30 November 2006
|
|
Man-At-Arms' Laboratory...
|
Well, November has easily been the busiest month for this Blog; a total of EIGHTY posts! :)
Here is a familiar He-Man panning shot that I have assembled from the season one episode "Disappearing Act." I always enjoyed this piece of artwork by the Filmation artists showing Man-At-Arms' laboratory in all its glory. All too often the storyboard artist and director would make the laboratory seem rather small and closed off with the characters all gathered in one spot. Here we can see the true size of the laboratory, stretching far out into the distance with wondrous shapes and inventions.
(click on the image to see it at full-size) |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 11:00 AM
|
|
|
|
|
|
Elmas and Abram.
|
At the very beginning of the season one episode "Disappearing Act" we see two men driving an odd vehicle across a rugged terrain when a volcano explodes. First off the vehicle is supposed to be a futuristic tractor, and secondly the two men are farmers named Elmas and Abram. Yes, just another little fact that I wrote for the BCI He-Man and the Masters of the Universe DVDs. To me the terrain they are driving on does not look suitable for crops at all...
 
(click on the images to see them at full-size) |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 10:59 AM
|
|
|
|
|
|
That's no mouse...
|
It is funny how a panning shot can make a monster look so much larger than it actually is! In this assembled panning shot from the season one He-Man episode "Orko's Favorite Uncle" we can see the Manticore was very big, but by no means a towering giant. For some reason I always imagined the creature to be so much larger, but this image shows its true size! Also it appears that Prince Adam is not even looking at the Manticore...
(click on the image to see it at full-size) |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 10:59 AM
|
|
|
|
|
|
Evil oops!
|
"Things That Go Bump in the Night" features an amusing scene between Evil-Lyn and Clawful. After yet another defeat at the hands of the Heroic Warriors the evil Skeletor wanting to test his warriors' courage demands that each of them walk an energy beam tightrope over a deep pit. Evil-Lyn is first and accomplishes walking the beam, as does Clawful who just loses his balance towards the end. In order to save himself he leaps to safety only to land with his arms wrapped around Evil-Lyn's waist with his head on her chest, his face in a desperately thankful look! Evil-Lyn is shocked, and the two turn away from each other in a delightfully spiteful pose. As you can see from the images below the animator did a fine job portraying the emotions of the two warriors! It also should be noted that the pairing of Evil-Lyn and Clawful is a rare one, having only been used previously in "The Witch and The Warrior."
 
(click on the images to see them at full-size) |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 10:58 AM
|
|
|
|
|
|
The Crimson Valley...
|
In the season one He-Man episode "Eternal Darkness" Prince Adam and Teela journey to the Crimson Valley to investigate some explosions that Orko has heard. Here we can see that once again the artists of Filmation have created another beautiful image showcasing Eternia's weird locations! The "reddish cast" as described by the script is evident across the land, and the director has even made sure to include a sun, requested in the script. If you look at the map of Eternia earlier in the episode Prince Adam points to where exactly on Eternia the Crimson Valley is. Maybe another post for another time?
(click on the image to see it at full-size) |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 10:52 AM
|
|
|
|
29 November 2006
|
|
A lonely figure...
|
No video post today; but hopefully FOUR cartoon posts will entertain you all! :)
"The Price of Freedom" from She-Ra's season one is easily one of the greatest episodes of the entire He-Man and She-Ra series, mainly for the fact that the heroes actually lose their battle against evil! One of the best scenes in the episode is not He-Man being defeated by the Evil Horde, but his self-sacrifice allowing the villagers of Dryl to escape as he holds up a collapsing mine! She-Ra desperately searching for the most powerful man in the universe finds our hero, now a lonely figure, supporting the mine roof. Back in the days of the Episode Review Website my partner in crime Zadoc Angell once said it appears as if He-Man is in deep mediation. Bob Forward compliments the scene as She-Ra quietly whispers "Adam" bringing the whole brother and sister reality into a new light.
(click on the image to see it at full-size) |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 11:48 AM
|
|
|
|
|
|
Zagraz Mountain.
|
A very brief shot from "The Cosmic Comet" shows the entrance to Zagraz Mountain. What I like about this image is the design of the entrance, especially the image showing the comets circling a large star. It always amazes me that the artists at Filmation put so much effort into this background for it to only appear on screen for barely a second!
(click on the image to see it at full-size) |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 11:46 AM
|
|
|
|
|
|
The Valley of Echoes...
|
"The Toy Maker" from He-Man's season two features an exceptionally eerie location, the Valley of Echoes! It provides us with one of the most underrated scenes in the series when He-Man's fear is revealed; I will save that for another Blog entry. For the time being here is a wonderful panning shot of the Valley of Echoes. I am always a big fan of painted backgrounds that show mountains in the distance as I feel it presents an immense sense of depth and distance. It is a shame that the Valley of Echoes never reappeared in the series. It is worth mentioning that "The Greatest Show on Eternia" many episodes before "The Toy Maker" featured Echo Valley, similar in name, but an entirely different location!
