Alf
Coleco
1986 - 1987
Freakin' sweet! It's Alf!
Fans of the fury Melmacian know the character has been around for quite some time now. He began on television screens in the self titles show which ran from 1986 to 1990, while also appearing in a Marvel Comics series (50 issues), and an animated series which ran for two seasons. Let's not forget the 2004 Alf''s Hit Talk Show which sadly only aired for seven episodes.
Fans of the alien were in luck in the late 80's. Not only was the show a hit among viewers, but merchandise was everywhere. Shirts, school supplies, stickers, and of course toys (and more) could be found pretty much everywhere.
Today we're having a look at the Coleco stuffed toys that were prevalent during the hay days of Melmac's infamous alien. Four different versions of the character could be found, each with its own specific feature / function.
For the Alf purist, there's the ever trusty plush version. It came in a saucer style cardboard box that featured very little artwork, or color for that mater. However, out of all the toys, it's definitely one of the better versions released. Especially if you just want an Alf to snuggle with while you watch your cartoons, and eat cereal.
Alf - Alien Life Form
For those who wanted a little more bang for their buck, there were also two "talking" versions.
The first was developed in the style of Teddy Ruxpin. I.E. it had a tape deck on the back of the "doll" which you could insert cassettes into. Each cassette featured a story on each side.
Talking Alf - The Storytelling Alien
Talking Alf - The Storytelling Alien (as it was known as) came packed with one cassette, and offered three additional cassettes - Each sold separately.
Talking Alf - The Storytelling Alien Cassettes
Then there was Wisecracking Alf which would speak one of his favorite expressions when you pressed his stomach. Of course, much like any talking doll of the era, it's prone to get squeaky over time - Not to mention that ever infamous tinny sound.
Wisecracking Alf - The Outspoken Talking Alien
For the Alf fan on the go, Stick Around Alf was a no brainer for your car window. He didn't do much beyond that, but you could always depend on him to hang around (ba-dum tshh).
Stick Around Alf
Though Alf has been dormant for some time, it is possible that the character will one day return. A feature film has been proposed and in the works since 2012 which would involve a CGI Alf alongside human characters ala Smurfs style. Movie posters exist for the film, and have for some time. You can find them "HERE".
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I'd like to come across some PVC Alf figures someday.
ReplyDeleteHuh- I just did a post about Alien Emissaries, and completely "spaced" Alf
ReplyDeleteNo love for Alf.
DeleteI would not only love to find Alf pvcs but anything Alf (though I did luck out and fond a BK Alf at Goodwill once.) I wish they would do a new Alf series or cartoon!
ReplyDeleteI think the best we can hope for is the dormant movie.
DeleteThe only ALF plush I had as a kid was one of the puppets from Burger King.
ReplyDeleteI also had a figure, non-posable, from his cartoon show. Not sure if it was PVC or something else, but I had fun with it.