History's Best Selling Products of 1957

1. Frisbee

   Released in 1957 by Wham-O

   On January 23, 1957, the toy world saw a pivotal shift as Wham-O founders Richard Knerr and Arthur 'Spud' Melin acquired the rights to the 'Pluto Platter,' a flying disc invented by Fred Morrison. This date marks the official beginning of the journey for what would become a global cultural icon. Morrison's invention, inspired by the UFO craze of the 1950s, was clever but lacked marketing muscle. The acquisition by Wham-O provided just that, setting the stage to transform the simple plastic disc into the 'Frisbee,' a name that would soon become synonymous with outdoor fun and a staple of parks, beaches, and backyards for generations to come.

2. 12 Angry Men

   Released in 1957 by Sidney Lumet, Reginald Rose, Orion-Nova Productions

   On April 10, 1957, Sidney Lumet's directorial debut, '12 Angry Men,' held its premiere, forever changing the landscape of courtroom dramas. Released to critical acclaim but initial box office indifference, the film presented a gripping, real-time look into the deliberations of a jury room. The film's premiere marked the arrival of a significant new directorial voice in American cinema and introduced audiences to a powerful, thought-provoking narrative about justice, prejudice, and the concept of reasonable doubt. Confined almost entirely to a single room, the film's tension builds not through action, but through dialogue and character, a bold choice that cemented its place as a cinematic classic.

3. Two-Handed Pogo Stick

   Released in 1957 by George B. Hansburg

   On May 21, 1957, the world of outdoor play was legally and literally propelled forward with the granting of U.S. Patent No. 2,793,036 to toy inventor George B. Hansburg. This patent wasn't for a new concept, but for the perfection of an existing one: the two-handled, all-steel pogo stick. While earlier versions existed, Hansburg's 'Master Pogo' design solved issues of durability and performance that had kept the toy a mere novelty. This patent protected his robust, enclosed-spring mechanism, effectively launching the pogo stick's golden age. It became a symbol of the energetic, post-war baby boomer childhood, providing a new and exciting way for kids across America to bounce their way through the atomic age.

4. Gunfight at the O.K. Corral

   Released in 1957 by John Sturges, Paramount Pictures

   The legendary showdown of 'Gunfight at the O.K. Corral' burst onto cinema screens on May 29, 1957, instantly cementing its place as a quintessential Western. This release date marked the North American theatrical premiere of a film that would become a commercial powerhouse for Paramount Pictures, drawing audiences with its star-studded cast and gripping narrative of law, order, and conflict in the Old West. From its initial debut, the movie captured the public imagination, revitalizing the familiar tale of Wyatt Earp and Doc Holliday with a depth and intensity that resonated deeply. This pivotal moment launched a film that would not only achieve significant box office success but also leave an indelible mark on the Western genre, defining an era of cinematic storytelling.

5. Island in the Sun

   Released in 1957 by Robert Rossen, 20th Century Fox

   May 29, 1957, marked the world theatrical premiere of 'Island in the Sun' in New York City, launching a film that dared to tackle controversial themes of race and class in the mid-20th century. This date was special as it introduced audiences to a star-studded cast in a narrative that pushed societal boundaries, sparking widespread discussion. Despite its sensitive subject matter for the era, the film achieved significant commercial success, cementing its place as an important cinematic event. Its release demonstrated Hollywood's gradual willingness to address complex social issues, even if gingerly, setting a precedent for future films exploring similar themes.

6. Raintree County

   Released in 1957 by Edward Dmytryk, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer

   October 2, 1957, marked the world premiere of 'Raintree County,' an epic American drama that aimed to capture the grand cinematic spectacle of the era. Launched with considerable fanfare in Louisville, Kentucky, this date initiated the journey of one of Hollywood's most ambitious, and at times, tumultuous productions. Billed as MGM's answer to 'Gone with the Wind' and a significant investment in Technicolor, the film sought to mesmerize audiences with its sweeping narrative and star-studded cast. The premiere was a momentous occasion, launching a motion picture that, despite its mixed critical reception and challenging production, left an indelible mark as a significant historical drama of the late 1950s, representing a peak in the studio's pursuit of prestige filmmaking.

