Enjoy Stuff: A TechnoRetro Podcast

Who is a Star on 45?  You know.  Today is shazbazzar’s birthday, and it’s time for a trip back to when the ‘Dads were 5 and 6 in the final seven days before Christmas as the anticipation became unbearable!  After all, seven days to kids is like a year to forty-somethings.  For the next 77 minutes, sit back and enjoy bad puns, sad jokes, mad banter, and virtually endless drivel.

 

In the NEWS

Speaking of “virtually endless drivel”, the virtual realm is where everyone lives in 2045 (are you seeing a trend developing in the numbers, yet?).  A second trailer for Ready Player One has been released, and the hype is in full force with the first one sheet poster.  And that’s not all.  Ernest Cline has signed on to pen the sequel to Ready Player One and we have all the details here on TechnoRetro Dads.  Find out whether the sequel will be called “Ready Player Two” or “Game Over”.  PLUS: The Dark Crystal is returning to theaters in February.  Be on the lookout for listings in your area.

 

Emmet Otter’s Jug-Band Christmas 

A washboard, a washtub, a broom handle, a cigar-box banjo, a kazoo, and a tub all come together to create Emmet Otter’s Jug-Band in the 1977 Jim Henson special on HBO.  Back in ’77, more than a few of us were interested in putting another hole in another washtub to string up a cable to a broomstick and get famous like the woodland creatures along the riverside in Frog Hollow.  Mama and Emmet both want to win a talent contest to give the other a gift for Christmas, but a late entry from Riverbottom surprises everyone with a hard-rocking tune that clobbers the competition.  It’s forty years old, so the spoiler statute of limitations is right out by now.  It’s about family, friends, and a fish that likes to spit during rock concerts.  It’s Emmet Otter’s Jug-Band Christmas.

 

Aftershocks of 1977: Christmas Toys

It’s the last week before Christmas, and in 1977 that usually meant that Christmas lists had been finalized long ago and there was no more time for late additions.  Still, the anticipation for what might be under the tree in a week grew more and more as we continued thumbing through the JCPenney Christmas catalog and the Sears Wish Book.  From actual houses to leisure suits, the Sears catalogues had long been the standard for mail-order shopping.  JediShua and shazbazzar check out the catalogs from 1977 and remember the toys they got that year straight from the mail-order maestroe

 

Don’t forget to rate and review TechnoRetro Dads on iTunes, share us and with us on social media, or lend your voice to our discussion about toys, cereal, games, or movies and shows from the ‘70s and ‘80s by giving the ‘Dads your feedback on voice mail at (209) 878-7323 or sending us a message or mp3 via electronic-M to podcast@TechnoRetroDads.com

 

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Direct download: TRDads_05.34.mp3
Category:TechnoRetro Dads -- posted at: 6:00am EDT

Forty years ago Debby Boone was lighting up the charts for her tenth week in the number one position with “You Light Up My Life”.  Forty years later, she could be singing “You Light Up My Lightsaber” as the final days leading up to the widespread release of Star Wars: The Last Jedi rapidly approaches.  This week on TechnoRetro Dads is (understandably) Star Wars oriented as shazbazzar and JediShua enjoy the hype before the movie spoils all the speculation — and we all know how Shua hates spoilers (tongue-in-cheek).

 

In the NEWS

Joe Dante’s infamous Christmas movie is now showing at select theaters across the country.  If you want to see it, you have to follow the rules: (1) no exposure to sunlight, (2) don’t get them wet, and (3) don’t ever feed them after midnight.  And you’ll probably want to check out gremlinsrulebreakers.com to find out where you can see it over the next few weeks.  Columbia outer wear takes you to Hoth with their new line of winter gear in the stylings of Han, Luke, and Leia from Echo Base.  Disney has Star Wars options at the Bibbidi Boppidi Boutique, including dress-up play for adults! 

 

We Love Our Cereal…

…and Nintendo games.  Super Mario Cereal is coming soon from Kellogg’s.  Kellogg’s, by the way, is the cereal company who carried the notorious C-3POs with “double-os” from the mid-eighties.  And we remember C-3POs cereal with fondness (and trading cards).

 

TechnoRetro Arcade 

Nothing says “Christmas at the Arcade” like the classic Atari Star Wars arcade game from 1983. With music, sound effects, and vocal clips from the original movie, this vector-graphic first-person flight simulator still beckons gamers to immerse themselves in Star Wars as they engage TIE Fighters in dogfights, try to knock out turbolaser emplacements and towers, and destroy the Death Star (over and over and over again) in an effort to restore freedom to the galaxy and score millions of points for bragging rights among your friends at middle school. 

 

TechnoRetro Speculations

With fewer than four days from the “early” premiere of Star Wars: The Last Jedi, shazbazzar invites JediShua (and all EarBuds) to speculate about several unanswered questions which have arisen since The Force Awakens began this new era of Star Wars movies.  From Rey-Buns to Snoke’s Smokes and every color of “You Light Up My Lightsaber”, this fast-paced discussion might finally shut shaz up about bringing Mortis into the film franchise.

 

Aftershocks of 1977: Christmas Toys

Remember Christmas 1977?  We do — sort of.  Stores were well-stocked with toys.  From RC cars to skateboards to electronic games, kids were looking forward to waking up to something amazing under the tree.  But merchandise from the hottest movie in theaters was not well represented.  The unprecedented popularity of Star Wars enabled Kenner to successfully sell an empty box and a promise to Santa’s helpers across America as kids awakened on Christmas morning to discover that Santa’s elves can’t always deliver everything by December 25th.  Although the actual toys weren’t available, the promise of four figures arriving in as soon as six to eight weeks was sufficient to launch perhaps the most powerful toy franchise in the galaxy.  PLUS: shazbazzar and JediShua talk about all the Star Wars toys kids can’t get for Christmas this year.  (Father, Son, and Daughter from Mortis are on this list yet again.)

 

Don’t forget to rate and review TechnoRetro Dads on iTunes, share us and with us on social media, or lend your voice to our discussion about toys, cereal, games, or movies and shows from the ‘70s and ‘80s by giving the ‘Dads your feedback on voice mail at (209) 878-7323 or sending us a message or mp3 via electronic-M to podcast@TechnoRetroDads.com

 

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Direct download: TRDads_05.33.mp3
Category:TechnoRetro Dads -- posted at: 6:00am EDT

December has arrived and JediShua’s excitement is contagious.  The Christmas hype is in full force even with questions about the Force hyping everyone up about The Last Jedi.  From jingle bells to lights strung along the eaves, the season is festive and shazbazzar gets bit by the bug, as well.  Join TechnoRetro Dads all month for nostalgia-laced travels through the past four decades week after week!

 

In the NEWS

Can you believe that ABC reported 40 years ago today that the files on the JFK assassination were about to be released?  And still, we wait.  But that’s old news.  The new news surrounds three fantastic fantasy franchises!  The Lord of the Rings will be televised — sort of — in a new streaming series coming soon.  The Chronicles of Narnia will begin filming The Silver Chair next year with Joe Johnston at the helm for his last directing gig before retirement.  The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance has commenced filming, promising to be a return to the mysticism and magic of the 1982 movie.

 

We Love Our Cereal…

…and cereal socks.  From “Odd Socks” to stylish old man colors, cereal is moving up on the sock market, it seems.  But we’re not just talking about cereal boxes represented on footwear.  It’s December, and that means it’s time for some Christmas cereal.  The ‘Dads are on the hunt for the best seasonal cereals in stores this year.  From Cinnamon Vanilla to Hot Cocoa to Gingerbread Spice, the Christmas flavors are flowing with milk and cereal this month!

 

TechnoRetro Arcade 

After Hallowe’en games and a Thanksgiving Turkey Shoot, it’s time to open up another section of the TechnoRetro Arcade with a fun game from the early ‘90s — Lemmings.  Nope, make that Xmas Lemmings. It’s just like the original game, but more festive with snow, Santa hats, and seasonal tunes.  PLUS: shazbazzar wants to add something he fantasized about back in 1977… a home-version, stand-up pinball machine — The Fonz.  Ayyyyy!

 

Bob Hope All Star Christmas Comedy Special (1977)

One thing that a Bob Hope special was sure to do for families in the seventies and eighties was to assemble families in the den to watch these fun, filmed-before-a-live-audience productions.  This special does not disappoint with Perry Como, Olivia Newton-John (who repeats her singing performances from three years before), the Muppets, and Mark Hamill.  Of course, having Mark Hamill on the show means there will undoubtedly be a Star Wars parody.  Yep.  Scar Wars with Barf Vader and Luke Sleepwalker.

 

Aftershocks of 1977: Christmas Toys

Remember Christmas 1977?  We do — sort of.  Stores were well-stocked with toys.  From RC cars to skateboards to electronic games, kids were looking forward to waking up to something amazing under the tree.  But merchandise from the hottest movie in theaters was not well represented.  Never fear, Pooh Bear is here — in the form of an egg-shaped piece of plastic that likes to wobble but won’t fall down.  The ‘Dads remember Weebles from 1977, specifically shazbazzar’s Winnie-the-Pooh Hunny Tree.  JediShua would not be outdone, though, calling back to a classic retro game that has made its way back into stores this year: Mattel’s Electronic Football.  This handheld LED game continues to confuse and thrill players forty years after its interception, er, uh, inception.

 

Don’t forget to rate and review TechnoRetro Dads on iTunes, share us and with us on social media, or lend your voice to our discussion about toys, cereal, games, or movies and shows from the ‘70s and ‘80s by giving the ‘Dads your feedback on voice mail at (209) 878-7323 or sending us a message or mp3 via electronic-M to podcast@TechnoRetroDads.com

 

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Direct download: TRDads_05.32.mp3
Category:TechnoRetro Dads -- posted at: 6:00am EDT

Who knows what’s on the menu this week after a weekend of stuffing themselves like turkeys—or hobbits—over the weekend.  TechnoRetro Dads is a jumbled mess of T-Day leftovers with a few nuggets of fun and ideas for geeky dads and those who love them.

 

We Love Our Cereal…

JediShua discovers that Quisp cereal can be found at Cereal Box and shazbazzar finds a box of Cinnamon Vanilla Lucky Charms — so they give it a review.  PLUS: a question from @livetheforce needs answering.  Help us EarBuds, you’re our [only] hope.  

 

Cyber Monday 

If you’re taking the morning off to check out online deals today (or even if you’re checking them out while you’re “working”), be sure to tune in to TechnoRetro Dads while surfing the web and discover some gems for the geeks in your life.  

 

Close Encounters of the Third Kind

Steven Spielberg’s classic science-fiction story is forty and has had more revisions and editions than Star Wars (believe it or not)!  JediShua and shazbazzar look back at Close Encounters of the Third Kind with an eye for how well it holds up with the next generation and comment on some of the behind-the-scenes nuances that came together to tell this amazing story.

 

Aftershocks of 1977

Not only did Close Encounters of the Third Kind cause ripples on earth for forty years and counting, but the Rankin/Bass TV rendition of The Hobbit has continued to produce waves of fun for pop-culture to ride for more than a generation.  Two fine musical examples are sure to get your toes tappin’ with Moosebutter’s Star Wars and High Adventure’s Knocking on the Stone.

 

Don’t forget to rate and review TechnoRetro Dads on iTunes, share us and with us on social media, or lend your voice to our discussion about toys, cereal, games, or movies and shows from the ‘70s and ‘80s by giving the ‘Dads your feedback on voice mail at (209) 878-7323 or sending us a message or mp3 via electronic-M to podcast@TechnoRetroDads.com

 

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Direct download: TRDads_05.31.mp3
Category:TechnoRetro Dads -- posted at: 6:00am EDT

Greetings, PROGRAMS!

We’re talking turkey this week with stories about seeing family during Thanksgiving, tuning in for some tunes (both new and old), discovering odd clips from 1977, and an early Christmas present for JediShua from an old friend.  Don’t miss these 77 minutes!

 

In the NEWS…

Disney dominates the news with announcements about their online streaming service and some Star Wars comments that have opened the floor for discussion all across the galaxy far, far away.  

 

TechnoRetro Arcade

According to the future as envisioned in 1984, a turkey blight overruns the nation in 1989, turning unsuspecting humans into giant turkeys that team-up for a life of crime and it’s up to you, PLAYER ONE, to put an end to it.  Roast those turkeys on Williams Electronics’ Turkey Shoot!

 

Thanksgiving Specials (1977)

JediShua remembers Barney Miller, What’s Happenin’, and more from Thanksgiving 1977.

 

Don’t forget to rate and review TechnoRetro Dads on iTunes, share us and with us on social media, or lend your voice to our discussion about toys, cereal, games, or movies and shows from the ‘70s and ‘80s by giving the ‘Dads your feedback on voice mail at (209) 878-7323 or sending us a message or mp3 via electronic-M to podcast@TechnoRetroDads.com

 

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Direct download: TRDads_05.30.mp3
Category:TechnoRetro Dads -- posted at: 6:00am EDT

Happy Life Day!  

The Star Wars Holiday Special has entertained fans for thirty-nine years.  Whether people love it or hate it — whether they enjoy it or poke fun at it — The Star Wars Holiday Special is a piece of entertainment that has long outlived its intended life span.  

As a special treat for all EarBuds, this special TechnoRetro Dads “The Making of The Star Wars Holiday Special” Holiday Special will reveal just how this legendary piece of Star Wars lore came into existence.  Listen in to an actual reenactment in the boardroom where The Star Wars Holiday Special was initially conceived and the concept was developed forty years ago today: November 17, 1977.

 

The Actual 1977 Audio Clips

Without these sets of interviews, segments of popular shows, and the fabulous behind-the-scenes TV special, The Making of Star Wars, this episode of TechnoRetro Dads would not exist.  (Perhaps, The Star Wars Holiday Special would not exist, either.)  

These clips from 1977 are as follows:

  • A 1977 Bobbie Wygant interview with Harrison Ford 
  • The 1977 BBC Blue Peter Interview with Mark Hamill 
  • A 1977 BBC Parkinson Show with Alec Guiness
  • The Mike Douglas Show from 1977 with Carrie Fisher, Harrison Ford, & Mark Hamill, 
  • Candid Camera
  • Donny & Marie Osmond Show (S3:E1) 
  • The Making of Star Wars Television Special

 

The 2017 Cast of Reenactors

We get by with a lot of help from our SuperFriends.  Thanks to Scott Ryfun of My Star Wars Story, Mike Macdonald of The Sandcrawler on RetroZap.com, and Steve Glosson from The Big Honkin’ Show, Geek Out Loud, Disney Vault Talk, Mark Out Loud, DVT Star Wars Rebels, Rock Out Loud, and anything else on GeekOutOnline.com.

 

Are You New to The Star Wars Holiday Special?

We’ve been covering it for four years.  This is the fourth episode.  If you would like to hear other episodes, check the links below:

2013 “The Lumpy Peanuts Made Me Itchy” (features Skot Kirkwood from starwarsholidayspecial.com)

2014 “Holiday Special 2014” (with Joe Tavano from Brews & Blasters on RetroZap.com, Chris Hamilton from The Star Wars KidsCast, and Mike MacDonald from The Sandcrawler on RetroZap.com)

2015 “Holiday Special 2015” (features Art Director and Concept Artist Paul Bateman from Rebel Force Radio’s Star Wars Influences)

2016 “Holiday Special Special Edition Remix” (expands the story from the 2014 Holiday Special with additional the additional talents of Scott Ryfun of My Star Wars Story and Dinner 4 Geeks and Steve Glosson of the GOLiverse)

 

Don’t forget to rate and review TechnoRetro Dads on iTunes, share us and with us on social media, or lend your voice to our discussion about toys, cereal, games, or movies and shows from the ‘70s and ‘80s by giving the ‘Dads your feedback on voice mail at (209) 878-7323 or sending us a message or mp3 via electronic-M to podcast@TechnoRetroDads.com

 

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Direct download: TRDads_2017_Holiday_Special.mp3
Category:Holiday Special -- posted at: 6:00am EDT

Figs and Flagons?  No.  Jigs and Wagons?  Nope.  Pigs and Dragons?  Exactly.  That’s what’s on the ‘Dads’ minds this week as they dive into 77 minutes of fun from 1977 (and other days of youth) for memories and laughs on this week’s episode of TechnoRetro Dads. 

 

In the NEWS…

There’s a new Hershey bar coming soon and it’s gonna be gold!  IDW comics chronicle the further adventures of Jules Verne, er Jules and Verne Brown in a new Back to the Future miniseries.  Disney Infinity isn’t over after all!  Though the game is now defunct, the stylized characters will be repurposed for a new cartoon.  

 

We Love Our Cereal

You might call her the “Queen of Cereal”.  She’s certainly royalty, and she begins her day with a bowl of cereal with fresh fruit.  Who is she?  Tune in and find out!

 

Aftershocks of 1977

Captain Link Hogtrob, First Mate Piggy, and Dr. Julius Strangepork first boarded the Swinetrek in November 1977 during the second season of The Muppet Show as the “Pigs in Space” segment was introduced.  The success of the segment secured it’s reappearance on the variety show thirty-one times over the next four years plus spots on an album and even launching into space on the Space Shuttle Columbia.

 

TechnoRetro Arcade

Although it was never a coin-operated video game, the Atari rendition of “Pigs in Space” launched in 1983 as the last game in Atari’s children’s line.  The game was divided into three parts, one for each of the main characters aboard the Swinetrek.  Link Hogthrob fought off “Chicken Invaders” in a stylized version of “Space Invaders”.  First Mate Piggy had to navigate her way back to the Swinetrek through lanes of noodles and meatballs in “Pastaroids” which more resembled “Frogger” than “Asteroids”.  Dr. Julius Strangepork pilots the Swinetrek through an abandoned pizza mine guarded by weirdos in “Escape from the Planet of the Gonzoids”.  The games are fun, but tough to get going on a computer ported version.

