The origins of science fiction can be traced back to the early 19th century with the rise of popular literature. Authors like Mary Shelley, H.G. Wells and Jules Verne popularized imaginative stories about futuristic technology, space travel and aliens while capturing the public's imagination like never before.
Mary Shelley (August 30, 1797 – February 1, 1851) was an English novelist who is best known for writing the Gothic novel Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus (1818), which is considered an early example of science fiction (Wikipedia) mixed with horror. It has continued to be one of the most popular movie franchises of all time with 56 remakes with multiple storylines, according to IMDb.
H.G. Wells (September 21, 1866 – August 13, 1946) was an English writer. Prolific in many genres, Herbert George Wells wrote more than fifty novels and dozens of short stories. His non-fiction output included works of social commentary, politics, history, popular science, satire, biography, and autobiography. Wells' science fiction novels are so well regarded that he has been called the "father of science fiction". Wikipedia
Notable works: The Time Machine, The Invisible Man, The War of the Worlds, The Island of Dr. Moreau, and The First Men in the Moon.
Jules Verne (February 8, 1828 – March 24, 1905) was a French novelist, poet, and playwright. His collaboration with the publisher Pierre-Jules Hetzel led to the creation of the Voyages extraordinaires, a series of bestselling adventure novels including Journey to the Center of the Earth (1864), Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Seas (1870), and Around the World in Eighty Days (1872). His well documented novels are generally set in the second half of the 19th century, taking into account the technological advances of the time. Wikipedia
Notable works: Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea, From the Earth to the Moon, Around the World in Eighty Day and Journey to the Center of the Earth.
With the advent of television and movies, that science fiction toys and collectibles truly began to flourish in the 1950s and 1960s. Shows like Flash Gordon, Buck Rogers in the 25th Century, Space 1999 and Star Trek, as well as movies like 2001: A Space Odyssey and Forbidden Planet, our imaginations took flight with ground breaking creativity.
The modern day connection between sci-fi movies and toys/collectibles is multifaceted and spans both cultural and economic realms:
1. Inspiration and Imagination: Sci-fi movies often feature imaginative and futuristic technology, gadgets, vehicles, and characters. These elements capture the imagination of viewers, particularly children, who then desire to interact with these concepts in their own lives. Toys and collectibles allow fans to bring the fantastical elements of their favorite movies into the real world, encouraging creativity and play.
2. Merchandising Opportunities: Sci-fi movies represent significant merchandising opportunities for studios and production companies. Toy manufacturers capitalize on the popularity of these films by licensing the rights to produce action figures, replicas, and other merchandise based on the movie's characters and themes. Science fiction toys and collectibles encompass a wide range of products, from action figures and model kits to replica props and high-end collectible statues, catering to fans of all ages with a variety of franchises. The success of franchises like "Star Wars" in the late 1970s opened the door with a massive merchandising blitz accompanying the release of the film, which set a new standard and demand for tie-in products. This sparked a craze that continues to this day with TV Streaming series like the The Mandalorian. This not only generates additional revenue for the movie franchise but also reinforces its presence in popular culture.
3. Fan Engagement and Community Building: Toys and collectibles serve as tangible symbols of fandom and allow enthusiasts to express their passion for a particular sci-fi movie or franchise like Alien. Collectors often form communities like Comic Con, where they can share their collections, discuss their favorite movies, and connect with like-minded individuals. This sense of belonging and shared interest strengthens the bond between fans and the franchise, contributing to its longevity and success.
4. Nostalgia and Collector's Market: Many adults who grew up watching sci-fi TV & movies continue to cherish these creative properties into adulthood. Toys and collectibles based on these movies evoke feelings of nostalgia and allow collectors to relive cherished memories from their childhood. As a result, there is a thriving collector's market for vintage sci-fi toys and memorabilia, with rare items often commanding high prices at auctions and conventions.
The mythology of Sci-Fi related concepts, stories, history and products continue to be a large part of our culture with the ongoing thought of "what's out there?" If we don't know the answer to this question, let's create something! For more information and fun, click here.
Barry Kooser
This is a wonderful recount of some of Sci-Fi history! Its been very interesting to see contemporary works such as The Three Body Problem (Liu Cixin) and older books such as the Foundation series (Isaac Asimov)are all being turned into highly well produced TV shows. I feel like we are in an interesting new era of sci-fi entrainment. I wonder what kind of memorabilia will come out of this period.