My Pet Monster

Maybe you remember this furry blue guy growing up, like I do. Now, I never saw the cartoon, movie, or children's books. Heck, I didn't even think that this plush plaything had a franchise until I learned about it recently. (Funny what you can accidentally stumble across on YouTube.) All I recall is seeing this guy among my friend Don's collection of toys when we were younger. It's a shame that he doesn't have it anymore. Would have been nice to include a photo in the post, for nostalgia's sake. I'll make due with an anonymous picture, instead.

And a little fan art made by James Groman of a more, well, monstrous rendition of My Pet Monster. Might want to keep the kiddies away from this version.

For those who aren't in the know, you're likely wondering exactly what is My Pet Monster. The toy was created by American Greetings, as in the card company, back in 1986 and since then came to grow in popularity with children during the following years, spawning a live-action direct-to-video film (1986), the animated thirteen-episode series (1986-87), and related merchandise. The video and series vary significantly in plot, but share common characteristics. The former is about a boy named Max, who is changed by an ancient, magical statue into the "pet" monster in Hulk-like transformations whenever he gets hungry. (That sounds rather familiar.) The latter follows the misadventures of Max, Chuckie, and Melanie, a circle of kids who have befriended the monster that turns into a doll with magical shackles. On an amusing side note, apparently a number of the voice actors later went on to work in another children's horror cartoon series, namely 'Beetlejuice' (1989-91).

Watch the movie, as well as episodes from the animated series, at YouTube.