicists alike, the well-written Science of Super-Heroes is a thoughtful and very readable means of crossing the bridge between comic books and real science.       

ADDITIONAL FEATURES:

Sci-fi-horror author Dean Koontz provides an introduction.  Appendix ‘A’ explains why various types of characters (i.e. magicians) weren’t selected for this book.  Appendix ‘B’ is an insightful interview-discussion with writers Len Wein, Mark Wheatley, Brett Booth, Buddy Scalera, Mort Castle, and Max Allan Collins, linking real science’s importance (or lack thereof) to comic book storytelling.  An index, reading list, and bibliography are all included.  Mini-biographies of the authors and their acknowledgments are provided.

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING:                              9 Stars

Categories
Books & Novels Movies & Television (Books) Self-Help & Relationships

BOGIE & BACALL: LOVE LESSONS FROM A LEGENDARY ROMANCE

Written by Cindy De La Hoz

SUMMARY:

Published by Running Press in 2015, this 128-page hardcover retrospective of Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall’s famous Hollywood marriage examines what timeless relationship lessons can be gleaned.  Author Cindy De La Hoz positions invaluable romantic tips re: marriage and long-term relationships, such as “Nurture Each Other’s Hidden Talents” and “Keep Your Heart Open,” by briefly illustrating examples from the Bogart marriage.  De La Hoz’s book isn’t meant as a specific biographical portrait of the Bogarts, but more as a how-to guide for inspiring a lifetime commitment.    

REVIEW:

It’s exquisite!  A well-selected collection of black-and-white photography (some from their films or on-set; some are publicity shots; and many other from their private lives) and family-oriented color photos (from the mid-1950’s) paired with author Cindy De La Hoz’s classy text make this book a cherished gift either for anniversaries or Valentine’s Day.  For what it is, Bogie & Bacall: Love Lessons from a Legendary Romance is a gem.      

ADDITIONAL FEATURES:

There’s a two-page list of photography credits.

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING:                            9 Stars

Categories
Books & Novels Children's Books Christmas

SANTA IS COMING TO IDAHO

Written by Steven Smallman and Illustrations by Robert Dunn & Jim Mitchell

SUMMARY:

Published in 2013 by Sourcebooks Jabberwocky, this hardcover book tracks Santa’s calamity-filled journey to Idaho.  Santa Claus and his reindeer are trekking off to Idaho on Christmas Eve only to get lost in a blizzard after crossing the Canadian border.  They further stumble through a minor crash landing.  Santa’s Santa-nav (his version of GPS) is not proving very helpful.  Fortunately, Santa’s unnamed, inexperienced, and youngest reindeer out on his first Christmas Eve run demonstrates a keen sense of intuition.  Ultimately, Santa and his reindeer team must use their ingenuity in delivering toys to everyone all over Idaho.

REVIEW:

At just under thirty pages, it could be construed that Santa’s visit to the Gem State is really just the author name-dropping various Idaho towns and landmarks.  Even if Santa follows a zig-zag path, at least the author keeps his geography correct.  Instead of relying on clichés, Steven Smallman nicely demonstrates Santa’s traditional habits with some sprinklings of well-timed humor.  The author’s text is also well-matched by the magic of Robert Dunn & Jim Mitchell’s affectionate illustrations.  Delightfully, this book is a real gem for children.

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING:                                 9 Stars

Categories
Books & Novels Children's Books Christmas

CHARLIE THE RANCH DOG: CHARLIE AND THE CHRISTMAS KITTY

Written by Ree Drummond & Illustrated by Diane deGroat

SUMMARY:

Published by HarperCollins in 2013, this 34-page hardcover storybook is the sequel to author Ree Drummond’s Charlie the Ranch Dog.   It’s Christmas Eve for Charlie the Basset Hound’s family at their snowy ranch home.  Charlie takes an extended snooze, only to wake up and meet the new family member: an orange tabby kitten.  Initially mistaking the kitten for a rabbit, Charlie senses dire reality setting in.  This new kitty is there to stay.  Trying his best to ignore the kitten, the basset hound finally resorts to baying.  Realizing that his efforts are futile, Charlie is thrilled to find that the kitten is a natural masseuse gladly willing to knead his ‘aching’ back.  Yet, one more Christmas surprise awaits Charlie, as a new Basset puppy named Walter arrives wearing a collar with Charlie’s name on the gift tag. 

