2001: A Space Odyssey

2001: A Space Odyssey is one of the most influential science fiction film of all-time and easily stands alongside other giants of the genre such as Metropolis and Things to Come. Written and directed by sci-fi royalty Arthur C. Clarke, 2001 deals with complex themes such as existentialism, human evolution, technology, artificial intelligence, and extraterrestrial life. At the time of it’s release, 2001 is credited with bringing science fiction back to it’s serious roots after a decade awash in b-movie popcorn films. And while many would argue that the Star Wars franchise is more fantasy that true science-fiction, it too is indebted to Clarke’s masterpiece both for renewing interest in the genre and for advancing special effects to point of being believable to audiences.

The wide variety of poster designs and importance of the film make 2001: A Space Odyssey consistently one of the most collectible titles. The movie was released to somewhat mixed reviews in 1968, but the film received surprising demand from younger audiences. When the 70mm prints were ready for distribution, the studio wanted to capitalize on the more existential themes and younger audiences and produced a special pair of “wilding” poster designs — small batches of posters meant to be glued to the side of buildings around New York and LA. Offered here is one of those extremely rare wilding posters, this particular style is known as the “starchild” poster. This design was adopted for later re-releases in 1970, 1971, 1972, and 1974, this is the true first printing “wilding” poster as it lacks the G-rating of the later posters. Do not miss this iconic poster!

And interesting note, this particular copy was previously owned by comic and film enthusiast Nicolas Cage!