The POP-EXPOSE 

Truly Outrageous: The History of Jem and the Holograms’ Iconic Toy Line and Cartoon

In the 1980s, Jem and the Holograms exploded onto the scene, blending music, fashion, and adventure into one dazzling multimedia phenomenon. Created by Hasbro, Sunbow Productions, and Marvel Productions, the franchise featured a toy line and an animated series that captivated a generation with its vibrant colors, engaging characters, and unforgettable catchphrase: “Truly Outrageous!” This is the story of how Jem and her friends became icons of the 1980s and beyond. The origins of Jem and the Holograms began in the mid-1980s when Hasbro sought to create a new doll…

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The POP-EXPOSE 

Iron Mike Back In The Ring At 58!

Story by Mitchell Smith Mike Tyson was born in 1966 in New York City. Growing up in poor neighborhoods, Tyson was forced into a life of crime as a young kid to survive the harsh street life he lived in. He had been arrested 38 times by age 13. Mike was moved to Johnstown, NY where he was put in the Tryon School For Boys. From there his life slowly began to change and Bobby Stewart a counselor at the school took Mike under his wing after Mike told him…

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The POP-EXPOSE 

On this day, November 17, 1989 All Dogs Go to Heaven: Don Bluth’s Beloved Animated Classic Released!

On this day, November 17, 1989, the heartwarming animated feature All Dogs Go to Heaven made its debut in theaters. Directed by the legendary Don Bluth, the film brought together a stellar voice cast, including Burt Reynolds, Dom DeLuise, and Judith Barsi, in a story that blended comedy, drama, and a touch of the supernatural. While its initial reception was overshadowed by the simultaneous release of Disney’s The Little Mermaid, All Dogs Go to Heaven has since gained a devoted following, securing its place as a timeless animated classic. Set…

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The POP-EXPOSE 

The Bold Legacy of Betty Boop: A Journey Through Fame, Censorship, and Controversy

Since her debut in 1930, Betty Boop has been one of the most iconic and intriguing cartoon characters, known for her flirtatious charm, glamorous style, and unmistakable voice. Created by Max Fleischer, Betty Boop was initially a side character in Fleischer Studios’ Dizzy Dishes series, but her popularity quickly skyrocketed, making her one of the first female animated stars. Boop’s exaggerated features—a small waist, large eyes, and iconic bob hairstyle—combined with her bold, independent personality, made her a symbol of the flapper era and 1930s Hollywood glamour. However, Betty Boop’s…

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The POP-EXPOSE 

The Right Stuff (1983): A Cinematic Tribute to American Space Heroes

Released in 1983, The Right Stuff is a remarkable American drama film that delves into the early days of the U.S. space program and the challenges faced by America’s pioneering astronauts. Based on the bestselling 1979 book by Tom Wolfe, the movie captures the grit, courage, and unwavering determination of the pilots and astronauts who pushed beyond limits to break the sound barrier and venture into space. Directed by Philip Kaufman, this iconic film continues to resonate with audiences as an inspiring account of human endurance and the pursuit of…

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Honoring Veterans Day: A Look at My Dragon Jeep Model, Perfect for 12-Inch G.I. Joes

Story by Mitchell Smith Welcome to the Outpost. Happy Veterans Day Everyone! Today I’m taking a look at a non GI Joe vehicle that works with the 12 inch Joes. This is a Dragon model kit I built quite a few years ago. When you think of Veterans Day the first vehicle that comes to my mind is this jeep. There is some pretty nice detail from the lights, to the dashboard panels, and the shovel and axe on the side. There are many moving parts like the hood, windshield,…

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The POP-EXPOSE 

Farewell to an Icon: Remembering Tony Todd and His Timeless Legacy in Film and Television

Story by Mitchell Smith Welcome all, today we say goodbye to another Hollywood legend. Tony Todd Born on December 4, 1954, in Washington, D.C., grew up with a passion for the arts. He went to the University of Connecticut, where he received formal training in acting. Todd continued his studies at the prestigious Eugene O’Neill National Actors Theatre Institute, further honing his acting skills. Todd got his big break when he landed a roll as Ben in Tom Savini’s 1990 remake of Night of the Living Dead. This would lead…

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Blast from the Past: Dinosaucers – The Dino-tastic 80s Cartoon and Toy Series We Still Love!