REVIEW:

Exceptionally well-illustrated by artist Diane deGroat, this formulaic second Charlie book is a sheer delight!  Author Ree “The Pioneer Woman” Drummond’s poignant text is occasionally hilarious depicting Charlie’s bemused canine point-of-view.  For youngsters who adore dogs and basset hound aficionados alike, Charlie and the Christmas Kitty makes a wonderful holiday treat. The book is also an ideal treat for infants and toddlers before bedtime/naps.         

ADDITIONAL CONTENT:

Illustrated with an image of Charlie wearing a Santa hat, there is a single-page recipe for “Charlie’s Favorite Christmas Cookies.”

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING:                                9 Stars

Categories
Books & Novels Children's Books

CHARLIE THE RANCH DOG

Written by Ree Drummond & Illustrated by Diane deGroat

SUMMARY:

Published by HarperCollins in 2011, this 40-page hardcover storybook introduces author Ree Drummond’s real-life Charlie the Ranch Dog.   Charlie the Basset Hound narrates the tale, as he and his best friend, Suzie the puppy, romp and play across Mommy’s farm.  Charlie further describes a day-in-his-busy-life as a ranch hand, as he generously delegates some of his duties to the smaller Suzie.  His other morning tasks include sniffing, eating, and napping in the garden.  With the family away in the afternoon, Charlie’s post-nap afternoon heroics include shooing the farm cows out of Mommy’s vegetable garden.  Of course, yet another nap to cap off the day doesn’t hurt, either.    

REVIEW:

Exceptionally well-illustrated by artist Diane deGroat, this initial Charlie book is an absolute delight!  Author Ree “The Pioneer Woman” Drummond’s poignant text offers some low-key hilarity depicting Charlie’s lackadaisical canine point-of-view.  Families with basset hounds will surely relate to Charlie’s easy-going personality.  For early readers who adore dogs and basset hound aficionados alike, Charlie the Ranch Dog is a wonderful addition to any bookshelf. This storybook is also ideal for infants and toddlers for bedtime/naps.        

ADDITIONAL CONTENT:

Illustrated with an image of Charlie eyeing a sample, there is a single-page recipe for “The Pioneer Woman’s (and Charlie’s) Favorite Lasagna.”

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING:                           10 Stars

Categories
Books & Novels Children's Books

CHARLIE THE RANCH DOG: CHARLIE GOES TO SCHOOL

Written by Ree Drummond & Illustrated by Diane deGroat

SUMMARY:

Published by HarperCollins in 2013, this 34-page hardcover storybook is the third entry in author Ree Drummond’s Charlie the Ranch Dog series.   It’s back to school at Charlie the Ranch Dog’s country house.  Observing Mama home-schooling the four children, Charlie the Basset Hound volunteers as a teacher’s aide.  As he watches the kids play, he ruefully acknowledges that “exercise is a way of life” for him.  Inspired, Charlie starts his own impromptu ‘school:’ teaching Suzie the puppy her letters; demonstrating math to Kitty Kitty; reviewing history with the ranch’s horses; and tutoring Walter the Basset puppy on “everything!”  Scolding his students to clean up the mess they all made, Charlie decides another nap is seriously in order.  Then again, school can always start over tomorrow.    

REVIEW:

Exceptionally well-illustrated by artist Diane deGroat, this third Charlie book is simply wonderful!  Author Ree “The Pioneer Woman” Drummond’s poignant text is occasionally hilarious depicting Charlie’s canine point-of-view. As story time for infants and toddlers, Charlie Goes to School makes a wonderful literary treat.        

ADDITIONAL CONTENT:

Illustrated with an image of Charlie, there is a single-page recipe for “Charlie’s Favorite Strawberry Oatmeal Bars.”

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING:                    10 Stars

Categories
DVD Sports (TV & Videos) WWF/WWE (Pro Wrestling)

WWE WRESTLEMANIA ANTHOLOGY, VOLUME 2 {1990-1994} (WWE)

INTRO:

At WrestleMania VI in 1990, Vince McMahon’s WWE began its somewhat awkward phasing-out of Hulk-A-Mania.  Relying upon a mix of savvy veterans (i.e. Bret Hart, Randy Savage, Ted DiBiase, & Roddy Piper) and next-generation main eventers (i.e. The Undertaker, Shawn Michaels, & Owen Hart), a distracted WWE sought to withstand a high-profile steroid scandal. 