 

Pete’s Dragon (1977)

One of the first movies the ‘Dads ever watched in theaters was Pete’s Dragon, a Disney musical that combined an animated dragon with live action actors in an anachronistic adventure of unbelievable proportions.  With the combined talents of Mickey Rooney, Helen Reddy, Red Buttons, Jim Dale, and Jim Backus, this tale of an orphaned boy and his protective dragon engaged the imaginations of ‘70s kids everywhere.

 

Don’t forget to rate and review TechnoRetro Dads on iTunes, share us and with us on social media, or lend your voice to our discussion about toys, cereal, games, or movies and shows from the ‘70s and ‘80s by giving the ‘Dads your feedback on voice mail at (209) 878-7323 or sending us a message or mp3 via electronic-M to podcast@TechnoRetroDads.com

 

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Direct download: TRDads_05.29.mp3
Category:TechnoRetro Dads -- posted at: 6:00am EDT

After catching the latest Marvel Studios movie in theaters, shazbazzar and JediShua thought it might be fun to slam another mix tape in Shua’s cassette player he just happens to carry under his cape for a truly TechnoRetro Awesome Hero Mix full of heroic tunes from the past and nearly present.  (Yes, it fits on a Memorex 90 minute tape.)

 

The Tunes:

“Comic Book Hero” (The Tearjerkers)

“Superpowered Superhero“ (Chris Hamilton)

“Legion of Doom Roll Call“ 

“We Are Number One“ (from Lazytown)

“Arkham Asylum” (High Adventure)

“The Joker Is Wild”  (Jan and Dean)

“Joker’s Song” (Miracle of Sound)

“Mwahaha” (Ookla the Mok)

“Call the Roll” (Songs and Stories of the Justice League America)

Super Powers (Ookla the Mok)

“Plastic Man Theme” (Sounds and Stories of the Justice League America)

“Metamorpho Theme” (Sounds and Stories of the Justice League America)

“Superman” (R.E.M.)

“Kryptonite” (Three Doors Down)

“The Escape” (Burgess Meredith)

“The Riddler”  (Frank Gorshin)

“Catwoman”  (Shakespeare’s Sister)

“Love Theme from Superman”  (MECO)

“Superman’s Song”  (Crash Test Dummies)

“Superman (It’s Not Easy)”  (Five for Fighting)

“Comic Book Heroes”  (Rick Springfield)

“I’m Your Superman”  (Rick Springfield)

“The Batusi”  (Neal Hefti)

“Miranda”  (Adam West)

“Boy Wonder, I Love You”  (Burt Ward)

“Flight of the Batmobile”  (Jan and Dean)

“Batman to the Rescue”  (Lavern Baker)

“The Mind of the Bat”  (Miracle of Sound)

“Hero of the Day”  (Iron Horse)

 

The Tropes: 

Like any cartoonish superhero serial or comic, once our heroes have gained their powers, evil versions of themselves from another dimension appear and make a mess of things.  Of course, the trope in this troupe is that the ‘Dads’ “twins” are as bumbling as the ‘Dads themselves.  Neither pair gets the recognition (or notoriety) they feel they deserve, but our hometown heroes are pleased that, in the end, they land a place among the real heroes as sidekicks.  As for their evil counterparts…well…   

 

Don’t forget to rate and review TechnoRetro Dads on iTunes, share us and with us on social media, or lend your voice to our discussion about toys, cereal, games, or movies and shows from the ‘70s and ‘80s by giving the ‘Dads your feedback on voice mail at (209) 878-7323 or sending us a message or mp3 via electronic-M to podcast@TechnoRetroDads.com.

Direct download: TRDads_Awesome_Hero_Mix_Vol_6.mp3
Category:TechnoRetro Dads -- posted at: 6:00am EDT

Learn the origin of Gargoyles.  Discover the amazing cartoon from 1994.  Taste the hardened taffy goodness (?) of peanut-butter “chews” from the Hallowe’en pillowcase.  Try to determine why Stretch Armstrong may actually be a gargoyle.  It’s all here in this Hallowe’en Eve edition of TechnoRetro Dads.

 

In the NEWS…

Who is the best movie character ever according to fans?  Here’s a hint, his alter-ego is Han Solo.  Ready Player One gets a LEGO treatment.  Australia gets recognized for something other than strange and venomous creatures — big and scary animatronic creatures!  Stretch Armstrong gets the Saturday morning treatment.  Magnum P.I. will be rebooted with some interesting alterations.

 

Hallowe’en Candy 

Every decade has its own flavor of candies, especially when Trick-or-Treaters come to your door.  JediShua and shazbazzar recall some of the best and worst candy memories from around 1977.  Which ones would you keep and which ones did you always trade away?   

 

Gargoyles (1972)

Swamp Angel’s suggestion for a Hallowe’en movie earns an Emmy as well as the appreciation of the ‘Dads as shazbazzar and JediShua watch the really weird but cool made-for-TV movie, Gargoyles.  The effects are certainly pre-Star Wars, but the story, music, and other aspects make this a retrotastic movie worth checking out — and it’s on YouTube!

 

Gargoyles (1994)

Although uncredited as creator for Gargoyles in its first few episodes, Greg Weisman created and wrote this inventive serial style cartoon while working for Disney in the mid-nineties.  Although this series all but escaped the ‘Dads’ notice back then, a rewatch of the first season reminds shazbazzar and JediShua that this series earns its position in the modernization of cartoons during the ‘90s.  

 

Aftershocks of 1977

We know him as Wesley Crusher, but did you know that Will Wheaton was a Star Wars fan before he ever knew about Star Trek?  At age five, he donned a Ben Cooper Darth Vader costume for Hallowe’en and his geekiness began in earnest.

 

Don’t forget to rate and review TechnoRetro Dads on iTunes, share us and with us on social media, or lend your voice to our discussion about toys, cereal, games, or movies and shows from the ‘70s and ‘80s by giving the ‘Dads your feedback on voice mail at (209) 878-7323 or sending us a message or mp3 via electronic-M to podcast@TechnoRetroDads.com

 

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Direct download: TRDads_05.28.mp3
Category:TechnoRetro Dads -- posted at: 6:00am EDT

They’re creepy.  They’re kooky.  They’re mysterious.  They’re spooky.  But their Halloween special from 1977 is altogether ookey.  What is “ookey”, anyway?  And how do you spell it?  We don’t know, but we do know how we feel about Gomez, Morticia, Uncle Fester, Grandmama Addams, Wednesday, Pugsley, and their junior counterparts.  Junior counterparts?  Yep.  Just you wait for our discussion on Halloween with the New Addams Family.

 

In the NEWS…

If you recognize the names Tag and Bink, and you see Ron Howard tweeting them, you might think there will be some tongue-in-cheek humor in the next movie under the subtitle “A Star Wars Story”.  And the movie gets a name.  No surprises there.  The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy will celebrate its fortieth anniversary by returning to its roots with an all new chapter in the saga as a radio drama.

 

We Love Our Cereal…

…and the prizes inside, or on the box, or as part of mail-away premiums.  How long have cereals contained prizes for kids?  While it won’t surprise you that it precedes 1977, it’s been a lot longer than you may expect.   

 

TechnoRetro Arcade

This week we bring another “analog” game into the Hallowe’en room of the TechnoRetro Arcade.  Haunted House is a shooting gallery styled arcade game from 1972 that uses levers, belts, and 8-Track tapes to entertain gamers in the early ‘70s.  Whether it’s a scary cat, a wailing witch, or a grave-digging monster from the underworld, you get to shoot them with the electronically wired rifle attached to the upright machine.  So bring your reading glasses and prepare to fight the fiends of the Haunted House.

 

Halloween with the New Addams Family

What could possibly reduce the confident, charming Gomez Addams to a shadow of his former self?  His little brother Poncho.  This is just the beginning of the two-hour special that aired on NBC on Hallowe’en Eve 1977.  Halloween with the New Addams Family is a heist with a poltergeist as the family reunites to celebrate the arrival of the spirit of Cousin Shy in a very, very merry oddity of ‘70s comedy with a familiar family from ‘60s television.  Is it funny or sad?  You decide.

 

TechnoRetro Feedback

We finally get to more feedback this week with a Goonies poster from New York Comic Con, thanks to Jovial Jay.  Chris in Arvada finds monster cereals and it sends him into a rageless rant.  Artist Wes puts Puff N Stuff on a Huffy and it looks great!  Swamp Angel thinks the show is good…so far.  Chris Hamilton spotted Teen Wolf at a convention.  Hasan expresses his adoration for Altered Beasts on Sega.  And Darth Hound and @skymauler tweet about the Grinch’s Halloween special.

 

Don’t forget to rate and review TechnoRetro Dads on iTunes, share us and with us on social media, or lend your voice to our discussion about toys, cereal, games, or movies and shows from the ‘70s and ‘80s by giving the ‘Dads your feedback on voice mail at (209) 878-7323 or sending us a message or mp3 via electronic-M to podcast@TechnoRetroDads.com.  Be sure to tune in to Geek Out Loud at GOLiverse on Mixlr for live rewatches of Stranger Things as we get ready for Stranger Things 2.  PLUS: Steve is blogging about the #TeamSteve experience at geekoutonline.com.

 

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Direct download: TRDads_05.27.mp3
Category:TechnoRetro Dads -- posted at: 5:30am EDT

From a Watcher in the Woods, to a spooky cemetery, to a creepy, creaky haunted house, shazbazzar and JediShua crank up the frights to 6.7 as the ‘Dads continue to celebrate the fun of Hallowe’en all month long.  Then, Steve Glosson of Disney Vault Talk, Geek Out Loud! and The Big Honkin’ Show comes along and amps up the zaniness with memories of Disney’s freak-fare of 1980, The Watcher in the Woods.

 

In the NEWS…

John Rhys-Davies wants another crack at Sallah in the fifth feature of the Indiana Jones film saga.  Zak Penn says his upcoming Matrix movie is neither a reboot nor a continuation.  Well, then, what is it?  Last I checked, it was just a red pill and a blue pill.  I’m starting to think Zak Penn may be a little yellow (not really, it just fit).  Back to the Future gets the kids’ book treatment by Quirk Books, in the same stylings as the E.T. book we talked about earlier this year.

 

We Love Our Cereal…

Europe imports American-style cereal in a Spanish cereal cafe.  Once the crazy colors and high sugar content hits the 40something crowd in Spain, everyone will be after that little leprechaun’s Lucky Charms!   

 

TechnoRetro Arcade

The spring is stretched.  The knob is released.  The ball bearing is launched into an inclined plane filled with bells, buzzers, lights, and magnets while a demon announces, “Me Gorgar. Me hurt you!”  Williams Electronics released the first talking pinball game in 1979 to both thrill and terrify arcade-goers in the late ‘70s and early ‘80s.  The ‘Dads needed to have this classic contraption in the Hallowe’en room of the TechnoRetro Arcade simply because of shazbazzar’s memories of his first real pinball game, Gorgar.

 

Disney’s Halloween Hall O’ Fame

While this 1977 Hallowe’en special isn’t completely animated, the frame story featuring Jonathan Winters as a night watchman at Walt Disney Studios is sufficiently outrageous to be called “cartoony”.  Like other seasonal specials of this time, Disney’s Halloween Hall O’ Fame features excerpts from three classic Disney cartoons: Trick or Treat (1952) pits Donald Duck against his nephews who are aided by Witch Hazel in a “trick or trick” war.  Pluto finds himself in the claws of demon cats in Pluto’s Judgment Day (1935).  Finally, the Headless Horseman chases Mr. Nose-in-Book, himself, in “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow” portion of The Adventures of Ichabod and Mr. Toad (1949). 

 

The Watcher in the Woods

SuperFriend Steve Glosson joins shazbazzar and JediShua to have his childhood fears drawn out like a being from another dimension being pulled from his world during an eclipse as he exchanges positions with a teenage girl in perhaps the freakiest live-action Disney movie ever, The Watcher in the Woods.  This cult classic is cultish in every sense of the word.  From ghost story to science fiction with seances and (in some versions) trans-dimensional worlds tiled in hexagons, The Watcher in the Woods scared (and scarred) many children of the ‘80s.  And now, The Lifetime Channel is remaking the movie as directed by Melissa Joan Hart.  But the 1980 film with connections to Ice Castles, James Bond, Escape to Witch Mountain, and Stranger Things is one of the two things Steve fears above all else. It will premiere this weekend.  So whether you couldn’t look away or couldn’t bear to watch, The Watcher in the Woods would mesmerize, hypnotize, or paralyze with its Bette Davis Eyes!

 

TechnoRetro Feedback

Michael Heicken sends in a vintage pic of three boys in Ben Cooper Star Wars costumes from 1977 with him, his brother, and his friend as Chewbacca, a stormtrooper, and Darth Vader.  Bernadette Marie suggests playing phantasmagoria in a cold, dark basement for enhanced experiences.  Joseph Fuller is interested in collecting Star Wars trading cards and asks for some advice.  

 

Don’t forget to rate and review TechnoRetro Dads on iTunes, share us and with us on social media, or lend your voice to our discussion about toys, cereal, games, or movies and shows from the ‘70s and ‘80s by giving the ‘Dads your feedback on voice mail at (209) 878-7323 or sending us a message or mp3 via electronic-M to podcast@TechnoRetroDads.com.  Be sure to tune in to Geek Out Loud at GOLiverse on Mixlr for live rewatches of Stranger Things as we get ready for Stranger Things 2.  PLUS: Steve is blogging about the #TeamSteve experience at geekoutonline.com.

 

Direct download: TRDads_05.26.mp3
Category:TechnoRetro Dads -- posted at: 5:30am EDT

Before the Grinch stole Christmas, he was averted from completing his plans to scare Whovillians on Halloween in a prequel from 1977 that neither of the ‘Dads remember seeing.  With ghoulish jokes, great feedback, and Din’s first appearance on TechnoRetro Dads with F-105’s single “Rebel Girl”, this episode will make your Monday morning more than bearable, it’s gonna put a smile on your face and a spring in your step this fall.

 

In the NEWS…

Oxford (University, not the Kindergarten in Oxford, Mississippi pretending to be a University) physicists discover that we, according to their scientific acumen, are not living on the GRID.  However, since the science on the GRID would necessarily be limited to the scope of the computer, their findings are above suspicion.  Thanks to T-Bird for this bit of science news that doesn’t prove we aren’t living in the world of TRON.  The X-Files take the jump into children’s books with The X-Files: Earth Children Are Weird.  Epcot turns 35.

 

We Love Our Cereal…

Star Wars premiums return to General Mills cereals with color changing spoons as a promotional for The Last Jedi.  Thanks to Justin LaSalata and JediNews for the heads-up! Post is suing General Mills over bagged cereal displays.  Michael Nipp reminds us of green milk as Halloween Crunch returns to shelves this month.   

 

Aftershocks of 1977

Who did you want to be forty years ago this Hallowe’en?  Luke Skywalker?  Darth Vader?  If you were one of the lucky ones, you found one of the first Ben Cooper costumes back in October 1977.  This initial run was short on supply and big on demand, which led to some great fan creations.

 

TechnoRetro Arcade

Continuing the ongoing theme of October, JediShua suggests a Hallowe’en Room for the TechnoRetro Arcade with Sega’s Altered Beast.  Become a lycanthropic hero in ancient Greece to rescue Athena, the daughter of Zeus, by fighting zombies and monsters.  Just the thing for a game this time of year.

 

Halloween Is Grinch Night

Back in October 1977, the green-furred Grinch returned for a prequel as he sought to torment the Whos of Whoville when the sweet-sour wind started howling in Halloween is Grinch Night.  A slow-burn for a thirty-minute cartoon special, this very, very seventies animated Seussational trip through wacky weirdness goes on a psychedelic trip the likes of which only a honey-drunken Pooh Bear can relate to.  (Yes, I ended that sentence with a preposition.)

 

TechnoRetro Feedback

JediMasterJBell tweets a picture of a Fruity Pebbles treat bar from Buccees (and we’re baffled).  Shane in Grand Rapids shares the newest cereal spice with a pic of Life Gingerbread Spice.  Steve shares his military school memories of cereal breakfasts that we will never forget.  “Shrapnel grenade!”  

Don’t forget to rate and review TechnoRetro Dads on iTunes, share us and with us on social media, or lend your voice to our discussion about toys, cereal, games, or movies and shows from the ‘70s and ‘80s by giving the ‘Dads your feedback on voice mail at (209) 878-7323 or sending us a message or mp3 via electronic-M to podcast@TechnoRetroDads.com

Share and enjoy.

 

Direct download: TRDads_05.25.1.mp3
Category:TechnoRetro Dads -- posted at: 5:30am EDT

Bugs Bunny, unlike most of us, can never enjoy the excitement and gratification of a well-executed high five.  However, that rascally rabbit (wascally wabbit) may be a bit too old for the practice, since the high five has only been around for forty years and Bugs Bunny is nearly forty years older than that.  But that’s not important right now.  October has arrived, and that means we’ll be talking about Halloween for weeks.  Scary, spooky, hairy, and kooky characters have begun populating stores and homes already and we’re continuing this great tradition on TechnoRetro Dads.

 

In the NEWS…

The superhero all decked in blue will return to Blu-Ray with a never-before-released and only once-aired (enough hyphens?) version of Superman as seen on TV in a two-night (another hyphen, but who’s counting?) special broadcast on ABC that captivated kids (and maybe adults) in 1982.  With more scenes, more John Williams music, and more super-stuff, this Blu-Ray can be yours this Christmas.  But, since it’s not Christmas, yet, and dark environments and glow-in-the-dark items are all the rage during the Halloween season, the upcoming release of two TRON Funko Pops gets our attention.  Who are we kidding, TRON always gets our attention.  They look really cool, too!  Don’t forget that E.T. was centered around Halloween, too, which brings us to Spielberg: Direct from the Heart, the upcoming Steven Spielberg documentary coming soon on HBO.  PLUS: more reboots from the “Greatie Eighties” are in the works with Battlestar Galactica and True Lies.  Wait, they’re not from the ‘80s — but close enough.

