Tom Simmons

Muppets from Space

‘Muppets from Space’ (1999) presents epic, funky identity quest of the Great Gonzo

Throwback Thursday (Movie review): In riffing on “Close Encounters of the Third Kind,” the late Jim Henson’s studio crafts a deeper character journey.

Silver Surfer graphic novel 1978

‘Silver Surfer’ (1978) betrays a behemoth and steals the show

Superhero Saturday (Comic book review): Kirby and Lee retell a sympathetic villain’s story in the first Marvel graphic novel and their final collaboration.

Muppet Movie

‘The Muppet Movie’ (1979) is pure cinematic bliss

Throwback Thursday (Movie review): The film gives an origin story for “The Muppet Show’s” characters and showcases amazing puppetry.

Apple Dumpling Gang Rides Again

For those wonton more: ‘The Apple Dumpling Gang Rides Again’ (1979)

Throwback Thursday (Movie review): This second ride isn’t as smooth, but it knows its strengths are Knotts and Conway.

Tammy Wynette biography

Tammy on the record: ‘Stand by Your Man: An Autobiography’ (1979)

Throwback Thursday (Book review): The country music superstar led a contradictory but fascinating life.

Apple Dumpling Gang

‘Apple Dumpling Gang’ (1975) is the apple of my eye

Throwback Thursday (Movie review): Part of the film’s appeal is nostalgic. But even for newcomers, it’s a top-rate comedy and well-executed Western.

Walking Tall

‘Walking Tall’ (1973) walks the walk and talks the talk

Throwback Thursday (Movie review): A surprisingly popular franchise starts with Joe Don Baker’s exploitation film.

Star Trek II The Wrath of Khan

‘Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan’ (1982) and the Kobayashi Maru

Throwback Thursday (Movie review): Montalban’s performance and a thoughtful piece of military strategizing combine to make this an elite “Trek” entry.

The Old Ways

‘The Old Ways’ (2020) suggests we’re better off with the new ways

Frightening Friday (Movie review): “Little Red Riding Hood” gets a hypnotic, horrific and character-driven update.

Sing Me Back Home book

Merle’s memories: ‘Sing Me Back Home: My Story’ (1981)

Throwback Thursday (Book review): The superstar country singer-songwriter also penned one of the great autobiographies of all time.