The public controversy resulted in several months of creative mediocrity (i.e. Hogan’s brief return).  By 1994’s WrestleMania X, Bret Hart, among others, would reaffirm the WWE’s dominance of pro wrestling.         

SUMMARY (1990):                   RUNNING TIME: 218 Min.      

On April 1st, from Toronto’s Skydome, the first Canadian edition of WrestleMania pairs Jesse Ventura & “Gorilla” Monsoon one last time, with “Mean” Gene Okerlund & Sean Mooney again running interviews. 

A tuxedo-clad Robert Goulet delivers Canada’s national anthem: “O, Canada.” Comedian Steve Allen has some light-hearted fun mocking the Bolsheviks in the locker room.  Gossip columnist Rona Barrett shares a classy ‘interview’ segment with Miss Elizabeth.  Diamond Dallas Page cameos driving a Cadillac to ringside.  Unexpectedly, actress Mary Tyler Moore appears in the crowd.      

  • Rick “The Model” Martel vs. Koko B. Ware.
  • WWE World Tag Team Champions The Colossal Connection [André the Giant & Haku] (with Bobby Heenan) vs. Demolition [Ax & Smash].
  • Hercules vs. Earthquake (with Jimmy Hart).
  • “Mr. Perfect” Curt Hennig (with Lanny Poffo) vs. Brutus “The Barber” Beefcake.          
  • Bad New Brown vs. “Rowdy” Roddy Piper. Note: Piper’s controversial make-up job meant to racially provoke Brown is a new low for him.           
  • The Bolsheviks (Boris Zhukov & Nikolai Volkoff) vs. the Hart Foundation (Bret Hart & Jim Neidhart). 
  • The Barbarian (with Bobby Heenan) vs. Tito Santana.    
  • Randy “Macho King” Savage & “Sensational Queen” Sherri vs. “American Dream” Dusty Rhodes & Sapphire (with Miss Elizabeth).     
  • The Rockers [Marty Jannetty & Shawn Michaels] vs. the Orient Express [“Sato” & Pat Tanaka] (with Mr. Fuji).
  • Dino Bravo (with Jimmy Hart & Earthquake) vs. “Hacksaw” Jim Duggan. 
  • “Million Dollar Man” Ted DiBiase (with Virgil) vs. Jake “The Snake” Roberts (with Damian the snake) for “The Million Dollar Championship.”       
  • Big Boss Man vs. Akeem (with Slick).            
  • “Superfly” Jimmy Snuka vs. “Ravishing” Rick Rude (with Bobby Heenan).       
  • WWE World Champion Hulk Hogan vs. WWE Intercontinental Champion the Ultimate Warrior in the “Ultimate Challenge” Title vs. Title Match.

REVIEW (1990):                           RATNG: 6/10

April Fool’s Day aptly describes WrestleMania VI.  Fans were supposed to gladly embrace the Warrior’s ascension replacing the older Hogan.  Yet, their so-called ‘Ultimate Challenge’ is a clichéd snooze-fest.  The WWE’s two super-heroes slowly exchange the same primitive moves and lengthy rest holds, as if they’re playing a prolonged game of ‘H-O-R-S-E.’  At a minimum, the 36-year old Hogan reassures fans that he’s a more versatile performer than the Warrior’s weak in-ring work. 

Failing to capitalize on its potential excitement, this double-title match concept also greatly diminishes the undercard.  Without an extra title bout, none of the remaining matches approach anything close to electrifying.  The closest one gets is the better-than-expected DiBiase vs. Roberts.

Steadfast veterans, such as André, DiBiase, Roberts, Savage & Elizabeth, and Hennig deliver satisfying individual performances.  Otherwise, they receive minimal help sustaining this show.  If the Hart Foundation had been assigned a significant role against quality opposition, they would have likely sparked some much-needed enthusiasm.  Inexplicably, Bret Hart & Jim Neidhart are stuck with a meaningless squash win, which ends in, pardon the expression, a Hart-beat. Go figure.

Despite an abundance of top-flight stars, the WWE squanders WrestleMania VI.  Minus two putrid exceptions (i.e. the tasteless Brown-Piper brawl; and the Boss Man-Akeem dud), the event is middle-of-the pack caliber, with nothing suggesting a Match-of-the-Year candidate. Still, no matter how dull WrestleMania VI often is, this show still easily surpasses WrestleMania VIII-IX (not to mention, I-II).  VI (mostly by default) scores second place on this anthology set.   

