Big Jim’s P.A.C.K. – Double Trouble from Mattel (1976)

BY Todd Coopee February 23, 2023 Filed to: Vintage Advertising

In 1975, Mattel rebooted the Big Jim line under the guise of Big Jim’s P.A.C.K. The acronym stood for Professional Agents / Crime Killers — Jim and a new set of pals had entered the thrilling world of toy crime-fighting!

Since all good crime-fighting teams need a chief nemesis, Mattel introduced ZORAK into the Big Jim toy line. According to his origin story, ZORAK was a deranged nuclear scientist who chased Big Jim into a mineshaft only to have it collapse and transform him into a horrifying creature. ZORAK sought revenge for the mishap and was also bent on taking over the world.

With the emergence of ZORAK as the line’s first true villain, Mattel also introduced a new Double Trouble theme. With the twist of their arms, both ZORAK and Big Jim would undergo a facial metamorphosis. Jim’s expression would contort from calm to rage-filled, while ZORAK morphed from mild-mannered scientist into a “hideous fiend”.

The Double Trouble concept was reflected in many of the new outfits and vehicles Mattel released at the time, including the Howler motorcycle and the LazerVette.

Remember the toys and games of years past through vintage advertising – for better and for worse!