TBF, Mags, you have been doing a lot of the heavylifting for the quest, so this will be in good hands.
To be clear to everyone, this is just me burning out on imagination of the quest, since my muse has been hitting me over the head a lot with so many different ideas that I just can't find myself too interested in this.
I'll still hang out here, though, since this still does have a sepcial place in my heart.
I'd like to thank you all for making this a wonderful experience while it lasted.
I'd also like to thank @Magoose, @Fluffy_serpent, and @Martin Noctis for doing so much to help prepare and write this quest. I couldn't have done it without you all.
Fraggle Rock - Season 1 Created By: Jim Henson
Starring: Jerry Nelson (Gobo Fraggle, Architect Doozer), Kathryn Mullen (Mokey Fraggle, Cotterpin Doozer), Steve Whitmire (Wembley Fraggle, Crusty Doozer), Dave Goelz (Boober Fraggle, Uncle Traveling Matt), Karen Prell (Red Fraggle, Modem Doozer), Rob Paulsen (Rhinestone Doozer), Richard Hunt (Storyteller Fraggle), and Bob Bergen (Lugnut Doozer)
Studio: Henson Associates
Distribution: LucasTV
Original Release: August 1983 - February 1984
Poor Jim. Ever since his meteoric rise with films and television, you'd wondered how he could sustain the heights he'd always dreamed of reaching.
*Fraggle Rock* was meant to be a return to form, a gentle nudge back to the roots of puppetry and storytelling that had defined his early successes. The show, planned as a Lucas-backed family series, seemed a safe bet—a lighthearted, wholesome morning rotation that could quietly charm its way into the hearts of young viewers. Jim was hoping for at least three seasons, both to offer steady work to his loyal team of puppeteers and to train a new generation of "Muppeteers," as they proudly called themselves, to carry on his legacy of creativity and craft.
But behind the scenes, Fraggle Rock was far from the idyllic return Jim had envisioned. Health issues and mounting production drama quickly overshadowed any sense of normalcy. Almost immediately after production began, Jim fell gravely ill. He collapsed on set right before shooting a pivotal opening scene, prompting widespread concern among the crew. Doctors initially feared the worst, suspecting lung cancer, and Jim was hospitalized for several months as they ran exhaustive tests.
In a stroke of luck—or perhaps fate—doctors discovered Jim had pneumonia and another lung infection, not cancer. His long stint in the hospital, while grueling, became something of a rebirth. The extended rest and recovery sparked a renewed vigor in him, something almost magical. You couldn't help but think that this challenging period would one day be seen as Fraggle Rock's true legacy—the show that may have saved Jim's life.
Yet, the challenges only mounted on set. Without Jim's presence, the production spiraled. The TV director, Eric Till, found himself in a near-impossible position, juggling production demands he had little experience with. While he did his best, it was clear that the visionary magic lived and breathed through Jim, and without him, the project struggled. Ideas were scattered, scenes missed the mark, and the once-tight-knit crew was adrift, without the guidance or drive Jim brought to every set.
The final product on-screen was a shadow of what it could have been. Even Little George, one of the most optimistic on set, was disheartened, nearly moved to tears each time the show aired. It was amateurish, far from the caliber of The Muppets or Sesame Street. Morale dwindled, and enthusiasm faded. Brandon, George, Bruce—all of them were reluctant to call it quits, but deep down, you could tell they doubted the show would earn a second season. It simply wasn't good enough to warrant one, despite everyone's hopes.
Fraggle Rock had the heart and the vision to become something timeless, but without Jim, it had lost its soul.
Daredevil - Season 1 Showrunner: Stephen J. Cannel and Frank Lupo
Starring: Mickey Rourke (Matt Murdock/Daredevil), Jim Belushi (Franklin Percy "Foggy" Nelson), Sharon Stone (Karen Page), Mark Linn-Baker (Ben Urich), Francesca Annis (Vanessa Mariana), Roy Scheider (James Wesley), Kris Kristofferson (Leland Owlsley), Wilson Fisk/The Kingpin (Kenneth McMillan), James Caan (Jack Murdock), Paul Lantom (Adam West), Tom Berenger (Brett Mahoney), Eric Allan Kramer (Anatoly Ranskahov), James Remar (Vladimir Ranskahov), Ken Watanabe (Nobu Yoshioka), Desi Arnaz Jr. (Hector Ayala), Richard Pryor (Turk Barrett), Harry Dean Stanton (Mitchell Ellison), Bronson Pinchot (Melvin Potter) and Kirk Douglas (Stick)
Studio: LucasTV
Distribution: LucasTV
Original Release: August 1983 - October 1983
You were honestly taken aback when you first heard about the show; yet another comic book adaptation of street-level heroes, it seemed, was flooding the screen. Everyone was going wild for gritty vigilantes these days. From Bruce donning the cowl as Batman to countless others, the genre was undeniably in vogue.
This time, it was Daredevil—the story of Matt Murdock, a blind lawyer-turned-vigilante prowling the dangerous streets of Hell's Kitchen. Unlike earlier hits like Luke Cage, this adaptation took real risks, redefining Lucas TV's approach with bold storytelling and inventive cinematography. It wasn't afraid to focus on Matt's civilian life, either; one episode, in particular, stood out as a masterclass of character development. In it, Matt and his friend Foggy Nelson worked tirelessly to prove an accused murderer's innocence, diving into the legal drama without a single glimpse of the horned mask. Fans hailed it as possibly the best episode of the season—a showcase of the complexity and stakes of Murdock's day job that made the vigilante moments hit even harder.
But with these creative choices came inevitable controversy.
It was rare to see such stark, gritty violence on TV, and Daredevil didn't shy away from it. While Bruce, in his meticulous way, might choreograph how to take down a hundred men in style, Matt's fights were different—a dirty, bloody brawl that felt painfully realistic, almost intimate. The hallway fight scenes, in particular, earned a near-mythic status among fans and industry insiders alike for their intensity and single-take execution. But the grittiness wasn't to everyone's taste, and soon the fanbase found itself split.
Critics lambasted Daredevil for what they saw as an overdone, grim tone and an uneven attempt to capture Marvel's lighter touch, branding it inferior to Marvel's polished cinematic heroes. But the audience was smitten, embracing it with fervor as if Daredevil was the best thing since Luke Cage. For viewers, it wasn't about matching the Marvel movies' tone—it was about taking the risk to do something different, something grounded and visceral.
The debate only fueled the show's success, as fans and critics alike couldn't stop talking about it. It felt like a new era for street-level superheroes, and Daredevil had carved out its own gritty corner of the Marvel universe.
You just made sure the kids were not watching it without you or Bruce around. They were not old enough to watch shows like that alone just yet.
(Bruce POV)
The entire series was a masterpiece not only because of the cinematography, but because of the perfect casting as well; Mickey Rourke was a godsend, and you were lucky to convince him to play the role rather than that Eureka film he had been eyeing. The chemistry that he and Jim Belushi showed on set as Matt and Foggy was out of this world, their quick friendship in real life translating perfectly to the screen. Particularly the episode where both are talking about their past, their choices, and the betrayal when Foggy learned of Matt's secret identity. It was powerful and raw, which had it become a favorite for the Emmy's.
Then there's Kenneth McMillan as Wilson Fisk, the tormented, yet murderous Kingpin. The man played him with a viciousness and brutality that was all the more pronounced when you learnt of the tragedy of the character's childhood, one that while not justifying it, it does make you understand just why he became the man he is. The novelty is how they portrayed him in comparison to his Marvel counterpart, giving him a clear desire to help the city, but doing so through violent and criminal means, not seeing the wrong of what he is doing.
That he may be able to seek absolution, or at least redemption in some way through Vanessa Mariana, played by Francesca Annis, the one woman who was able to see through him and still accept him, warts and all, makes it all the sadder, since instead of her pulling him out of the dark pit he's in, she instead grants him a shovel and encourages him to continue on his dark path. Both sides are perfect for each other, in all the wrong ways.
Sharon Stone, Mark Linn-Baker and Roy Scheider are a perfect trifecta as Karen Page, Ben Urich, and James Wesley respectively. Their entire Sub-Plot where the identity of the Kingpin is at play, the different obstacles they go through, the many brushes with death that both Karen and Ben have to go through in order to escape from Wesley, keep the tension in the series at a low simmer, never letting it go until the final revelation, only to be replaced by a new one, as Matt has to find a way to stop the Kingpin before he can take over the city.
Kirk Douglas, a legend from Hollywood, even went against the usual films and shows he made, flexing his acting range as he brought the gruff and strict character of Stick to life. Matt's mentor, the unrelenting and uncompromising blind man who taught him how to fight, was given a touch of heart and gentleness to him by Douglas, who soon showed just what exactly was missing from the role; small scenes that showed that for all that he never told Matt he cared for him, he still showed it in the small gestures that shone all the brighter for their scarcity.
And you don't know who came up with the idea of Adam West as Father Paul Lantom, but he deserves a raise. Not many remember that Adam West had a career before he was Batman, but this role put to rest whether he could play anything other than the caped crusader. He played the role of a man of God, a man who is trying to aid Matt while keeping secrets, and turned it into one of the stand out characters of the entire series. His talks with Matt about the need for less violence, forgiveness, and the morals of the church made even the Moral Guardians smile, with finally a figure of God gaining a wide following as Marvel decided to introduce him in the next Daredevil comics as a regular.
Seems like Frank Miller will be quite busy for his next arc.
Fillmore - Season 1 Created by: William Hannah and Joseph Barbera
Starring: Mark Hamill (Cornelius C. Fillmore), Melendy Britt (Ingrid Third), Rene Auberjonois (Horatio Vallejo), Peter Newman (Danny O'Farrell), Gerrianne Raphael (Principal Dawn S. Folsom), Larry Kenney (Vice Principal Raycliff) and Bruce O'Brian (Wayne Ligget).
Studio: Hanna-Barbera Studios
Distribution: LucasTV
Original Release: August 1983 - February 1984
You hadn't really known what to make of Filmore when it first aired—only that George and Joseph seemed to love it. It was a quirky show about two friends, Cornelius Fillmore and Ingrid Third, who served on the Safety Patrol, essentially acting as the detectives and police force of Malcolm X Middle School.
It was, at its core, a cop show, which Daddy wasn't a fan of. He'd say they were formulaic, filled with clichés, and churned out by "talentless hacks in the writers' room." Shows like that, according to him, were only good for wasting time. But he wasn't around now, and that meant he didn't have to know you'd given Filmore a try.
The lead characters, Fillmore and Ingrid, were nothing like the stiff, humorless cops Daddy complained about. Fillmore was tough but witty, quick with a comeback, and Ingrid, his fiercely smart and observant partner, made them a great team. They tackled every "case" thrown at them, from missing science fair projects to suspicious cafeteria deals, uncovering all the corruption and petty crimes around their school.