In 1987, Dinosaucers stomped onto TV screens, bringing a unique blend of dinosaurs, space adventure, and classic 80s animation to kids everywhere. If you missed out on this short-lived gem, Dinosaucers follows two rival groups of intelligent, human-like dinosaurs from the planet Reptilon—the heroic Dinosaucers and the villainous Tyrannos. With memorable characters and a storyline that combined humor and sci-fi action, Dinosaucers has remained a beloved, if niche, part of 80s cartoon nostalgia. The show opens with the Dinosaucers coming to Earth to prevent the Tyrannos, led by the power-hungry…

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The POP-EXPOSE 

“Revisiting Oh, God! You Devil: A Nostalgic Dive into 1984’s Comedic Take on Heaven and Hell”

If you’re a fan of 80s comedies, Oh, God! You Devil is a film that brings all the vibes from a unique era of film. Released in 1984, the movie is the third installment in the Oh, God! series, and it stars the legendary George Burns in a double role as both God and the Devil. Known for its lighthearted exploration of big themes like fate, temptation, and redemption, Oh, God! You Devil offers a nostalgic peek back into the decade’s comedic storytelling style. One of the most notable aspects…

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The POP-EXPOSE 

Remembering The Legend Quincy Jones!

Story by Mitchell Smith Hello everybody today we look back at an American Icon who passed away November 3, 2024. Quincy Delight Jones Jr., best known as Quincy Jones, is a towering figure in the music industry, a multi-talented composer, arranger, producer, and conductor whose career has spanned over seven decades bringing home 28 Grammy Awards and a Grammy Legend Award. Born on March 14, 1933, in Chicago, Illinois, Jones’s contributions have shaped the landscape of jazz, pop, and film music, making him one of the most influential musical figures…

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“Meet Chuck Jones: The Legendary Cartoonist Behind Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, and So Much More!”

When you think of classic cartoons, there’s a good chance Chuck Jones helped shape the image in your mind. Known as one of the most influential animators and directors of the Golden Age of Animation, Chuck Jones brought to life some of the most iconic cartoon characters in history. From Bugs Bunny to Daffy Duck, from the Grinch to the Road Runner, Jones’s creative touch made them unforgettable. Born in 1912, Chuck Jones grew up loving art, spending hours observing animals, people, and expressions—a skill he would later use to…

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Scatman Crothers: The Iconic Voice and Actor Who Brought Beloved Characters to Life

Story by Mitchell Smith Today I’m taking a look at the late great Scatman Crothers. Born in 1910 in Indiana Crothers self taught guitar and drums. He would start out a musician which pushed him to move to California in the 1940s. In 1953 Crothers made his Hollywood depute in Meet Me at the Fair. From there Crothers would grab rolls in films such as the Disney animated movie Arosticats, One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest, and one of my favorite movies Bronco Billy, starring along side Clint Eastwood. Crothers…

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Revisiting Conan the Barbarian (1982): The Timeless Tale of Revenge and Heroism

Story by Mitchell Smith Today I’m taking a look at the Classic 1982 film, Conan the Barbarian. Conan is based on a character created by Robert E. Howard in the 1930’s. This is the movie that put Arnold Schwarzenegger on the map. The movie focuses on the body builders physique and strength to wield a sword. The late great James Earl Jones does a stellar performance as the movies main villain Thulsa Doom, who slaughters Conan’s village when he was a young boy. After years of slavery and forced gladiator…

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Tom and Jerry – A Timeless Chase Through Animation History

Since their first appearance in 1940, Tom and Jerry have captivated audiences around the world, weaving timeless slapstick humor with brilliant animation. Created by legendary animators William Hanna and Joseph Barbera, this iconic cat-and-mouse duo has left a legacy in the world of animation that remains relevant and beloved even today. Let’s delve into the history, creative minds, and enduring appeal behind Tom and Jerry. The Birth of Tom and Jerry The journey began at MGM in 1940 when animators William Hanna and Joseph Barbera were tasked with creating a…

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31 Days of Halloween: A Look Back at David Cronenberg’s The Fly (1986)

For today’s 31 Days of Halloween 1980s horror retrospective, we’re diving into David Cronenberg’s 1986 masterpiece The Fly. Known for its grotesque practical effects and intense performances, The Fly remains a standout example of body horror and psychological terror that probes deeply into themes of identity, transformation, and obsession. Starring Jeff Goldblum and Geena Davis, this remake of the 1958 sci-fi classic takes audiences on a nightmarish journey of scientific ambition gone horribly wrong. A Tale of Science and Obsession The Fly follows eccentric scientist Seth Brundle (Jeff Goldblum), who…

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