The Fall Guy…

Anyone with an interest in the cinema of the last fifty years would no doubt be intrigued to discover what a significant, yet virtually anonymous role one Victor Armstrong has played in some of the most popular films. From humble beginnings showing a natural talent for wrangling horses to doubling for most ‘A’ list action men in the ’80’s and beyond, stuntman extraordinaire Vic’s legacy is ongoing and continues to dazzle audiences the world over.

Candidly written without a hint of egotism, Vic’s memoir is an unpretentious glimpse into the pratfalls of show-business.  His recollections come from a love of his craft and some of the events (some tinged with tragedy) are never less than compelling. No surprise then, that Vic should be a notable part of the Superman Movie franchise and devotes a chapter to his experiences, from wires snapping on flying rigs to arguments with a star determined to do his own stunts…

Vic made a rare public appearance at this years Memorabilia event in Birmingham only a few weeks ago and it was my intention to attend and get my copy of his book signed – sadly I missed my opportunity to meet him so thank god for my good friend Greg who obtained his autograph for me in a great pic of Vic during filming of Superman: The Movie…From the top, Vic’s auto pic, the book, and screengrabs taken from the Superman DVD documentaries showing Vic in action…

 

The SHM Pt.2…

Presenting the concluding part of the London Editions Super Heroes MonthlySuperman II Special Movie Issue’ – the article concluding nicely with an autographed image from leading lady Margot Kidder as Lois Lane.

The issue was also unique for providing a ‘clean’ version of the cover painting (by Alan Craddock) as the back cover. Still occasionally available on popular auction sites, this curio is a worthy addition to any Super-collection…

 

The Super Heroes Monthly…

From Wikia.com – 

The Super Heroes Monthly was a black & white monthly anthology published from September 1980 (Vol 1 number 1) to April 1982 (Vol 2 number 7) by London Editions Magazines, running 19 issues in total. It reprinted stories from a number of American DC Comics titles, with most issues including at least one Superman and/or Batman story. There were also Super Heroes Annuals published from 1982-1984. The 1983 Annual features a two page British originated text story, Wonder Woman in ‘The Eye of the Eagle’, by Kelvin Gosnell. There was also a Special published as an offshoot of the series, the card covered, full colour ‘Superman Spectacular #1′.

Distinguished by their awesome (for the time) painted covers, this UK series was let down by its dated content. Shown above is the fantastic cover and article from the ‘Superman II Special Movie Issue’ with part one of a six-page feature on the upcoming feature –

Part two to follow..!

 

Far East Finds…

Hot from SuperFan Alex Serpa comes these pristine vintage Japanese VHS video tapes in original cases –

Though in NTSC format Alex reliably informs me “The picture quality on the tapes is amazing … for VHS that is – surpassing any of the British/U.S. VHS. The print is so clear and the colors vibrant”.

Many thanks to Alex for sharing this find and be sure to check out his incredible quartet of websites devoted to the Superman movie series…