And it was fun—way more fun than you'd expected. Sure, you raised an eyebrow at that Russian transfer student trying to smuggle Star Wars toys back to the Soviet Union on suspicion of espionage. It sounded a bit much. Then again, there were people who stole toys for their kids on the news all the time, so maybe it wasn't so far-fetched after all.
Each episode was something new and, oddly enough, felt relatable in a way that went beyond its middle-school setting. There was something genuine about how Fillmore and Ingrid tackled problems, even if it was a cartoon. The stories weren't just about catching the bad guy—they were about loyalty, sticking up for others, and doing what's right, even when it was tough. It struck a chord with you, one that was hard to ignore.
Part of you wished Daddy would give it a shot, maybe even watch it with you. If he saw Fillmore's integrity and Ingrid's courage, maybe he'd understand why this show was different—why it was worth watching.
Are You Afraid Of The Dark - Season 1 Created by: D.J. MacHale
Starring: Dan Frischman (Gary), Rob Stone (Ben), Khrystyne Haje (Carrie), Jason Bateman (Nathan), Robin Givens (Jessie), Elisabeth Shue (Ally), William Zabka (Jack), Aron Tager (Dr. Vink) and Richard Dumont (Sardo)
Studio: LucasTV
Distribution: LucasTV
Original Release: August 1983 - February 1984
It was honestly surprising that such a short anthology series had even been greenlit, especially considering it came from a little-known Canadian TV producer who, up to that point, hadn't done much of note. No one really expected much, and the general assumption was that this would be another low-budget filler show.
But wow—were you wrong about that. And after watching an episode, you knew there was no way you'd let the kids watch it. Sure, it wasn't bloody or gory; there was nothing overtly inappropriate. But it had something you hadn't anticipated: a palpable, spine-chilling tension that somehow gripped you, even through the screen. With limited resources and the C-team of ILM's effects budget, the show had pulled off something rare—actual, gut-wrenching suspense.
The kids were smart, sure, but you didn't want them learning the difference between a cheap scare and true horror just yet. You could only imagine them waking in the middle of the night, jumping at shadows, and crawling into bed with you and Bruce, sleepless and wide-eyed.
The framing was simple yet chilling: a group of kids and teens, calling themselves the Midnight Society, would gather in an isolated spot, shadows stretching long around them, their faces half-lit by flashlights and lanterns. Each night, they'd take turns sharing their own "scary story," spinning eerie tales that felt far too real. And each story carried something more intense than you'd expect—tension and drama worthy of Hitchcock, crafted on a shoestring budget that never showed the monster until the very end, if at all. The dread didn't come from what you saw; it came from what was left unseen, hinted at in the reactions of the listeners, the fleeting glances, and the sense of building paranoia.
The subtlety was remarkable, giving it the potential to become a Halloween tradition on TV for years. You'd even heard some neighborhood kids had chosen to watch it on Halloween instead of going trick-or-treating, eager to see how the final story would wrap up. They were reportedly screaming by the end, wishing they'd just gone for candy instead of getting scared out of their minds.
The critics, initially dismissive of the show as just another "stock anthology series" to fill airtime for the network's bigger shows, were eventually forced to change their tune. They praised it as "the finest work of horror fiction ever put on television," acknowledging its skillful tension-building and Hitchcockian restraint. You'd never seen anything quite like it, and it left you wondering just what kind of classic might be born out of this low-budget gem.
Remington Steele - Season 2 Created By: Robert Butler
Starring: Stephanie Zimbalist (Laura Holt), Pierce Brosnan (Remingston Steele), Doris Roberts (Mildred Krebs), Blake Clark (Fred) and Beverly Garland (Abigail Holt).
Studio: LucasTV
Distribution: LucasTV
Original Release: August 1983 - February 1984
The first season was definitely *not* Bruce's cup of tea. Honestly, it might not have been yours either. It dragged, felt monotonous, and the pacing oscillated wildly between promising and painfully sluggish. The mystery elements were almost nonexistent, and the whole thing seemed to settle on a lackluster "meh" more often than not. By all rights, the show should have been canceled after season one. It was only because of Mike Eisner—yes, that Mike Eisner—seeing some hidden potential in it, and Brandon Tartikoff's commitment to honoring a three-season contract, that it got another shot.
Then came the shake-up in the writers' room. The producers, realizing they'd been handed a second chance, knew this was a "do or die" situation. They brought in new talent, amping up the energy and intensity with one goal in mind: make it great or go down swinging. From what you heard from friends on set, something truly magical was happening in production. There was an undeniable buzz, and people said it was one of the happiest, most harmonious sets in LA at the time—a rarity. And after hearing Bruce's complaints about his *Conan* production dramas, this kind of upbeat atmosphere was almost too good to believe.
When the second season started filming, the show felt renewed. It didn't linger on the tangled threads of the first season's finale. Instead, it picked up with fresh momentum and focus, a new narrative that was tighter and braver. The story no longer wavered in the slow, uneven way of the first season but instead charged forward, evolving with each episode.
And push forward did it, with the main duo having far more chemistry then the first season, with Zimbalist and Bronson both having wonderful moments of will they won't they, and played into Steeles past as a con artist and thief, showing how his skills, finally, translate, while Zimbalist showed just how compatent her detective was.
The fact that the season had an over arching villian in Steele's former assosiate trying to steal several priceless artifacts and paintings to use as money laundering for... criminals... that part was never clear.
But it was a fun show and it redeemed itself after a bad first season.
Salem's Lot Showrunner: Tobe Hopper
Starring: Nicholas Hammond (Ben Mears), Faye Grant (Susan Norton), Vincent Price (Richard Straker), Reggie Nalder (Kurt Barlow), River Phoenix (Danny Glick), Joaquin Phoenix (Ralphie Glick), Clarissa Kaye (Marjorie Glick), Frank Ashmore (Mike Ryerson), Mark Petrie (Anthony Michael Hall), Ronny Cox (Jason Burke), William Daniels (Bill Norton), David Soul (Larry Crockett), Richard Herd (Constable Parkins Gillespie) and Bill Bixby (Father Donald Callahan).
Studio: LucasTV
Distribution: LucasTV
Original Release: August 1983
You genuinely wanted to like this show—no, you wanted to love it. After all, you'd just started getting into Stephen King's novels, and The Shining had been nothing short of a masterpiece in horror and visual storytelling. The adaptation of 'Salem's Lot had high hopes riding on it, and for good reason. It was clearly a well-made show, with solid production values and an impressive set, even an entire shopping mall that was an uncanny nod to Dawn of the Dead, a film you and Bruce had watched and loved.
But unfortunately, 'Salem's Lot was up against a rough crowd. Are you Afraid of the Dark aired right before it, followed by the popular late-night shows and blockbuster movies that were hard competition. It was the kind of programming that left King's horror series a bit lost in the shuffle, relegated to the background while people tuned into flashier alternatives. And then there were the critics—relentless, calling the show "boring, unworthy of the master of horror," and criticizing it as "ponderous, missing the mark on real scares."
They wanted pure fear. But was that really what King was all about? What they missed, and what the show actually delivered, was suspense. There was a brooding tension that the critics seemed to overlook entirely, as if they'd expected jump scares over creeping dread. The subtle horror King excelled at wasn't just about terrifying the audience outright; it was about making them think, feel the weight of something dark looming just out of sight.
Despite the lukewarm reception, you couldn't help but feel that the show was well-made and would find its true audience eventually, perhaps in reruns or home video, where niche shows often built their following. It had all the makings of a cult classic, one of those hidden gems destined to be appreciated down the line. Because sometimes, that's where great shows that don't get their due end up—waiting to be rediscovered by those willing to see them for what they really are.
Love Connection Hosted by: Chuck Woolery
Studio: LucasTV
Distribution: LucasTV
Original Release: August 1983 - February 1984
You always enjoyed a good dating show. The whole premise was entertaining, really—seeing what people expected out of their "dates," whether things were scripted or not. It was funny, awkward, and oddly satisfying to watch a little romantic chaos unfold, even if it was just for ratings.
Love Connection was one of those shows. There were scripted moments, some laughs, and, occasionally, sparks of real chemistry. But something essential was missing. The show just didn't quite have that pull, that extra bit of magic to fully capture its audience. It wasn't for lack of trying—yet without any big-name producers or high-profile guests, the show fell short of having any real draw. The format was formulaic, and as a result, the program attracted a small but unexpected viewership.
Oddly enough, Love Connection found a sort of second life among a different crowd entirely. Film students, young producers, and aspiring directors began tuning in—not because of the dating drama, but because it offered a prime case study. For them, it became a surprising training ground, a way to study how a modern TV show was constructed, especially in a live-performance setting. The show's producers, recognizing this unexpected interest, even started tapping into this energy, bringing on young filmmakers and TV students to direct and produce episodes as a way to give them hands-on experience.
As the show evolved, it became a kind of low-key incubator for new ideas, taking on a vibe almost like Saturday Night Live but with a dating spin. It was scrappy, unpredictable, and sometimes bizarrely experimental, and it grew into a quirky training ground for the next generation of TV talent. It may not have turned into the rating juggernaut the producers had once dreamed of, but it had a unique legacy all the same—one that was equal parts comedy, chaos, and a rare chance for young directors to make their mark.
Lawyer's Dozen - Season 4 Created by: William Wolcott
Studio: LucasTV
Distribution: LucasTV
Original Release: August 1983 - February 1984
Just as death and taxes are constants of life, so too is Lawyer's Dozen as a part of LucasTV with the show continuing its marathon run with a fourth season. The show was one of Bruce's favorites, thanks to 12 Angry Men being one of his favorite films and overall the concepts of justice and civic duty being more appealing to your husband. For yourself, Lawyer's Dozen was more of a casual viewing experience as while the show was overall excellent, with its episode format there was no need to watch the premieres when you could enjoy it on reruns.
Overall the show had another excellent season, though for critics the stories didn't quite land in power as the previous year so it was unlikely to be as dominant in the Emmys. A major theme seemed to be legacies of the past with a retrial in light of new evidence for a 30 year old murder, a dispute about Reservation rights, and a missing person's case going on for near a decade that finally found a suspect but the evidence is still razor thin. Interesting showcase of how the justice system works on a grand scale and how the guilty may get their due. You enjoyed it when taking breaks from caring for little George and it was a reliable hit across most adult demographics, so it looks like Lawyer's Dozen may be the first Lucas show to get a fifth season.
G.I. Joe: A Real American Hero - Season 1 Created by: Larry Hama
Starring: Mark Hamill (Goose), Ed Gilbert (Hawk), Ted Harrison (Duke), B.J. Ward (Scarlett), Libby Aubrey (Cover Girl), None (Snake Eyes), Arthur Burghardt (Stalker, Destro), Cris Latta (Gung-Ho, Breaker, Steeler, Cobra Commander), Buster Jones (Doc, Zap), Pat Fraley (Ace), Frank Welker (Wild Bill, Flash, Short-Fuze), Peter Cullen (Airborne), Michael Bell (Clutch, Major Bludd), Jerry Orback (Grand Slam), Robert O. Smith (Grunt), Will Ryan (Rock'n Roll), Rob Paulsen (Snow Job, Tripwire), Michael Yama (Torpedo), Morgan Lofting (Baroness) and Keone Young (Storm Shadow).