(click on the image to see it at full-size) |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 11:44 AM
|
|
|
|
|
|
No longer available...
|
One of the most creative simple panning shots was achieved by Gwen Wetzler in "The Problem With Power." The character close-ups move on a separate field, creating a wonderful sense of depth; the camera panning across from Prince Adam's sadness to King Randor being told by Man-At-Arms that He-Man is no longer an option against the forces of evil. Although Gwen Wetzler directed this episode, a lot of credit probably has to go to Tom Tataranowicz who undoubtedly would have come up with this idea for a panning shot during his storyboarding of the episode...
(click on the image to see it at full-size) |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 11:41 AM
|
|
|
|
28 November 2006
|
|
This is not going well...
|
The New Adventures of He-Man was a series that was sent overseas to be animated. Because of this a variety of different styles would turn up throughout the series. The episode "Council of Clones" features one of the stronger styles of the series, with good animation and a great attention to detail. In this clip you will see one of the few times that the Sorceress communicates with Master Sebrian!
Download the video clip!
 |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 10:33 AM
|
|
|
|
|
|
Holding the sword.
|
After today's video clip, like yesterday, here are another FOUR cartoon posts for your enjoyment...
At the very beginning of the He-Man episode "Eye of the Beholder" Prince Adam has to transform into his alter-ego in order to save himself and Man-At-Arms as the Wind Raider's engine's fail. The shot following the transformation sequence features a very nice piece of continuity with He-Man standing upright, still with the Sword of Power across his chest. However close inspection of the image shows that the artist has He-Man holding the sword past the hilt!
(click on the image to see it at full-size) |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 10:32 AM
|
|
|
|
|
|
Yellow nose: The Revenge!
|
It is nice to know that some things never change. In The New Adventures of He-Man episode "The Galactic Guardians" we see that the occasional error from the Filmation He-Man series could still exist as Skeletor once again sports a yellow nose! Maybe it was a homage to the Filmation series? But I doubt it...
 |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 10:31 AM
|
|
|
|
|
|
Valley of the Lost #2
|
Here is another image from the She-Ra season one episode "The Rock People" showing the mysterious yet often unthreatening Valley of the Lost. The background shown here may not be full of detail, but I love the fact that the Filmation artists would create images that were incredibly atmospheric even though they would only be shown on screen for a few seconds or, as is the case with this image, when there was not much happening visually.
(click on the image to see it at full-size) |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 10:30 AM
|
|
|
|
|
|
Flogg's eyes.
|
In The New Adventures of He-Man episode "Dreadator" Skeletor delights in the forthcoming gladiatorial victory of Dreadator, but Flogg's shocked reaction at one of Skeletor's comments is very distracting! He is obviously supposed to give a wide-eyed expression, but the animators appear to exaggerate his eyes a little too much!
 |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 10:28 AM
|
|
|
|
27 November 2006
|
|
He-Man and Battle Cat to the rescue!
|
"Three on a Dare" is one of my favorite season two He-Man episodes. It features a fantastic cast of characters, a beautiful array of colors and many great exciting scenes, all of which give it a season one feel. The following action scene is one of the best moments of the episode. The way the scene is carried out is so over-the-top; He-Man and Battle Cat racing to Teela's rescue as the theme song plays. It captures the true essence of what makes He-Man such an entertaining and fun cartoon! The direction on this scene is impressive with Teela and the children are calling out He-Man's name, only for the scene to cut dramatically to He-Man leaping on Battle Cat's saddle as the theme tune kicks in! Enjoy!
Download the video clip!
 |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 12:35 PM
|
|
|
|
|
|
Green Mantisaur?
|
I decided against writing yet another additional UK comic post, and instead present you with FOUR cartoon posts...
The Mantisaur was a toy released by Mattel that was an addition to the Evil Horde rank, and appeared to be very much alive, titled the Evil Insectoid Steed. Surprisingly in the She-Ra episode "A Talent for Trouble" the Mantisaur makes an appearance! However its design differed greatly from the toy. Instead of the Horde colors of red, grey and black, the Mantisaur bore all the greens of an actual Preying Mantis! The animated design of the Mantisaur is superb, but this, it's only appearance in the series, seems very much wasted!
 |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 12:33 PM
|
|
|
|
|
|
Yellow nose?
|
An extremely brief shot in the season one He-Man episode "Diamond Ray of Disappearance" features Skeletor with a yellow nose, but you have to be quick to catch it! Maybe the camera move was so quick in an attempt to cover up the mistake?
 |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 12:32 PM
|
|
|
|
|
|
Valley of the Lost #1
|
The Valley of the Lost was an odd Etherian location. Initially it was written to be a place of dread that no one ever returns from, but as the series progresses we see that pretty much anyone can return from the valley. Often thought to be just a misty location this striking image from "The Rock People" shows the valley in all its glory! Not only is this a great composition with the heroes looking out into the distance, but the Filmation background artists prove once again that they can take a description and turn it into something truly magical, if not a little eerie.