7. Search for Paradise

   Released in 1957 by Otto Lang, Cinerama Releasing Corporation

   The lights dimmed on October 9, 1957, in New York City, marking the world theatrical premiere of 'Search for Paradise'. This Cinerama travelogue offered audiences an unprecedented immersive journey, leveraging the cutting-edge three-projector, curved-screen technology that redefined cinematic spectacle. Far more than a mere film, 'Search for Paradise' was an event, a technological marvel that transported viewers to exotic, far-flung locales from the comfort of their seats. Its debut was a significant moment in entertainment history, showcasing Cinerama's potential and setting the stage for a commercially successful run that would capture the imaginations of millions, becoming a notable box office hit for its era.

8. Atlas Shrugged

   Released in 1957 by Ayn Rand, Random House

   When 'Atlas Shrugged' burst onto the American literary scene in October 1957, it wasn't merely another novel; it was a philosophical declaration disguised as an epic thriller. Penned by the formidable Ayn Rand, this monumental work immediately ignited a firestorm of controversy and fervent devotion, captivating readers with its bold ideas and uncompromising vision. Far from being a quiet debut, its launch was a cultural event, rapidly climbing bestseller lists and establishing itself as a polarizing force in American intellectual discourse. Its arrival signaled the emergence of a powerful new voice challenging the prevailing collectivist sentiments of the post-war era, captivating a segment of the populace hungry for a narrative championing individualism and unchecked ambition.

9. Pal Joey

   Released in 1957 by George Sidney, Columbia Pictures

   On October 25, 1957, the musical film 'Pal Joey' premiered, captivating audiences with its blend of music, glamour, and a star-studded cast. This date marked the launch of a movie that would become a memorable entry in Hollywood's golden age of musicals, starring Frank Sinatra, Rita Hayworth, and Kim Novak. While the film softened some of the darker edges of its Broadway predecessor, it skillfully translated the vibrant energy and classic Rodgers and Hart tunes to the big screen. Its release was a significant event, showcasing an iconic trio of performers and solidifying its place as a classic among fans of the genre.

10. Chevrolet Impala

    Released in 1957 by Chevrolet

    On October 28, 1957, Chevrolet dealerships across America pulled the covers off their new 1958 models, revealing a stunning and completely redesigned lineup. The star of this show was a brand-new nameplate: the Impala. Introduced as the top-tier package for the Bel Air, the Impala represented a new level of style and luxury for the brand. This date marked the public's first encounter with a car that would become an American icon. In the context of post-war optimism and the burgeoning space race, the Impala's futuristic styling and premium features captured the forward-looking spirit of the era, setting the stage for its decades-long dominance.

11. Trabant 601

    Released in 1957 by Trabant

    On November 7, 1957, the German Democratic Republic (GDR) unveiled its new 'people's car,' the Trabant P50. The date was deliberately chosen to coincide with the 40th anniversary of Russia's October Revolution, cementing the car's role as a potent symbol of socialist industrial achievement. For East Germany, launching the Trabant was a major political statement, intended to showcase the superiority of its planned economy and its ability to provide personal mobility for the working class. This debut was not merely about a new car; it was a carefully orchestrated event linking automotive progress directly to the ideological foundations of the Eastern Bloc state.

12. Doctor Zhivago

    Released in 1957 by Boris Pasternak, Giangiacomo Feltrinelli Editore

    Boris Pasternak's 'Doctor Zhivago' exploded onto the global literary scene in 1957, immediately captivating millions and becoming a defining cultural phenomenon of the Cold War era. Though originally published in Italian in 1957, its English translation in 1957 cemented its status as an international bestseller, selling out rapidly across the West. More than just a love story set against the tumultuous backdrop of the Russian Revolution, the novel became a powerful symbol of artistic defiance against Soviet oppression, earning its author a controversial Nobel Prize and fueling intense geopolitical scrutiny. Its timely arrival resonated deeply with readers yearning for both epic romance and profound humanism amidst political turmoil.