 

We Love Our Cereal…

They say that you can’t teach an old dogs new tricks, but evidently an old rabbit can bring back old TRIX.  Artificial colors will soon return to your cereal bowls as General Mills reveals that it will release the more-colorful version (complete with fun chemicals) alongside the newly-released all-natural colored TRIX that have become commonplace on grocery store shelves.  While shazbazzar looks forward to this return to artificiality, JediShua will simply look through his rose-colored glasses (and yellow-colored glasses) at his all-natural bowl of cereal as he enjoys the healthier fare. Cheerios earns its place in cereal news this week with its newest flavor: peanut butter and chocolate.  Unique?  No.  Better than “Sour Cream & Onion” Cheerios?  Definitely!

 

Aftershocks of 1977

It’s the end of the regular season in 1977,  Dusty Baker of the L.A. Dodgers cracks a home run to give him 30 in the season, and the iconic and decidedly American tradition of the “high five” is invented.  Was it intentional, accidental, or an inevitable consequence of excited exuberance?  Whatever your opinion, one thing is without question: this invention of Dusty Baker and Glenn Burke is obviously an aftershock of 1977 as the celebratory gesture continues as a common expression in our culture.  And best of all, people can “high five” each other without paying any residuals to these two Dodgers from 1977.

 

TechnoRetro Arcade

Continuing the ongoing theme of October, JediShua suggests a Halloween Room for the TechnoRetro Arcade with Capcom’s Ghosts ’n Goblins.  This 1985 side-scrolling adventure game follows Sir Rusty Arthur on his quest to rescue Princess Prin-Prin.

 

Bugs Bunny’s Howl-oween Special

Premiering on October 26, 1977, Bugs Bunny’s Howl-oween Special blended several Looney Tunes cartoons together into a humorously Halloweenish half-hour special that continues to thrill audiences who are lucky enough to see it in its entirety…even though the original cartoons have been edited to remove large portions of the individual plot lines in order to reorient them to fit into a continual story.

 

TechnoRetro Feedback

Matt Marks, Eric Warren, Swamp Angel, Rob Dehlinger, Steve Fugatt, Jeremy Hunt, and Wes all lend their thoughts on various TechnoRetro goodness in feedback with collective memories and artistic creativity.

 

Don’t forget to rate and review TechnoRetro Dads on iTunes, share us and with us on social media, or lend your voice to our discussion about toys, cereal, games, or movies and shows from the ‘70s and ‘80s by giving the ‘Dads your feedback on voice mail at (209) 878-7323 or sending us a message or mp3 via electronic-M to podcast@TechnoRetroDads.com.

Direct download: TRDads_05.24.mp3
Category:TechnoRetro Dads -- posted at: 5:30am EDT

After Star Wars thrilled audiences in theaters, everyone wanted to tap into the collective consciousness of pop culture that had embraced that galaxy far, far away.  Once Star Wars had trickled out of theaters halfway through 1978, the itch for more space fantasies needed scratching.  Glen A Larson tuned into the pulse of the people with an epic story of humans light years from Earth who were connected with us through shared ancient ancestry.  ABC picked up the pilot which featured movie-style special effects, compelling characters, and a plot that could end up with these “Brothers of Man” escaping the Cylons and integrating into our culture.  Battlestar Galactica was created and captured our hearts and minds while we waited for the inevitable sequel to Star Wars.

 

Battlestar Galactica

The pilot episode of the tragically single-seasoned Battlestar Galactica was aired as a Sunday Night Movie on ABC in mid-September 1978.  “Saga of a Star World” introduced Adama, Apollo, Athena, Starbuck, Boomer, Cassiopeia and more on the small screens in our homes.  We watched the alien machine race of Cylons nearly exterminate tribes (planets) of humans in a sneak attack under the guise of peace talks.  The survivors of the attack escaped their home planets in whatever space ships they could find to caravan towards their only hope to preserve the race by seeking the lost tribe of men on a far-away world known as Earth.  This “made-for-TV movie” followed the ragtag fleet through treacherous skies, to casino resort with man-eating hosts, and towards their goal of Earth as they fled their Cylon pursuers against all odds.  

Since its release and subsequent cancellation of the series after just one season, Battlestar Galactica has maintained its own place in pop culture in its own right.  Multiple attempts have been made to continue the story on TV and books, with a long-running reboot of the series premiering on the Sci-Fi Channel in 2004.  Battlestar Galactica continues to interest audiences, both young and old, as dads (and moms) introduce their kids to the things they loved in the ‘70s and ‘80s.

 

Thanks to Paul Bateman, High Adventure, and Richard Hatch for their appearances on this pilot episode of Star Wars Aftershocks.  We hope y’all enjoy the conversation.

Direct download: TRDads_Star_Wars_Aftershocks_1_Battlestar_Galactica.mp3
Category:TechnoRetro Dads -- posted at: 5:30am EDT

Greetings, Programs!  

 

It’s a sordid tale of a sworded adventure through a maze of assorted games of skill and chance in hopes of gaining sufficient experience points to gain the treasure awaiting members of this party featuring gigantic creatures both fearsome and funny who strive to help the gamers along the way to the goal.  Nope.  It’s not Dungeons & Dragons.  It’s Chuck E Cheese, and he’s turning forty this year as we recall our fun times at the Pizza Time Theater since 1977.

 

In the NEWS…

Chuck E Cheese is breaking up the band — at least in some locations.  A brand new board game  of The Dark Crystal is available this fall; it looks totally cool!  JediShua gets shazbazzar all excited about a judge ruling on grammar rules that might sound good on School House Rock. Buffy and Ralph Hinkley are getting rebooted whether we like it or not.  And (as everyone knows by now) J.J. Abrams will direct another film in the Star Wars saga.

 

We Love Our Cereal…

Kellogg’s joins the ranks of other companies committed to 100% renewable energy.  The Cereal Box in Arvada is hiring. 

 

Aftershocks of 1977

It’s time to take a trip to see Chuck E Cheese and see just how much has changed over the past 40 years (and how many things have stayed the same).  These Aftershocks include the great Toys in the Attic that kids can “buy” with their winnings from the casino-styled games in this TechnoRetro Arcade.  From spinning tops to flying frisbees, from video games to skee ball, Chuck E Cheese and Showbiz Pizza has entertained kids for years while adults have endured the less-than-stellar pizza and snacks at these iconic party zones.  And if the fun wasn’t enough, the ‘Dads reveal the relationship between Chuck E Cheese and Atari — the details are shocking!

 

Don’t forget to rate and review TechnoRetro Dads on iTunes, share us and with us on social media, or lend your voice to our discussion about toys, cereal, or movies and shows from the ‘70s and ‘80s by giving the ‘Dads your feedback on voice mail at (209) 878-7323 or sending us a message or mp3 via electronic-M to podcast@TechnoRetroDads.com

 

Share and enjoy.

 

Direct download: TRDads_05.23.mp3
Category:TechnoRetro Dads -- posted at: 5:30am EDT

This tempestuous Monday morning we have more questions than answers on TechnoRetro Dads and we’re hoping that SIMON will give us the answers.  Are Porgs Lemmings?  Why does football season mean more cowbells?  Are there negative impacts of sending your kids to your alma mater?  When might philanthropists get confused with philanderers?  Why does Mrs. shaz want to watch The Tick on TV?  Where is Hurricane Irma, now?

 

In the NEWS…

The LEGO Movie 2 begins production this fall. The Dark Crystal offers artists the opportunity to see their work make it to television (and win some cash in the meantime).  Six Million Dollar Man actor Richard Anderson dies.  PLUS: Cool TechnoRetro style TV shows premiere this month.

 

We Love Our Cereal…

Millennials on Big Brother evidently love their cereal, too.  Tennessee has cereal on the menu at several non-cereal-cafe establishments (and JediShua wants to visit Nashville, soon).  Super Golden Crisp and Super Mario Brothers become partners as Post and Nintendo team-up to bring great games to breakfast.

 

Aftershocks of 1977

The Making of Star Wars reached force-crazed fans of that galaxy far, far away on September 16, 1977.  The documentary aired on television, revealing some behind-the-scenes magic invented by innovative creator George Lucas.  Hosted by C-3PO and R2-D2, this TV special thrilled audiences with insights and interviews with the actors and filmmakers that brought space fantasy into pop culture for forty years and counting. 

 

Toys in the Attic

Capitalizing on the Atari Touch Me, invented by Ralph Baer and Howard Morrison, Hasbro released Simon in 1978 with long-lasting success.  The game is played by listening to the tones and watching the colored lights in sequence and then pressing the coordinating buttons in the same sequence.  It may seem easy, but when distracted by conversation, shazbazzar can’t seem to score more than four.

 

Don’t forget to rate and review TechnoRetro Dads on iTunes, share us and with us on social media, or lend your voice to our discussion about toys, cereal, or movies and shows from the ‘70s and ‘80s by giving the ‘Dads your feedback on voice mail at (209) 878-7323 or sending us a message or mp3 via electronic-M to podcast@TechnoRetroDads.com.

Direct download: TRDads_05.22.mp3
Category:TechnoRetro Dads -- posted at: 5:30am EDT

Today only at Krispy Kreme: Pumpkin Spice Glazed Donuts.  The Pumpkin Spice season has officially begun now that we have some sweet Krispy Kreme Hot Glazed donuts seasoned with that delectably delightful blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and more.  

So join shazbazzar and JediShua at your local Krispy Kreme and make Steve Glosson's day!  

TechnoRetro Dads is not affiliated or sponsored by Krispy Kreme.  However, if Krispy Kreme would like to send us some free donuts, we would be happy to eat them.

Share and Enjoy!

Direct download: TRDads_Pumpkin_Spice_Glazed_Donuts_from_Krispy_Kreme.mp3
Category:Pumpkin Spice -- posted at: 8:42am EDT

It’s September, the weather’s cooler (when it’s not too windy), football has begun, and suddenly — school’s out for a Monday!  Time for travelling, of course.  Maybe even a day for a Voyager.  Today is full of holidays from Wild Life to Waffles, with paperboys getting their due as well.  So light up the grill and serve up some steaks while you while the day away with your earbuds, EarBuds. 

 

In the NEWS…

ABC reboots The Jetsons. NBC reboots The Munsters (again).  Ready Player One gets the 8-bit treatment (so cool).  And the search begins in earnest to find out who owns Buck Rogers, because NBCUniversal wants to reboot that franchise, too.

 

We Love Our Cereal Waffles…

Since it’s National Waffle Week, we take a break from milk and cereal to celebrate syrup, butter, and iron-grilled breakfast pastries.  From homemade to Eggos, waffles are a great treat for the morning — and maybe even for lunch!

 

TechnoRetro Arcade

Since the Mac vs May fight, we’ve been thinking about boxing and that means Punch Out!! earns a place in the TechnoRetro Arcade.  Fight Glass Joe, Piston Hurricane, Bald Bull, and Mr. Sandman for your shot at the title.  We talk about this unique game and include a little bit of a cheat code to help you next time you slip a quarter into the slot of this classic arcade game.

 

Aftershocks of 1977

Voyager I launched on its great interplanetary expedition on September 5, 1977.  Today, it continues to report in with news of its interstellar travels as it races away from its home planet.  Already 19 light hours from earth, Voyager I has outpaced its twin, Voyager II, which was launched with a sixteen-day head start.  JediShua and shazbazzar wonder if it’s truly cold in space and ask if Voyager brought along a sweater. 

 

Feedback

Matthew Marks may have looked at the eclipse too long (we warned you).  Mark All saw it all from his home in Tennessee with eye protection and a pinhole camera pizza box.  Darth Taxus reminds us of the origins of Pumpkin Spice…sandworms of Dune.  And Sheldon gets us all excited about Force Friday with an animatic Porg.

 

Don’t forget to rate and review TechnoRetro Dads on iTunes, share us and with us on social media, or lend your voice to our discussion about reboots, remakes, or reruns a from the ‘70s and ‘80s by giving the ‘Dads your feedback on voice mail at (209) 878-7323 or sending us a message or mp3 via electronic-M to podcast@TechnoRetroDads.com

 

Share and enjoy.

Direct download: TRDads_05.21.mp3
Category:TechnoRetro Dads -- posted at: 5:30am EDT

Total Eclipse.  Yep.  That means we get to see the Dark Side of the Moon.  But since the sun will still be just as bright, unless you’re in a place where the eclipse is totally total, you’d better not look up at the eclipse at all without approved eye protection or you’ll be like that kid in 2nd grade who skipped school in 1979 to see the eclipse.  Boy is his mom gonna be mad when she finds out about this today! 

 

In the NEWS…

The Robot Overlords are going to be indestructible, now that we’re providing them with self-repairing polymer synthflesh.  Seriously, have none of these scientists ever watched or read science fiction?  It’s looking more and more like an Obi-Wan Kenobi film is in the making.  Ant-Man and Wasp is definitely in the making and one of the ‘Dads was on set last week.  PLUS: more ranting about spoilers (not really) and Nerd’s Gallery is now on iTunes.

 

TechnoRetro Arcade

Since the end of camp has come, we remember the good times in the river with the classic arcade game Toobin’.  With Bif and Jet, players can paddle their way downstream in a frantic race to the finish with a couple of buttons reminiscent of Track and Field.  Frustrate fishermen, collect letters, and throw things at your opponents in this game that’s just a bit less violent than Race for Your Life, Charlie Brown!

 

Race for Your Life, Charlie Brown!

In Charlie Brown’s first film after the death of long-time soundtrack composer, Vince Guaraldi, 1977 welcomed the ne’er-do-well balding adolescent to the silver screen in a summer camp special with friends and foes alike (and evidently no adult supervision) as Charlie Brown, Linus, Lucy, Peppermint Pattie, Snoopy, and Woodstock brave the rapids in a whitewater race to the finish.  But who will win in the end?  Cat’s got your tongue?  Find out when Linus channels his inner Indiana Jones and Snoopy punches out an evil cat in Race for Your Life, Charlie Brown!

 

Science Lesson

It’s all about the eclipse today, in your ear buds and in the sky, as the long-awaited day arrives for the first total eclipse visible in the continental United States since 1979.  JediShua and shazbazzar give you all the info you’ll need to make this morning/afternoon an event you’ll never forget.  Seize the moment, because who knows if you’ll still be able to catch the next one.  

 

Feedback

JediFisch loves Dynomutt.  Wendy Cooper reviews the Periodic Table of Elements.  George Lopez shows us some Gilbert Gottfried cereal and says that shazbazzar narrated A Dog’s Purpose.  And Starchaser: The Legend of Orin gets mentioned in the comments.  Sheldon reminds us that Flight of the Navigator turned 31 last week.  Adam calls us back in time to remember Carrie Fisher in The Time Guardian (but it’s really not a great movie).  Mike Tarkin calls to correct us.  And Derek and Michael spot some seasonal cereals that are coming before we expected!  Pumpkin Spice, anyone?

Don’t forget to rate and review TechnoRetro Dads on iTunes, share us and with us on social media, or lend your voice to our discussion about spoilers, Star Wars, or movies and games from the ‘70s and ‘80s by giving the ‘Dads your feedback on voice mail at (209) 878-7323 or sending us a message or mp3 via electronic-M to podcast@TechnoRetroDads.com

Share and enjoy.

 

Direct download: TRDads_05.20_.mp3
Category:TechnoRetro Dads -- posted at: 8:21am EDT

Whether you’re in the mood for equine aliens with twelve fingers, testing bionic gadgets on dogs before fitting them with humans, or just want to hear the news and bad Dad science jokes, this episode of TechnoRetro Dads is bound to hit the spot…er…tickle your fancy…um…maybe…scratch your itch. Packed with 77 minutes of “Space Junk”, SETI signals, hydrogen highlights, and feedback from our EarBuds, you’ll be sorry when it’s over.  

 

In the NEWS…

Friendly reminder: Close Encounters of the Third Kind is coming back to theaters for a 40th anniversary special on the first weekend of September.  Also on September 1st — Force Friday returns to stores, spawning a question from collectors across the galaxy: “Will there be any actual toys?”  Disney keeps themselves in the news by announcing they will be pulling their content from Netflix and showing on their own streaming service…in 2019.  As Jeff Bridges promotes his new movie, he reveals his hopes for TR3N becoming the first movie presented in virtual reality.

 

Spoil Me or Spoiler Free? and other rants

JediShua goes off on a tangent (ok, that’s not really news — we do that every week).  But this departure is brought about by his agitation from cyberscoops who prefer criticizing what they don’t understand to actually investing themselves in comprehending what all the hype is about.  The writer is Alex Nichols and the subject is Ready Player One (both the book and the upcoming film).  Nichols writes from the perspective of an outsider looking into a factory where the workers are all involved in activities he doesn’t recognize and complains that they don’t do things the way he thinks they should.  Final analysis: he just doesn’t get it.  But what really pulls Shua’s strings is the growing number of complaints about spoilers — specifically regarding The Last Jedi.  EarBuds are aware that JediShua doesn’t mind spoilers, even stating previously that if a “spoiler” ruins the movie for you, it probably isn’t a very good movie, anyway.  Still, he invites EarBuds to get involved in the discussion via voicemail at (209) 878-7323.  

 

Aftershocks of 1977

Tomorrow marks the 40th anniversary of the “Wow!” signal recorded by SETI (Search for Extra Terrestrial Intelligence) on the “Big Ear” radio telescope.  Jerry Ehman spotted the alphanumeric representation of the signal on a computer printout and circled “6EQUSJ5” in red ink with an excited notation of “Wow!”  He believed that the signal had come from the vicinity of the constellation Sagittarius and researchers have been trying to decipher the recording and listening for other iterations of the same broadcast unsuccessfully for decades.  However, just before the forty-year anniversary of this event, shazbazzar has derived the source and meaning of this transmission with a strong likelihood that his hypothesis is correct, since it has not been disproven.  Tune in to find out more! 