(click on the image to see it at full-size) |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 12:31 PM
|
|
|
|
|
|
Misty gorge.
|
Here is an atmospheric panning shot from season two's "Hunt for He Man" episode. The mountains in the background look beautiful, especially surrounded by the eerie mists. The size of the figures, combined with the frailty of the bridge, make for a threatening image, proving once again that Eternia is a place full of wonderment, and danger! It is amazing to look at this image and muse over how long the background artist took to paint it, and what inspired them whilst painting it...
(click on the image to see it at full-size) |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 12:29 PM
|
|
|
|
26 November 2006
|
|
Who needs She-Ra and He-Man?
|
Yes, another video about a collapsing bridge! What is it with the He-Man and She-Ra series and its fascination with collapsing bridges? In the She-Ra episode "Just The Way You Are" a very odd thing happens. Drew, a young circus performer is clinging to a broken bridge for his life when Adora and Adam make an appearance. Now what would you expect to happen? A double transformation? You would be wrong! On this occasion they decide to save the day as themselves! Also, be sure to check out this scene for the amusing line where Adora appears to reference the gymnastics they used to do in their younger days. Would that be during the days when Adora was a part of the Horde?!
Download the video clip!
 |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 11:49 AM
|
|
|
|
|
|
eBay time! :)
|
Yes, once again I'm selling more of my He-Man and She-Ra animation art collection! If you want to purchase some great pieces of Filmation production artwork then follow this link...
Busta Toons animation art for sale!
 |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 11:26 AM
|
|
|
|
|
|
Scared of invisible warriors?
|
From issue thirteen of the UK Masters of the Universe Adventure magazine here is an interesting couple of panels from a story titled "Inside Castle Grayskull". In these panels we see the Ninjor, Blade and Saurod flee when confronted by the magic of Castle Grayskull. Reminds me somewhat of "The Secret of Grayskull" from He-Man's season two...
(click on the image to see it at full-size) |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 11:20 AM
|
|
|
|
25 November 2006
|
|
I was just asking.
|
I just about made yesterday's update deadline! If you missed it, scroll down and enjoy a superbly directed action scene from the She-Ra episode "Just Like Me", and yet another one page comic from the UK Masters of the Universe Adventure magazine.
Now to today's posts...
From the highly memorable "Adam's Adventure" episode here is a video clip showing just how the relationship between Skeletor and Flogg worked in The New Adventures of He-Man. This clip also features some wonderfully traditional anime-like animation on the parts of both Skeletor and Flogg!
Download the video clip!
 |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 1:12 PM
|
|
|
|
|
|
An eerie feeling...
|
From a story titled "Skeletor's First Attack" here is a fantastic-looking panel of the Sorceress looking shocked from issue fifty-six of the UK Masters of the Universe comic.
(click on the image to see it at full-size) |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 1:09 PM
|
|
|
|
24 November 2006
|
|
You asked for me, Leena.
|
One of the best action scenes ever to grace the She-Ra series occurs in the season one episode "Just Like Me". In order to save Leena, She-Ra must walk a thin rope, in high heels, and position herself below Leena who is hanging for her life on a broken bridge. This is the perfect scene for director Tom Tataranowicz! He shows Leena clinging for life above, with She-Ra below, her hair flapping in the wind and her feet standing on the weak support of a string. Even further below She-Ra we can see the far-off river. This type of direction is usually reserved for feature films, not typical bridge scenes in cartoons!
Download the video clip!
 |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 11:52 PM
|
|
|
|
|
|
Arms for the Man!
|
Here is a one page story from issue thirteen of the UK Masters of the Universe Adventure magazine starring Grizzlor and Modulok...
(click on the image to see it at full-size) |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 11:47 PM
|
|
|
|
23 November 2006
|
|
We must help He-Man...
|
Before I start this post I just want to remind you all that if you are unable to watch the video clips on this website, then you can enjoy them on my YouTube page!
Here is a fantastic action scene from The New Adventures of He-Man episode "Escape from Gaolotia". The animation throughout this episode is of a high standard, and hopefully from watching this video clip you will agree! This scene is entertaining not only for the fight between He-Man and the prisoners, but also for the way in which the lovely Drissi screws up in a pretty bad way!
Download the video clip!
 |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 5:53 PM
|
|
|
|
|
|
The Last Slice!
|
Here is yet another one page story from issue three of the UK Masters of the Universe Adventure magazine! This time we are treated to the antics of Two Bad and Spikor...
(click on the image to see it at full-size) |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 5:49 PM
|
|
|
|
22 November 2006
|
|
But we don't just go down there...
|
Here is a follow up to the post Okay? from way back in March! This hilarious clip from the episode "Attak on Onnor" is one of Skeletor's shining moments from the first five episodes of The New Adventures of He-Man.
Download the video clip!
 |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 10:00 PM
|
|
|
|
|
|
Odd colors #2
|
Following up yesterday's post about the odd colors given to Tri-Klops in issue nine of the UK Masters of the Universe Adventure magazine you will see below that it did not get any better as the story progressed. On this page, which humorously introduces Ninjor, Tri-Klops retains his garish color scheme and surprisingly Beast Man is colored like Moss Man! This is amusing when you consider the fact that the Beast Man action figure was recolored to create the Moss Man action figure.