13. The Bridge on the River Kwai

    Released in 1957 by David Lean, Columbia Pictures

    The 28th of November, 1957, marked a monumental day in cinematic history with the world premiere of David Lean's epic war drama, 'The Bridge on the River Kwai,' in London. This date wasn't just another film release; it heralded the arrival of a motion picture that would redefine the genre, sweep the Academy Awards, and set new benchmarks for commercial success. From its initial screenings, audiences and critics alike were captivated by its grand scale, intense psychological drama, and the profound questions it posed about war, honor, and sanity. The film immediately began its ascent to become the highest-grossing film of 1957 and a perennial classic, solidifying its place as one of the greatest war films ever made and establishing Columbia Pictures as a major force in Hollywood. Its launch was a testament to ambitious storytelling and masterful filmmaking.

14. Sayonara

    Released in 1957 by Joshua Logan, Warner Bros. Pictures

    The release of "Sayonara" on December 5, 1957, marked a significant moment in cinematic history, launching a powerful narrative that challenged societal norms of its era. This highly anticipated film quickly became a commercial triumph, captivating audiences with its sensitive portrayal of forbidden love and cultural clash. Its premiere was not merely an entertainment event but a cultural statement, sparking conversations about racial prejudice and military regulations that governed personal lives. The date cemented "Sayonara" as a daring and resonant production, foreshadowing its impressive box office success and critical acclaim, including multiple Academy Award wins.

15. Don't Go Near the Water

    Released in 1957 by Charles Walters, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer

    The cinematic launch of "Don't Go Near the Water" on December 11, 1957, marked the debut of a charming and highly successful military comedy that delighted audiences and became one of Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer's biggest hits of the year. This specific date is significant as it represents the film's initial theatrical premiere in the United States, allowing moviegoers to first experience its lighthearted take on life in the South Pacific during World War II. Its immediate popularity at the box office cemented its place as a standout entry in the genre, offering a much-needed dose of humor amidst the serious post-war cultural landscape. This film's opening day set the stage for its enduring appeal and commercial triumph.

16. Peyton Place

    Released in 1957 by Mark Robson, 20th Century Fox

    Peyton Place," a cinematic sensation that dared to peel back the veneer of small-town American life, premiered on December 13, 1957, marking the beginning of its remarkable run. This powerful drama quickly became a cultural touchstone, drawing massive audiences eager to witness its bold exploration of hidden desires and societal hypocrisy. Its initial release immediately signaled a box office phenomenon, positioning it as one of the highest-grossing films of its year. The premiere date isn't just a calendar entry; it represents the moment this groundbreaking film began to spark national conversations, solidifying its place in cinematic history and captivating millions with its unforgettable narrative.

17. A Farewell to Arms

    Released in 1957 by Charles Vidor, 20th Century Fox

    On December 18, 1957, the silver screen welcomed a new adaptation of Ernest Hemingway's iconic novel, 'A Farewell to Arms'. This lavish production, starring Rock Hudson and Jennifer Jones, premiered amidst considerable anticipation, aiming to capture the epic romance and tragedy of the World War I era. Produced by the legendary David O. Selznick, the film was intended to be a grand cinematic event, a prestige picture that would resonate deeply with audiences who cherished Hemingway's original work. The release date marked the culmination of a challenging production, hoping to deliver both critical acclaim and commercial success during the holiday season.

18. Old Yeller

    Released in 1957 by Robert Stevenson, Buena Vista Film Distribution

    The heartwarming yet ultimately heartbreaking Disney classic, "Old Yeller," first graced silver screens on December 25, 1957. This Christmas Day premiere marked the launch of a film that would indelibly stamp itself into American cinema, captivating audiences with its poignant story of loyalty and sacrifice. Earning an impressive $5.9 million at the domestic box office, it solidified Disney's prowess in live-action family dramas. This particular date isn't just a calendar entry; it signifies the moment a beloved and culturally significant narrative about a boy and his dog began its journey into the hearts of generations, becoming a foundational piece of cinematic Americana.