SUMMARY (1991):               RUNNING TIME: 211 Min.

On March 24th, at the Los Angeles Sports Arena, “Gorilla” Monsoon & Bobby Heenan co-host the show, with some fill-in help from “Lord” Alfred Hayes and “Hacksaw” Jim Duggan. 

Celebrities include Alex Trebek; Marla Maples Trump; Regis Philbin; Henry Winkler; Chuck Norris; Macaulay Culkin; George Steinbrenner; and the original Incredible Hulk, Lou Ferrigno.  Shamelessly hawking WWE merchandise fresh from the souvenir table on his attire, Willie Nelson launches the show with his rendition of “America the Beautiful.” 

  • Barbarian & Haku (with Bobby Heenan) vs. the Rockers [Shawn Michaels & Marty Jannetty].   
  • “Texas Tornado” Kerry Von Erich vs. Dino Bravo (with Jimmy Hart).       
  • Warlord (with Slick) vs. “British Bulldog” Davey Boy Smith (with Winston the Bulldog).
  • WWE World Tag Team Champions Hart Foundation [Bret Hart & Jim Neidhart] vs. the Nasty Boys [Brian Knobbs & Jerry Sags] (with Jimmy Hart).
  • Rick “The Model” Martel vs. Jake “The Snake” Roberts (with Damian the snake) in a ‘Blindfold’ Match.             
  • “Superfly” Jimmy Snuka vs. Undertaker (with Paul Bearer).           
  • Ultimate Warrior vs. “Macho King” Randy Savage (with “Sensational Queen” Sherri) in a ‘Loser-Must-Retire’ Match.  Note: Miss Elizabeth is seated in the audience. 
  • Demolition [Smash & Crush] vs. Genichiro Tenryu & Kôji Kitao.                    
  • WWE Intercontinental Champion “Mr. Perfect” Curt Hennig (with Bobby Heenan) vs. Big Boss Man (with André the Giant).          
  • Greg “The Hammer” Valentine vs. Earthquake (with Jimmy Hart).
  • The Legion of Doom [Hawk & Animal] vs. Power & Glory [Hercules & Paul Roma].           
  • Virgil (with Roddy Piper) vs. “Million Dollar Man” Ted DiBiase (with “Sensational” Sherri).
  • Tito Santana vs. “The Mountie” Jacques Rougeau (with Jimmy Hart).
  • WWE World Champion Sgt. Slaughter (with General Adnan) vs. Hulk Hogan.  Note: Hogan bleeds considerably in this bout.

REVIEW (1991):                        RATING: 8/10

Would have this show’s performance have justified filling the L.A. Coliseum, as originally planned? Hardly, not according to its weak ticket sales (necessitating a switch to a far smaller indoor venue) and some initially harsh reviews. Most notably, this show’s ultra-patriotic, stars-and-stripes theme comes off more as a cheap excuse to exploit the Persian Gulf conflict for entertainment’s sake than a legitimate thank-you to U.S. Armed Forces.

Yet, WrestleMania VII‘s in-ring performance is much more entertaining than VI, let alone its successors on this set. For instance, in a welcome nod to classiness, a long-awaited ‘reunion’ poignantly sets up a major WWE player’s apparent departure that would haven’t been predicted only a few months before.

Even more so, the WWE delivers fourteen matches — granted, four of which are squashes.  Among the non-squashes, seven bouts range from stellar to very watchable: Savage vs. Warrior (including its long-overdue Sherri vs. Elizabeth moment) the gory Hogan vs. Slaughter; the Harts vs. Nastys; Virgil vs. DiBiase; The Rockers vs. Barbarian & Haku; the gimmicky Roberts vs. Martel (as both are wearing sacks on their heads); and even a very routine Bulldog vs. Warlord.  Boss Man vs. Hennig; The Legion of Doom vs. Power & Glory; and Demolition vs. Tenryu & Kitao aren’t great, but these efforts aren’t dull, either. 

Supported by energetic performances (exemplified by The Rockers), VII’s ratio of good bouts vs. its few lousy ones justifies its hefty running time.  Despite an eye-rolling surplus of Gulf War propaganda, the rollicking WrestleMania VII prevails as this set’s best disc.       