Studio: DreamWorks Animation
Distribution: LucasTV
Original Release: August 1983 - February 1984
GI Joe was not one of your favorite shows or comics, but overall both were good. It was a fun military adventure story and it was nice to see soldiers like grandpa as the heroes and fighting villains. The Rise of Cobra mini-series was also nice with its focus on Goose, so it was like watching Daddy fight the enemies like in Star Wars.
This year, GI Joe was going to be a full fifty episode season and thankfully it was even better than the last time with lots of interesting places and newer types of battles against Cobra. Everytime the Joes and Cobra fought it was like watching a Star Wars or Gundam battle but with real life soldiers. You were also surprised that there were a few episodes where Cobra won or where they managed to accomplish something while being defeated by GI Joe. That's not how stories usually go, but you guess it does make every battle important and help show why the Joes need to work together and win, sort of like Empire.
Cobra are the main villains but GI Joe also goes on other adventures in the show. You most especially liked the two episodes where GI Joe fought against the Zodiacs from China who were doing evil for the Communists. After them trying to hurt your family, it was good to see America beat them strongly. Though there were a few non-battle episodes like the one where a Joe team has to survive on an island with dinosaurs. Your favorite episode of all is when the Joes go to Florida not to battle Cobra, but to help the state with a search and rescue for a category 5 hurricane. It's nice to see the Joes saving people from disaster, it felt better than all the times they beat Cobra.
The first season also had a lot of characters show up for both the Joes and Cobra, A LOT. You feel a bit sad for some characters from the comics and Rise of Cobra who got less showtime because of it, though most of the new guys were cool like Mutt, Roadbloc, Spirit, Flint, Shipwreck. Your absolute favorite character was one of the new ones, Lady Jaye. She was the coolest and best Joe that was awesome at fighting, super smart and was the leader sometimes. She could speak lots of languages and be a great actor like Daddy, and best of all she was Irish just like you! Kind of like Atomic Betty, when you watched Lady Jaye it was like you were on the adventure.
There's also some interesting character stories for both the Joes and the Cobras with their relationships and growth as time goes on, making each episode matter. You wonder how some of them will be shown next year with stuff like Goose's romances with Cover Girl and Baroness, Snake-Eyes and Storm Shadow's rivalry, Cobra Commander's past and his plans for the world.
There was also some PSAs at the end of the episodes where the Joes would help kids with real life stuff like health, being better friends or saying no to strangers. You overheard some of the adults in Lucasfilms say it was a bit cheesy, but that didn't make sense since they weren't cheese commercials. You thought it was pretty neat since they had stuff you didn't know like how to deal with nosebleeds or what if someone has a seizure. It was also good stuff to show the Littles since they could be a bit silly and not be good students like you.
Overall it was a pretty fun show and something nice to watch with Sarah and Joseph who liked it for pretty much the same reasons, and Joseph especially liked seeing 'Joes' fight for good and win. The series seems to be more popular than last year because you hear more kids talking about it and there's more GI Joe stuff at the stores. You're happy with that because it meant you could get lots of Joe figures and vehicles to use for roleplaying adventures and you played lots of games with Lady Jaye figures.
Mafia - Season 2 Hosted by: Bert Convy
Studio: LucasTV
Distribution: LucasTV
Original Release: August 1983 - April 1984
With many parties and social gatherings being made more exciting with the game, you were glad that LucasTV picked up Mafia and the second season still seemed to be going strong with plenty of hillarious and tense social sleuthing and detective work each episode. It's the same format so really the strength of the episodes are largely dependent on who is participating though thankfully most of the time the production picks up some interesting people. You even participated in a celebrity episode yourself, mostly to help distract from Bruce's absence, and it was a fun excursion, something you could even allow the kids to watch as your fellow celebrities were thankfully more controlled than other normal guests.
However, Mafia sadly despite increasing viewership sort of lagged behind the ratings of other Lucasfilms shows near the bottom of the pool. Mike explained this as being a byproduct of LucasTV now becoming a proper station and proliferation of shows meant it had internal competition, even Love Connection. For some reason, many critics seemed to be a bit harsh on the format as mean spirited and taking glee on misery and drama, though most still agree it's a fun show.
The New Adventures of Jonny Quest - Season 2 Created By: Doug Wildey
Starring: Scott Menville (Jonny Quest), Don Messick (Dr. Benton Quest, Bandit), Rob Paulsen (Hadji), Granville Van Dusen (Race Bannon), Jennifer Darling (Jesse Bannon), Jeffrey Tambor (Hardrock) and Vic Perrin (Dr. Zin).
Studio: Hannah-Barbera Studios
Distribution: LucasTV
Original Release: August 1983 - November 1983
Along with other LucasTV cartoons that seemed to really grow and get better as shows, the second season of the new Jonny Quest show was even better and showed that it was just as good as the classic Hanna-Barbera stuff and the Sunrise anime. While the first season was all about characters, the second season seemed to be more story focused with the Quests doing battles with new villains that were trying to take over or hurt the world like Jeremiah Surd and Ezekiel Rage. The Quests also had a new character join, Jessie Bannon, Race's daughter. Jessie was an adventurous genius who was a lot of ways Johnny's opposite, and they seemed to favor spending times with the others dads while Hadji was the middle person. Jessie made the group stuff really interesting and she instantly became another one of your favorites as a smart girl who could be skilled at fighting and was very brave, like you!
Each episode of Jonny Quest was like its own little movie which made the show interesting with all the neat adventures and locations and what kind of conflicts the Quests would have. Currently it was Wally's favorite show on LucasTV because it was like a cartoon Indiana Jones. Having seen it with him when the family visited after your cousin Hannah's birth, you can see why. Kids all over America seemed to love it and many of your classmates said it was Hanna-Barbera's best show, though you think Scooby-Doo is a bit better. It was another must watch show with the Littles, and you looked forward to Marvel's future comic series for it as they announced they were working on one.
The Nguyens - Season 2 Created By: Daniel Nguyen
Starring: Lorenzon Music (Doung "Doug" Nguyen), Diane Pershing (Anh Nguyen), Katie Leigh (Amanda Nguyen), Scott Menville (Bruce Nguyen), Lennie Weinrib (Mitchell Nguyen) and June Foray (Grandma Linh Nguyen)
Studio: Hannah-Barbera Studios
Distribution: LucasTV
Original Release: August 1983 - March 1984
For a show that was created with the intent of exploring how Vietnamese immigrants settled in America, it was ironic that from a meta standpoint that in just a year the show had become as American as apple pie. The Nguyens was one of the most popular shows on the air and actually managed to climb into the ranks of the Nielsen Top 10 with the characters becoming household names and Nguyen being about as American as Smith. Of course the show's format was Hanna-Barbera at its peak, strong character focused stories and dialogue-driven comedy that it had perfected over 20 years. But what really helped to cement The Nguyens popularity was its heart and likability, how everyone could see itself as one of the family and how it spoke deeply to the American experience, both with those who just arrived and those who have been here for years.
With the first season having focused on introducing each members of the Nguyens and the very extansive supporting cast, along with tackling many of the inherent challenges faced by immigrants, the second season was given more breathing room with a greater selection on comedic and situation based stories. Sure, there was still heavy satire on current American social and cultural issues and trends, though it seemed that showrunner David Nguyen wanted to highlight The Nguyens as a fun and natural family unit.
For the most part such a change worked as every episode has a hillarious and engaging story combining the surreal and mundane and it feels like there's a dozen clever jokes per minute. The jokes were carried by both smart writing and excellent delivery and character performances similar to the best comedies of film. There's also a surprising amount of very relatable stories such as one episode where Amanda leads the family in a Dungeons and Dragons campaign, or the very beloved Star Wars episode which covers The Nguyens adventures in the hours long line for Return of the Jedi, a sentiment shared by many Americans.
The Nguyens was a show beloved by most Americans and along with Family Ties established a dichotomy of how to do sitcoms, each being a mirror to the many strengths by the genre. It was also a great showcase of the potential for animation, that you didn't need a wacky or fantastical premise for a show and even grounded settings can make for great stories. You do love to watch it every Tuesday along with Mom, and thanks to the lack of swears or nudity, you can tolerate Mary watching on occasion. You're just so confused though on why the critics seem so adamant that the second season is inferior to the first and that some of the jokes don't land. So out of touch.
From a personal perspective, you've been able to strongly see the impact of The Nguyens. Thanks to Bruce's activism, Los Angeles County has a very Vietnamese minority, to the point that 3% of the county is Vietnamese. There are many Vietnamese restaraunts and shops opening up recently that want to be like the Nguyens in success and integration. When you venture out into public and recognized, many of the fans are Vietnamese immigrants saved by Bruce who are heavily grateful to Bruce for his work, and most especially thankful to The Nguyens which they felt have helped them immensely in settling in and being accepted. There also seems to be many Vietnamese girls and young women who have adopted Carrie as their American name, which is also consistently been in the top 10 of baby names this decade. Still pretty unreal to think about.
Spider-Man: The Anime - Season 1 Directed by: Masahito Yamashita
Starring: Loren Lester (Peter Parker/Spider-Man), Saratoga Ballantine (Mary Jane Watson), Ed Asner (J. Jonah Jameson), Kevin Conroy (The Kingpin), Gary Imhoff (Norman Osborn/The Green Goblin), Maxwell Caulfield (Herman Schultz/Shocker), Don Stark (Aleksei Sytsevich/Rhino), Eddie Albert (Adrian Toomes/Vulture), Rob Paulsen (Flint Marko/Sandman), Linda Gary (May Parker), Brian Keith (Ben Parker) and Bruce O'Brian (Nick Fury).
Studio: Sunrise Studios
Distribution: LucasTV
Original Release: August 1983 - June 1984
Before Daddy left for Conan, you remember asking him about why he was making Batman movies when he owned Marvel and Batman was a DC hero. He had this to say:
"Well Mary, as much as I would love to make stuff like Avengers or X-Men, I don' think the movies are ready for most Marvel heroes right now."
"Huh? But Superman is an awesome movie and you got the Luke Cage and Hulk shows."
"Well, a lot of Marvel's most important heroes wouldnt work well on the movies yet. We need time to give them the proper stories they deserve. Don't worry though, there'll be some Marvel cartoons coming soon that you can enjoy."
Like many times, Daddy kept his promise and there was gonna be a new Spider-Man show, but it wasn't real life like the most recent show, it was an anime made by the Sunrise people. This time unlike the 60's cartoon, it showed a high school teenager Peter Parker and his early years. The first episode shows Peter's life and him saving the day, and then the next is the origin episode with how Peter got bit by the Spider and got all sorts of cool powers. But Peter didn't use them right and for good and because of it, his Uncle Ben was killed by a robber he let go. Thus, Peter has to learn great power and responsibility and become Spider-Man.