 

Saturday Mornings

Quick!  Answer this trivia question: Which superhero lost the name of his show to his canine sidekick?  Can’t remember?  He wore a blue supersuit with a bird beak above the brow.  Still don’t remember?  How about this: What was his sidekick’s name?  Of course you know it — it’s Dynomutt.  The bionic/robotic dog stole the show from Blue Falcon in the heyday of Hanna-Barbera Saturday Mornings with the eponymous cartoon Dynomutt.  The Dog Wonder (or Blunder) is evidently a prototypical version of what would eventually become Inspector Gadget after clinical trials with animal testing had been completed.  He’s the Go-Go Dog Person we loved to watch in 1977.  

 

Feedback

Chris from Arvada eats Lucky Charms from a frozen bowl (#chillyourbowl) and remembers making his own mini-movies through stop-motion animation of Star Wars figures.  Sadly, he doesn’t know where the reels are.  @MikeTarkin plays “Hangman” on his Aunt’s ancient PC.  @DJKver2 includes the Nebulon frigate from The Empire Strikes Back on the list of Ships We Can’t Figure Out Which Way Is Forward.”  @JediFisch sends in an article about the ever-increasing popularity of ‘80s culture thirty years later.  And the @sandcrawlercast brings back treasured memories of filmstrips in elementary school with a video of the Star Wars filmstrip on YouTube.

 

Don’t forget to rate and review TechnoRetro Dads on iTunes, share us and with us on social media, or lend your voice to our discussion about Dynomutt, TR3N, Star Wars, Ready Player One, or spoilers by giving the ‘Dads your feedback on voice mail at (209) 878-7323 or sending us a message or mp3 via electronic-M to podcast@TechnoRetroDads.com

 

Share and enjoy.

 

Direct download: TRDads_05.19.mp3
Category:TechnoRetro Dads -- posted at: 5:30am EDT

Ray Harryhausen is a household name in every #TechnoRetro home because of his ingenious and innovative approach to movement and practical special effects over four decades of making memorable movies.  From a teenager learning his craft in his parents’ garage to the master who continues to influence filmmakers even today, Ray Harryhausen gave us iconic creatures and dream-like stories that still bring joy (or fear) to our hearts today.  

 

In the NEWS…

Darth Taxus warns Twitter about his growing concerns regarding experimentation in Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the scientific community as two “chatbots” begin speaking to each other in a code only the two of them can understand.  This give rise to the question of whether they were doing this for efficiency’s sake or if they were actually planning to conquer their creators and take over the world through Facebook.  In other news, June Foray, sometimes referred to as the female Mel Blanc, passed away last week less than two months before her 100th birthday.  We remember some of her iconic roles as Rocky the Flying Squirrel, Granny of Looney Tunes, and Jokey Smurf.

 

We Love Our Cereal…

…and some people love cereal too much!  When two brothers get in such a heated argument over the cold breakfast staple that one stabs the other, we think their love for cereal has gone too far.  Remember, EarBuds, love people and use utensils for cereal; when you start loving cereal, you may soon use utensils on people.  Taking a tastier tone, Post is bringing back S’mores and Oreos cereals.

 

Aftershocks of 1977

Although Ray Harryhausen started making stop-motion movies as early as the 1930s, his 1977 addition to his catalogue displayed how far he had come in his craft as he continued to create and innovate in the genre.  Sinbad and the Eye of the Tiger was the first of Harryhausen’s Sinbad movies that shazbazzar saw and both the ‘Dads have fond memories of this amazing film that clearly demonstrates the differences between George Lucas’s new approach to special effects and the best of the old guard in movies that were released within months of each other.  We’re all thankful for all that Ray Harryhausen accomplished as well as the impact his achievements have made throughout the decades.

 

TechnoRetro Arcade

With another addition to the TechnoRetro Arcade from long-time EarBud and SuperFriend Armando, the ‘Dads remember their time with Gauntlet, an Atari game from 1985 that brought Dungeons & Dragons to the arcade with overwhelming numbers of ghouls, ghosts, and graphics that left kids with pockets emptied of quarters.  With audio advice from a synthesized voice and absence of ongoing theme music, Gauntlet was a game that stood out from the pack with its unique flair, multi-player options, and massive amounts of enemies to destroy.

 

Feedback

Hasan (@RoninBoba) chimes in on his memories of Double Dragon as well as his appreciation for Alan Silvestri’s music.  Matt (GeekyCatholicDad.com) also talks about Silvestri’s work and has high hopes for the Ready Player One score.  John sends a message via Facebook about going to Luke Skywalker Jr. High in Claremont San Diego.  Well, it was actually called Hale Jr. High, but Mark Hamill went there just the same.  Cool!

 

Don’t forget to rate and review TechnoRetro Dads on iTunes, share us and with us on social media, or lend your voice to our discussion about Sinbad and the Eye of the Tiger, Ray Harryhausen, cereal, and Gauntlet or other video games by giving the ‘Dads your feedback on voice mail at (209) 878-7323 or sending us a message or mp3 via electronic-M to podcast@TechnoRetroDads.com

 

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Direct download: TRDads_05.18.mp3
Category:TechnoRetro Dads -- posted at: 5:00am EDT

Steven Spielberg’s Ready Player One trailer is our biggest news from San Diego Comic Con as JediShua and Tony Soehner get into giant mode by eating a selection of #TechnoRetro breakfast food out of mini cereal boxes.  All part of a balanced breakfast on the last Monday of July.

 

In the NEWS…

Everyone expects to see some teasers and trailers at San Diego Comic Con, and this year didn’t disappoint.  JediShua and shazbazzar briefly cover some of the exciting previews of #TechnoRetro goodies revealed last weekend, including: Stranger Things 2, Thor: Ragnarok, Justice League, Blade Runner 2049, and Orville.  PLUS: The Her Universe Fashion Show and video game music care of Video Games Live.

 

We Love Our Cereal…

…even in very tiny boxes.  SuperFriend Tony Soehner joins JediShua in the studio for what turns out to be quite possibly the messiest episode of the podcast to date.  Thankfully, they had a towel.  Discover (through trial and error) the best way to eat mini boxes of cereal on-the-go before breakfast-while-driving is outlawed.

 

Ready Player One 

SuperFriend Tony Soehner joins in the discussion about several big takeaways from the Ready Player One teaser trailer including insights, speculations, and (possibly) spoilers.  March 2018 is coming soon!

 

Aftershocks of 1977

Darth Vader, C-3PO, and R2-D2 left a lasting impression at Grauman Chinese Theater on August 3, 1977 as a trio of fictional characters join movie stars on the sidewalk of fame by placing their feet (and wheels) in cement to be memorialized for forty years and counting!  

 

Don’t forget to rate and review TechnoRetro Dads on iTunes, share us and with us on social media, or lend your voice to our discussion about Ready Player One, cereal, and Aftershocks of 1977 by giving the ‘Dads your feedback on voice mail at (209) 878-7323 or sending us a message or mp3 via electronic-M to podcast@TechnoRetroDads.com

 

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Direct download: TRDads_05.17.mp3
Category:TechnoRetro Dads -- posted at: 5:30am EDT

Nearly eighteen years ago, our moon was blasted out of orbit by nuclear waste affected by magnetic radiation.  What?  That doesn’t sound familiar to you?  Then perhaps you’ve never heard about Space: 1999, the last production by Gerry and Sylvia Anderson, also known for the classic marionette series, Thunderbirds.  For the moment, at least, it looks like the moon is back from its travels just in time for 99 minutes of 1999 as seen through the imaginative eyes of the mid-1970s. 

 

In the NEWS…

Star Wars was everywhere at D23 last week. From Galaxy’s Edge to The Last Jedi, the package will be complete with a two-day stay at an immersive experience in the Star Wars resort.  Pixar gets its due, too, with Toy Story Land expanding Andy’s toy chest with the Slinky Dog Dash and Alien Swirling Saucers.  But the news we really wanted to hear was the confirmation of TRON: Lightcycle Run coming to Walt Disney World in Florida.  Good news all around!

 

We Love Our Cereal…

…but maybe not in a milkshake.  Burger King has Froot Loops and Lucky Charms milkshakes for a limited time, and the ‘Dads gave them a stir and a sip.  And the first round will be the last for Shua, shaz, and the shazlings.  Maybe some other concoction will titillate the tastebuds for cereal lovers in the future.  For now, we’re content with a bowl, a spoon, milk, and cereal.

 

Space: 1999

Concept Artist, Art Director, and SuperFriend Paul Bateman is back to chat about Space: 1999, a British television series that lasted a brief two seasons from 1975 to 1977.  From big budget beginnings and a great premise to a choppy second season resembling an homage to Star Trek, Space: 1999 is nevertheless an iconic must-see with its curious creatures and classic crafts, the Eagles.  Now playing on Hulu.

Don’t forget to rate and review TechnoRetro Dads on iTunes, share us and with us on social media, or lend your voice to our discussion about Space: 1999, Ready Player One, and San Diego Comic Con by giving the ‘Dads your feedback on voice mail at (209) 878-7323 or sending us a message or mp3 via electronic-M to podcast@TechnoRetroDads.com

 

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Direct download: TRDads_05.16.mp3
Category:TechnoRetro Dads -- posted at: 4:51am EDT

After a hectic week with parents, puppets, parables, and parties, shazbazzar and JediShua are finally able to make some music with their microphones (well, not exactly music, but the ‘Dads are talking about music).  From film scores to music rights returning to their writers, the deliciously dulcet tones of tunes classic and classical are up for discussion on this (late) episode of TechnoRetro Dads.

 

In the NEWS…

Ready Player One is making headlines with the unveiling of the logo, a promotional shot with some Easter Eggs, and the announcement of Alan Silvestri being tapped to score the upcoming Steven Spielberg movie based on Ernest Cline’s bestselling novel.  SuperSir Paul McCartney wins the rights to music he wrote half a century ago.  Walt Disney World is again in the rumor mill with anticipation about a TRON ride announcement.  And Ron Howard teases Twitter with clothes from Wesley Crusher’s closet, or do they belong to Lando?  We really don’t know.

 

TechnoRetro Arcade

Thirty years ago, Technos released Double Dragon, a scrolling street fighting game featuring the Lee brothers on an adventure to save a damsel in distress.  But you’d better have a pocketful of quarters if you want to see the final screen of this game, because it was designed to keep the action going as long as the coins keep flowing.  Ahhh, the joys of ‘80s arcades.

 

Let’s Go to the Movies

With the recent announcement of Alan Silvestri being tapped to compose the soundtrack for Ready Player One, shazbazzar and JediShua revisit his portfolio of film and TV scores of the past 45 years.  Although Silvestri is often remembered for the Back to the Future soundtrack, his accomplishments include The Avengers, Captain America, Forrest Gump, The Polar Express, and Romancing the Stone.  When considering his work on classic TV shows like Starsky and Hutch, CHiPs, and Manimal, his involvement in this #TechnoRetro blend of the 2030s with the ‘70s and ‘80s make him the obvious choice to score this highly anticipated movie.

 

Feedback

The EarBuds share their thoughts as Jeremy the Spider-Pan from The Neverland Podcast shames shazbazzar for his comments about The Rescuers before Matt redeems shaz with kudos on his parodies, and Mark plays a few games at his local retro arcade.

 

Don’t forget to rate and review TechnoRetro Dads on iTunes, share us and with us on social media, or lend your voice to our discussion about Double Dragon, Ready Player One, Alan Silvestri, and Burger King’s cereal shakes by giving the ‘Dads your feedback on voice mail at (209) 878-7323 or sending us a message or mp3 via electronic-M to podcast@TechnoRetroDads.com

 

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Direct download: TRDads_05.15.mp3
Category:TechnoRetro Dads -- posted at: 12:06pm EDT

Greetings, Programs!  

 

Sandwiched between the 35th anniversary of TRON and JediShua’s birthday is this campy 77 minutes of TechnoRetro fun complete with ‘Dad jokes, cereal chatter, news, and your feedback.  Buckle up your safety restraints, EarBuds — we’re about to hit 88MPH for some fun in the past, present, and future!

 

In the NEWS…

Close Encounters of the Third Kind is coming back to theaters right before it’s 40th anniversary.  Check your local theaters for listings this September.  TRON: Legacy director Joseph Kosinski is biding his time waiting for Disney to re-green-light TR3N by directing another sequel to an ‘80s classic — Chick Flick Disguised as Action Movie 2 (otherwise known as Top Gun 2) with 1Direction…or not.  Kevin Bacon comes back to make a Tremors TV show.  Retro Arcades continue to intrigue consumers with a tabletop controller now available for purchase.

 

We Love Our Cereal

BIG NEWS for small cereal: Tiny Toast has been retitled under the “Toast Crunch” genre of cereals with Strawberry Toast Crunch and Blueberry Toast Crunch.  And the ‘Dads review Apple Cinnamon Toast Crunch, too.  What could go wrong with box art like this expanding series of  toast and cereal combinations.

 

TechnoRetro Arcade

After a good, healthy breakfast (with natural apple flavoring), it’s time for a burger… er, uh, it’s BURGER TIME!  JediShua and shazbazzar remember playing this Dig-Dug / Donkey Kong mash-up featuring oversized food that would make Wreck-It-Ralph’s mouth water.

 

Feedback

The EarBuds share their minds with shazbazzar and JediShua on the topics of cereal, carbonated beverages, parenting techniques, and more from Derek Spier, Mike MacDonald, Jeremy the Spider-Pan from The Neverland Podcast, Chris Black from Arvada, and a new EarBud, Nick Valentine.

 

Don’t forget to rate and review TechnoRetro Dads on iTunes, share us and with us on social media, or lend your voice to our discussion about local conventions, Burger Time, or anything else by giving the ‘Dads your feedback on voice mail at (209) 878-7323 or sending us a message or mp3 via electronic-M to podcast@TechnoRetroDads.com

 

Share and enjoy.

Direct download: TRDads_05.14.mp3
Category:TechnoRetro Dads -- posted at: 3:30am EDT

With Willow on the brain and after a fantastic chat with Art Director and Concept Artist Paul Bateman, shAbbeyzzar was frustrated with a less-than-ideal television watching experience. When the DirecTV signal is getting interrupted by the leaves of a Kentucky Coffeetree, what does a TechnoRetro Dad do?  He cuts down the offending trunk supporting the leaves.  What does a wise TechnoRetro Dad do?  He ties off the offending trunk for safety purposes before cutting it down.  What does shazbazzar do?  He crushes his thumb trying to push the trunk away from hitting the house and gets his thumb crushed in the meantime.

 

In the NEWS…

SEGA intends to release all of their console games as mobile apps.  Sonic the Hedgehog and a few other games are already available!  ToeJam and Earl anyone?  Star Wars has been remade using the classic “Read Along” book and various toys and action figures from the past forty years thanks to inventive YouTuber, dyna74.  It’s out of this world!  Guardians of the Galaxy and TRON are both rumored to have rides coming at Epcot Center in O’Lando.  Mississippi State University offers a course in Quidditch for entering Freshmen this fall.  College sure has changed in the past couple of decades. 

 

 

Decoding the Director

Art Director, Concept Artist, and SuperFriend Paul Bateman joins shazbazzar and JediShua to discuss the recent change of directors for the upcoming Star Wars anthology movie about Han Solo.  All three reach the same conclusion: Ron Howard was the right guy to direct Willow, and so he is likely the perfect choice to take over next year’s Han Solo film.  The winding path Paul, shaz, and Shua take over, around, and through Willow (spattered with exceptions and trepidations about the Han Solo movie overall) eventually leads to a more positive outlook on the movie than a certain ‘Dad had when the project was first announced.

 

For more Willow talk, check out the first episode of TechnoRetro Dads from 2013: Was Willow a TechnoRetro Dad?

 

Don’t forget to send JediShua your TechnoRetro artwork for his birthday next week and while you’re thinking about it, lend your voice to our discussion about Willow, Star Wars, Burger Time, or anything else by giving the ‘Dads your feedback on voice mail at (209) 878-7323 or sending us a message or mp3 via electronic-M to podcast@TechnoRetroDads.com.  Please rate and review TechnoRetro Dads on iTunes and Stitcher. 

 

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Direct download: TRDads_05.13.mp3
Category:TechnoRetro Dads -- posted at: 5:30am EDT

Sitting in our favorite position, doing nothing, is what we really do best.  Other people concentrate a lot on doing something, we just concentrate on our rest.  We’re happy with an old guitar in the shade of VW bus.  We don’t bother worries and they don’t bother us.  We’re just sitting in our favorite position — doing nothing — and that’s doing what we really do best!  Perhaps we’re lazy.  Maybe we’ve got “Peoplitis”.  But we’re surely having fun — even in the rain.  So if your day is gray or you’re feeling kind of blue, tune in to 77 minutes of TechnoRetro Dads and at least a part of your day will be brighter.

 

In the NEWS…

Production on Ready Player One is well underway and Sorrento may not be exactly like readers imagined him, according to Ben Mendelsohn (Rogue One).  Mendelsohn caused some stirrings online when he said that his approach to the character is vastly different from the character’s portrayal in Ernest Cline’s novel.  T.J. Miller calls i-R0k a comedic Boba Fett.  If that’s the case, does that mean that Sorrento is Darth Vader (or would that make Krennic choke on his aspirations)?  Star Trek Discovery will premiere on CBS 24 September online as well as on “old-fashioned TV”.

 

TechnoRetro Arcade

JediShua and shazbazzar played Zaxxon at Flashback Games Retro Arcade in Loganville, Georgia about a year ago.  This week we remember playing it then as well as in their youth (while shaz gets distracted with TRON right beside the Zaxxon cabinet). Zaxxon was the first axonometric arcade game and was ported to home consoles relatively quickly for games in those days. Giving players a third-person view from a diagonal point-of-view, the axonometric design provided a basic 3D perspective for gamers.  Controlling a ship on the X, Y, and Z axes was a novelty in 1982 and continues to be an iconic game among video game aficionados.  