SUMMARY (1992):           RUNNING TIME: 162 Min.      

On April 5th, from Indianapolis’ Hoosier Dome, returning as co-hosts are “Gorilla” Monsoon & Bobby “The Brain” Heenan.  “Mean” Gene Okerlund & Sean Mooney again share the interviewing duties.  Ex-WCW World Champion Lex Luger is interviewed from ‘home,’ as he’s the short-lived World Bodybuilding Federation’s (WBF) latest acquisition.  Amusingly acknowledged by Heenan’s comment recognizing him, long-time manager Paul Ellering rejoins the Legion of Doom for an interview segment with Okerlund. 

The show’s sole celebrities are Reba McEntire and game show host Ray Combs from TV’s “Family Feud.”  Starting off, McEntire delivers a classy rendition of “America the Beautiful.”  Combs sporadically turns up, either on commentary or as a guest ring announcer.

  • “El Matador” Tito Santana vs. “Heartbreak Kid” Shawn Michaels (with Sherri).     
  • Jake “The Snake” Roberts vs. The Undertaker (with Paul Bearer).
  • WWE Intercontinental Champion “Rowdy” Roddy Piper vs. Bret “Hitman” Hart. Note: Hart sheds blood (aka blading).
  • Repo Man (a re-packaged Smash of Demolition), “The Mountie” Jacques Rougeau, and the Nasty Boys [Jerry Sags & Brian Knobbs] (with Jimmy Hart) vs. Virgil, “Hacksaw” Jim Duggan, Sgt. Slaughter, & Big Boss Man.          
  • WWE World Champion “Nature Boy” Ric Flair (with “Mr. Perfect” Curt Hennig) vs. “Macho Man” Randy Savage (with Miss Elizabeth).  Notes: Flair sheds blood (aka blading).  WrestleMania VIII is Savage & Elizabeth’s final WWE PPV appearance together. 
  • Tatanka vs. “The Model” Rick Martel.

WWE World Tag Team Champions The Natural Disasters [Earthquake & Typhoon] vs. Money Inc. -“Million Dollar Man” Ted DiBiase & I.R.S. (aka Mike Rotundo) (with Jimmy Hart). 

  • Skinner (Steve Keirn) vs. “The Rocket” Owen Hart.
  • “Sycho” Sid Justice (with Harvey Wippleman & Pago Shango) vs. Hulk Hogan (with The Ultimate Warrior).             

REVIEW (1992):                        RATING: 4/10

WrestleMania VIII falls far short on talent, as the WWE was plagued by a high-profile steroid scandal.  Reduced to nine matches (and an abbreviated running time), it’s all too obvious that the WWE’s top guns are less-than-superhuman this time.  Sporting two superb title matches and one above-average bout (Santana vs. Michaels), the detriment of a subpar undercard is too much to overcome this time.  The less said about the other six matches the better. 

Several familiar faces from the 1992 Royal Rumble, such as “Texas Tornado” Kerry Von Erich; “British Bulldog” Davey Boy Smith; and The Warlord, among others, are inexplicably absent.  Worse yet, veterans Randy Savage, Jake Roberts, Roddy Piper, and Hulk Hogan (all hovering around 40 years old) had all significantly aged since WrestleMania VII.  As the WWE World Champion, “Nature Boy” Ric Flair (already in his mid-forties) remarkably infuses some desperately-needed heel energy into his first WrestleMania.  Along with Curt Hennig, their chemistry working with Savage & Elizabeth is remarkable. 

Despite a heavy dependence on its veteran stars, the company’s future appears bright in the forms of Bret Hart, The Undertaker, Owen Hart, and Shawn Michaels.  A depleted WWE even gives the wonky Ultimate Warrior a second opportunity to replace a supposedly retiring Hogan on the roster.

VIII’s legacy is really memories of Savage & Flair’s explosive WWE World Title showdown.  Piper & Hart’s Intercontinental Title battle isn’t as flashy as Michaels vs. Ramon at ‘Mania X, but it’s still some dynamite viewing, as well. Like with WrestleMania’s I-IIs, the mostly dismal VIII requires sensible use of one’s remote control.  Accordingly, VIII descends into fourth place on this set. 

SUMMARY (1993):           RUNNING TIME: 164 Min.