You didn't read the Spider-Man comics so it was interesting to see how it was made on TV and how Peter becomes a hero and how it affects his life. There's a lot of similar stuff to Miraculous, but the shows are also pretty different. For one, Peter doesn't have another hero to play with like Adrien and Marinette. There's also no super big bad villain like Hawkmoth, though there are plenty villains. There's less big story events and more character episodes with Peter trying to be a good person but also be a normal teenager and deal with friends and bullies, and try to get Mary Jane. You don't know how to feel about Mary Jane, she can be nice and fun but it's no Superman and Lois Lane for sure.
The first half of the season has Spider-Man deal with normal crime stuff like Batman, but as there's more episodes the show has real villains show up. Villains like Shocker, Rhino, Vulture, Sandman. It's interesting because Spider-Man has to deal with these supervillains all on his own and it seems like no one in New York is used to it, though Grandpa would for sure beat them up. Weirdly, the Kingpin seems to be here like in the Daredevil show, but Daddy said the Spider-Man show and real life shows aren't in the same universe. Here, Kingpin helps to make the villains, so he's a bad guy, but it also looks like Harry's Dad Norman is evil like Hawkmoth to Adrien, something a lot of your friends noticed.
The stories are pretty great and teach alot about responsibility, and Peter is a fun good guy to root for. Thankfully, it seems like Spider-Man is just as good at animation as Miraculous. In fact, it can be pretty similar sometimes with how Peter swings around New York like Marinette and her yo-yo, but Spiderman is stronger so he can punch the villains hard and throw stuff for pretty cool things. Peter also has some neat gadgets he makes to help him as Spider-man against the villains with some fun smart battles. The colors are very bright and the animation is really fast and smooth making for some great fight scenes that are sometimes better than Miraculous. The animation is what really draws the Littles in with Joseph liking the fights while Sarah loves the art.
Daddy says that the show isn't connected to the real life shows, but you notice some stuff while watching that hints that there's a bigger universe like the DC movies. There's lots of references to other heroes like the Baxter Foundation working on science stuff, Stark Industries making weapons, Captain America being taught in history classes or Peter helping a car accident person named Stephen Strange. There's two really important episodes that show other stuff. One is where Wakanda King T'Chaka visits New York and Spider-Man accidentally stumbles upon Black Panther and Shield chasing weapons dealers, with Daddy as Nick Fury. The other sees Spider-Man help a Mutant girl whose being treated bad by police and hunted by Mutant hater people, and in the end the girl finds safety with Professor Xavier. It's obvious that something big is happening, fourshadowing as Daddy says.
Overall it was pretty great and a nice show of Spider-Mans beginnings and you really want to see more, especially more of the villains and Spider-Man getting involved in bigger stuff. It's a nice show for the anime night on LucasTV and you're happy that Marvel is making shows just as good as the DC movies. Superman's still the best hero though, that'll always be true.
Miraculous - Season 2 Directed by: Mamoru Oshii
Starring: Jodie Foster (Marinette Dupain-Cheng/Ladybug), Loren Lester (Adrien Agreste), Adrienne Barbeau (Chloe Bourgeois, Audrey Bourgeois), Cam Clarke (Luka Couffaine), Diane Pershing (Lila Rossi), Adam West (Andre Bourgeois), Marina Sirtis (Nathalie Sancoeur), Norm Spencer (The Collector) and Cedric Smith (Jagged Stone)
Studio: Sunrise Studio
Distribution: LucasTV
Original Release: August 1983 - June 1984 Quality: D100 + 500 => 587
Audience: D100 + 500 => 595
Critics: D100 + 500 => 591
(Mary POV)
You remember when the first season of Miraculous was first introduced to you, the excitement and fun of the series, the pretty animation and shining colors, Adrien and Marinette's relationship and how both sides were, and still are, unaware on who they truly are, the transformation scenes and the many different opponents they faced on each occasion...
It was one of the best shows you watched, and always one that your friends at school tended to talk about, or roleplaying as Adrein or Marinette.
If there was something they lamented about it was the lack of a second season, and you could agree there with them. Though the ending had been amazing on its own and had closed the story perfectly in your opinion, there was also the ending which showed how both heroes would now have to face the mayor, as well as a teaser of him possibly being a Miraculous Holder as well.
You asked daddy about it once, but he could only tell you that it was something the animators had decided on their own.
Bother.
Thus, when season 2 was introduced on LucasTV you and the rest of your friends gathered to see the first of the chapters together, making one of your meetings into a mini-party of sorts. Something which became a sort of tradition, with all of you alternating between homes each episode, something that remained in place when daddy came back and decided to accompany you all when watching at home.
And the season was as beautiful as the first as well, with the animations being even prettier and more fluid than before. There were more colors involved as well, along with the many old and new characters involved. Adrian and Marinette were still there, but now they were accompanied by Chloe (who went from mean girl to not-so-mean girl during the season) and Luka, both also becoming Miraculous Holders and aiding in the fight against the mayor.
And Lila was still there as well. You did not like her... She was a lying liar who lied! You could not stop scowling when she appeared, she was just that annoying, fake and mean! Chloe was also somewhat mean, but she was getting better at least!
And Lila even got a Miraculous of her own, how is that fair!?
But... you still liked it. The story was a bit odd and different from what came before, daddy telling you that it was because of the character "growing up", but you and the rest of your friends liked it, specially how many of the problems seemed to be revolving about families, and how they managed to solve their problems. or at least get away from them; Adrien and his father, Chloe with her father and mother, Luka with his father, and (ugh) yes, Lila and her family as well.
The ending though, it came as a shock to everyone when seeing how Adrien and Marinette, now aware of each other's identity decided to not pursue a relationship, but instead remain as friends. You.. did not understand it completely, but many of your friends claim that it was a rule that all partners had to be together at the end.
Well, daddy was a bit of a rule breaker, so you guess it will be fine this time. Besides, they all like the series as well, so it couldn't have been that bad.
(Bruce POV)
The second season of Miraculous had never been in question in your mind. To this day you still received mail asking when would season two be released, and how could you just leave them with such a cliffhanger as the mayor being a Miraculous Holder. But, in your defense, there were so many projects at the time that leaving it to the side just seemed the most prudent thing to do.
And all it accomplished was making the entire fanbase even more rabid and determined. In Japan alone, you'd heard from employers how both Marinette and Adrien were still seen as some of the best characters in fan magazines even five years after their last appearance.
When you gave the go ahead however, you expected to see another season that perhaps would advance the plot somewhat, but not an entire new different tale that tackled interfamilial trauma, relationship issues, what constitutes a vigilante and the law, not to mention the stark framing and high shots that layered the entire series. There were so little cuts in the animation that made everything seem to flow smoother than expected, along with many creative uses for perspective of the characters that made novel use of the animation.
And it all came from Sunrise's newest hire, Mamoru Oshii.
A young director from what you've heard, he's also a bit of a maverick and champion for freedom of expression... which had him and his animation team fired because of his risk taking, and refusal to compromise to the demands from the producers. And all this just after they'd finished Season 1 of some anime called Urusei Yatsura.
Well, their loss is your gain it seems. When Mamoru took the reins for Miraculous there was no story, no idea what to follow it through, and just a directive from the office "Give us something good" before leaving him to have fun.
From what you heard, he smirked like a child in a candy store.
His team, loyal to a fault, had followed him out, and now learning from the different animation style (as well as getting familiar with the technology available) they brought some of the most inventive ways of animation you'd seen so far. Not to mention the story that Mamoru thought, so deep yet also keeping to the style and theme of Miraculous as well.
Oshii seems to fit in Sunrise like a fish in the ocean, with his daring and novel method of storytelling becoming a perfect complement for the series. Not many would have thought to introduce the idea, or dedicate an entire episode, on how children can be traumatized by their parents' action, or how their entire behavior and way of thinking can be molded even when far away. It also showed how it's not always too late to try and beg forgiveness, or mend a relationship as well.
Chloe and her father do deserve a chance.
Even the trope of having the male and female lead end up together ended up being defied more thoroughly than in Pacific Rim, with both Adrien and Marinette acknowledging that they are not yet ready for a long-lasting relationship, how they don't fully know each other that well in the end, and would only end up hurting each other.
Pure genius, with the audience and critics both in your corner. The latter talking about some of the episode deserving an Emmy if only for that thoughtful level of handling one's emotions.
It easily accompanied The Nguyens among the Top Ten Nielsen ratings, to the point that they are actually now considering creating an entire new ranking system for animation only if the current state continues as it is.
Of course, Mamoru could not stop himself from being a bit cheeky and adding a cliffhanger of hsi own, introducing "Master Fu" at the end, to warn the new group of Miraculous Holders about a great danger that is coming to the city... right before three silhouette's are shown watching Paris.
Thus, once more, adding a cliffhanger ending to the series...
And boy, did you hear the fans very descriptive thoughts about the ending.
The Gentleman's Club - Season 2 Showrunner: Fred Freiberger
Starring: John Calvin (Grant Hawkins), Michael Winslow (Jacob Pratt), Michelle Scarabelli (Simone Chalamet), Jeff MacKay (Malcolm O'Grady), Chow Yun-fat (Kong Zhuo), Graeme Blundell (Darwin "Crossbones" Little), James Shigeta (Zheng Zu) and Werner Klemperer (Johan Von Wickten).
Studio: LucasTV
Distribution: LucasTV
Original Release: August 1983 - March 1984 Quality: D100 + 400 => 492
Audience: D100 + 400 => 486
Critics: D100 + 400 => 456
(Bruce POV)
You knew this show still had it in him, you just knew it!
It had not seemed so at first, with a disastrous first season that just screamed generic despite the premise seeming so intriguing at first. It had not been a good time either for many of the actors who despite entering the film in good spirits could steel clearly see how the entire production just did not seem to click with much of the audience or critics.
But there were still core fans who nonetheless saw the potential of it, not to mention having grown to love the quirky and period characters, who nonetheless had clamored for another chance for the series, which you were more than happy to grant, though not without making a small change
Leslie Stevens, the creator of the series, felt that he had a good concept with him, but he admitted that he did not have the best head when it came to stories or direction for it. A self-proclaimed "Hack Writer", he wanted to bring in someone to aid him in both cases, someone whom he knew could turn this whole thing around, but may be a bit reticent due to certain events in his past.
After all, Fred Freiberger had a most infamous reputation still. And finding where he lived had been only the first step.
It had taken a while to convince him that first, yes you were serious, and after that to have him take on the job what with his current self-esteem. Despite his work in the final season for the recent Star Trek TV Series, there were many who still saw him as the "Season Killer", and with his reputation as it was, he feared that it would only harm the show even more rather than try to aid it.
You would not be deterred however, showing him the production notes, the characters, talking with him at length about the overall premise, getting him involved into the idea as he soon started giving his own thoughts about where the show could go; drama between the characters due to their different nationalities and traditions, conflict with the natives wherever they go, lessons about their government perhaps not being the bastion of goodness and civilization that they'd expected. Yet at the same time, showing the goodness that they brought as they struck down many harmful traditions, show the bonds of comradery that they built, and bring in a message of understanding and communication that would be relevant through the ages.