(click on the image to see it at full-size) |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 9:49 PM
|
|
|
|
21 November 2006
|
|
Steady, boys.
|
Here is a silly little fight scene from the She-Ra episode "Troll's Dream" involving Bow and his rebel friends against Grox. What I like about this fight scene is not only the absurdity that Bow and his friends could overpower a Troll, but the way in which Bow directs his nameless comrades into battle. It almost feels like a drunken brawl outside a bar, especially with my Bow telling his boys to be "steady", my favorite line from the scene!
Download the video clip!
 |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 7:23 PM
|
|
|
|
|
|
Odd colors #1
|
More odd colors for the Evil Warriors in this panel taken from issue nine of the UK Masters of the Universe Adventure magazine. In this panel from "Enter...The Ninjor!" we can see that Tri-Klops is a little different in appearance than what we are used to. It should come as no surprise that this is the same story that gave us the multi-colored Ninjor whom I showcased in a previous post...
(click on the image to see it at full-size) |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 7:20 PM
|
|
|
|
20 November 2006
|
|
Duck!
|
Here is a video clip that I showcased back in the old Episode Review Website days! The confrontation at Snake Mountain between He-Man, Orko, and Snowflake against Skeletor, Beast Man and Trap Jaw is a fantastic moment from "The Region of Ice", the He-Man episode that features the best physical comedy. One of my favorite pieces of dialogue occurs when He-Man throws Trap Jaw at Skeletor and Beast Man; as they collide and slide out of shot we can hear one of them shout "Duck!", which is clearly the wrong choice of word in this situation...
Download the video clip!
 |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 8:46 PM
|
|
|
|
|
|
King in a Spin!
|
Here I present an amusing one page story from issue three of the UK Masters of the Universe Adventure magazine starring King Randor, Man-At-Arms, Mekaneck and Sy-Klone. Be sure to look at the trippy colors that represent the walls of the Royal Palace...
(click on the image to see it at full-size) |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 8:38 PM
|
|
|
|
17 November 2006
|
|
Weekend Away #1 - Adam's raised hand?
|
I'm away for the weekend and taking a well-deserved break from my freelance work on Filmation's Ghostbusters for BCI. The next Blog update will be on Monday! With this in mind instead of a video clip or a UK comic post I decided to give you all something to wade through; FOURTEEN posts...
Enjoy! :)
Here is something that only I would find interesting, but I will throw it out to you all in any case. "Dawn of Dragoon" has a few oddities and variations on the transformation sequence, mainly on the stock footage of Prince Adam unsheathing the Sword of Power. The two images below show one of these minor oddities. The image on the left is how Prince Adam is positioned as he unsheathes the sword only to find out that he cannot transform on Trolla, while the image on the right is the traditional stock image of him ready to unsheathe the sword. The obvious difference is that Prince Adam's hand is still raised when it should already have dropped out of frame. This is the only occasion where Adam keeps his hand raised while reaching for the sword. Yes, only I could make a Blog entry about that!
 
(click on the images to see them at full-size) |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 9:15 AM
|
|
|
|
|
|
Weekend Away #2 - Swords at the Ready!
|
"Treasure of the First Ones" is full of great visuals, for the most part due to its change of location, and for its inclusion of the pirate Sea Hawk and the debut of Octavia of the Evil Horde. One of the more memorable shots of the episode occurs as the Evil Horde prepare to raid the building on Mystic Isle, but are greeted by She-Ra and Sea Hawk. I love the angle on the heroic pair as they stand swords at the ready for the immanent battle.
(click on the image to see it at full-size) |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 9:14 AM
|
|
|
|
|
|
Weekend Away #3 - Celebration!
|
In He-Man's "The Energy Beast" episode from season two a despondent Orko floats around the Royal Palace until he stumbles across a poster advertising "He-Man Day," which King Randor and Queen Marlena have recently announced. Seeing the most powerful man in the universe advertised on a poster in the Royal Palace always struck me as animation imitating life, because at this point He-Man and the Masters of the Universe posters were on many walls! Also worth noting that the Sword of Power appears to be golden...
(click on the image to see it at full-size) |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 9:13 AM
|
|
|
|
|
|
Weekend Away #4 - The Star Sisters?
|
The second season She-Ra episode "Bow's Magical Gift" has the rather forced and rather blatant appearance of the Star Sisters. Bow demonstrates his newfound magical weapon while Tallstar, Jewelstar, and Starla watch. For those that do not know, the Star Sisters were one of the last line of toys to be released by Mattel for the She-Ra series, but even though prototype figures were made and advertised, the figures sadly never made it to toy shelves. Thus the Star Sisters, who could have gone onto bigger and better things had the toys and the series continued, remain a very small part of She-Ra's history.
