GORDON’S ALIVE! is proud to present the first of what will become complete archive of features on Flash Gordon from the vintage pages of the phenomenal Starlog magazine.
Indispensable in its day for the genre fan and now fondly referred to as the Internet of its age, the ‘Magazine of the future’ would chronicle a pioneering age of Science Fiction in movies and television by way of compelling journalism complimented by exciting imagery.
Well established as of issue #41, the format shown above would change little over the years and the prospect of an all-new motion picture based on a beloved comic-book character/movie serial star was a hugely exciting prospect and more than worthy of the cover story (top pic).
The Starlog Interview with cocky young superstar-in-the-making Sam J. Jones is typically thorough coverage – providing a fascinating insight into the production of the film while pulling no punches with its inset summary of the infamous legal issues that would ultimately result in Sam’s performance being looped by another actor..
Coming Soon – A harmony with Melody…
Released in the UK in a matter of days, the eagerly anticipated Ted2 promises to thrust Flash Gordon into the pop culture mainstream once more with another cameo appearance by Sam J. Jones in character.
An instant cult classic, the original Ted (2012) was the feature debut of Family Guy’s Seth McFarlane, who, having referenced Flash multiple times in animation finally got to bring his particular brand of humour to live action and consequently, a resurgence of nostalgic interest in the 1980 film. Indeed, the appearance of Jones back in costume (and on his Rocket Cycle) over thirty years later was received so well by fans that his appearance in a sequel would not only be guaranteed but would also prompt discussion of a long-touted follow up to the original.
And so now, on offer (on a popular auction site) is this fresh-from-the-set costume worn by Jones himself in the sequel. Most interestingly in this lot is the still on the label (third pic) which clearly shows Sam against a backdrop of the Rocket Cycle prop in what looks suspiciously like a Comic-Con environment or similar. One can only hope his part is expanded and he gets to see more action this time.
In terms of the costume itself, I have it on good authority that the current owner of the original 1980 tank supplied many reference pics for the wardrobe department to copy so quite why the final outfit for both the Ted films has such a cosplay edge to it is a mystery (considering all the effort made to accurately reproduce the Rocket Cycle). and its a credit to Sam how good he looks in cheap Superhero boots and Bal Tog dance pants.
Below are the details for the lot – apparently more pieces will be offered in future so don’t miss your opportunity to nab yourself a piece of Flash history..!
Sam Jones’s (Sam J. Jones) Screen Worn Wardrobe Set.
Change 4
Scene 122-124
Item: Flash Gordon Costume
This Costume Includes: A Sleeveless, Round-Neck Shirt, Spandex Pants, Belt & Slip-On Boots.
Details;
SHIRT
Brand: Not Available
Size: Approx. Large
Material: Appears Polyester
Color: Red, Black & Gold
Condition: Good
Notes: 1 of 3
BELT
Brand: Not Available
Size: 33 In Long
Material: Appears Polyester & Elastane
Color: Black, Gold & Red Stone
Condition: Good
PANTS
Brand: Bal Togs
Size: X-Large
Material: Nylon & Lycra
Color: Black
Condition: Good
Notes: 1 of 2
SHOES
Brand: Fun Tasma
Size: 12-13
Material: Leather
Color: Black
Condition: Good
Always dedicated to bringing you the best and most obscure collectibles from over thirty years worth of memorabilia, Gordon’s Alive is pleased to present a perfect example of the latter –
While you could be forgiven for thinking the colourful montage above is a bootleg poster of some kind, you might be surprised to learn you’re actually looking at the bedcover from the official Flash Gordon single duvet set. Featuring unique and amazing art (likeness to Melody Anderson notwithstanding) this perfectly preserved cotton bedspread was a Camden Market find and was fairly expensive – indeed, Gordon’s Alive has not seen one before or since in decades of collecting which, one suspects. would qualify it as a rarity – especially in this outstanding condition.
Should anybody out there own the matching pillowcase I would of course like to hear from you but in the meantime, enjoy the pics and sleep tight…