By the time it was time to go, you had a new producer, and writer, as the talks had his creative juices flowing. However, a clause in his contract remained to not mention his name at all until the very last moment.
The next day he arrived with the rough drafts for the next three episodes, with Freiderberg at the head, and what had once been a slapdash affair with "enemies of the week" soon became a political drama, with arc and season villains that challenged the heroes not only on their skills but on their moral ground and their own sensitivities. For the first time, there was actual tension in the show where one wondered if the heroes would manage to win. Instead of going for the big historic events where everyone knew that how they would end, they made the fights and missions a bit more personal for the characters, who squabbled and argued amongst themselves, and yet still managed to care for themselves like a family.
And the villains, you don't know whether to call them inspired or ingenious, or perhaps both. Many of them managed to make themselves remembered, but only a few stood out miles against the bunch to earn the right to become the true series overreaching antagonists. This series introduced a couple that you're sure you will be seeing soon enough; James Shigeta as Zheng Zu, the Chinese criminal mastermind, and Triad leader, who ruled the entirety of China's underground, planning to surreptitiously advance into other countries as well. And Werner Klemperer as Johan Von Wickten, the aristocratic German noble who schemes behind the German Empire in order to expand its borders and influence around the world.
The cast alone was finally able to get into the groove of things, as the excellent script and stories allowed them to finally let their talent loose, with a central vision and clear direction, this season had an overall objective to reach, which many of the viewers could finally get into, being able to get into the many different missions, being able to empathize with the characters, and feel invested in the overall plot. Critics might not have reversed their tone fully, but there is a sizeable majority giving the shows their thumbs up, saying how it seems they've finally found their footing
As for Freiderberg, he was able to finally take on the spotlight, with the revelation that the "Series Killer" actually saved one from being given the axe. He has actually gotten quite a lot of fan mail thanking him for reviving what seemed to be a dead on the water series.
You'll just let him enjoy the moment.
Cupid - Season 4 Created By: Donald P. Bellisario
Starring: John De Lancie (Trevor Hale) and Candice Bergen (Dr. Claire Allen).
Studio: LucasTV
Distribution: LucasTV
Original Release: August 1983 - February 1984
You were not one to get into Cupid as much as Bruce usually would, and at times you think that it being one of the first Live Action series has him put a lot more weight on its success than what he would put on any other show. Regardless, watching the mischief and troubles into which Trevor gets into in order to try and prove he truly is the Greek god of love, as well as the mystery of whether that's true or not, has been fun.
Or at least, it was fun up till the end of last season, when the Psyche Arc developed what seemed to be the final reveal as to Trevor's identity, only to break him in one of the most traumatic ways when it was revealed that who he thought to be his wife in mortal form, was nothing but another psychiatric patient, used by a colleague of Dr. Allen in order to "shake him" into sanity.
Well, all it did was leave him disgusted with "mankind" and cutting off ties with nearly all his friends, going on a darker path where he just wants to finish his mission and leave Earth once and for all. His previous zest and curiosity for the modern world and Joie de vivre now seemingly having been vanished from him, leaving a man that is more of a shell than what he used to be.
Credit where is due, John de Lancie makes for a terrific performance here which you doubted he could pull off at first. Many, including you, are more used to his more laughing and impish personality take as Trevor Hale, yet here he shows us a more darker, more insightful and more arrogant version of a character that for all is still Trevor Hale. Hos wordplay, where before brought laughter and admiration, now brings fear and apprehension. His plans, once made to bring joy to the couples around, are only there to put one and one together, and he does not seem to care who gets hurt in the process.
During the entire season, what was shown was mostly a battle for the soul of Trevor Hale, where Dr. Allen remains at his side and through both her actions and talks slowly tries to open his shell once more, trying to reach the hurting man, while at the same time we see Trevor reaching the 100th couple with each episode, each new plan now showing his state of mind as he fights himself, as he once more rediscovers the love he once held for humanity, and why he became the god of love in the first place.
Not that it ever reveals that, as even at the last episode, when Trevor decides to remain at 99 couples, it still shows him fully believing that he is Cupid, just that he'd rather remain on Earth for a bit longer. There are even hints through the entire season that have one believe that perhaps Dr. Allen might be Psyche herself, her sessions with Trevor certainly showing a degree of care and understanding that goes beyond what a normal psychiatrist or therapist would be allowed to go through.
Cupid, the Live action series that helped begin it all, ended not with a bang, but neither with a whimper, just with the promise that the characters will be able to pick up the pieces and move on with their lives, and in the end, that is all that can be asked for the series. Bruce told you how Bellisario did not see this series going further than four seasons, and you can see why. In the end, the story of Trevor is not one that can be stretched indefinitely, especially if you truly want to see a satisfying conclusion for him.
Though not all liked it if the critics have anything to say. You know how much Bruce seems to...dislike them, but you can almost see the way they are coming from. For a series that started so bright and lighthearted to then have a season full of depression and darkness would be a shock, but you also think that they are not looking at the big picture, how this is supposed to be the "darkest before the dawn" hour, the moment where Trevor and Dr. Allen need to see everything come down, to then see the light at the end of the tunnel and persist despite it all.
It was a good story, and despite criticisms about it being needlessly dark you cannot help but enjoy it all the same. A single aspect you will agree though is how the story did not give an answer as to whether Trevor was really Cupid or just another deluded man. You were told that was always the plan, to let the audience decided on their own, but it does not seem to help with the feeling of irresolution in your heart.
Not that your mother agreed though, since she loved the ending. And so did Todd, the little traitor.
Atomic Betty - Season 2 Created by: William Hannah and Joseph Barbera
Starring: B.J. Ward (Betty Barrett/Atomic Betty), Robin Williams (Sparky), Dan Gilvezan (X-5), Adrian Truss (Admiral DeGill), Colin Fox (Maximus I.Q.), Christopher Collins (Atomic Roger), Jack Angel (The Chameleon), Bob Holt (Infantor), Kath Soucie (Pontifidora the Conquistadora), Tony Pope (Atomic Dodger), John Stocker (Hopper the Chopper), Pat Carroll (Iciclia), Nancy Cartwright (Nuclea), Buster Jones (Greenbeard), Corey Burton (Dr. Cerebral), Alan Oppenheimer (Max Sr.) and Rodger Bumpass (M'Lord Orus).
Studio: LucasTV
Distribution: LucasTV
Original Release: August 1983 - February 1984 Quality: D100 + 400 => 449
Audience: D100 + 400 => 451
Critics: D100 + 400 => 462
(Mary POV)
When another season of Atomic Betty was announced you were among the first to find when, ready to once again follow the cool adventures of the space police who also tries to be a normal girl. You tried to organize your friends to watch it like you did with Miraculous, but many of them could not stay that long.
Oh well, at least you still had mommy and the littles with you... save for Little George, but he liked his napping more, so everyone wins in the end there.
Still, the season felt wrong.
Not wrong as in bad, but more like wrong as int it should not be like this. There's some sort of disconnect when it comes to this season and you compare it to the previous season, which is just silly since all the same characters and villains are there; Maximus I.Q. still as smug and as incompetent as ever, Betty still trying to balance her life, the colorful cast of villains and criminals with their different weapons and abilities. It's all there, so you should be enjoying this entire season like no other.
But you aren't. There is something wrong there, and you know that you're not the only one who sees it, but you are the only one that can perhaps articulate it. When you asked your friends at school whether they had watched Atomic Betty many said that they had dropped it, while others just continued yet didn't have that same spark of interest they had for Miraculous or the Spider-Man series. And when asked they could not say just why, they did not even seem to think anything was wrong in the show, just that they no longer found it interesting.
Was this a conspiracy, had something happened without you noticing.
When you tried to tell mommy about it she just laughed and mentioned how people grow up and develop new interests, but you could not be happy with that as you knew that there was something up with the show. You had not outgrown Betty, you had discovered something in it.
And you would get to the bottom of it.
You stayed when you could watch the show, making sure to notice when and where the moments where things went wrong where, you told mommy the times and made sure to remember as many as possible for when daddy came back and he could give you an answer. Writing was a bit of a bust at first since the show went really fast, but you eventually got the hang of how to write quickly enough and not be distracted by what the TV was showing. Slowly the pieces seemed to be coming together, like a puzzle you assembled them and a picture was forming, you were close to completing it when daddy came back, and after the obligatory hugs and questions (as well as the reassurances that he would not be leaving for a long, long, long time!) you finally brought your papers and observations about the show.
Only to be told that it was mostly because Mr. Hannah and Mr. Barbera were a bit too busy with Fillmore to give their all to Atomic Betty as well. He still praised you for your observations, as no one else seemed to have noticed it as thoroughly as you had.
Except for the critics who once more began their campaign on hating everything daddy and Lucasfilm did, calling it repetitive and outdated. Well, bother to them, they would not know fun if they went to play some arcade games like Nidhogg. That one deserved much more than it got.
You still watched the show again with daddy when he came back.
It was even better than before.
Liberty's Crystal Skeleton - Season 2 Created By: Rick Berman
Starring: Ernie Hudson (Samuel Forrest), William Atherton (Hiram Stokes), JoBeth Williams (Rose Colleton), Danny Lloyd (Todd), John Vernon (President Rutherford B. Hayes), Philip Michael Thomas (Robert Smalls), William Windom (Ulysses S. Grant), Don Murray (Wade Hampton III), Richard Crenna (Benjamin Tillman) and Robert Urich (Jesse James).
Studio: LucasTV
Distribution: LucasTV
Original Release: August 1983 - February 1984
Rick Berman had told you before that though the initial season had not been a failure by any means, it was still not the success he had hoped for either. There was certainly an appeal and interest in seeing the world after an apocalypse and how society had managed to survive and reinvent itself, but at the same time there was another story just lying there that, as Berman put it, "just called to be told".
The world of America in 2025, a steampunk land with different political entities and a world who just managed to once more regain the population lost after two hundred years, was a world where most of the action had already taken place. There were references galore about battles in the past, different presidents or leaders and their decisions, epidemics and diplomacy with political entities, some which no longer existed, others which had become lifelong enemies. All different events that ignited the imagination of the viewers, and asked through many letters to explain just what exactly happened in the past to have the nation become what it was.
And thus, Berman promised that for next season he would make sure to answer their desires.
This season goes back to the beginning, where "The Fall" begins, in 1878, detailing the impact, the sudden change in the weather, the actions of the regular people and the leaders of the country during said occasion, and moves on to the many different decisions taken by different groups as the world gets colder, as food becomes scarcer, and as the trappings of society and civilizations begin to break down; the North, victorious in the civil war, now reduced to refugees as they flee southward. The South, the defeated party, using this opportunity to try and enact their vengeance once more, repudiating the ideals of equality and democracy to try and institute a more tyrannical government as they rise up. And in the middle the lives of so many regular people who are just trying to live their lives and survive in these chaotic times.