On April 4th, WrestleMania meets Las Vegas at its outdoor Caesar’s Palace venue.  Pushing a Roman toga party theme, co-hosting are Gorilla Monsoon, Jim Ross, Bobby Heenan, & color commentator Randy Savage.  The interviewers are “Mean” Gene Okerlund and Todd Pettengill.    

  • WWE Intercontinental Champion “Heartbreak Kid” Shawn Michaels (with Luna Vachon) vs. Tatanka.           
  • The Headshrinkers [Samu & Fatu] (with Afa) vs. The Steiner Brothers [Rick & Scott Steiner].   
  • Crush vs. Doink the Clown.            
  • Bob Backlund vs. “Razor Ramon” Scott Hall.           
  • WWE World Tag Team Champions Money Inc. – Ted DiBiase & I.R.S. (aka Mike Rotundo) vs. Mega-Maniacs [Hulk Hogan & Brutus Beefcake] (with Jimmy Hart).             
  • “Mr. Perfect” Curt Hennig vs. “The Narcissist” Lex Luger. 
  • Giant Gonzalez (with Harvey Wippleman) vs. The Undertaker (with Paul Bearer).  
  • WWE World Champion Bret “Hitman” Hart vs. Yokozuna (with Mr. Fuji)  
  • WWE World Champion Yokozuna (with Mr. Fuji) vs. Hulk Hogan (with Bret “Hit Man” Hart).

REVIEW (1993):                     RATING: 1/10

Resembling a garbage dump on the Vegas Strip, the stench emanating from the first outdoor WrestleMania lingers far worse than its mediocre predecessor.  Rarely has the announcing crew been given so little to work with.  Making this inane toga party even worse, only two matches out of a measly eight (nine, if you count Hogan’s last-minute charade) are remotely watchable.  Beyond shafting Bret Hart for no good reason, the WWE’s desperate re-launch of Hulk-A-Mania completes a tone-deaf disaster.         

Yes, the last seven bouts hover between filler material/dud and being tagged for trash pick-up.  Case in point: No longer in their late-80’s prime, a sluggish Luger and Hennig sleepwalk through a disappointing clash.  Sadly reduced to a jobber, former WWE World Champion Bob Backlund’s WrestleMania debut embarrasses him.  Vintage performers, such as The Steiners; DiBiase & Rotundo; The Headshrinkers; and especially The Undertaker, are unceremoniously wasted in utterly crummy matches. 

Working with Shawn Michaels, only Tatanka musters a better in-ring effort than he had at Mania VIII.  It’s beyond comprehension, with a dejected Savage readily available, why he wasn’t recruited for either a surefire I-C Title clash against Michaels — or finally settle last year’s score against Scott Hall.   For that matter, even pitting heroes Savage and Hart in a conclusive passing-of-the-torch World Title showdown would have made better sense.              

Note: Including the LOL airbrushed muscles on his ridiculous faux-furry costume, Giant Gonzalez’s clunker vs. the Undertaker might be WrestleMania’s worst-ever charade posing as a match lasting more than sixty seconds.

Re: the main event’s pair of pathetic finishes, it’s indefensible.  Adding further insult to both Hart’s unwarranted demotion and Yokozuna’s quickly-forgotten title victory, fans are force-fed Hogan’s undeserved romp to yet another championship.  This feeble cop-out predictably only benefits an aging Hogan himself. 

As the weakest WrestleMania up to that point, IX is assuredly this set’s biggest loser. Though a close call, this debacle gets the nod over Survivor Series 1990 as the absolute-worst WWE PPV of that era shoved down fans’ throats.  

SUMMARY (1994):             RUNNING TIME: 164 Min.

On Marth 20th, returning to New York City’s Madison Square Garden for its tenth anniversary, WrestleMania X is co-hosted by Vince McMahon & Jerry Lawler.  Todd Pettingill is the bumbling interviewer. 

The event’s celebrities-for-hire are: Burt Reynolds; Jennie Garth; Donnie Wahlberg; USA Network’s Rhonda Shear; Sy Sperling of Hair Club for Men; and The Tonight Show’s wacky President Bill Clinton impersonator (Tim Watters). 