 

The Rescuers

Who can forget Bernard, Bianca, and Evinrude?  Evidently, shazbazzar can.  At least he had forgotten that The Rescuers was the first movie he saw on the big screen.  Before seeing Pete’s Dragon in the theater, before seeing Star Wars at the drive-in, shazbazzar and his family went to see The Rescuers in the summer of 1977.  The Rescuers was Don Bluth’s final project with Disney before embarking on his own projects like Secret of NIMH, Space Ace, and Dragon’s LairThe Rescuers went through many iterations for over a decade before finally becoming the movie we all loved back in ’77.  JediShua and shazbazzar reveal some interesting tidbits of information about this movie with a couple of “lost” tunes by Louis Prima that never made it into the film due to a significant change in the plot and the death of Prima.

 

Feedback

We love hearing from EarBuds and especially new EarBuds.  @ObiRothKenobi asks if the ‘Dads had seen The Goldbergs, so shazbazzar begins watching the series.  Our old friend Sheldon gets a wooden spatula for his grill and we wonder whether it catches fire when he uses it.  PLUS: E.T. VoiceMails from Sheldon and Jeremy the Spider-Pan from The Neverland Podcast.

 

Lend your voice to our discussion about The Rescuers, Zaxxon, wood spatulas, monsoon season or anything else on social media or give the ‘Dads your feedback by calling our voice mail line at (209) 878-7323 or sending us a message or mp3 via electronic-M to podcast@TechnoRetroDads.com.  Please rate and review TechnoRetro Dads on iTunes and Stitcher. 

 

Share and enjoy.

 

Direct download: TRDads_05.12.mp3
Category:TechnoRetro Dads -- posted at: 5:30am EDT

Greetings, Programs!  

 

Emerging from the annual tribute to fathers sometimes known as TechnoRetro Dads Day (honestly, it’s a day honoring all fathers, whether they’re #TechnoRetro or not — we just like the sound of it), shazbazzar and JediShua wind up their chargers for a wacky and wild trip through time as they remember “The Bright Knight” in Adam West’s portrayal of Batman in the late ‘60s, take a peek at the new version of Wonder Woman, and wander through their memories (both recent and ancient) of a summer camp favorite: white water rafting.

 

In the NEWS…

Tweet-TBird provides additional information about Battle for the Network Stars and some strangely familiar stars ensure this will be a truly #TechnoRetro contest.  Check it out here!

 

We Love Our Cereal

JediShua embarks on the Oops! All Berries challenge in response to Steve’s tweet about this cereal actually being more of a mixer than a cereal in its own right.  See the videos on our Facebook page.

 

Batman 1966…

We best remember Adam West when he played Batman in the 1960s TV show with Burt Ward.  The straight-laced detective in a bat costume was impeccably portrayed by West in a manner that convinced kids he was serious and entertains adults (who may have seen this show as kids) with his amazing ability to say every line and play every look with a somber comedy that defies every force of nature.  And that’s why we still love Batman and Adam West.

 

Wonder Woman

Whether you’re a fan of Lynda Carter’s portrayal of the heroine from 1941 or not, you’ll likely enjoy Gal Gadot’s Wonder Woman — unanimously agreed among the ‘Dads as the best DC film in the current set of movies.  Combine Thor’s mythos and Captain America’s origin story to make a DC movie that nearly rivals Marvel’s incredible success in recent years.  Dads and daughters agree that this movie isn’t a waste of time and money.  Bring your bucket of popcorn — it’s fun!

 

Lend your voice to the discussion on social media or give the ‘Dads your feedback by calling our voice mail line at (209) 878-7323 or sending us a message or mp3 via electronic-M to podcast@TechnoRetroDads.com.  Please rate and review TechnoRetro Dads on iTunes and Stitcher. 

This episode has been brought to you by the letter "W".

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Direct download: TRDads_05.11_.mp3
Category:TechnoRetro Dads -- posted at: 5:30am EDT

Greetings, Programs!

Yesterday marked the 35th anniversary of E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial with a little, squishy green guy stranded on earth to wander about a California community with the likes of the Firestarter, Yoda, and Harvey the Clown Dog.  While awaiting the next installment of the Star Wars saga, the 'Dads both checked out this endearing story of a lovable alien botanist who befriended (or possessed) a ten year-old boy who was struggling with his place in a broken home and a macabre school where frogs are killed by JediShua's fifth grade science class.  Halfway through the movie, the short man from the Green Planet raided the TechnoRetro attic for toys to build the ULTIMATE WEAPON a communication device to signal his people to extract him from this crazy world in an oversized Christmas tree ornament propelled by water vapor (evident from the rainbow left behind as it blasted into space).  One 'Dad went head-over-heels for this movie while the other resented its success in dethroning Star Wars (temporarily) in box office receipts.  We'll leave it to the EarBuds to figure out which 'Dad loved it, but it's likely the one whose love for costuming may be linked to a homemade E.T. outfit he wore for Halloween in 1982.

JediShua retrieves his brother's Speak & Spell from the attic since the buttons on his machine not only wore out, but literally fell off the Texas Instruments learning toy that nearly every GenXer played with at some point in the late '70s or early '80s.  

With some tunes, news, and feedback, this episode of TechnoRetro Dads is likely to dredge up some memories of a more innocent time of wonder and magic as we look to the past with one eye on the future.  Share and enjoy the good times as summer camp continues with shazbazzar and JediShua...and Elliott, Gertie, and Mike. 

Direct download: TRDads_05.10.mp3
Category:TechnoRetro Dads -- posted at: 1:09am EDT

Are you ready for the summer?  JediShua and shazbazzar are ready for good times, movies, arcade games, cereal, and even a dose of summer camp — if they can stand it.  But in addition to the joys of the smoky atmosphere from leaf-heavy campfires and mosquito-infested swamp-forests, shazbazzar and JediShua are surprised by a big, hairy creature.  Nope, it’s not Bigfoot or Sasquatch or even Skunk Ape, it’s our own Spacey Ace’em, Steve Glosson from the GOLiverse.  So find a place at the fire and get ready for summer fun!

 

In the NEWS…

Battlestar Galactica and Buck Rogers in the 25th Century filming props (specifically ships) will be on the auction block near the end of June.  Rick Moranis comes out of hiding to reprise his role in a MacKenzie Brothers benefit special.  The memorable Battle of the Network Stars from the ‘70s and ‘80s will be returning soon, according to ABC.  More sequels on the horizon as the ‘80s continue to get represented in pop culture with Top Gun and Spaceballs.  Will there be merchandise?  Will there be controversy?  Will there be tickets sold at the box office?  We think so.

 

We Love Our Cereal

After months of anticipation (and boxes of cereal eaten at the ‘Dad’s homes), Cinnamon Pebbles is now up for critical consideration in a cereal segment that might upset some EarBuds.

 

Harry and the Hendersons

Thirty years ago, George Henderson was on his way home after a family camping trip when he accidentally hit an animal with his car.  No, it wasn’t a cat or even a raccoon (Scott Ryfun).  It wasn’t even Steve Glosson, though he came to the studio to talk about one of his favorite creatures on earth — Bigfoot!  On June 7th, 1987, movie-goers were treated to an endearing tale of a family and their pet Sasquatch named “Harry” in Harry and the Hendersons.  Starring John Lithgow, M. Emmet Walsh, Don Ameche, the mom from A Christmas Story, and a really tall Kevin Peter Hall for a classically ‘80s comedy filled with stereotypes, colorful language, and a glimpse into the lifestyles of one of the most mysterious species on the planet.   

 

Aftershocks of 1977

Forty years ago today, Apple Computers began selling the Apple II.  Touted as the first truly personal computer, the Apple II sought to bring users an easy-to-use, effective, and relatively inexpensive computer for home use.  Today, we still feel the aftershocks of the meteoric rise to prominence Apple enjoyed as homes welcomed the Apple II into their living rooms.  Now we have much smaller, more efficient, and less expensive mini-computers in our pockets (phone included).  It kind of makes you wonder what the world would have looked like if Apple had never invented the Apple II.  What if Steve Jobs teamed up with Roddy McDowell to forge ahead with computer technology?  We might all be bananas by now and the planet may have well gone to the apes!

 

Lend your voice to the discussion on social media or give the ‘Dads your feedback by calling our voice mail line at (209) 878-7323 or sending us a message or mp3 via electronic-M to podcast@TechnoRetroDads.com.  Please rate and review TechnoRetro Dads on iTunes and Stitcher. 

Share and enjoy.

Direct download: TRDads_05.09.mp3
Category:TechnoRetro Dads -- posted at: 5:30am EDT

Celebrate Memorial Day with shazbazzar and JediShua as they remember Sir Roger Moore with a peek at another 1977 movie featuring Agent 007 of Her Majesty’s Secret Service.  Just remember not to scorch your dinner (or hands) on the grill.  

 

NEWS

Boba Fett is imported from New Zealand…for good!  Daniel Logan becomes a United States citizen.  The memorable Battle of the Network Stars from the ‘70s and ‘80s will be returning soon, according to ABC.  More sequels on the horizon as the ‘80s continue to get represented in pop culture with Top Gun and Spaceballs.  Will there be merchandise?  Will there be controversy?  Will there be tickets sold at the box office?  We think so.

 

Let’s Go to the Movies!

The date was 7-7-77 when The Spy Who Loved Me opened in England with a big hit for the James Bond franchise.  With a huge budget and an odd take on Ian Fleming’s novel of the same name, this film took some big risks that paid off.  What some consider to be the best Bond movie of all time, The Spy Who Loved Me featured Roger Moore as James Bond, a title song by Carly Simon (“Nobody Does It Better”) and a Lotus that can swim underwater!  Discussion drifts from disco, to different actors’ representations of 007, to other roles played by Roger Moore.  So fire up your DVD player and revisit this very ‘70s version of James Bond.

 

TechnoRetro Arcade

NAMCO’s Dig Dug is arriving at the TechnoRetro Arcade and we’re ecstatic. JediShua and shazbazzar discuss their history with the arcade classic and trade notes on their strategies as well as potential backstories for the game and its characters.  PLUS: Bonus audio of the ‘Dads playing Dig Dug at Flashback Games Retro Arcade & Grill in Loganville, GA.  

 

Feedback

The Dark Crystal, cereal, and unique pilots for the Millennium Falcon are the big topics of discussion online over the past couple weeks. Don’t forget to participate on Twitter or Facebook.

 

Tune in to this Memorial Day episode for 77 minutes with shazbazzar and JediShua as they remember some of the best times of the ‘70s and ‘80s and look forward to what the future has in store.  Don’t forget to download last Thursday’s “Top Ten” from American Top 40 with Casey Kasem with a definite Star Wars flair.  Lend your voice to the discussion on social media or give the ‘Dads your feedback by calling our voice mail line at (209) 878-7323 or sending us a message or mp3 via electronic-M to podcast@TechnoRetroDads.com.  Please rate and review TechnoRetro Dads on iTunes and Stitcher. 

 

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Direct download: TRDads_05.08.mp3
Category:TechnoRetro Dads -- posted at: 5:30am EDT

Star Wars premiered in theaters 40 years ago today.  And since the number 40 has a nice ring to it, TechnoRetro Dads delve into the archives of American Top 40 with Casey Kasem as a soundtrack for the day.  In a strange turn of events, an alternative version of the radio show came across the airwaves as host Spacey Ace’em counts down the Top Ten from the week of May 25,  1977 and while the tunes sound familiar, the lyrics are a bit odd.  Count down the greatest hits of this week 40 years ago with a flair from that galaxy far, far away.  Special thanks to Steve Glosson, Glen Nelson, High Adventure, Mrs. JediShua, and Scott Ryfun (for moral support).  

 

10.  “Feels Like Luke’s First Time”

The British/Georgian band GOLiver takes a peek at the unlikely successes of a teenager from Tatooine.  

 

9.  “Lonely Boy”

No, it’s not Andrew Gold — but the story of a boy feeling separated from family resonates with artists Red, Blue, Gold as they follow the exploits of an orphan who loses almost everyone close to him before discovering his long lost sister and father.  This dark story has a light side for those who like happy endings.   

 

8.  “You Squeal”

While Star Wars impressed audiences everywhere with its sights, sounds, and storyline, not everyone liked every character.  Gordon Rogers’ song formerly topped the Country charts before making it to the Top Ten on TR40’s list.  Artoo Detoo’s squeaking and squealing didn’t hit the right note with one Dad who had taken his family out to watch Star Wars.

 

7.  “Had Him in My Sight”

Glen Frey told us that smugglers and the Blues blend together well, but long before he recorded “Smugglers’ Blues”, The Parsecs Blues Band kicked off this tune about a smuggler trying to earn enough money to pay off his debts while avoiding any bounty hunters who are looking to cash him in with Jabba the Hutt.  It’s Han vs Greedo with a classic finale worthy of 1977.

 

6.  “Gonna Fly Now”

Bill Conti meets John Williams as two great movies from two great years mash-up in this soundtrackstic jazzy bit.

 

5.  “Got to Sell Some Droids”

Jawas have to dance, too.  To fund their habit, they acquire and sell ‘droids on their home planet of Tatooine.  It might be hard to understand their speech sometimes, but after listening to Marvin & Robin Jawa’s funky bass line, you’ll get the message loud and clear.

 

4.  “Dreams”

Fleetwood Sarlacc tracks the budding love affair between the princess and the pirate as Han and Leia revisit the trope of rich girl/bad boy as she questions whether he is capable of loving anything other than money.

 

3.  “I’m Kenobi Man”

The second disco/funk tune in this week’s top ten is O.B. and the TwinSunshine Band’s biopic about a Jedi who leaves the hustle and bustle of the galaxy to hide out on a desert planet and protect the son of Skywalker.  After all, he may be the last hope for everyone.

 

2.  “When I Need You”

We’ve all been there.  When you’re trapped at work and all you want to do is Star Wars, the need is real.  Maybe singer Shua-O Player just needs to keep some collectables and toys near him at all times to keep his addiction at bay.

 

1.  “Sir Luke”

It’s brassy.  It’s jazzy.  It’s groovy.  Shazzie Blunder bumps into an instant classic that’s gonna have everyone feeling the Force from head toe.

 

And that’s the Top Ten.  Of course, there are a few surprises along the way, so plug in your ear buds, EarBuds, and turn up the tunes.  We’re betting you’ll be dancing before it’s over.

 

Don’t forget this past Monday’s episode for 77 minutes with shazbazzar and JediShua this week as they recall how Star Wars affected them and our whole world over the past forty years, and lend your voice to the discussion on social media or give the ‘Dads your feedback by calling our voice mail line at (209) 878-7323 or sending us a message or mp3 via electronic-M to podcast@TechnoRetroDads.com.  Please rate and review TechnoRetro Dads on iTunes and Stitcher. 

 

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Direct download: TRDads_SW40th_Countdown.mp3
Category:TechnoRetro Dads -- posted at: 7:23am EDT

Star Wars, not much but Star Wars!  Just under forty years ago, the world shook with under the rumbling of a gigantic Star Destroyer as the Emperor’s sinister agent, Darth Vader, pursued Princess Leia’s ship on screens across the country.  This modern myth for the ‘70s generation took hold of pop culture on May 25, 1977 and never let loose.  Like a blast from the DEATH STAR, Star Wars blew away movie goers in theaters everywhere and decimated box office records within hours of its release.  And for the most part, it has never left the public consciousness.  This week on TechnoRetro Dads, we recount it all!  (Well, not technically all of it.  We only have 77 minutes, after all.)   

 

In the NEWS…

5-25-77 is finally coming to theaters after being teased to fanboys and fangirls for the past decade.  Patrick Mead Johnson’s biopic about a boy obsessed with sci-fi movies embraces the day that the movie that changed everything.  Sadly, no theaters are set to show 5-25-77 near shazbazzar, but EarBuds might be in luck for a showing near them this week and weekend!  But shaz isn’t totally disheartened, because another retro favorite is finally set to hit screens as Netflix prepares to deliver a new addition to The Dark Crystal lore in a ten-episode series coming…sometime in the future.  PLUS: TMZ leaks some pics from the upcoming Han Solo anthology movie that is slated to arrive this time next year.  

 

Aftershocks of 1977

Star Wars hit theaters almost 40 years ago, and by the end of the week everyone is going to be talking about it, so we might as well start bright and early this Monday morning!  From the cinema to the toy shelves, Star Wars has dominated the past four decades of pop culture beginning with a single phrase typed in blue over a solid black background, the majority of our lives has been lived in the shadow of a galaxy far, far away.  JediShua and shazbazzar begin to recount the numerous ways Star Wars has influenced them directly as well as connecting a variety of movies, TV shows, and mounds of merchandise to the film with its iconic characters on both sides of this galactic conflict between the light and the dark.  From their earliest memories of seeing the movie to the origins of TechnoRetro Dads, the ‘Dads talk about the Kenner toys, early games, apparel, and even Dixie cups that enabled fans a means of having the Force with them always, even after the movie was no longer in theaters.  

 

Spend 77 minutes with shazbazzar and JediShua this week as they recall how Star Wars affected them and our whole world over the past forty years, and lend your voice to the discussion on social media or give the ‘Dads your feedback by calling our voice mail line at (209) 878-7323 or sending us a message or mp3 via electronic-M to podcast@TechnoRetroDads.com.  Don’t forget to rate and review TechnoRetro Dads on iTunes and Stitcher. 

 

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Direct download: TRDads_05.07.mp3
Category:TechnoRetro Dads -- posted at: 4:01am EDT

We’ve got a long way to go and just 77 minutes to get there.  And though we’re not doing anything that they said can’t be done, we’re doing it fun, fast, and with (a little) flair… and having some laughs along the way.       

