One of my favorite things about Loot Crate are the themes. Instead of just throwing together an assortment of random items, clothing, or collectibles with no rhyme or reason- LC carefully curates each month’s box around the given theme, be it movies, cartoons, a new video game release, etc. I may not always be “into” every single item I receive (looking at you, MineCraft stuff!) but gifting them to friends is fun, and overall I enjoy opening each month’s Loot Crate very much. It has quickly become one of my favorite subscription boxes.

When I heard that July’s theme was “Villains,” I knew I was in for a treat. Ever a fan of the bad guys in movies, games, and comic books- and having whispered “Hail Hydra” in friends’ ears on more than one occasion- I couldn’t wait to receive mine. Sure enough, Loot Crate didn’t disappoint- and made July’s crate hands down one of my all-time favorites so far.

First and foremost, can we just appreciate how great the Joker-ized interior of the box is? Very, very clever.

But the fun didn’t end there!

With my monthly collector’s pin and magazine, which included the usual games and puzzles, featured an interview with Marvel artist Skottie Young, and a breakdown of the five top video game villains (I’m glad my boy Albert Wesker made the list!) I also received this 3×3 Bowser magnet, which is currently holding my San Diego Comic-Con itinerary in place on my refrigerator until I depart on Tuesday morning.

I was beyond giddy when I saw this awesome Darth Vader key chain in July’s crate. I had mentioned in a past entry that I have a habit of collecting key chains from different places/events I go, and am constantly rotating them in and out of my everyday set of keys. I’ve already attached this one to my main key ring- and I have a feeling it’s going to stay there for a while.

I’m going to be popping in this DVD at some point within the next couple of days (possibly on my flight to California) as the content promises to be interesting. Narrated by Christopher Lee, this documentary delves into the history and creation of the villains in the DC Comic Universe. I’m hoping my favorite, Poison Ivy, makes an appearance.

Okay, so I am so. so. SO. excited for the “Guardians of the Galaxy” movie that it’s not even funny. The entire premise is just so campy and fun. A walking, talking, giant tree man? A crude raccoon that can shoot a machine gun? Michael Rooker in blue body paint? I’m in. I’m so in. This perfectly packaged copy of Rocket Raccoon #1, with art by the aforementioned Skottie Young, will be read in no time at all.

And what better way to relax and read some comic books than to throw my feet up while wearing these socks featuring the likeness of one of my favorite anti-heroes? I love Deadpool, and I’m glad the character made an appearance in this month’s Loot Crate. My feet are going to look so cool.

My love of Poison Ivy is only matched by my love of her BFF, Harley Quinn. With Harley comes the Joker, and together- the two make one of the most interesting, diabolical, insane(ly fun) pairs in comic book history. These posters are beautifully (and kind of creepily in the best way possible) illustrated, and are the perfect size where I’m sure I can find a spot to display them proudly.

Lastly, I am loving this Joker/Loki mash-up shirt designed by Zack Finfrock exclusively for Loot Crate. The fabric is soft and the shirt fits nice and loose on me, making this my new go-to when I’m out running errands and want to be comfortable (but still appear dastardly.)

I cannot say enough good things about July’s Loot Crate. It was a blast to open, I loved everything I received- and the features in the enclosed magazine were a lot of fun. I wish every month could have a “Villains” theme, but even though I know that’s not likely- I would like to see it make an appearance again at some point in the future!