It's cool to be retro. I'm unsure how cool it is to continue loving something from it's original spell in the limelight, in the dark years when it is considered ridiculous to like it, and then enjoy the resurgence in popularity. It does allow you to become somewhat of a specialised snob, like you are somehow more in tune with it and it makes you a "better fan".
80's cartoons and kids shows have long been making a fightback; as the internet puts us back in touch with those forgotten days. Rainbow, Transformers, Centurions.
Old theme tunes, Raggy Dolls, Raggy Dolls, just like you and me. Mr Rossi, what you want? Who you gonna be today, Huxley Pig?
I love the way that I was completely sold on "He Man" and how obvious it is now that it was just a huge marketing ploy to sell the toys by Mattel; in much the same way as comically put across in the Simpsons time and again.
Nothing however comes close to the legend that is Sweep - the dog from the Sooty Show. I'll make no bones about it (see what I did), I love Sweep, and I can watch episodes now and laugh at them as an adult. I'm not sure if that's what was intended at the time; perhaps I'm fundamentally immature to a fault. If you aren't familiar with Sweeps work, videos are to follow, but for a brief description he was something of a birdbrain (or sausagebrain) companion to the famous yellow bear "Sooty" and through generally being stupid would end up in all kinds of situations. And, he couldn't bark. He just squeaks. I'm unsure just why this is funny, it just is.
I find inflection and intonation in speech to be some of the funniest things (if you understand what I mean, hello, kindred spirit) so the difference in intonation in Sweeps squeaks is a joy to behold on its own. Again, that's if you're as painfully immature as I am.
I won't share my complete tale of love and complicated relationship with Sweep; suffice to say I have had my very own Sweep for knocking on 15 years and he travels everywhere with me, though I stop short of having him in my bed at night time.
Just check out this clip of him "singing" (though the funniest part for me is when he's 'snoring'..)
Or, just enjoy some of Sweep's "Squeakiest moments"
What's your favourite childhood icon? After Sweep, obviously?
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