Back in Time Today
The ’80s were a golden era for movies and their corresponding merchandise. Many toys were released to capitalize on the popularity of films, but some faded into obscurity as quickly as they appeared. Here, we revisit ten such toys that might stir a hint of nostalgia or surprise. From sci-fi adventures to fantasy epics, these toys represented the creative yet often peculiar world of movie merchandising from that decade.
1. The Black Hole (1979) – Sentinel & V.I.N.CENT Figures
In the late ’70s, Disney ventured into dark sci-fi with The Black Hole, hoping to capture the imagination of space enthusiasts. As part of the movie’s merchandise, figures of V.I.N.CENT, the floating robot, and the menacing Sentinel were released. Fans who expected dazzling gadgets were greeted instead with static figures that lacked the film’s mystique. These toys, much like the film, failed to leave a lasting impact on the market. Despite this, collectors today cherish them for their rarity and the curious attempt to blend darkness with the charm of classic Disney.
2. Clash of the Titans (1981) – Pegasus & Kraken Playsets
With its mythological narrative and stop-motion effects, Clash of the Titans was a spectacle. Mego’s toy line offered a chance to recreate the epic on a living room floor. The Pegasus playset, complete with detachable wings, promised flight, while the rubbery Kraken invited imaginative battles. Unlike the CGI beasts of today, these toys felt tangible yet limited. They were the epitome of ‘80s ingenuity that promised adventure but delivered simplicity. Today, they serve as relics of a time when imagination filled in the gaps technology could not.
3. Tron (1982) – Light Cycle & Recognizer Vehicles
Tron was ahead of its time, merging computer graphics with live action. The toys embraced this digital frontier with glow-in-the-dark features. The Light Cycle, though bulkier than its cinematic counterpart, carried the promise of high-speed chases through neon landscapes. The Recognizer, with its simplistic design, was a nod to the movie’s geometric aesthetic. While the toys lacked electronic components, their allure lay in their bold colors and the fantasy of digital worlds. They remind us of an era when the digital dream was just beginning to unfold.
4. The Dark Crystal (1982) – Gelfling & Skeksis Figures
Jim Henson’s The Dark Crystal captured imaginations with its blend of puppetry and fantasy lore. The toy line introduced posable Gelflings and bendy Skeksis, offering an eerie glimpse into Thra’s mystical world. These figures, with intricate designs, were too strange for mainstream acceptance but found a niche among fantasy lovers. Each toy was a miniature artwork, reflecting the film’s depth and creativity. They stand today as testaments to the ambition of the ’80s, where artistry often overshadowed commercial success, leaving behind a legacy admired by collectors and fans alike.
5. Krull (1983) – Glaive Replica
The fantasy film Krull introduced viewers to a world of magic and heroism, with the Glaive as its standout weapon. The toy replica, though anticipated, fell short of its on-screen counterpart’s grandeur. Made of flimsy plastic, it neither captured the power nor the elegance of the movie prop. Despite this, it gained a peculiar charm among fans, symbolizing the era’s ambition and the frequent mismatch between cinematic fantasy and toy production realities. Today, it is a collector’s oddity, a reminder of the fantastical aspirations of its creators.
6. The Last Starfighter (1984) – Gunstar Fighter
The Last Starfighter invited audiences into a universe where video games were a gateway to interstellar heroism. The Gunstar Fighter toy, however, did not quite mirror the sleekness of its cinematic inspiration. Its design was basic, overshadowed by the appeal of the accompanying video game. Yet, it captured the essence of a time when the boundaries between reality and the digital world were being explored. This toy remains a nostalgic link to a film that celebrated the power of imagination, technology, and the allure of the unknown.
7. Masters of the Universe (1987) – Movie He-Man & Skeletor
Dolph Lundgren’s portrayal of He-Man brought a new dimension to the Masters of the Universe franchise, but the movie did not resonate as expected. Mattel’s release of He-Man and Skeletor figures, though bold and muscular, never captured the iconic look of the animated series. Their exaggerated features were a stark departure from the familiar, leaving fans divided. Despite the film’s failure, these toys remain iconic in their own right, embodying the audacious spirit of the ‘80s and serving as a nostalgic reminder of ambitious adaptations.
8. Howard the Duck (1986) – Talking Howard Doll
Howard the Duck, an unusual entry in the superhero genre, brought a character as quirky as its narrative. The talking Howard doll encapsulated this oddity, complete with fuzzy texture and catchphrases like “Quack attack!” Though intended to charm, it found little love on store shelves. Its peculiar appeal lay in its strangeness, embodying the film’s unconventional humor. As a collector’s item today, it represents a daring yet bewildering period in movie merchandising, sparking curiosity and laughter among those who stumble upon this feathered phenomenon.
9. The Goonies (1985) – Sloth & Chunk Action Figures
The Goonies captured the spirit of adventure and friendship, reflected in its unique toy line. Sloth and Chunk action figures, with memorable features like removable shirts and quirky accessories, brought to life the film’s charm. Despite their oddities, these toys celebrated the film’s camaraderie and humor. They became a testament to the movie’s enduring appeal, offering fans a tangible piece of their favorite childhood adventure. These figures remain cherished by those who grew up seeking treasure and thrills, embodying the timeless joy of The Goonies.
10. Dune (1984) – Sandworm & Ornithopter
David Lynch’s Dune attempted to translate the epic saga of spice and power into a visual spectacle. The toy line, featuring a Sandworm and Ornithopter, struggled to capture the film’s grandiosity. The rubbery Sandworm lacked ferocity, while the Ornithopter barely resembled its cinematic equivalent, feeling more like a grounded bird than a flying machine. Yet, these toys hold a special place in the hearts of fans, serving as peculiar relics of a film that dared to dream big, even if the results were met with mixed reactions.