We can’t avoid it. Merchandising of a popular movie or TV show is the norm in our society.
Everywhere we look there are Disney princess bed sets, Lego-themed kids bedroom furniture, stacks of paper branded Dunder-Mifflin, super hero t-shirts and special-edition sun glasses so you too can look like an agent from "Men In Black."
As the Christmas shopping season is upon us, I want to offer some best bets of entertainment-themed products that would make the perfect gift.
"Star Wars" Duck Tape
Yes, it may be duct tape, but the company that makes the special edition "Star Wars" product is branded as Duck Tape. The company makes large and small rolls of duct tape in many different colors and patterns. Some have popular cartoon characters, others are plaid, many striped and then there’s the one with heads of Yoda, Darth Vader and other members of the "Star Wars" universe.
The people at Falls Communications were kind enough to send me a couple of rolls, so when I repair and patch items around the house I can be in my full sci-fi geekdom.
There are a number of local retailers, and you can find the perfect gift for your loved ones from Duck Tape.
Risk – "The Walking Dead"
I remember hours-upon-hours some of my classmates in college would spend playing the classic board game Risk.
Now, you can play the survival edition against zombies. It’s one way to introduce one realm of geeks into the another with the AMC TV show edition of the strategy board game.
The game is available at retailers, including online at Wal-Mart.
"Tron" Keyboard
The latest take on the movie "Tron" didn’t get the blockbuster success that Disney may have been looking for. However, if your loved one is a gamer, then they may appreciate the blue-lined keyboard repeating the style from the original and sequel films.
The "Tron" keyboard was especially made for computer gamers and has some fun lighting extras for those playing the Tron video game.
Find out more from Cool Gizmo Toys.
"Biggest Loser" t-shirt
Going to the gym and need some motivation? Or, know somebody that will make a New Year’s resolution about getting healthier?
Then, this yellow t-shirt featuring "The Biggest Loser" logo may make the perfect gift. Call your friends a big loser with this TV show themed gift. Find the shirt, along with other TV inspired items at Café Press.
"Always Sunny in Philadelphia" Beer Pong Table
Have and extra $130 to spend? Beer isn’t included but you can wow your friends by making them drink like crazy with the perfect beer bong table from the FXX show. That’s right, the popular show moved from the FX network to the new FXX network.
Anyway, if you are losing this game, you won’t care about details like that. You can find the table and other show-related items at the FX Shop.
"Treme" Stories and Recipes
This book may be perfect for the foodie on your gift list. Although the acclaimed show has run its course, it doesn’t mean you have to miss it with these recipes from the heart of New Orleans.
Find out more about the book at the HBO Store.
Media is bombarding us everywhere.
Instead of sheltering his brain from the onslaught, Steve embraces the news stories, entertainment, billboards, blogs, talk shows and everything in between.
The former writer, editor and producer in TV, radio, Web and newspapers, will be talking about what media does in our community and how it shapes who we are and what we do.