Mixing with real life figures, there was quite the cast of regular people from all strata of life, though one of your favorites had to be Samuel Forrest, the former slave who tries to live quietly in South Carolina, yet as the "Redemptionist" government takes hold he finds his life growing harder, and "The Fall" only worsening the situation. His entire journey from keeping one's head down to taking up arms to defend oneself and the community is one of the greatest journey's you've seen.
That they added Philip Michael Thomas as Robert Smalls was an amazing touch as well, fans of the movie loved seeing him in this alternate world, proving that no matter what he would keep on fighting the good fight against oppression and discrimination.
There were also nods to the previous series, like having great sections of the series taking place in New Orleans, and having the ancestor of Elizabeth Colleton (in the form of JoBeth Williams as Rose Colleton), thereby giving a clear contrast between past and future. That it also follows an important aspect of the plot is relevant as well, having Beauregard, a former confederate general, shown to be in clear doubts as to either support the new secession by the south, or remain loyal to the Union. That there is no such conflict within General Longstreet, the leader of a caravan of refugees to New Orleans (and clear supporter of the Union during "The Fall") thereby teasing a possible conflict between them, makes it an amazing work of tension and suspense for the rest of the series.
And if no one is thinking on making that Danny Lloyd kid a future star then don't mind if you do!
Overall, the story was an amazing success, the fans were more than pleased (though now there is a split as to which season is better) and the critics have actually improved their opinion of the series. Not by a lot of course, but at the very least they can acknowledge that the overall quality of the premise is not as ridiculous nor as unimaginative as one might think at first glance. That you also made sure to let Berman have free rein when it came to production was a good idea, with his plans to make it seem rougher to better imitate the old period, and using Civil War re-enactors as extras was an inspired choice that lent that authenticity that the series needed.
You're thinking of giving it another season, though Berman is considering letting someone else take the reins. You can't force him, but you hope he'll change his mind.
Luke Cage - Season 2 Showrunner: Aaron Spelling
Starring: Michael Clarke Duncan (Luke Cage), Pam Grier (Misty Knight), Roxie Roker (Mariah Dillard-Stokes), Michael Dorn (Willis "Diamondback" Stryker), Tilda Johnson (angela Bassett), Tina Andrews (Claire Temple), Erik Estrada (Hernan "Shades" Alvarez), Kevin Hooks (Darius "Comanche" Jones), Mike Evans (George Goodwin), Philip Michael Thomas (Alex Wesley) Richard Roundtree (James Lucas) And Richard Pryor (Turk Barrett).
Studio: LucasTV
Distribution: LucasTV
Original Release: August 1983 - October 1983
They say a hero is defined by his villains, and Luke Cage certainly proved that.
When you first saw the first season of Luke Cage you felt that, despite not knowing the material they were adapting, that it was still a very well written story, one that managed to keep the characters, even the smaller roles, relevant, one that managed to create excellent tension through its limited episodes, gave enough time for the overall plots to be developed, and introduced some of the best villains to be faced in the form of Cornel "Cottonmouth" Stokes and Mariah Dillard-Stokes; both members of a family of drug dealers who inherited the business.
Yet looking at them now, one can find the cracks that in a way will either redeem or damn them; Cornel has embraced the business side, but flashbacks and his attitude through the series show that it was done against his will, and if it were possible, he would have given it up on a second. Mariah however, she has made a life as a Councilor, yet she can't help but still be drawn to the business, if only to use it to increase her power and achieve her political goals. This alone is what draws her to try and recreate the connections destroyed by Luke Cage
After such iconic villains in season one, they would have their hands full in trying to recreate that same magic with season two. Yet it seemed that they are adept at catching lightning in a bottle, as they succeeded when they managed to bring in Michael Dorn as Willis Stryker, aka "Diamondback", aka Luke Cage's half-brother, in an entire plot that was both tragic and full of action, managing to do justice not only to the character of Stryker, but still also keep him as unsympathetic despite his past, making sure one understands that his actions are his own, despite what may have happened to him before.
The story itself follows Luke Cage after he's been released from prison thanks to Matt Murdock, now trying to find a job once more and rebuild his life, his prestige in the Harlem community has him open a Bounty Hunting/Odd Jobs business which is soon flooded with requests for aid from the biggest types of problems (burglary, kidnapping) to the smallest (grocery shopping, house sitting). It's like a return to the old style of the comics that you managed to read about him, giving a lighter and slightly goofy tone to the series, yet at the same time keeping with the more grounded and realistic tone brought by the series as well.
Yet the aforementioned Willis Stryker begins going off the hinges when it comes to dealing with Cage. Where Mariah wants him framed or out of the way, Willis wants him dead, and he is not shy about it either. He Kills Mariah, suborns Shades, has him kill Comanche, and dedicates the entire organization into making sure he is dead, with new weapons able to harm him being deployed, and unrest in Harlem spreading as the police itself is trying, but also failing, to stop the madman. Detective Misty Knight herself has to join hands with Mariah's long estranged daughter, Tilda, in order to go undercover without orders and find the truth behind Willis. Luke does the same, but what they both discover independently shatters his world.
Willis is his half-brother, his father had an extramarital affair and then never acknowledge his other son, leaving him to the side.
The reveal was one of the most shocking moments of the series, and the episode after, which was a flashback showing how Luke and Willis had interacted and been friends as children, how the latter's jealousy and rage slowly twisted him when he saw how Luke's father did not even acknowledge him, but instead repudiated him roughly, even threatening him to stay away from him and his family, was perhaps one that showed the tragedy of it all. Willis' actions are his own, but one can understand how he turned out how he did.
It's just a shame he never understood who really was to blame.
The final confrontation is tragic and sad on its own, with Luke trying to reach Willis in the end, even as both sides beat each other black and blue, Willis never stopping, and eventually succumbing to his wounds.
It's a sad yet also touching story, one that shows a path that Luke could have very well gone with if he'd been the one not chosen by his father to raise, and for many of the fans a worthy addition to the lore of Luke Cage. The season managed to gain even more followers than their last one, and the critics agreeing with them. That the final scene shows Luke Cage officially inaugurating "Heroes for Hire" has excited all fans who hope to see Iron Fist come up next (and the ending of Daredevil clearly shows he will), many others have also grown fond of Angela Bassett as Tilda, and are glad to know she will be remaining in the show as the new owned of Cornel's club.
You may not be as big a follower as Bruce is for these shows, but you can't deny that you are curious as to what will happen next.
Family Ties - Season 2 Created by: Gary David Goldberg
Starring: Michael Gross (Steven Keaton), Meredith Baxter (Elyse Donnelly Keaton), Michael J. Fox (Alex P. Keaton), Justine Bateman (Mallory Keaton), Tina Yothers (Jennifer Keaton) and Marc Price (Irwin "Skippy" Handelmann).
Studio: LucasTV
Distribution: LucasTV
Original Release: September 1983 - April 1984 Quality: D100 + 400 => 490
Audience: D100 + 400 => 492
Critics: D100 + 400 => 445
(Bruce POV)
Can a show rise above a seemingly perfect season? Well, if not, Family Ties is certainly making their best to try it nonetheless. After hitting the ground running with stellar episodes, great acting, and an amazing cast that fit their roles to a T, the series just went from strength to strength, taking on heavy topics like addiction, relationships, manipulative boyfriends and alcoholism with a mature and relatable approach that not even parents can chastise the series for. And yet, at the same time, makes sure to intersperse it with more lighthearted episodes, like Alex learning the true spirit of Christmas, reviving one's singing career, or even going a bit nuts while waiting for a recommendation for college.
And hey, Michael Gross grew a beard over the seasons. Fans loved it of course, saying it made him look less stern and more approachable. not bad for what was supposed to be a one off.
Regardless, the entire series had only improved, the cast growing closer as a result, and as such, the numbers had just kept on going up, achieving the coveted position of being among the Top Five Nielsen ratings. It was so popular that nearly every up and comer in Hollywood wanted to be a part of it, knowing that it could very well make their career. You of course let John and Robin had a crack at it as well, their episodes gaining the highest ratings and giving some well needed exposition to Robin after the disaster that was the Popeye movie nearly sank his career, leaving him to take smaller roles that just had him stuck in place.
Dear God but what the heck was Paramount thinking there! You can't understand how someone can just waste his talents in comedy and improvisation so thoroughly as that. His role in A Keaton Christmas Carol certainly proved to everyone that Robin was still a master when it came to his field at least, and what the man can do with proper support.
It's just... how the heck did he manage to play all three ghosts though? There has to be a limit to his range, right?
(Carrie POV)
The Keaton family seemed to be the closest to a real-life family that you've seen on TV so far. There have been rumors of Paramount making their own (with Comedian Bill Cosby as part of the cast no less) but for you and your family, the Keatons might as well be the true family show of the 80s, and one that would hopefully remain so for years to come.
You're not the only one that thinks so; Mom, Todd, Mavis, their friends and Bruce's family all can agree that the series has that charm that keeps you grounded on it, the characters being so easy to empathize with, thus making it a series that you get invested in all too easily. There have been many times when you've been at the edge of your seat when seeing one of the children in danger because of some dumb decision, having to remind yourself that it's just a show and nothing else.
Though the episode that had Mallory being pressured by her boyfriend to "put out" nearly had your heart leap out of your chest. It had not been that long when you'd been in an environment where that was one of the everyday issues. Looking at your children, you wondered if they too would have to deal with that growing up, and you hope that they will be able to rely on you, Bruce and themselves when the time came as well.
This series really liked putting you through the wringer sometimes, the Keatons actions reminding you of the many obstacles that still lied ahead for your family, and you would not exchange it for anything in the world nonetheless.
(Mary POV)
You really liked Family Ties! They reminded you of you mommy and daddy, and they always had each other for support, it was the best!
You wished Alex could stop being such a butt though. He might know more than his sisters, but that did not mean that he had to act like he knew best all the time!
...Huh, why do you feel like someone hit their face?
For future series, I think we should also try to greenlight the rest of the Marvel Pitches (The Immortal Iron Fist and Hellcat) and from there we can conlcude it all with a climactic team up with The Defenders, only this time we actually do something that makes sense instead of going full moron like the Hand did.
Seriously... Dragon Bones?!
And I don't care how much Ridley Scott make like it, Black Goo does not make for a good story!!
You were finally home, and you had missed so much of your family that trying to get off the plane was a resultant nightmare.
The Paparatzi, the mongrel media hell hounds that were trying to get a picture, seeing as you have been gone for over 6 months, and were out of the media for that time as well. They were hungry for blood, and while you relaly wanted to just pay them off…
No, there was something else you were going to do. You called the airport, and asked for a favor from the airport and from LA police department. Seems that some detective had been promoted, and his friend and partner was now chief… and they really wanted to repay you for…
Well you didn't know, but hey, the fact that once you landed… But it was midnight near christmas eve.
You got a police escort, right back to your home.
And everyone was asleep, as you took a moment to walk in, and the only thing you could see was Carrie helping with presents trying to keep the illusion that Santa was there.
