Meatballs (1979) – Original U.S. One-Sheet Movie Poster (27x41”) | “Speech Bubble” First-Release Variant | Bill Murray Summer Camp Comedy | Rare

Description:

Offered here is an original 1979 U.S. one-sheet movie poster for Meatballs, the breakout summer comedy directed by Ivan Reitman and starring Bill Murray in his first major film role. The movie helped define the teen comedy genre of the late 1970s and launched a decades-long collaboration between Reitman and Murray that would continue through Stripes(1981) and Ghostbusters (1984).

This is the rare “speech bubble” first-release variant, issued before the more common reprint campaign. It features Murray’s iconic grin beside a bright, cartoon-style design and playful typography—an early example of the irreverent, hand-illustrated comedy art that came to define the era. The layout perfectly captures the film’s energy: rebellious, low-budget charm turned pop-culture legend.

Condition Notes:

This poster is folded as originally issued, with moderate wear consistent with age and theater use. Notable condition points:

• Crossfold and edge wear (particularly along the bottom central fold)

• Toning and staining visible on reverse side

• Small separation along central vertical fold

• No major tears to image area

• Presents well despite age, and would benefit from linen backing

Note: This is the only copy currently in our collection, and this speech bubble version is significantly rarer than the standard “title logo only” style.

Details:

• Size: 27 x 41 in (U.S. One Sheet)

• Condition: Good / Theater-used (folded, unrestored)

• Style: “Speech Bubbles” cartoon-style release poster

• Studio: Paramount Pictures

• Year: 1979

• Country: U.S.A.

• Director: Ivan Reitman

• Starring: Bill Murray, Harvey Atkin, Kate Lynch

• Tagline: “Once a year, young America goes back to nature…”

Note:

This first-release variant is considerably scarcer than the later 1979 printings, often missing from standard collections. Its playful hand-drawn art and pre-stardom image of Bill Murray make it one of the most sought-after comedy posters of the decade. A cornerstone piece for collectors of 1970s comedies, Paramount studio releases, or early Murray memorabilia.