 
(click on the images to see them at full-size) |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 9:12 AM
|
|
|
|
|
|
Weekend Away #5 - Wrong hand?
|
Now we all know that if Prince Adam unsheathes the Sword of Power before uttering his magic words chances are that he will lose it. One only has to look to "Disappearing Act", "Trouble in Arcadia" and "Pawns of the Game Master" for examples of this. In "The Region of Ice" Prince Adam unsheathes the sword off-camera, and when we finally see him the biggest clue that he will lose the sword is revealed by the fact he is holding it in his left hand! Sure enough, a second later, Adam falls down a trap door...
 
(click on the images to see them at full-size) |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 9:11 AM
|
|
|
|
|
|
Weekend Away #6 - Silhouette of evil...
|
One of my favorite scenes in the season one She-Ra episode "Horde Prime Takes A Holiday" occurs when we see the awesomely impressive Velvet Glove looming over the Etherian skies. It truly is one of the most awe-inspiring moments because there is only the threat and no direct action, as the frightened Etherians can only look on in fear. The Velvet Glove is one of the most powerful weapons of destruction in the entire He-Man and She-Ra series. And to think, it was originally one of two ships...
 
(click on the images to see them at full-size) |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 9:10 AM
|
|
|
|
|
|
Weekend Away #7 - Feeding time for Cringer.
|
Another beautiful panning shot from the season two He-Man episode "Battlecat" features a young Prince Adam and Cringer as seen in the flashback sequence. Here we see the baby Cringer meowing for his saucer of milk, as the young Prince looks on with amusement. There is no doubt that the artists at Filmation enjoyed drawing the very cute baby Cringer, of which I will feature more of in future Blog entries!
(click on the image to see it at full-size) |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 9:09 AM
|
|
|
|
|
|
Weekend Away #8 - The cracked stone!
|
Here is an interesting panning shot I have assembled showing Adora holding aloft the Sword of Protection from the season one episode "The Stone in the Sword." This was of course one of two animated sequences in which Adora would raise her sword and call upon the honor of Grayskull, the other sequence would have her unsheathing the sword. In this image we can see Adora raising the sword with the cracked stone, preventing her from transforming into She-Ra, and creating the major story arc for this episode!
(click on the image to see it at full-size) |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 9:08 AM
|
|
|
|
|
|
Weekend Away #9 - The Drachadon unleashed!
|
Here is a very memorable panning shot from the season one episode "Creatures From The Tar Swamp." I always liked the design of the Drachadon that the Evil Warriors raised from the Tar Swamp; he was believable and not an exaggerated Eternian creature. This image always reminds me of Skeletor's earliest plots against the people of Eternia, and his often forgotten efforts to overthrow the Royal Palace, instead of Castle Grayskull! Notice that Beast Man in this image has no cuffs...
(click on the image to see it at full-size) |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 9:07 AM
|
|
|
|
|
|
Weekend Away #10 - Falling for Hordak!
|
The final moments of the season one She-Ra episode "The Stone in the Sword" features a wonderful scene with She-Ra confronting Hordak as she rescues Bow from the Fright Zone. We see Hordak reeling She-Ra in with a chain wrapped around her feet, and as the most powerful woman in the universe gives her most seductive look, she delivers a wonderful piece of dialogue...
For your listening pleasure, Falling for Hordak!
 |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 9:06 AM
|
|
|
|
|
|
Weekend Away #11 - He-Man's heroic chin!
|
In the season one episode "Dawn of Dragoon" He-Man saves Dragoon from the Bottomless Hole of Trolla! When He-Man frees Dragoon from the vines that bind him to a large boulder we see some animation of an almost off-model He-Man. While he is obviously He-Man the first image you can see he looks a little too detailed around the face, and in the second image he has the most heroic defined chin we have ever seen in the series! Obviously the director was okay to let this slightly expressive animation slip through, even if it is a little odd...
 
(click on the images to see them at full-size) |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 9:05 AM
|
|
|
|
|
|
Weekend Away #12 - Moonlit Devlan...
|
Here is an example of how the artists at Filmation took it to next level with the She-Ra series backgrounds. Moon backgrounds were a rarity during the He-Man series, often saved for those special dramatic scenes. The She-Ra series would often employ background images of the moon, the clouds spiraling nearby, to create a sense of atmosphere. In this beautiful panning shot from the She-Ra season one episode "Duel at Devlan" we can see the small village of Devlan lit by the two Etherian moons...
(click on the image to see it at full-size) |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 9:02 AM
|
|
|
|
|
|
Weekend Away #13 - Safety last?
|
Here is something that I noticed recently and thought was worth mentioning here on my Blog. Whilst watching the He-Man season one episode "Game Plan", I examined roughly two frames of animation where Ram Man appears on screen crashing through an air vent. In this shot Ram Man is holding his head as he rams something! This seems awfully out of character for someone who would smash his head through much harder things than an air vent. Usually Ram Man whilst trying to recover would hold his head after he had rammed something. It just strikes me as odd that we would see him doing this, but thankfully it was only ever once in the series!
 |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 8:55 AM
|
|
|
|
|
|
Weekend Away #14 - But I'm a man!
|
Here is an image of Bow from the memorable season one She-Ra episode "The Laughing Dragon." I will let the image speak for itself, and allow you draw your own conclusions...
 |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 8:55 AM
|
|
|
|
16 November 2006
|
|
Nudge nudge.
|
No, not the famous sketch from Monty Python's Flying Circus. This memorable scene from the season two He-Man episode "One for All" features some great animation as Prince Adam expresses his displeasure with the little Trollan's antics...