Than you unlocked the door. And Carrie whispered. "Mom, I make sure the cookies are-"
Than she saw you, and gasped, in shock, before you embraced her in your arms. And than she returned it. "I didn't know-"
"I don't care. I'm so sorry that it took so long." You whispered. And than you both kissed…
And you both remained kissing for quite a while before she and you both pulled back to breath.
God she was the most intoxicating thing in your entire life, and you never wanted to leave her any longer than you had to.
Carrie then whispered. "I love you."
"I know."
But than, you both looked at each other, and than the time. "I… hope that nothing happens right now."
"Well is there anything that Mary and the twins asked for christmas?"
Carrie than smiled, and than pointed to the fridge.
"Daddy Home."
And than there was also the rest of the list, mostly sweets, video games, and being able to go to visit Wally and Uncle George…
You were going to have to work on the other things.
"And what does my princess want?" You asked.
Carries face was warm and red, as she stepped on top of your shoes. "Something I have been waiting for since you left."
She kissed you again, and began to lead you to your room.
It was going to be the perfect Christmas.
---------------------------------------------
You have 12 activities
Lucasfilms Actions:
[]Modeling for Box Art: So you have a young director at Lucas Arts, Hideo Kojima, who is…. Trying to make a game, and he wants to use you for the cover art. Well you own the company so, why the hell not? DC: ??? (What the hell is a card board box doing here)
[]So You Want to be A Madman: A Japanese politician wants to meet you, something about a new political party in japan, and they want to ask for a donation from your staff? What the hell is going on there? DC: ???
[]Leave Luck To Heaven and the United States: seems that the American division of Nintendo has invited you to… see the new hardware. And introduce you to their quirky head of RND. and their other Quirky staff among them. Something about a handheld 8bit console? DC: ???
[]Mike Eisner and the Quest for… the hell?: Mike has shown you the nominations for the next academy awards… and you have become a deciding voter in film? DC: 30
[]George Lucas, and the Madman's Ideas: So George met some… people from Germany. No not the german actors, but some tech dudes… They want to do something about a CD? What ever the hell that is?: DC:45
[]The Apple 2: So Steve… um Jobs, not the other better Steve… or that other other steve… God you have so many Steves… He wants you to film a quick and dirty trailer for the Apple 2. He knows he's asking alot but, he also can't get anyone else… and Sam Raimi, his first choice, is sick with pneumonia. DC: 35
[]The Lucasarts Projects: So time to give those Lucasarts people more projects, now that they are swimming in money.
-[]Write in two projects you want them to create. (I highly recommend arcade machines for the new Sega Parlors)
[]A Favor: You are owed a favor at Colombia Pictures, so might as well call it in. DC: ???
-[]Write in what it is?
[]The People who want you to star in a movie: With most of Hollywood open to you again after the informal ending of your banishment from nonlucasfilm and TV productions, there are a few films that have come to your attention. DC: ???
[]Investing in the Future: You want to Spend some of that money you made into the company and make the whole thing better DC: ??? (Linetail what you want to invest in, and how much money you want to invest in it)
[]Look for Investors: Not that you need the money now, but maybe you can get people on board with this idea you have. DC: ???
[]Distributing Deals: Since you have a Distribution Company, or rather, are one… You can meet the major movie theater companies and strike a Deal with them. Even when you had nothing to offer them. DC: ???
[]Importing Foreign Films: So… you may have a way to get some films showing in American Theaters. Maybe you can go to other foreign film industries and… well, ask to distribute their films. Sure many of those foreign film companies never expected an American company to distribute their films in the US… but maybe you can get money without producing them. (Linetail where you try to get films from, and if there are any specific films, line tail them below) DC: ???
Personal Actions:
[]So Many Memories In Photos: You have missed 6 months of your childrens lives… how much have you missed to be caught in only photos. DC: 0
[]Never letting go: Carrie looks more tired than she ever has done. Even before… but she smiles at you, as if nothing was wrong. But something was. DC: 50
[]Debbie Reynolds and the TV Judgement: Debbie decided to cash in her newfound rebirth of a career, on Television. Which is fitting. But what is she doing? DC: 45
[]Joseph O'Brian, and the quest to Destroy the San Diego Clippers: Your son Joseph has declared war, on the Clippers. Why, you don't know, but something tells you the story will be interesting. DC: 0
[]Sarah Did what?: So Sarah… painted a portrait of Carrie… and it was one of the most beautiful things you have ever seen. DC: 0
[]The Hollywood Entante: So Roy Disney is calling a meeting, not only to congratulate you but also to talk about other things. DC: 40
[]The Art of the Siblings: So Mary has proclaimed it was a silly time. And that meant you had to grab your costume. DC: 0
[]The Ideas of Industry: This action is meant for a write-in to act as a sort of Idea machine for the company. You must detail what you want to do below this action. This action can be taken multiple times.
[]Best Friends: So Mary has lots of friends, and she wants them to come over. You need to prepare for that. Carrie, get the cookies.
[]The Family Time: You need a night out with the family dammit! No more drama, no more work, just you and Carrie and the Kids!
[]Hanging out with the Friends: It's been far to long since you, John, and Robin hung out, so you will go out for some drinks and have some fun. DC: 45
[]A Well-Known Fan: So some really famous person is a fan of yours. Maybe you'll learn who they actually are. DC???
[]Learn to play an instrument: You want to learn how to play something DC: 80 (You have no idea what the hell you are doing.)
[]Investments: You want to invest your hard-earned cash into something that you feel will be a good return on investment. And as well as diversify your assets DC: 0 (Linetail what you wish to invest in below this action, and the amount of money you want to invest in)
[]The O'Riely Foundation Lobbying: You want California to help the men who have given nearly everything and more to this country. DC: ??? (Linetail how much money you want to throw at it, and what you want from the State)
[]A Charitable Heart: You want to invest your newfound wealth. Maybe even save some lives while you are at it. (Linetail what you wish to invest in below this action, and the amount of money you want to donate in)
[]Networking: Well time to start finding out who might actually be interested in meeting you. (Write-in what you want to try and network with)
[]Pray: It had been a long time since you went to Mass. You wish for the Lord to give you strength. DC: ???
[]Action Directing: It seems the town has been talking about how much of a beast you are at just being a stunt person. In fact, they knew you were a student of Bruce Lee. And they think you know how to stage and block a fight? Maybe you can DC? ???
[] Do auditions(Movies and TV Shows): You are going to go to some of the casting calls that are in the place where you can find work in. DC: 20(Possibility of only getting a commercial or TV show job, or extra work in a low-budget film)
[]Modeling (High Fashion): So you got a call from a photographer in LA, some no name. But that no name works for Gucci. And he wants you on their next lineup of products. And he needs you to model for him. Which is great… one problem, you have no idea what the hell you are doing. DC: 60
[]Modeling (Advertisements): Thankfully another Call Came in, one from an ad firm. They need you to have some pictures taken so that they are used for saner things. Like selling cars, or ice cream. DC: 40
[]Workout: A Healthy Mind and a Healthy Body are Key to having a good life, and you have been slacking as of late. Time to hit the workout and discipline, and perhaps, see things differently. DC: 30 Reward: You work out and feel better.
[] Ask Clint if you can act in a movie of his: You know you want to see if you can act opposite him, for a good time. DC: 40 (Clint wants to work with you.)
[] Gophering, and other signs of stuff: You want to try and learn how work behind the camera works, and what better way than being a gopher. DC: 50 (You have no idea what the hell they were doing, and you have no idea either)
[] Take a walk: Dad always said that the best ways to get inspiration are by walking, talking, and being open-minded. So you'll try that. DC: 10 (You are just going for a walk, what could be really said?)
AN: Plan format.
YOu may have noticed that other things and actions haven't appeared.
There is a reason for that. You will see it...
And Mike Eisner was involved and has guided the ship well.
One of the reasons why going with superpowerless or lower profile heroes and vigilantes right now is to release marvel stuff while still letting the tech available to us improve. Other stuff we keep in animation for now. Eventually, when tech improves, we can do live action renditions of heroes with powers more demanding on special effects.
[]Leave Luck To Heaven and the United States: seems that the American division of Nintendo has invited you to… see the new hardware. And introduce you to their quirky head of RND. and their other Quirky staff among them. Something about a handheld 8bit console? DC: ???
Okay you may as well retitle this to "Forge an Alliance with Nintendo". Gods, kingdoms are forged by economies but Empires are forged by alliances.
Holy fuck, guys we might be able to do 3D on 8-bit earlier in this timeline. Or maybe even help Nintendo upgrade their handheld to 16-bit. Might even replicate the SuperFX chip earlier in this timeline as well.
Since Mary enjoyed the moments when GI Joe helped and saved people, why not create a show that focuses on those themes. It could either stand alone or exist within the same universe as GI Joe.
Hannah-Barbera Animated Show Pitch: Rescue Heroes
GENRE: Action/Adventure/Drama
SUBGENRE: Educational/Family
FORMAT: Animated TV Show
Set Up:
"Rescue Heroes" follows a dedicated team of rescue personnel who are committed to saving lives around the globe from both natural and man-made disasters. Based at the Mountain Action Command Center, the team is led by the courageous Billy Blazes, who, alongside his diverse group of specialists, responds to emergency calls dispatched by Warren Waters, the chief dispatcher. Each episode showcases the team's heroic efforts to tackle various crises while imparting valuable lessons on safety, teamwork, and conflict resolution.
Billy Blazes
Description: The fearless leader of the Rescue Heroes, Billy is a Canadian firefighter from Quebec with a strong sense of duty and compassion. He has a complex relationship with his father, who disapproved of his career choice. Billy's bravery was solidified when he saved a group of children from a burning carnival ride, leading to his selection as a Rescue Hero. He is a natural leader who inspires his team to face challenges head-on.
Voice Actor:Don Messick
Wendy Waters
Description: As the second-in-command, Wendy is a skilled firefighter with a passion for saving lives. Her father, Warren, works at a space station, and her determination to follow in his footsteps led her to the Rescue Heroes. Wendy is resourceful and level-headed, often providing support and guidance to her teammates during emergencies.
Voice Actor:Melanie Silver
Jake Justice
Description: A dedicated police officer, Jake was chosen for the Rescue Heroes after his heroic actions during a televised car chase. He is a protective father to his daughter, Sky Justice, and embodies the values of justice and integrity. Jake's quick thinking and bravery make him an invaluable member of the team.
Voice Actor:Casey Kasem
Richmond "Rocky" Canyon
Description: The youngest member of the Rescue Heroes, Rocky is a mountain climbing specialist with a passion for adventure. His determination and talent convinced Billy to keep him on the team. Rocky's backstory includes the loss of his father, which fuels his desire to make a difference in the world through rescue work.
Voice Actor:Scott Moffatt
Ariel Flyer
Description: A bilingual flight and wildlife specialist, Ariel was once a stunt pilot known for her daring maneuvers. Her experiences have made her a skilled rescuer, and she often finds herself in situations where she must save others, including her former rival, Avery Ator. Ariel's expertise in aviation and wildlife rescue adds a unique dimension to the team.
