Merchandise Spotlight: "Batman Bucks" Video Retailer Incentive Program Kit

"The hottest currency circulating..." The hype machine was in full swing leading up to the June 23, 1989 premiere of Batman. The anticipation for the film was so strong that Warner felt it could be used to strengthen the performances of its other endeavors. In an effort to boost the sales of upcoming VHS releases in their film catalog, Warner Home Video created the "Batman Bucks" incentive program. For each VHS copy purchased by a retailer as store stock, the retailer would receive one "Batman Buck" which could be collected and spent on items featured in the "Batman Bucks" catalog. Just what was available in the "Batman Bucks" catalog? Batman merchandise of course! Everything from hats to playing cards to the Batmobile toy could be purchased by sending in your "bucks" stickers. Yeah, maybe your store didn't really need 216 copies of Police Academy VI... but how else were you going to get that sweet Batman Denim Jacket? With cash? That is for losers...

All the details for the promotion are featured in this rarely seen announcement kit (which included 4 Batman Bucks to get you started). My favorite part is the catalog itself, which features a cut-out of Batman's torso that pops up at the top when it is unfolded. :)