Download the video clip!
 |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 11:16 AM
|
|
|
|
|
|
Leaving Eternia...
|
Here is a great page from issue nineteen of the UK Masters of the Universe Adventure magazine. This was the first issue that focused on The New Adventures of He-Man, and the magazine title was changed simply to He-Man. Based more on the toyline than the cartoon this page from a story titled "A New Beginning" shows the moment when Prince Adam decides to renounce his life on Eternia and follow Skeletor into space!
(click on the image to see it at full-size) |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 11:09 AM
|
|
|
|
15 November 2006
|
|
A Tataranowicz Transformation!
|
As many people will know Tom Tataranowicz is my favorite Filmation director and has been since my days of running the Episode Review Website alongside Zadoc Angell. This video clip from "Just Like Me" shows how Tom Tataranowicz could come up with something very creative that no other directors were thinking of. This sequence has Adora unsheathing her Sword of Protection as we have seen her do many times before, but this time instead of the brightly colored rainbow glitter coming from the sword, nothing happens. Instead we are treated to a large burst of energy, which fills the screen white and takes us perfectly into the next scene.
Download the video clip!
 |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 11:56 PM
|
|
|
|
|
|
Getting Ahead!
|
Here is an interesting one page comic strip featuring He-Man, Orko and Rattlor from issue sixty-seven of the UK Masters of the Universe comic. An obvious joke, but harmless!
(click on the image to see it at full-size) |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 11:55 PM
|
|
|
|
14 November 2006
|
|
Teela?!
|
This is probably one of the most eagerly anticipated clips from The New Adventures of He-Man. In "Once Upon a Time" the Sorceress helps He-Man deal with his loneliness by sending Teela to the future to fight by his side. This will be the only clip I post from this episode as I want everyone to buy the BCI DVDs and discover for themselves what a great episode this is!
Download the video clip!
 |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 11:22 AM
|
|
|
|
|
|
What's the story Man-E-Faces?
|
Issue three of the UK Masters of the Universe Adventure magazine dealt with the rarely seen Man-E-Faces in a story titled "The Story of Man-E-Faces". I will post some more images from this story soon as it deals with the character in a very unique way, presenting him as a hermit who hides away from the populace of Eternia through fear of what he may do to them!
(click on the image to see it at full-size) |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 9:08 AM
|
|
|
|
13 November 2006
|
|
A repeat performance...
|
The opening scene of "Day Of The Flowers" from She-Ra's season two feels like a mini episode. What is interesting is that the scene reuses action-based animation from three previous season one She-Ra episodes. The opening shot and subsequent direction is based on animation from "Into Etheria", the scene where She-Ra and He-Man destroy the guard tower uses animation from "The Price of Freedom", and finally Bow and Glimmer drive a Horde transport vehicle away using animation from "The Peril of Whispering Woods". I have to say this is some of the best reuse of previous animation, combining three episodes to create one super action scene!
Download the video clip!
 |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 12:15 PM
|
|
|
|
|
|
By the honor?
|
Here are some nice panels culminating with a transformation sequence from issue four of the UK Princess of Power comic. In the story "Hordak's Evil Brew" the lovely Adora is drugged by Hordak and sent out to sea in a small boat. What is interesting is that in the final panel the mantra is "BY the honor of Grayskull!" Like the UK Masters of the Universe comic's "I AM the Power!" the Princess of Power comic was still trying to find its feet!
(click on the image to see it at full-size) |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 12:06 PM
|
|
|
|
12 November 2006
|
|
Loo-Kee's Snake Mountain antics!
|
"Loo-Kee Lends a Hand" is a very busy episode exploring every major location in the He-Man and She-Ra series. One of the most memorble scenes in the episode occurs when Loo-Kee accidentally arrives in Snake Mountain as Skeletor is informing Beast Man of his latest plan to overthrow the Royal Palace of Eternia. The scene itself is like a mini episode, and Skeletor's plan sounds like one of his strongest yet. This scene not only features a great premise, but also wonderful dialogue and truly beautiful animation.
Download the video clip!
 |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 9:57 PM
|
|
|
|
|
|
The Dream Mistress...Revealed!
|
Yesterday I talked about the Dream Mistress in issue sixty-seven of the UK Masters of the Universe comic. Today here she is in her true form! Prepare to be shocked!
(click on the image to see it at full-size) |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 9:56 PM
|
|
|
|
11 November 2006
|
|
Transformation without the words!
|
I mentioned before that I have a lot of He-Man episodes minus the dialogue. Here is the transformation sequence from "House of Shokoti" Part 2 without any dialogue, only the music and effects track. Enjoy!