  • “King of Harts” Owen Hart vs. Bret “Hitman” Hart.             
  • Doink the Clown & Dink the Clown vs. Bam Bam Bigelow & Luna Vachon.          
  • Randy “Macho Man” Savage vs. Crush (with Mr. Fuji) in a Falls-Count-Anywhere Match.
  • WWE Women’s Champion Alundra Blaze (aka Madusa Micelli) vs. Leilani Kai.      
  • WWE World Tag Team Champions The Quebecers [Jacques & Pierre] (with Johnny Polo) vs. Men on a Mission [Mabel & Mo] (with Oscar).
  • WWE World Champion Yokozuna (with Jim Cornette & Mr. Fuji) vs. Lex Luger, with “Mr. Perfect” Curt Hennig as Special Guest Referee.        
  • Earthquake vs. Adam Bomb (with Harvey Wippleman).          
  • “Razor Ramon” Scott Hall vs. “Heartbreak Kid” Shawn Michaels (with “Diesel” Kevin Nash) for the disputed WWE Intercontinental Title in a Ladder Match.          
  • WWE World Champion Yokozuna (with Jim Cornette & Mr. Fuji) vs. Bret “Hitman” Hart, with “Rowdy” Roddy Piper as Special Guest Referee.    

REVIEW (1994):                  RATING: 6/10

With the Undertaker temporarily out-of-action, somehow scoring four out of nine winners is a minor miracle for the WWE.   Since a Bret Hart vs. Luger World Title showdown wouldn’t necessarily satisfy fan expectations, opting to redeem last year’s Hart vs. Yokozuna fiasco makes good sense.   Accordingly, the Hart Brothers share the event’s MVP honors for an expertly-played opener and giving the finale’s aftermath extra shine. 

Coming in as a close runner-up, Ramon & Michaels deserve considerable credit for mustering their epic ladder match, no matter how obviously choreographed it appears.  Returning to battle, Savage’s revitalized ‘Macho Madness’ vs. Crush makes their ruggedly short brawl worthy of Savage’s last WrestleMania.  An added sequence of Savage making a surprise visit to fans in an adjoining auditorium afterwards is a classy touch.

Signifying the forgettable mid-card is the first WWE Women’s Title defense at WrestleMania in nearly a decade.  While Leilani Kai’s return is welcome (considering that she lost this same title to Wendi Richter in the same building at WrestleMania I), neither Kai nor Blaze (for that matter, even combined) musters the same charisma Richter had.  Their title match-up is for die-hards only.  The same applies to Adam Bomb vs. Earthquake and a forgettable WWE World Tag Team title defense. 

Echoing SummerSlam 1993, Luger’s World Title rematch vs. Yokozuna is a middling sequel. Curt Hennig’s continuity grudge against Luger from ‘Mania IX only exacerbates the sluggish chemistry the ex-“Total Package” has with Yokozuna. WWE failed to grasp that Luger’s best NWA/WCW matches were against far more mobile and versatile adversaries (i.e. Ric Flair, Sting, Rick Steamboat, Brian Pillman, Nikita Koloff, etc.). It’s no wonder that Bret Hart would get to face Yokozuna.

In far worse shape, however, is Bigelow’s first ‘Mania since 1988 – he muddles through one of this franchise’s worst bouts of the decade.  Saving the worst for last is Pettingill’s insipid series of laugh-free skits with Tim Watters’ bogus ‘Mr. President.’ Not getting the tone-deaf hint, the WWE again recruited Watters’ ‘President Clinton’ for the 1995 Survivor Series for more supposed fun-and-games. 

Still, if one skips a slew of awful segments, this show still makes for some good viewing.  As for entertainment value, WrestleMania X takes third place on this set. 

QUALITY CONTROL:

Without re-mastering or HD upgrading, the picture quality remains excellent (despite a few blips).  As for remote control access, one can watch the entire event, or click on individual segments (including interviews).  More specific than what is seen on its packaging, the order of matches, special attractions, interviews, and even the announcers’ closing comments are thoroughly spelled out.  However, there aren’t any bonus features.     

PACKAGING:

Excellent!  Not only is the packaging well-produced with vintage images of the wrestlers, the DVDS are carefully encased on hard plastic DVD pages to help prevent scratching the discs.  On two inside jackets, each event’s match line-up is spelled out.  A commemorative booklet in the front left inside pocket lists each event’s matches and interviews in order. Each event’s running time is listed on the outside jacket.

BRIAN’S ODD MOON RATING:              5½ Stars