Merchandise for Star Trek The Motion Picture - Ep 107

70s Trek: Star Trek in the 1970s

The premiere of Star Trek The Motion Picture was set for December 7, 1979. As that date grew closer in the fall of '79, there was a flood of products released into stores, all designed to help promote the film.

On this episode of 70s Trek, co-hosts Bob Turner and Kelly Casto discuss some of the products that tied into the film.

The merchandise that was released took many forms. There were books, comics, models, games, toys and more that all tied into the movie. Some were unique such as the gold, 14-inch Mr. Spock Grenadier decanter. Or first-time products such as the McDonald's Star Trek Meal, the first-ever tie-in promotion for a Happy Meal.

Some were curious, too. Such as Paramount's decision to release The Motion Picture for the home viewing market on Super 8 film. This choice came as Betamx and VHS tapes were growing in use and the home film market was dying.

Interestingly, the move by Paramount makes Star Trek The Motion Picture the only film or program in the franchise to be released on Super 8.