19. By Love Possessed

    Released in 1957 by James Gould Cozzens, Harcourt, Brace and Company

    By Love Possessed burst onto the American literary scene in 1957, immediately capturing national attention and igniting widespread debate. James Gould Cozzens's intricate novel became an unexpected publishing phenomenon, topping bestseller lists for months and securing its place as the Publishers Weekly #1 Bestseller of the year. Its dense, sophisticated prose and exploration of complex moral dilemmas resonated deeply with a post-war America grappling with shifting social values, establishing itself as a significant cultural touchstone and a must-read for the intellectually inclined, prompting both fervent praise and sharp criticism. This literary event signaled a pivotal moment in mid-century American publishing.

20. Corn Popper

    Released in 1957 by Fisher-Price

    On January 1, 1957, as families embraced the post-war boom, Fisher-Price introduced a toy that would become a household symphony for generations: the Corn Popper. Released at the height of the baby boom, this push toy was not just a new product for the new year; it was a perfect encapsulation of the era's focus on child development and wholesome play. The Corn Popper arrived as a durable, engaging, and colorful companion for toddlers taking their first tentative steps, its distinctive popping sound becoming the soundtrack of countless childhoods and a symbol of early motor skill development in the American home.

21. On the Beach

    Released in 1957 by Nevil Shute, William Heinemann

    On the Beach exploded onto the literary scene in 1957, immediately capturing the zeitgeist of a world grappling with the terrifying specter of nuclear war. Nevil Shute's poignant and chilling novel quickly became a cultural phenomenon, offering a uniquely quiet and profoundly human portrayal of global annihilation. It wasn't merely a fictional narrative; it served as a stark, immediate warning and a deeply emotional exploration of human resilience and despair in the face of inevitable doom, resonating powerfully with readers who lived under the constant threat of the Cold War's atomic shadow. Its launch triggered widespread discussion, cementing its place as a quintessential Cold War-era literary milestone.

22. On the Road

    Released in 1957 by Jack Kerouac, Viking Press

    Published in 1957, 'On the Road' emerged as a seismic cultural event, perfectly encapsulating the burgeoning counter-culture anxieties and aspirations of post-World War II America. It arrived at a time when the nation was grappling with a facade of suburban tranquility and corporate conformity, sparking a yearning for authenticity and existential exploration among a generation feeling stifled. The novel's raw energy and unconventional narrative style offered a vivid, almost hallucinatory, alternative to the prevailing societal norms, thereby forging a literary and social pathway for future counter-cultural movements and challenging the dominant cultural narratives of the Eisenhower era.

23. Risk

    Released in 1957 by Hasbro Winning Moves Games USA, Albert Lamorisse

    The year 1957 marked the debut of a revolutionary game concept in France, initially known as 'La Conquête du Monde' (The Conquest of the World). This creation by French filmmaker Albert Lamorisse would soon captivate players globally, becoming a cultural phenomenon under its re-branded name, 'Risk!' Upon its introduction, it quickly distinguished itself from simpler board games of its era by offering a grand strategic experience centered on world domination. Risk became synonymous with intense family gatherings, elaborate tactical planning, and the dramatic thrill of geopolitical conflict, laying the groundwork for a new generation of strategy games and forever changing how people perceived the depth and engagement a board game could offer.

24. The Scapegoat

    Released in 1957 by Daphne du Maurier, Doubleday

    Daphne du Maurier's 'The Scapegoat,' published in 1957, immediately captivated readers upon its release, solidifying her reputation as a master of psychological suspense. Emerging into a post-war literary landscape hungry for compelling narratives, the novel quickly became a significant cultural phenomenon. Its premise, fraught with identity theft and moral quandaries, struck a chord with an audience grappling with themes of self-discovery and destiny. The book's potent blend of Gothic atmosphere, intricate character development, and relentless tension ensured its place as one of the year's standout literary achievements, drawing critical acclaim and widespread popularity for its unique exploration of human nature and fate.