Download the video clip!
 |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 5:15 PM
|
|
|
|
|
|
The Dream Mistress...
|
In the story "The Deadly Wishes" from issue sixty-seven of the UK Masters of the Universe comic we see a very cool-looking sorceress-like character called the Dream Mistress. What is very interesting about her design is how much skin she shows, as evident in the first image. Is that a thong? In any case you will be surprised who the character really is. Tune in tomorrow!
(click on the image to see it at full-size) |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 5:10 PM
|
|
|
|
10 November 2006
|
|
The best transformation (in my opinion)...
|
I just want to remind everyone that I do not accept Anonymous comments. Why? Well, because I always love to see a person's name credited by their comment! I have had a lot of Anonymous comments recently, but I have rejected them only because of the name issue, and never because of their content...
From the season one episode "Keeper of the Ancient Ruins" here is what I consider to be the best transformation sequence in the entire He-Man series. When I wrote the trivia for the BCI He-Man and the Masters of the Universe DVDs I mentioned that this was the "most realistic version of the transformation sequence" which puzzled a few people. As we all know the transformation sequence is only used for effect, and that quite a few writers have stated that the transformation only takes a few seconds. In other words when Prince Adam transforms into He-Man those watching would not see Castle Grayskull appear, or the storm-like background as He-Man holds the Sword of Power to his chest. This episode I believe shows the viewer what the transformation would look like if you were stood nearby; a few seconds of thunder and lightning with no real glamour! Watch it and judge for yourselves...
Download the video clip!
 |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 5:15 PM
|
|
|
|
|
|
Ninjor's green scheme!
|
Summoned by Skeletor the evil Ninjor appears for the first time in issue nine of the UK Masters of the Universe Adventure magazine in a story titled "Enter...The Ninjor!" However as you can see the colorist did not grasp the concept of a warrior that lurks in the shadows by coloring his costume green, purple and white!
(click on the image to see it at full-size) |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 5:11 PM
|
|
|
|
09 November 2006
|
|
Over the hill...
|
This scene from "The Light of the Crystal" is one of the funniest moments in the She-Ra series. In what should be a standard scene Imp transforms himself into a very small stick so that he can spy on the rebels and not be spotted. Trying to gain a better view Imp loses his balance and we get to see just how funny Filmation animators can make a stick look! In a completely over-the-top yet fitting scene Arkion and Bow rcoil in fear as the small tree falls towards them. Just as we think the scene is going nowhere Bow unexpectedly and quite comically decides to throw the small stick over a nearby hill! Bow puts all the effort into the throw and as the tree leaves his hand the director cuts to a distant shot of the surrounding area, and we see a tiny stick soaring through the air, accompanied by Imp's screaming. The scene is pointless, yet hilarious! Just when we think the scene is over we see Imp back at Elfworld Castle complaining...
Download the video clip!
 |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 1:28 PM
|
|
|
|
|
|
Reaching for the Sword of Power!
|
Here is one of my favorite panels from the UK Masters of the Universe comic. This illustration is featured in issue thirty-four's "Battle of the Cats!" and shows a truly unique view of Prince Adam unsheathing the Sword of Power. In the animated series I always liked the idea that it would magically appear when he reached for it, but this view from the comic appears to indicate that it's in a scabbard, as some canons referenced...
(click on the image to see it at full-size) |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 1:22 PM
|
|
|
|
08 November 2006
|
|
Violence against Vokan!
|
In "Journey to Stone City" when Vokan first awakens he is confronted by the Evil Warriors. The fight that follows shows some very expressive and comical animation on the parts of Vokan and Kobra Khan!
Download the video clip!
 |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 1:52 PM
|
|
|
|
|
|
Violence against Mer-Man!
|
More violence! This time from "The Unwanted Gift" in issue nine of the UK Masters of the Universe comic. I think it is safe to say that we would never have seen this kind of choke hold in the animated series!
(click on the image to see it at full-size) |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 1:50 PM
|
|
|
|
07 November 2006
|
|
Appreciating Cringer.
|
I always thought that this scene from the season two He-Man episode "Battlecat" was often missed by a lot of people. The obvious attractions of this scene are the way in which Cringer is animated and the important dialogue exchange between Prince Adam and the Sorceress. But the way in which Adam is very much at ease and not taken by surprise has always stood out more to me, as it indicates that he is familiar with the Sorceress and that the two converse on a regular basis. The fact that the Sorceress had a presence in Adam's childhood shows that the guardian of Grayskull kept watch over the future He-Man for a long time. This begs the question: how old was he when he was introduced to the Sorceress?
Download the video clip!
 |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 10:52 AM
|
|
|
|
|
|
Buzz-Off's bravery.
|
This panel from issue twenty-five of the UK Masters of the Universe comic showcases the doubts in his own abilities that haunt Buzz-Off in the story "Batmex Invasion!"
(click on the image to see it at full-size) |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 10:51 AM
|
|
|
|
06 November 2006
|
|
Tuskador triumphs!
|
Tuskador was easily my least favorite character from The New Adventures of He-Man. I never liked the character design, and as the show progressed he appeared to receive less and less development. In this scene from "The Galactic Guardians" we see how he was recruited into the band of heroes that defend Primus from the Mutants. I believe that this scene is the only time to truly display Tuskador's usefulness in a combat situation. Plus this fight has some moments of very good animation!