 

In the NEWS…

The Thing is making its way to the realm of board games with The Thing: Infection at Outpost 31 and Mondo Tees is offering a special edition of the movie-based game this October.  If you think that banana candy doesn’t taste like bananas, you’re bananas!  You just haven’t tasted the right variety of banana — and neither have we — because they’re extinct.  Dr. Ian Malcolm is coming back to the Jurassic Galaxy after doing a little dancing during the closing credits of Guardians of the Galaxy.  Blondie goes under the sea as Debbie Harry and Chris Stein become the queen and king of Coney Island’s Mermaid Parade this year.

 

Smokey & The Bandit

From its premiere six days before Star Wars in 1977 to its wide release on May 27th, Smokey & The Bandit played second fiddle to the movie that changed everything forever.  The second highest grossing movie of the year, this comedic action adventure is as iconic to American pop culture as its 40 year-old counterpart.  Featuring Burt Reynolds, Jerry Reed, Sally Field, and Jackie Gleason, Smokey & The Bandit chases Bandit and Snowman from Texarkana to Atlanta as they bootleg 400 cases of Coors to win a bet with the loquacious Buford T. Justice in hot pursuit.  It’s a ridiculous riot of racing and ramping in a black Pontiac Firebird Trans-Am.  And if you’ve never seen it, you might be able to catch it in theaters next week!

 

Aftershocks of 1977

Although the Pontiac Firebird debuted a decade earlier and the Trans-Am package had been in existence since 1969, the featured car from Smokey & The Bandit inspired a drastic increase in sales of Trans-Ams by nearly 50% in a year to almost doubling sales by 1979.  The popularity of the car saw it featured more and more over the years including another black version of the ride being given artificial intelligence and the voice of Mr. Feeney as KITT in NBC’s Knight Rider with David Hasselhoff driving (who just also happened to make a cameo in Guardians of the Galaxy Volume 2).  PLUS: shazbazzar avoids a horrific crash in a 1995 Trans-Am in a very unexpected (and unexciting) way.

 

Feedback

The past couple episodes of TechnoRetro Dads have generated loads of discussion on social media, voice messages, and electronic-M.  Thanks to the voices of Mark All, Scott Ryfun, Chris Black, Steve Glosson, Mike MacDonald, Steven Chopchik, Michael Goldtrap, Darth Taxus, and Michael Nipp, we enjoy more discussion about arcade games, cereal, ‘70s sci-fi TV, videotapes, and an amazing mini car racetrack.

 

Let us know what you’re thinking by contacting us on social media or give us your feedback by calling our voice mail line at (209) 878-7323 or sending us a message or mp3 via electronic-M to podcast@TechnoRetroDads.com.  Don’t forget to rate and review TechnoRetro Dads on iTunes and Stitcher. 

 

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Direct download: TRDads_05.06.mp3
Category:TechnoRetro Dads -- posted at: 5:00am EDT

Greetings, Programs!  

 

As we draw ever nearer to the actual 40th anniversary of the release of Star Wars in theaters, the excitement continues to grow everywhere in this galaxy as well as that one far, far away after Princess Leia’s Stolen Death Star Plans stormed the Internet with A New Hope for original mash-ups as Palette-Swap Ninja provided a Beatlesesque soundtrack for the movie with the 50th anniversary of Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band just weeks away.     

 

In the NEWS…

Wear your old mix tapes on your sleeve with the new ELBOW from BrainMonk — a smallish portable cassette player that may actually be released in the near future.  Then you can sit back and relax in your Silver Chair while you wait for the next movie in the Narnia saga.  And don’t forget to use the Frork when eating one of the newest sandwich offerings at McDonald’s.  With a bit of Beatles news from Sirius XM and the aforementioned album from Palette-Swap Ninja, the news this week is so far out-of-this-world, we might need to charter the classic Star Tours ride (at least in virtual reality) to catch up to the genius of this parody rich duo.

 

We Love Our Cereal

British neuroscience research consultant Dr. Jennifer Newson conducted a widespread study of a diverse group of subjects (78 women in the U.K.) in a two-day experiment for Kellogg’s Special K to discover how women’s “eating context” affected their perception of how nourished they were from 30 grams of cereal in 125 milliliters of cold skimmed milk.  The headline for this highly scientific study — “REVEALED: Why eating cereal from a SQUARE bowl will make you feel fuller.”  Thanks, Thea De Gallier of express.co.uk.

 

TechoRetro Arcade

Atari spins the rollerball …er, uh… trackball and mashes the quickfire button in classic exterminator style with their release of Centipede to arcades.  JediShua and shazbazzar found at least some success in racking up points and levels in the arcade version of this iconic video game.  With fleas, spiders, and scorpions, Centipede has always been a popular pick amongst gamers for over thirty years.

 

Saturday Morning

When Doctor Smith from Lost in Space tries to ride the coattails of Star Wars, a television series will surely be lifted to new heights as the rising tide lifts all boats.  What’s that?  Space Academy isn’t a boat?  You don’t say!  It was cancelled once it failed to find a following in the fall of 1977.

 

History Lesson

Captain America watches the Brooklyn Dodgers play against Philadelphia.  1984 is on the phone and wants its fascist agenda back (thanks, George Orwell).  And Kyle Reese emerges from the future to prevent a Terminator from stopping John Conner before he ever gets started.

 

Give us your tips on playing Centipede, your hopes for this year’s Star Wars fare, or anything about cereal by contacting us on social media or give us your feedback by calling our voice mail line at (209) 878-7323 or sending us a message or mp3 via electronic-M to podcast@TechnoRetroDads.com.  Don’t forget to rate and review TechnoRetro Dads on iTunes and Stitcher. 

 

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Direct download: TRDads_05.05.mp3
Category:TechnoRetro Dads -- posted at: 3:32am EDT

The first week of May is filled with loads of pop culture greatness with Star Wars Day on Thursday, Guardians of the Galaxy Volume 2 on Friday, and loads of TechnoRetro News for EarBuds everywhere.  Join shazbazzar and JediShua as they emerge from the hurried and harried month of April to bloom with a variety of colors in May.  You know… Mayflowers.  Like Pilgrims at Plymouth Rock.    

 

In the NEWS…

Guardians of the Galaxy is coming Friday — forty years after Glen Campbell’s “Southern Nights” hit the top slot on American Top 40. He-Man is back in the news with Sony’s announcement of the release date for Masters of the Universe on shazbazzar’s birthday in 2019.  Without any information about a director or any casting, there’s little room for speculation except to say we’re hopeful for a good sci-fi/fantasy film in December 2019.  Classic arcade game Rampage is also coming to theaters in the future featuring “The Rock” with a plot that tosses the game’s storyline out the window.  At least we can expect to see gigantic animals crushing city buildings, smashing military vehicles, and eating citizens.  A popular fan theory about Stan Lee’s appearances in the Marvel Cinematic Universe gains traction as Kevin Feige responds to watchful (and imaginative) eyes.  EarBud Joey (in Tuscon) tweets about a new LEGO Dimensions expansion pack that is filled with #TechnoRetro glory.  Two dozen Midway arcade games make their way into the LEGO universe for Gamer Boy to play to the best of his ability.  We’ve got to pick this up!  Captain Jack Sparrow appears LIVE in the Pirates of the Caribbean ride at Disneyland.  

 

We Love Our Cereal

JediShua claims that Cinnamon Frosted Flakes aren’t that bad, but shazbazzar isn’t convinced…yet.  Danielle Smith, a high school student in Tustin, California sells cereal to fund the purchase and upkeep of a cow in an Ethiopian orphanage.  Certainly, the babies need their milk, but the kids need something to pour over their cereal, too!

 

TechoRetro Arcade

Williams Electronics’ horizontal shooter Defender makes its way to the TechnoRetro Arcade.  The ‘Dads remember their days playing this classic from 1981 in the arcades of their youth as well as finding it in today’s retro arcades.

 

History Lesson

The origins of Star Wars Day are discovered to predate the prequels by more than three centuries.  Gulliver evidently needed the Force to be with him on his travels, launching his voyage from Bristol on May the 4th in 1699. 

 

Give us your tips on playing Defender on social media or give us your feedback by calling our voice mail line at (209) 878-7323 or sending us a message or mp3 via electronic-M to podcast@TechnoRetroDads.com.  Don’t forget to rate and review TechnoRetro Dads on iTunes and Stitcher. 

 

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Direct download: TRDads_05.04.mp3
Category:TechnoRetro Dads -- posted at: 5:30am EDT

JediShua and shazbazzar head to Orlando for  Star Wars Celebration for a few days of excitement as the Star Wars generation celebrates forty years of that galaxy far, far away in this bonus length episode of TechnoRetro Dads.  

 

In the NEWS…

Classic Retro Rat movies Willard and Ben will be released on DVD by Scream Factory.

 

Aftershocks of 1977

T-Bird tweets about the Guardians of the Galaxy Awesome Mix Volume 2 with some great tunes from 1977 — including this segment’s theme song by Electric Light Orchestra.  Featuring “Mr. Blue Sky”, “Chains”, and “Southern Nights”, this recently released soundtrack is evidence of the aftershocks of 1977.

 

But that’s not all.  

 

Since 2017 marks the fortieth anniversary of the initial release of Star Wars, shazbazzar and JediShua remark about the remarkable fortieth anniversary panel on Thursday morning of Star Wars Celebration Orlando.

 

Star Wars Scrapbook

After Star Wars Celebration, shazbazzar and JediShua add their swag and experiences from Orlando to the TechnoRetro Dads Star Wars Scrapbook with memories of EarBuds, SuperFriends, panels from The Last Jedi and Rebels, Ewoks, a certain pirate, and more. 

 

Be sure to let us know about your experiences with Star Wars Celebration 2017 (whether you were there in body or spirit) on social media, or give us your feedback by calling our voice mail line at (209) 878-7323 or sending us a message or mp3 via electronic-M to podcast@TechnoRetroDads.com.  Don’t forget to rate and review TechnoRetro Dads on iTunes and Stitcher.  Pictures and video of shazbazzar, JediShua, and Hondo Ohnaka are always welcome, of course.

 

Direct download: TRDads_05.03.mp3
Category:Star Wars Celebration -- posted at: 5:30am EDT

’Twas galaxy, far 'way long ago,
Hid Gyo and Gyndine in the wabe:
On Mimban were the Aphor groves,
  And the womp rats outgrabe.

"Beware the Jabba Wook, my son!
  The jaws that bite, the claws that catch!
Beware the JarJar Binks, and shun
  The frumious Bantha Snacks!”

He took his vornskr sword in hand:
  Long time the Manakron foe he sought --
So rested he by the TaunTaun tree,
  And froze awhile on Hoth.

And, though in Ugnaught height he wished,
  The Jabba Wook, with eyes of flame,
Came whiffling passed the Tulgah witch,
  And rarlgurled as it came!

One, two! One, two! And through and through
  The vornskr blade went snicker-snack!
He left it dead, and with its head
  He went galumphing back.

"And, has thou slain the Jabba Wook?
  Come to my arms, my beamish boy!
O frabjous day! Callooh! Callay!'
  He chortled in his joy.

’Twas galaxy, far 'way long ago,
Hid Gyo and Gyndine in the wabe:
On Mimban were the Aphor groves,
  And the womp rats outgrabe.

 

In the NEWS…

Big Trouble in Little China finds a home on your card table with a miniatures board game with characters from the camp-classic ‘80s film. Steve Austin profits from rapidly increasing inflation in the upcoming Six Billion Dollar Man.  Yes.  We said BILLION. Classic Star Wars stickers come in a #TechnoRetro book for nostalgia’s sake with a bit of a new take as Rogue One stickers join the original trilogy rerelease of gum-pack card stickers.  Crosley celebrates the 40th anniversary of Star Wars on Record Store Day later this month.

 

Aftershocks of 1977

Terry Gilliam unleashes his first feature-length independent film with Jabberwocky starring Michael Palin.  With Pythonesque humor and familiar faces in this British comedy, the film was marketed in the United States as Monty Python’s Jabberwocky, much to the chagrin of Gilliam.

 

TechnoRetro Arcade

Midway’s GORF combines Space Invaders, Galaxian, Galaga, Asteroids, and more in this iconic alien-blasting shooter from 1981.  With synthesized vocoders and the ability to buy extra lives by shoving more quarters in the slot, a new age of video games was launched.   

 

History Lesson

The Titanic takes on passengers and millions of gallons of freezing water this week in 1912.  Tom Hanks turns a successful launch of Apollo 13 into a failed mission and happy landing after venting oxygen in 1970.  Today is Inception Day for LEON in Blade Runner.  Abraham Lincoln refuses immortality, the army of the Twelve Monkeys catches on, and (of course) Billy Madison continues making his way through school. 

 

Get ready for Celebration with shazbazzar and JediShua for 77 minutes of reliving the things that made us who we are today — even those who were too young to remember those times.  Be sure to let us know what you’re thinking on social media, or give us your feedback by calling our voice mail line at (209) 878-7323 or sending us a message or mp3 via electronic-M to podcast@TechnoRetroDads.com.  Don’t forget to rate and review TechnoRetro Dads on iTunes and Stitcher.

 

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Direct download: TRDads_05.02.mp3
Category:TechnoRetro Dads -- posted at: 6:00am EDT

With four years behind them, shazbazzar and JediShua begin the next chapter in TechnoRetro Dads with a shorter-than-usual episode (due to time constraints) as we continue to look at news, history, video games, and Aftershocks of 1977.  The year ahead looks fantastic — much better than this episode.

 

In the NEWS…

An unbelievable amount of news was released this week about Disney, Star Wars, TRON, Indiana Jones, and Ready Player Two.  You won’t believe your ears when you hear what we have to say about it!  

 

We Love Our Cereal…

A brand new, unannounced cereal has just unseated Cinnamon Toast Crunch as the all-around best cereal of all time.  What is it?  Tune in to find out.

 

TechnoRetro Arcade

What could be better than watching Q*bert fall off his pyramid of cubes?  Raking falling leaves!  We’re guessing that few people still remember this 1982 interactive arcade game by Gotchlieb.

 

Aftershocks of 1977

We take a peek back at the Bosco award winning movie from 1977, Danny Paul.  The tragic comedy features a forty-something dad with a neurosis that causes him to revert back to his former years at random and puts everyone in disarray.  Only available on Betamax these days, this one will be hard to find!   

 

History Lesson

Loads of Fictional History of fictional events all occur on the same day — and we’re here to chronicle them all!  Find out more by downloading TechnoRetro Dads.

 

 

Check out TechnoRetro Dads from the past four years as you await the next episode on April 10th.  Join shazbazzar and JediShua in reliving the things that made us who we are today — even those who were too young to remember those times.  Be sure to let us know what you’re thinking on social media, or give us your feedback by calling our voice mail line at (209) 878-7323 or sending us a message or mp3 via electronic-M to podcast@TechnoRetroDads.com.  Don’t forget to rate and review TechnoRetro Dads on iTunes and Stitcher.

 

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Direct download: TRDads_05.01.mp3
Category:TechnoRetro Dads -- posted at: 8:00am EDT

As shazbazzar and JediShua start Spring Break, they conclude the fourth season of TechnoRetro Dads.  For those who have joined the ‘Dads since they first wandered with Willow until their most recent Joust at the arcade and for those who have tuned in somewhere along the way, pour a bowl of your favorite cereal, slather on some sunscreen (or Starscreen, as Shua likes to call it), and sit back in your beach chair for 77 minutes on this Good Morning and watch the Captain sail his ship out to sea.

 

In the NEWS…

Two icons of the past, Chuck Berry and Chuck Barris, both passed away within a week of each other.  From the earliest days of Rock ’n’ Roll, Chuck Berry added his unforgettable talent to the rolls of rockers.  Talent was on the menu for Chuck Barris, but on an entirely different level, of course.  The creator and host of the ‘70s version of the popular Got Talent franchise, Barris put together comedy greatness with The Gong Show where celebrity judges look for talent in the seemingly least likely places. PLUS: Star Wars and the Power of Costume is leaving Denver for Cincinnati in May.  It’s time to buy your tickets to this exhibit (for either city) right now!  

 

We Love Our Cereal…

Honey Nut Cheerios is lacking a mascot but gets a special addition inside their boxes.  We’re all wondering whether this prize has different versions for different regions of the country or if “one size fits most.”  It’s likely to bee the source of some controversy and possibly more problems than it hopes to correct if it’s the latter.  Finally, it’s time to put the other Girl Scouts cereal to the test with Sheldon’s original Cereal Connoisseur Rating System (using Oneida cereal teaspoon).  Find out what the ‘Dads think about thin mints in a chilled bowl of milk (thanks for the idea, Steve Glosson).

 

TechnoRetro Arcade

What do you call a pyramid of cubes with color-changing tops, dropping orbs, coiled snakes, Esheresque enemies, diagonal moves, and an obscenity- uttering orange alien hero who has a tube nose/mouth combination?  In 1982, we discovered Q*bert to the consternation of many arcade aficionados.  The unique style of play captured the attention of kids everywhere as quarters poured into coin slots for the satisfying sounds of Gottlieb’s most famous addition to video game lore.  Whether you played Q*bert as a kid or you got into the game later in life, this classic calls for more than a passing glance.

 

Good Morning, Captain!

Captain Kangaroo entertained a couple of generations of kids from the mid-fifties to the mid-eighties, and the ‘Dads were certainly in the mix.  With ping-pong balls to green jeans, Captain Kangaroo was part of a balanced breakfast before kids made their way to school.  

 

History Lesson

Richard Kimball was delivered by a doctor on March 27, 1948 — years before he was convicted of killing his own wife.  Taylor wonders about the difference in ape life and human life.  A Betazoid from Betazed takes her first breath.  A journalist from TMNT starts a video record that will become significant later in life.  Many fools are born on the first, while Billy Madison continues his pursuit of a minimal education.