Voice Actor:Joan Gerber
Jack Hammer
Description: A construction worker from Texas, Jack was initially hired to build the Rescue Heroes' headquarters but proved his worth by saving a fellow worker during a crane accident. He has a complicated yet loving relationship with his younger sister, Jill, who is also in the firefighting profession. Jack's strength and determination make him a reliable asset in rescue operations.
Since Mary enjoyed the moments when GI Joe helped and saved people, why not create a show that focuses on those themes. It could either stand alone or exist within the same universe as GI Joe.
Hannah-Barbera Animated Show Pitch: Rescue Heroes
GENRE: Action/Adventure/Drama
SUBGENRE: Educational/Family
FORMAT: Animated TV Show
Set Up:
"Rescue Heroes" follows a dedicated team of rescue personnel who are committed to saving lives around the globe from both natural and man-made disasters. Based at the Mountain Action Command Center, the team is led by the courageous Billy Blazes, who, alongside his diverse group of specialists, responds to emergency calls dispatched by Warren Waters, the chief dispatcher. Each episode showcases the team's heroic efforts to tackle various crises while imparting valuable lessons on safety, teamwork, and conflict resolution.
Billy Blazes
Description: The fearless leader of the Rescue Heroes, Billy is a Canadian firefighter from Quebec with a strong sense of duty and compassion. He has a complex relationship with his father, who disapproved of his career choice. Billy's bravery was solidified when he saved a group of children from a burning carnival ride, leading to his selection as a Rescue Hero. He is a natural leader who inspires his team to face challenges head-on.
Voice Actor:Don Messick
Wendy Waters
Description: As the second-in-command, Wendy is a skilled firefighter with a passion for saving lives. Her father, Warren, works at a space station, and her determination to follow in his footsteps led her to the Rescue Heroes. Wendy is resourceful and level-headed, often providing support and guidance to her teammates during emergencies.
Voice Actor:Melanie Silver
Jake Justice
Description: A dedicated police officer, Jake was chosen for the Rescue Heroes after his heroic actions during a televised car chase. He is a protective father to his daughter, Sky Justice, and embodies the values of justice and integrity. Jake's quick thinking and bravery make him an invaluable member of the team.
Voice Actor:Casey Kasem
Richmond "Rocky" Canyon
Description: The youngest member of the Rescue Heroes, Rocky is a mountain climbing specialist with a passion for adventure. His determination and talent convinced Billy to keep him on the team. Rocky's backstory includes the loss of his father, which fuels his desire to make a difference in the world through rescue work.
Voice Actor:Scott Moffatt
Ariel Flyer
Description: A bilingual flight and wildlife specialist, Ariel was once a stunt pilot known for her daring maneuvers. Her experiences have made her a skilled rescuer, and she often finds herself in situations where she must save others, including her former rival, Avery Ator. Ariel's expertise in aviation and wildlife rescue adds a unique dimension to the team.
Voice Actor:Joan Gerber
Jack Hammer
Description: A construction worker from Texas, Jack was initially hired to build the Rescue Heroes' headquarters but proved his worth by saving a fellow worker during a crane accident. He has a complicated yet loving relationship with his younger sister, Jill, who is also in the firefighting profession. Jack's strength and determination make him a reliable asset in rescue operations.
Lol, I was just looking at this earlier, thinking about pitching it. 😂
Used to watch this when I was younger. Man, I miss my old VCR 😞 Poor bastard finally fully broke down on me a couple years back and I couldn't keep repairing it anymore.
I think we must take the Nintendo option above any cost because no matters how advance our technology is there is no way in hell we are beating the gameboy there's a reason that brick ruled the world of portables
Lucasfilm A few months before the release of the Sega Genisis
Mike Eisner hung up the phone, leaned back in his chair, and sighed.
"Another one, boss?" the Company lawyer tidying up the paperwork before the meeting asked
"Yes. Atari really is the gift that keeps on giving. To get a console and games on their shelves, that chain is demanding a ridiculous percentage and that we accept all liability and guarantee buyback of all games and machines, including those from third-party companies that may or may not go under, along with demonstration models for 'personal evaluation.'"
"So not only are we paying through the nose to get stuff on the shelves, but we're also on the hook for their poor sales work and are potentially liable for any scammer with an idea for a game trying to make a quick buck. So we don't go with that retail chain. So who's the next one to try?"
"That was the next one, and one of the better deals we were offered. The big retailers are terrified of low-quality games flooding the market again or someone just making a copy of the good games for another system and leaving them with useless junk."
"So what's wrong with our Copy protection?"
As if on cue, the door swung open, and the console team filtered in, taking seats around the table. Mike gestured for the lawyer to sit before beginning.
"Thank you for coming," Mike began, getting the team to settle. "The latest problem we have is on the retail end. The few callbacks I've been getting from uncommitted major chains ahead of the Christmas season tell me the same thing: That the Console won't sell. Atari killed the gaming industry. They are carefully not saying they're only offering shelf space because of Lucasfilm's reputation. Sales will be on commission, with all Genisis stock returned to us at our expense. That includes third-party games."
"What? Why would we be responsible for someone else's games and production runs?" one engineer asked incredulously. Similar expressions of disbelief on the rest of the team echoed his shock.
"Because the retailers don't want to be. Too many developers went under with Atari, leaving them holding the bag for unsold stock. There is a hole in New Mexico full of unsold copies of Superman II. They want products that they are sure that they can sell.
"Game was BAD. Should be in hole." Came from a annoyed five year old. Many of the other room occupants found themselves suppressing smiles lest she think they were laughing at her. While a math genius, Mary was still a child and had distinct opinions about Superman games.
"What about Physically? Can we make it impossible for a third party to make a game that runs on our system?
Woz and Gavin exchanged glances before Woz gestured for the floor. "No, it's not possible. As soon as someone has the machine and a game, its just a matter of time and resources before they can make something that will work on the system. Nintendo went with Custom hardware and chips. That might mean expensive replication or research and development for workarounds by a competitor. Still, custom means they paid the R and D and manufacturing first."
Mike interjected, "So we want something similar enough to existing tech but nothing impossible? So no custom-grown crystals, red with a laser, like something from a Superman movie. What would you suggest if it told you to secure Atari's machine?"
Mary looked disappointed for not being allowed to use Superman tech for a moment but one of the ILM wizards closed their mouth and outright pouted at being denied the challenge.
Woz continued, "Let me think. The basic design Atari pioneered and Nintendo and we are using is a board with write-only memory chips soldered to it. Each game is its own expansion card. The console is a computer. Going Nintendo's route and adding a custom chip just increases costs for a potential increase in security. Their advantage is not just difficulty copying data to make bootleg chips but sourcing the physical chips for each copy. Custom chips and chip work don't come cheap, and using cheaper chips means a quality hit or someone is making them in bulk and potentially selling them to competitors, too. Expensive and difficult to get the balance right and that's only if somebody doesn't find a way to bypass the chip. Honestly, I'd pass it on to Gavin and see what we can do with the in-game code."
"Which unless we lock carefully, will be worked out in a week by a bored teen and then a company like Atari will take us to court, pay us pennies on the dollar and leave us holding the bag when their games don't sell. That right?" Mike asked
One of Mike's lawyers nodded. "Activision versus Atari. If a company pays royalties like Activision, it can fire up its factories to make and sell games on that console. Really all we can do there is make it so they can't claim their game is ours"
Mary, chimed in "Do code on machine. Make game not work unless shows Console trade mark? Other company not allowed to use Trade mark without asking."
Stunned silence. Then Gavin spoke "Actually we can probably make displaying our trademark as part of the test procedure for powering on the games machine and, checking the cartridge and initializing the Graphics driver. No graphics driver, no Video part of the video game. With graphics driver it shows out trademark…
"And if it does show our trademark either has been checked and approved by us for quality and content so we are happy about its prospects for sale or in violation of trademark law and a target for us Lawers and any other business wishing to have trade marks mean anything." Mike lawyer finishes with a smile that would do a shark proud.
"Very well done Mary very well done." Mike Praised Mary "Unless anyone has anything else to say… "
"What about when making game before finish?" Mary interrupted
Polite confusion rained
"During development before we give final approval. So our artists and programmers know its not a trap for them." Gavin translated
"Lucasfilm will not be entrapping employees" Mike stated
"Lucasfilm wouldn't. Too many other companies do. A programmer will expect entrapment," Gavin countered
"Noted. How hard is making another possible Graphics tests start? Add a developer/ error screen for not yet approved works. Something like "if you paid money for this you got scammed." Something that Makes it clear this is not an official release?"
Gavin rubbed his chin in thought "Not hard. Two bytes for the official screen and another two for the Developer set that runs into a testing debug environment."
"Will it be secure enough?
Woz replied confidently "Should be. Either the game tells them its still in development and they got scammed for buying an unfinished game or they commit fraud. If they commit fraud, you get to set the lawyers on them. It will be a bit like having a big dog behind a locked door. Sure you can pick the lock but do you really want to?"
"Check implementation but I think we have the Sega Genesis copy protection. Who is going to take us to court arguing that they should be allowed to violate a trademark? "
"I will float a development model around Apple and see if anyone can break it first but in principle, I agree."
"Then its just back to Me attempting to get the Stores to stock the machines. Thank you Gentleman and Ladies."
"Smiles a round the table the team broke up and headed for the door. Mike made to stand before feeing a small tugh on is pants.
"Play maffs now Mr Mike?"
Mike Smiled at the earnest expression "Certainly, would you like to help me with projected Manufacturing and shipping costs?"
"Yay shipping costs." Mary cheered before running over to his desk and bouncing in her feet in anticipation
Mike stood and followed, chuckeling.
Let Nintendo spend however much on custom hardware that will be broken when Lucasfilm listening to a five-year-old avoids the cost entirely. Either the manufacturing run for any non-approved games is hobby level and beneath Lucasfilm's notice or big enough to make it worth the lawyers while and worth the payout.
>>>>
Six months Later
"What do you mean they are claiming that they had to violate our trademark to make the game run? Give me that. What was the EXACT wording they used. No other Method? Developer mode is another Method. What do they want to do next? Falsify safety labels because their products are lethal and won't sell if people are warned? You stay here and work on this. I am going to point out to several of our detractors exactly how bed it would be if Trademarks stop being protected and ask if they want in on the lawsuit. Let's see how well Accolade does against the might of Corporate America."
So, one of Sega's copy protection methods was to trademark their logo and make it part of the Setup process on the machine side, which was triggered by a check of the game. Those two codes SE and GA. If you wrote them, you were now in violation of Trademark. If you didn't, the graphics driver wouldn't load.
Now OTL there is this court case where the opposition successfully argued that Sega's trademark had to be violated to make any game playable. Here that statement is not true
As for the title: Evil overlord list number 12
One of my advisors will be an average five-year-old child. Any flaws in my plan that he is able to spot will be corrected before implementation.