Download the video clip!
 |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 8:45 AM
|
|
|
|
|
|
Mother and daughter.
|
Here is a lovely panel from issue eighteen of the UK Masters of the Universe comic. Once again this is a panel from The Secret Files of Scrollos, this time focusing on Teela's character.
(click on the image to see it at full-size) |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 8:45 AM
|
|
|
|
05 November 2006
|
|
Tragedy for Sunder.
|
For those who may have trouble downloading the videos I have uploaded them to YouTube. Due to the conversion process that occurs when uploading to YouTube the videos are of a lesser quality, but now everyone can watch the videos!
Busta Toons Presents...
"Return Of The General" from She-Ra's season two featured the much-needed reappearance of General Sunder, who had left the Horde in season one's "Unexpected Ally" and now lived a life of peace with his wife Mally and their daughter Telzy. In this scene as She-Ra attempts to recruit Sunder, the former warrior learns that he cannot escape his dark past and returns home to find his family have been taken by the Horde! This scene is beautifully directed by Richard Trueblood with a strong light source behind Sunder has he enters his home...
Download the video clip!
 |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 9:59 AM
|
|
|
|
|
|
Teela's cape.
|
In a few of the early issues of the UK Masters of the Universe comic we would see Teela sporting a cape! These panels from "The Mightiest Warrior" featured in issue fifteen illustrate my point quite nicely.
(click on the image to see it at full-size) |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 9:59 AM
|
|
|
|
04 November 2006
|
|
Mantenna silenced.
|
The way in which the comical-looking Mantenna was treated from episode to episode in the She-Ra series was as expected. "The Unicorn King" from She-Ra's season one features some hilarious scenes between Hordak and his bumbling henchman, both of whom are based at sea in this episode. This scene with Hordak commanding Mantenna to be silent has a great punch line due to Mantenna's stupidity!
Download the video clip!
 |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 10:23 AM
|
|
|
|
|
|
Scorpia attacks!
|
Here is another panel from the UK Masters of the Universe comic featuring Scorpia! In issue twenty-three The Secret Files of Scrollos features a plentiful amount of Horde females that were very rarely seen in the comic. As I said before back in January on the Scorpia's UK cameo... post Scorpia's appearance is my favorite, and I like the fact that the artist added a skirt to the character!
(click on the image to see it at full-size) |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 10:22 AM
|
|
|
|
03 November 2006
|
|
A familiar foe.
|
This memorable scene from The New Adventures of He-Man episode "Sword & Staff" shows just how familiar He-Man had become with his ever-present foe Skeletor. Plus this scene features a truly unique piece of sword skill by He-Man! This series I believe focused more on the He-Man/Skeletor dynamic than any other series...
Download the video clip!
 |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 9:21 AM
|
|
|
|
|
|
Clan of the Viper!
|
Issue thirty-five of the UK Masters of the Universe comic featured a story titled "Search for Viper Tower" which culminated in this wonderful pin-up piece showcasing the Snake Men in all their glory!
(click on the image to see it at full-size) |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 9:14 AM
|
|
|
|
02 November 2006
|
|
Hilarity and the Hollywag...
|
I always think that this scene featuring the Hollywag and the Evil Warriors from "A Bird in the Hand" was simple, funny, yet clever and directed perfectly. The dialogue is exchanged quickly and the way in which the confusion slowly builds is hilarious! This is one of the reasons I wanted to start featuring video clips, as a few images or a sound file would never really do this scene justice...
Download the video clip!
 |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 9:17 AM
|
|
|
|
|
|
The alien creature?
|
Here is an oddity from issue twenty-three of the UK Masters of the Universe comic. The Secret Files of Scrollos refers to Clawdeen here as an "alien creature", which I find slightly surprising...
(click on the image to see it at full-size) |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 9:16 AM
|
|
|
|
01 November 2006
|
|
Skeletor transforms!
|
A very brave, bold, and somewhat surprising change occurred in the sixth episode of The New Adventures of He-Man. In the episode "Sword & Staff" writer Jack Olesker decided to introduce the latest toy incarnation of Skeletor, but he did so in an extremely clever way. When Skeletor locates a powerful crystal he is able to tap its energy and increase his own power, and suddenly for the first time we see Disks of Doom Skeletor! He would retain this look throughout the remainder of the series. My belief is that the move was made not to advertise the latest Skeletor toy, but because the design looked a lot more in keeping with the show's look than Skeletor's initial appearance.
Download the video clip!
 |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 1:41 PM
|
|
|
|
|
|
In memory of He-Man.
|
Is He-Man dead? Pick up issue nineteen of the UK Masters of the Universe and read "Ghost of He-Man" to find out!
(click on the image to see it at full-size) |
posted
by James Eatock aka Busta Toons @ 1:35 PM
|
|
|
|
|
|