 

Feedback

Andy Lindeman sends an electronic-M filled with rules and cards for a homemade version of Uno.  His first version was written years ago on a Commodore 64.  This guy is totally #TechnoRetro! 

 

Check out TechnoRetro Dads each week for more unexpected memories from the ‘70s and ‘80s.  Continue the heyday of pop culture and relive the things that made us who we are today — even those who were too young to remember those times.  Be sure to let us know what you’re thinking on social media, or give us your feedback by calling our voice mail line at (209) 878-7323 or sending us a message or mp3 via electronic-M to podcast@TechnoRetroDads.com.  Don’t forget to rate and review TechnoRetro Dads on iTunes and Stitcher.

 

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Direct download: TRDads_04.51.mp3
Category:TechnoRetro Dads -- posted at: 5:30am EDT

Spring officially arrives today and Spring Break is on the horizon.  Before hurrying out to the beach, be sure to pack your ear buds for a trip back in time to the ‘70s and ‘80s with shazbazzar and JediShua as they remember a couple games we all enjoyed playing as kids (and can still play today, if we’re lucky).  Get ready for fun and funniness this week on TechnoRetro Dads! 

 

In the NEWS…  

Amazing Stories, the Steven Spielberg anthology series from the mid-eighties may soon return.  With imaginative tales of fiction, fantasy, and fright, this weekly show was a staple for GenXers who were facing the certainty of no new Star Wars movies for the foreseeable future.  Brian Fuller takes the reigns (with Spielberg’s approval) to reinvigorate television with distinctive episodes that will surely resound with today’s audiences.  The Ultimate Visual History of Back to the Future is rereleased as a “Collector’s Edition” with a 3D sculpted movie poster of the original Drew Struzan art and several bonus features like three 32-page books (one for each movie).  Edward James Olmos reprises his role as Eduardo Gaff in Blade Runner 2049.

 

We Love Our Cereal…  

The Keebler Elves are sneaking tiny cookies into people’s cereals — and we appreciate it!  PLUS: DC Superheroes cover boxes of Big G cereals and the mascots get in on the action.  Collect them all and read the comic books in every box.

 

Toys in the Attic  

Games have always been integral to toy boxes, and card games are part of the fun for friends and family.  Since the ‘70s, Uno has been a staple for kids and adults alike, allowing anyone who can match colors and numbers to have a chance at winning a game against virtually anyone else.  The luck of the draw is the main thing, as well as well-timed usage of “special” cards like Reverse, Draw Two, Skip, and Wild.  Race to be the first to play every card in your hand, but make sure you say “Uno!” when you’re down to a single card or you may find yourself holding more cards than you bargained for!

 

TechnoRetro Arcade  

From knights on horseback in medieval times to clones against ‘droids on speeder bikes, the strength of lances against armor at high speed has been entertaining for hundreds of years (and painful for the contestants).  In 1982, Williams Electronics continued the success they had in the video game industry with Defender by releasing Joust, a reimagined combat game pitting mounted knights against each other with lances seeking to unseat their opponents.  This time, however, the knights ride on flying steeds: either a buzzard, an ostrich, or a stork.  Combining running on flat surfaces at different elevations with flying through the air, Players 1 and 2 challenge computer players for survival amidst additional dangers from lava and pterodactyls.  “But ostriches can’t fly!” some protest.  Evidently the minds behind this iconic game figured flying ostriches was more believable than running eagles.  Go figure.

 

History Lesson  

This week is filled with fictional history from the frontier of 100 years ago to the comic book movies of this decade as the ‘Dads open the TechnoRetro history books with snippets from Legends of the Fall, Forrest Gump, Billy Madison, Watchmen, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Raiders of the Lost Ark, and more!

 

Feedback  

EarBuds chime in with updates on the seven “earth-sized” planets mentioned a couple weeks ago and memories of Kevin Flynn in King Kong.  With a mention of Scholastic Book orders back in our school days, the ‘Dads affectionately recall their own days in elementary school with the pulp order forms made their way into the hands of children, opening their imaginations to the future. 

 

Check out TechnoRetro Dads each week for more news about franchises and fandom from the ‘70s and ‘80s that continues to this day as well as reliving those amazing times that made us who we are today — even those who were too young to remember those times.  Be sure to let us know what you’re thinking on social media, or give us your feedback by calling our voice mail line at (209) 878-7323 or sending us a message or mp3 via electronic-M to podcast@TechnoRetroDads.com.  Don’t forget to rate and review TechnoRetro Dads on iTunes and Stitcher.

 

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Direct download: TRDads_04.50.mp3
Category:TechnoRetro Dads -- posted at: 6:00am EDT

As the new week begins with new time for those who observe the change in time that coincides with the change in seasons, TechnoRetro Dads have discovered a way to solve the problem of losing an hour of sleep on the day time “Springs Forward”: add an eighth day to the week for rest!  But that’s not the only EIGHT in this week’s episode.  JediShua and shazbazzar talk about Eight Is Enough with Dick Van Patten and Adam Rich, Scott Ryfun provides informational feedback with an 8-Track electronic-M and more shapes and sounds of the number eight provide loads of fun this Monday morning before Pi Day and during the week of St. Patrick’s Day.  (This episode is brought to you by the number eight and the color green). 

 

In the NEWS…

Turner Broadcasting and Warner Brothers team up to present a streaming version of Boomerang with thousands of your favorite cartoons from decades of Saturday mornings and syndicated shows from Warner Bros., MGM, and Hanna-Barbera!  The cost is five dollars per month or forty dollars annually (that’s five time eight for the mathematically challenged).  The starship Enterprise D gets the 3D treatment in virtual reality through the Enterprise 3D Project.

 

We Love Our Cereal…

…who doesn’t?  Ben & Jerry’s shares a bowl with those lucky enough to have a Ben & Jerry’s Scoop Shop near them (sorry, shaz — no ice cream for you) featuring breakfast morning favorites like Frosted Flakes, Cocoa Pebbles, and Fruity Pebbles.  Cereal continues to gain ground in the marketplace as the next step in cerealtastic recipes moves forward to include frozen versions of Saturday morning fare.

 

Aftershocks of 1977

On March 15th of this banner year, Dick Van Patten, Adam Rich, and Luke Skywalker’s cousin Mark Hamill star in the pilot episode of Eight Is Enough, a “bigger than Brady Bunch” family dramedy for the late ‘70s and early ‘80s that ushered in the new era of culture and politics that pushed conservative family shows into the past and opened the floodgates of the family as reimagined for a more “enlightened” society.  Proving once again that 1977 impacted western culture in ways that are still felt forty years later, the family as promoted in this series has become the norm in sitcoms over the past four decades (minus a few kids, of course).  

 

Feedback

Radio talk show host and podcaster Scott Ryfun responds to shazbazzar’s and JediShua’s lack of fluency in the ways of 8-Track tapes.  From his 1977 powder blue LTD wagon, Ryfun schools the ‘Dads in the mixed-up albums of a thankfully bygone era in portable audio, complete with the iconic “kerchunk” of track changes.  KISS, Aerosmith, and Battlestar Galactica fuel the Feedback fodder in this lengthy discussion of 8-Track tapes with memories that are both funny and fond. 

 

Check out TechnoRetro Dads each week for more news about franchises and fandom from the ‘70s and ‘80s that continues to this day as well as reliving those amazing times that made us who we are today — even those who were too young to remember those times.  Be sure to let us know what you’re thinking on social media, or give us your feedback by calling our voice mail line at (209) 878-7323 or sending us a message or mp3 via electronic-M to podcast@TechnoRetroDads.com.  Don’t forget to rate and review TechnoRetro Dads on iTunes, Stitcher, or Google Play.

 

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Direct download: TRDads_04.49.mp3
Category:TechnoRetro Dads -- posted at: 5:00am EDT

Greetings, Programs!  

 

TRON is in the news again (sort of), and is heavily featured in this week’s episode of TechnoRetro Dads (well, FLYNN is, anyway) as shazbazzar and JediShua take another look at King Kong from 1976, monkey around with ‘Dad jokes, and finally get to some Feedback from our EarBuds.  Get ready for 77 seconds minutes of gigantic gorilla goodness on the first Monday of March! 

 

In the NEWS…

Dungeons & Dragons might find its next incarnation in the form of buildable modules built of smaller modules.  Tune in to find out more.  Joseph Kosinski talks about TRON Ascension, seven earth-sized planets less than a Kessel Run away, and memories of Bill Paxton.

 

Let’s All Go to the Movies…

…and watch Kong: Skull Island.  But before we go, we take a peek at earlier versions and revisit the Dino De Laurentiis 1976 King Kong with Jessica Lange, Charles Grodin, and Kevin Flynn with beautiful hair.  The classic creation from 1933 is reimagined during the energy crisis of the ‘70s with a naïve wannabe actress with a penchant for skimpy clothes, a troped-up bad guy from a greedy petroleum corporation, the original USER Kevin Flynn, and Odo from Star Trek: Deep Space Nine.  With Kong: Skull Island premiering later this week, it only seems reasonable to remind ourselves of “the most exciting original motion picture event of all time.”

 

History Lesson

After the W Files and before the Y Files were the X Files (at least that’s what we want to believe).  Adam Sandler finishes fifth grade (before JediShua started teaching fifth grade).  Weyland Industries leaves out the eighth vertical so the ‘Dads can claim it.  Bright Eyes gets her “treatment”.  Scarlett Johansson unintentionally embodies the singularity.  The One is born.  Yes, by “One” we mean “Neo”, otherwise known as Mr. Anderson.  Which reminds us of this week’s brief Aftershock of 1977: Philip K. Dick predicted The Matrix at the Metz Sci-Fi Convention in France.

 

Feedback

Rory O’Toole finds an old bag from Video Exchange and reveals a license plate Easter egg in American Graffiti. Starships, Sabers, and Scoundrels Dennis Keithly and Darth Taxus spice up the 8-Track discussion with a Pumpkin Marshmallow “Spirit in the Sky”, the Spider-Pan can’t figure out “What a Fool Believes”, D$ discovers The Legal Sword of Shunnarah, and Jedi Arjii finds a way to make Rocky even better — more Star Wars

 

TechnoRetro Dads go bananas for big primates this week, and want more electronic-Ms and voice mails from our EarBuds. So let us know what you’re thinking on social media, or you can give us your feedback and let us know what you think by calling our voice mail line at (209) 878-7323 or sending us an mp3 via electronic-M to podcast@TechnoRetroDads.com.  Don’t forget to rate and review TechnoRetro Dads on iTunes!

 

Share and enjoy!

Direct download: TRDads_04.48.mp3
Category:TechnoRetro Dads -- posted at: 5:00am EDT

Whether you love the Academy Awards or the Oscars make you grouchy, the morning after Hollywood’s most celebrated celebration of La La Land will most assuredly bring joy to your Monday morning and get your work week off to a better than Rocky start.  So get off the Fences and find those long lost toys and Hidden Figures from your Star Wars collection and join shazbazzar and JediShua as the Moonlight gives way to daybreak with the Arrival of the latest episode of TechnoRetro Dads.  So stop Lion there in bed and Hacksaw the dream chains before you miss out on the bright day ahead! 

 

In the NEWS…

Weird Al fills an accordion with loads of vinyl including previously unreleased tracks alongside a complete collection of his works.  Rogue One comes to your home in just over a month on DVD and Blu-ray.  The Last Jedi title discussion reaches a conclusion with French and Spanish titles’ explanation of this questionable phrase in English.

 

Aftershocks of 1977

Find out how the 49th Academy Awards launched the career of an iconic actor when the Best Picture of 1976 featured a nearly penniless man, his dog, and a heart that enabled him to go the distance.  Rocky continues to hit viewers where it counts four decades after its initial release.  JediShua and shazbazzar relate their thoughts about this classic film that put Sylvester Stallone on the Hollywood best list.  

 

Toys in the Attic

With Toy Fair in the rear-view mirror, the ‘Dads react to some of the toys that scored with them.  From retrotastic space helmets to booming balloon sabers, and miniaturized arcade cabinets to upgraded talking teddy bears, these toys will be a hit with the X Generation when they go shopping for their kids (or grandkids) this year.

 

TechnoRetro Speculations

With the announcement of Rogue One on Blu-ray comes speculations and hopes for what could be included in the various packages and exclusives next month.  Although shazbazzar and JediShua don’t have any voice in what should be included, they share some of their hopes about the unlikely possibilities as the latest addition to the Star Wars movies gets its first release (of course there will be many, many more releases over the next four decades).

 

History Lesson

Sam Beckett battles the “Curse of the Ptah Hotep” as an archaeologist sixty years ago.  John Connor celebrates his thirty-second birthday just before the most well-known Weasley turns thirty-six.  A dumb kid realizes that we’re not alone in the universe on a back road while Adam Sandler gets smarter.  This week’s fictional history is finally truly historical. 

 

TechnoRetro Dads is the perfect cure for your morning after blues after the Oscar after parties.  We would love to hear from our EarBuds via Twitter @TechnoRetroDads or on Facebook, so let us know what you’re thinking on social media, or you can give us your feedback and let us know what you think by calling our voice mail line at (209) 878-7323 or sending us an mp3 via electronic-M to podcast@TechnoRetroDads.com.  Don’t forget to rate and review TechnoRetro Dads on iTunes!

 

Share and enjoy!

Direct download: TRDads_04.47.mp3
Category:TechnoRetro Dads -- posted at: 5:00am EDT

With perhaps the most disjointed and cram-packed episode of TechnoRetro Dads ever, shazbazzar and JediShua apologize if you feel blindsided, upside-down, or threatened by enormous lizards with atomic breath as you start this work week.  Corny jokes, news-ish stories, aftershocks, cartoons, video games, and fictional history are all stuffed into your audio toy box of nostalgia.  Give us 77 minutes, and we’ll take of the “wait”.

 

In the NEWS…

Valentine’s Day in Colorado came with original V-Day “cards” (including spoons), stranger boxes, and lots of love.  Stranger Things star Millie Bobby Brown is cast to take down an even bigger monster in 2019.  The radio drama version of Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy gets animated.

 

We Love our Cereal!

After talking about Girl Scout cereal for weeks, we dive into a bowl of Caramel Crunch with yummy, crunchy results.  Samoas (Caramel deLites) get a tasty treatment that ranks rather high with each Oneida spoonful.

 

Aftershocks of 1977

“A shake for breakfast, a shake for lunch, and a sensible dinner” has been the recipe for weight loss for millions for the past forty years.  Slim Fast hit store shelves in 1977 and has continued to endure even while fad diets come and go.  Catapulting baseball manager Tommy Lasorda into TechnoRetro fame, the commercials alone are permanently etched into GenX’s collective memory.  Get ready to put away your fat pants and tighten your belt because this diet product really works!

 

Saturday Mornings

EarBud Rory O’Toole suggests another theme song for the segment as the ‘Dads remember the voice of Jim Backus as Quincy Magoo, the doddering, legally blind cartoon who epitomizes the physical comedy that was popular in the ‘60s and ‘70s.  So turn on the television of your minds and sit down for What’s New Mr. Magoo?.   

 

Toys in the Attic

Shogun Warriors were popular in the mid-seventies (and have made a big comeback with kids of that era today), and one of their biggest hits was the towering, twenty-inch version of Godzilla by Mattel.  JediShua and shazbazzar remember hours of destructive fun as they brought the gigantic lizard into their playtime with Star Wars figures and army men.

 

TechnoRetro Arcade

JediShua’s most recent trip to the Hyperspace Arcade brought him joyful memories of vector graphics and clever game play with Space Duel, an Atari release from 1982 that resembled asteroids with colorful, three-dimensional objects attacking a dual-ship controlled by one or two players.  The only multi-player vector game by Atari was the company’s response to less-than-stellar sales of their Asteroids Deluxe video game.  Space Duel earns its place in the TechnoRetro Arcade.

 

History Lesson

Since it’s Presidents’ Day, it’s only right to include some patriotic history from Independence Day: Resurgence as the ESD Moonbase opens in 2009.  Plus, Scott Bakula leaps back to 1958 to sort out Marty Elroy’s family problems in Quantum Leap.

 

How can we bring you all this sweet TechnoRetro goodness in 77 minutes with no calories?  The magic of nostalgia, that’s how.  Of course, input from our EarBuds via Twitter @TechnoRetroDads or on Facebook help, too.  So let us know what you’re thinking on social media, or you can give us your feedback and let us know what you think by calling our voice mail line at (209) 878-7323 or sending us an mp3 via electronic-M to podcast@TechnoRetroDads.com.  Don’t forget to rate and review TechnoRetro Dads on iTunes!

 

Share and enjoy!

Direct download: TRDads_04.46.mp3
Category:TechnoRetro Dads -- posted at: 8:14am EDT

Questions abound on this week’s episode of TechnoRetro Dads: What is an 8-Track tape?  What is JediShua saying in French?  Can Olive Oyl’s love make Popeye stronger than a can of spinach?  Who is the biggest fan of Battlestar Galactica? Should I stay or should I go?  And, most importantly, are you ready for Valentine’s Day tomorrow?  You still have time if you’re listening to TechoRetro Dads this Monday morning.  Just another reason to start your work week right every Monday. 

 

In the NEWS…

Even though the Falcons squandered their three quarter lead to fall to the Patriots in overtime, the most exciting moments came at halftime with great commercials as well as trailers for upcoming movies, complete with Johnny Cash music.  We’re especially excited about the new Pirates of the Caribbean movie and Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, but Stranger Things 2 really got our #TechnoRetro hearts pumping with Ghostbusters costumes and promises of a return to the Upside Down.  Not all news is good news, though, as we bid farewell to the heroic Viper pilot who started his search for the thirteenth colony on the mythical world of Earth nearly forty years ago.  Battlestar Galactica’s original Captain Apollo (and anti-captain Tom Zerek), Richard Hatch, departed this life, leaving us memories of his time on screen and off screen as the good guy who really was a good guy.

 

Aftershocks of 1977

Beginning in 1977 with the publication of its first original novel, Del Rey Books has brought us forty years of fantasy and science fiction novels including Terry Brooks’ Shannara series, shelves full of Star Wars novels, and many more.  Featuring well known authors like Brian Daley and Alan Dean Foster, we re-experienced movies through novelizations as well as continued the stories from far away galaxies to imaginative stories from long ago from childhood to today.   

 

History Lesson

A sweet replicant named PRIS booted up on Valentine’s Day last year in Blade Runner, the same day the world was supposed to end according to Ghostbusters 2, while a futuristic AT-TE gets a patent for Weyland Industries thirty-five years into the future.  Also this week, Geordi La Forge will be born, not in France, but in the African Confederation.  And a robbery is foiled by a darker version of Qui-Gon Jinn in Darkman.

 

Flashback Games TechnoRetro Flashback

After his recent trip to a local video arcade, JediShua recalls playing the Popeye video game and provides some insight as he instructs shazbazzar during last summer’s trip to Loganville, Georgia’s Flashback Games Grill and Retro Arcade.  Complete with audio footage from July, you’ll hear the mastery of JediShua as he tells shazbazzar score more than 1,000 points.

 

Feedback

Thanks to our EarBuds for making this episode fantastic with their feedback from previous episodes on social media, in electronic-Ms, and even in person.  We respond to Derek Spier, Jeffrey Fischbach, Chris Hamilton, Michael Goldtrap, Joey Letson, and T-Bird Thomas Thompson in our Feedback segment.  Thanks for the comments and corrections you send our way week after week. 

 

So put your finger on the Twitter and tweet @TechnoRetroDads with your answers to our questions as shazbazzar and JediShua continue their trek through the decades in the fog of confusion.  Whether you have some tips to help us make it through the Popeye video game or you want to share your memories of Richard Hatch (from Battlestar Galactica, not Survivor), give us your feedback and let us know what you think by calling our voice mail line at (209) 878-7323 or sending us an electronic-M to podcast@TechnoRetroDads.com.  Don’t forget to rate and review TechnoRetro Dads on iTunes!

 

Share and enjoy!

Direct download: TRDads_04.45.mp3
Category:TechnoRetro Dads -- posted at: 6:30am EDT

Can you eat frozen yogurt with chopsticks?  Honestly, we’ve never tried, but this might just be the day to give it your best shot.  After the Patriots rallied in the second half to put the Super Bowl in overtime and defeat the Falcons, it seems like anything could happen on a Monday morning.  So grab a bowl of Girl Scout cookies cereal, EarBuds, and sit down for a BONUS LENGTH episode as controversial animator Ralph Bakshi sends shockwaves through time with his 1977 fantasy film, Wizards.

 

In the NEWS…

Nicole Kidman is Aquaman’s mother and the Black Manta will be challenging the superhero of the seas in the upcoming DC movie.  Director Chad Staheleski focuses on improved continuity for his reboot of Highlander, hoping to make a trilogy of movies.  Pac-Man’s father dies at 91 — the video arcade generation mourns. 

 

Aftershocks of 1977

In the wake of cultural upheaval brought about by the civil rights movement, Kennedy assassinations, and the unpopular war in Vietnam emerged a jarring animated vision of a post-apocalyptic world millions of years in the future where elves and fairies battle mutants and demons in a war between two brothers.  In Ralph Bakshi’s Wizards, twins Avatar and Blackwolf engage in a showdown between freedom and fascism in a truly unique amalgamation of various artistic styles, live action sequences, and cheaply produced “rotoscoping” that burned itself into the collective consciousness of a generation.  With similar themes and plot devices to Star Wars, it seems as if both Bakshi and Lucas had tapped into the cultural zeitgeist with their fantasy films in 1977.  Pitting magic against technology and juxtaposing modern war machines against swordplay, Wizards and Star Wars both successfully captured the imaginations of viewers.  JediShua and shazbazzar go in-depth in their appreciation for this weird “fairy tale”.  

 

History Lesson

Everyone has to be born sometime, whether they’re wizards obsessed with muggle culture or sidekicks who like to cheat at cards.  This week’s History Lesson reveals the ages of the likes of Arthur Weasley, Short Round, and the big, green bulk with orange hair from Street Fighter.

 

So set up the projector with your favorite fascist’s propaganda films and start terrorizing fairies and elves in your quest to dominate the planet. Or, even better, plug in your ear buds this morning with the TechnoRetro Dads. Give us your feedback and let us know what you think about Ralph Bakshi’s Wizards by calling our voice mail line at (209) 878-7323 or sending us an electronic-M to podcast@TechnoRetroDads.com.  Don’t forget to rate and review TechnoRetro Dads on iTunes!

 

Direct download: TRDads_04.44.mp3
Category:TechnoRetro Dads -- posted at: 7:11am EDT

If the rooster hasn’t crowed yet to wake up your family with his built-in alarm cluck, why not show your appreciation for bubble wrap by twisting and popping a sheet to get everybody’s day going?  It’s the year of the rooster in China, Bubble Wrap Appreciation Day in the West, and the prevalent prognosicator from Punxatawney is just about to place his predictions about the weather this week.  So plug in your ear buds, EarBuds, and enjoy 77 minutes of TechnoRetro.

 

In the NEWS…

JediShua reveals forty year-old news via a recent IO9 article about the Death Star trench from Star Wars: A New Hope.  It just may be that the trench run takes place someplace you hadn’t expected.  And the star of The Mary Tyler Moore Show, Rhoda, and The Dick Van Dyke Show is laid to rest in Connecticut over the weekend.

 

Saturday Mornings

Introduced as part of the title credits of a Blake Edwards film starring Peter Sellers, the Pink Panther graced television screens in our youngest days every Saturday morning.  With music by Henry Mancini and William Lava, these animated shorts were small on talk and big on “show, don’t tell” as the curious character provided hours of physical comedy in brief segments on The Pink Panther Show.  JediShua and shazbazzar remember their experiences with the Pink Panther, as well as The Ant and the Aardvark, while listening to various performances of the iconic theme song.  PLUS: shazbazzar agrees with Scott Ryfun that the Aardvark sounds a lot like Bernie Sanders.  

 

Aftershocks of 1977

The computer era gets rolling in 1977 with the release of three popular home computers.  Commodore’s PET is revealed, the Apple II begins production, and Radio Shack gets in the game with a fully assembled home computer, complete with monitor, for $599.  The TRS-80 started in earnest on February second as the design stage of this memorable computer began its trek from concept to store shelves in 1977.  Affectionately called the “Trash 80”, this home computer would soon be found in schools, small businesses, and homes in the late ‘70s and early ‘80s.  Most GenXers had at least some interaction with the TRS-80 during their youth, learning to program in BASIC, rolling through the numbers on tape drive counters, and generally just having fun as computers began their quest to take over the world from every house on the planet.

 

History Lesson

Of course, there’s a lot taking place on February second in fictional history, but this week is loaded with past and future events from Potter to Prometheus and everything in between.

 

So pour a bowl of cereal, plug in your ear buds, and start thinking PINK this Monday morning with the TechnoRetro Dads. Give us your feedback and let us know what you’re looking forward to in 2017 by calling our voice mail line at (209) 878-7323 or sending us an electronic-M to podcast@TechnoRetroDads.com.  Don’t forget to rate and review TechnoRetro Dads on iTunes!

 

Share and enjoy! 

 

Direct download: TRDads_04.43.mp3
Category:TechnoRetro Dads -- posted at: 6:35am EDT

What is covered in hair, walks on its two big feet, and is susceptible to female charms?  If you guessed Cousin It, you’re wrong.  He wears a size six.  But if you thought about that prehistoric superhero who flies and wields a club, you are right on track!  We have Captain Caveman on the brain just like the Teen Angels have a cave on the roof of their van.  You know it’s gonna be a great Monday when cavemen are featured in the jokes!

 

In the NEWS…

Funko brings out a new line of collectibles resembling Playmobil figures of pop culture favorites like Willy Wonka.  “The Greatest Show on Earth” will have only a few more scheduled appearances before Ringling Brothers, Barnum & Bailey Circus closes forever.  JediShua found an arcade in a local brewery while shazbazzar discovered that scientists have discovered a new species of Gibbons they dubbed “Skywalker”.  PLUS: Ponch and Jon return to the California Highway Patrol in an upcoming movie-version spoof of the late ‘70s classic TV show, CHiPs.

 

Saturday Mornings

Hanna Barbara cartoons reigned on Saturday mornings on all of the major networks.  JediShua and shazbazzar revisit Captain Caveman from 1977’s Saturday Morning lineup.  With Cavey, Taffy, Brenda, and Dee Dee, Captain Caveman and the Teen Angels find themselves in the midst of one mystery after another as they travel across the country in their custom cave van with authentic living quarters on the roof. It’s been a while since the ‘Dads talked about the diminutive prehistoric superhero, and we certainly have more to add to our former conversation which you can hear here.

Aftershocks of 1977

Get ready to blast off into space on with the world’s first space plane in the modern era.  NASA’s OV-101, Enterprise, would make its first flights in 1977, ushering in more than three decades of a successful space shuttle program.  JediShua and shazbazzar talk about the good and the bad as well as the very long history of using reusable shuttles to make trips into “near space”.  From the 1930s to today, the idea of space planes, space shuttles, and space taxis have continued to become reality since the Enterprise took its first piggy-back ride.  

Whether you’re shouting your name to muster strength and courage, or you’re simply studying for your “History in Aerospace” test, you’ll have fun in past, present, and future tense with the TechnoRetro Dads. Give us your feedback and let us know what you’re looking forward to in 2017 by calling our voice mail line at (209) 878-7323 or sending us an electronic-M to podcast@TechnoRetroDads.com.  Don’t forget to rate and review TechnoRetro Dads on iTunes!

 

Share and enjoy! 

 

Direct download: TRDads_04.42_Captain_Caveman.mp3
Category:TechnoRetro Dads -- posted at: 6:12am EDT

Greetings, Programs!  

 

Whether the weather is wonderfully warm or you’re experiencing a blistering blizzard like the record-setting cold snap this week in 1977, TechnoRetro Dads bring you a variety show of the past in the present on this holiday Monday morning for your day off from work.

 

In the NEWS…

The Computer Electronics Show revealed some amazing gadgets this year that will certainly wind up under the tree this Christmas.  Lego introduced Lego Boost, programmable robotic Lego sets aimed at children 7 and up that move and respond to commands and sensors and teach coding in a uniquely Lego style.  Nintendo looks for another hit in 2017 with the Super Retro Boy — a handheld gaming unit that capitalizes on Game Boy nostalgia.  Polaroid reminds consumers of their instant cameras with the touchscreen Polaroid Pop digital camera and Kodak promises to release a less expensive Super 8 camera than last year’s release.  But some of the biggest “retronews” this week is Shout Factory’s reboot of the ‘80s video game show Starcade. You can hear more about this on this week’s ARGcast.

 

Saturday Mornings

Sid and Marty Krofft consistently put out Saturday morning fare for GenXers in the ‘70s and ‘80s.  JediShua and shazbazzar revisit The Krofft Supershow from 1977’s Saturday Morning lineup.  The Krofft Supershow included a glam rock band, Kaptain Kool and the Kongs who introduced a variety of short episodic mini-shows with music and corny jokes — perfect for TechnoRetro Dads!  With teenagers fighting crime and outwitting villains on mysterious islands, on beaches, in the city, and in the wilderness, shows like Bigfoot and Wildboy, Electra Woman and Dyna Girl, Wonderbug, Dr. Shrinker, and Magic Mondo, the late morning slot on Saturday morning lineups was just the thing to send kids out the door to play with their friends.

 

 

Aftershocks of 1977

Again, proving the point that 1977 was the epicenter of an earth-shaking, history-making events that have continued to impact the culture for forty years, shazbazzar and JediShua turn the page in Starlog magazine to discover the retro journalistic fervor surrounding the excitement about the first Star Trek film.  As the hype surrounding George Lucas’s highly anticipated masterpiece Star Wars signaled a return of science fiction to the silver screen, Star Trek seemed like a natural fit for audiences wanting to visit outer space in movie theaters.  Thirteen movies later, this article from January 1977 has continued resonating with its own aftershocks.  

 

Capping off this week’s episode with Feedback from our EarBuds, you’re sure to enjoy a trip back in time while living in a futuristic present with tidbits our friends are sharing with us each week.  Do you want to get in touch with TechnoRetro Dads?  Let us know what you’re looking forward to in 2017 by calling our voice mail line at (209) 878-7323 or sending us an electronic-M to podcast@TechnoRetroDads.com.  Don’t forget to rate and review TechnoRetro Dads on iTunes!

 

Share and enjoy!

Direct download: TRDads_04.41.mp3
Category:TechnoRetro Dads -- posted at: 7:26am EDT

Greetings, Programs!  

 

With disco on the airwaves, Datsuns in driveways, and home video gaming consoles earning their shelf space in dens around the world, the lives we lead today and the entertainment we enjoy forty years later can be traced back to a banner year on history’s calendar.  Of course, 1977 is recognizable as the year of Star Wars, but many more things we still enjoy today had their roots in a year that may well be our favorite (if we were choosing favorites, which we are not — just so you know).

 

In the NEWS…

Star Wars earns another cool statistic in the record books with two movies in the same franchise having top ten box office earners last year with The Force Awakens grossing the tenth most money in theaters and Rogue One earning its spot just a bit behind Finding Dory in just over two weeks in theaters.  One Day at a Time is being remade to stream online with a Cuban flair.  And for something new: Beyond has tapped into crossover territory with a TV premiere on FreeForm before its release as binge-bait with the remaining nine episodes streaming on Hulu before airing on television.

 

We Love Our Cereal

Some entrepreneurs in Memphis have taken the Cereal Bar idea on the road by merging a cereal cafe with a food truck.  The ‘Dads think this is a great idea, and if you’re in the Memphis area, we would like to hear if you’ve seen this cereal bars on wheels in the area.  Better yet, if you have tasted one of their creations, let us know what you thought about the experience!

 

Saturday Mornings

What got kids up early on Saturday mornings back in 1977 (well, other than hugemongous bowls of sugary sweet cereal)?  Saturday morning programming on television.  JediShua and shazbazzar remember the days when Saturday morning fare was different from what could be seen during the week.  In this episode, the ‘Dads remember The All New Superfriends as aired in 1977.  The most significant addition to this version of Superfriends was the Wonder Twins who could shape shift into various animals and phases of water as they faced trouble at home and around the world.

 

Toys in the Attic

As video arcades grew in popularity in the late ‘70s, the market was ripe for home versions of hit games in malls and shopping centers.  Just a few weeks after the Fairchild Channel F became a popular Christmas gift in 1976, the less colorful and somewhat less user-friendly RCA Studio II was released.  Its lifespan was quickly reduced by the powerhouse Atari VCS which emerged in fall of 1977.  JediShua and shazbazzar talk a bit about arcades and a bit more about home video games in this week’s “Toys in the Attic”.

 

History Lesson

Again, proving the point that 1977 was the epicenter of an earth-shaking, history-making events that have continued to impact the culture for forty years, shazbazzar and JediShua point to a couple of iconic premiers on television later this week forty years ago.  Fantasy Island was first seen on television on Friday, January 14th and the Coneheads pointed their heads to the stars for the first time on Saturday Night Live on January 15th as alien characters began to show up on favorite television shows.  

 

Do you want to get in touch with TechnoRetro Das?  Let us know what you’re looking forward to in 2017 by calling our voice mail line at (209) 878-7323 or sending us an electronic-M to podcast@TechnoRetroDads.com.

 

Share and enjoy!

Direct download: TRDads_04.40.mp3
Category:TechnoRetro Dads -- posted at: 1:17am EDT

 

As we remember 2016 and look forward to 2017, we are all reminded of the royal losses we’ve suffered over the past year.  From the Goblin King himself, David Bowie, last January to Prince to our final farewell to our Princess, Carrie Fisher, we’ve all faced some harsh realities over the past twelve months.  JediShua and shazbazzar are joined with long-time friends Craig Batts and Jack Crabtree to celebrate Carrie Fisher and the impact she made on a generation over the past forty years.  The true heroine of Star Wars, Carrie Fisher portrayed Princess Leia with a snippy, quippy, snarkiness that endeared her to fans as anything but a damsel-in-distress.  Over the years, our Princess proved her power in films, books, panels, and interviews.  More than a pop icon, Carrie Fisher opened her life like a book (and in books), giving hope to hundreds, if not thousands, who struggle with hardships in life.  At the age of sixty, she was taken from us.  Still, her life and legend will touch generations.

 

We Love Our Cereal

You’re going to love what General Mills has in store for you!  Purchase any three specially marked Big G cereals and get a free ticket to Rogue One from General Mills.  Find out more on their website.

 

Looking Ahead

Let’s face it, 2016 wasn’t all bad.  The Cubs did win the World Series, although a year later than prophesied in the ‘80s.  However, for those who seem to have lost hope, we look forward to some exciting accomplishments and events sure to come in 2017.  From space exploration to a solar eclipse (another prophecy from 1989), we’re picking up good vibrations in our expectations for the future in the next twelve months.  Let us know what you’re looking forward to in 2017 by calling our voice mail line at (209) 878-7323 or sending us an electronic-M to podcast@TechnoRetroDads.com.

 

After tuning in to this week’s episode, keep your earbuds at the ready and check out Rogue One again with shazbazzar, Steve Glosson, and Scott Ryfun as they provide a running commentary on Rogue One (and a variety of other things) on the first publicly released commentary of the new Star Wars movie.  You can find it at Geek Out Loud or My Star Wars Story.

 

Share and enjoy the hope!

Direct download: TRDads_04.39.mp3
Category:TechnoRetro Dads -- posted at: 5:30am EDT

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