Here's an interesting tidbit: NBC and Apple, along with Nissan as a co-sponsor, are offering a free sneak peek at the highly hyped new NBC TV show, Heroes, which will run on Mondays at 9PM EST (8 PM CST) this Fall.

There's a catch (and you knew there would be); you've got to go to the movies to pick up a special card that has a download code for the iTunes Music Store to get the sneak peek.

Heroes Sneak Peek Card

Heroes Download page

Try as you might, you won't find Heroes listed in the free download section of the iTMS, or any section in the store for that matter. The code on the card gets you access to an exclusive page where the 53 + minute sneak peek pilot episode, 'Genesis', will automagically start downloading, along with an 8 minute behind-the-scenes video and a 24 minute preview of other NBC shows coming out this Fall.

This is not a bad move by Apple and NBC. They can get some pretty good marketing data this way, though it sucks that you have to go to a theater to get the card.

Speaking of the card; it's a nice looking 3D affair. Those who collect such things will likely want to hold on to this one. The download code on the back can only be used once and expires on 10/15/2006.

The cards are free for the asking, but I imagine if you wait long enough NBC and Apple will release the preview for general consumption as Fall approaches. NBC must think it has a real winner, judging by the media blitz surrounding the show, so I think they'll take every opportunity to get that first episode in as many iPods as possible: Word of mouth can be a powerful tool.

What about the show? Is it worth the bother? I think so. You can tell that it has the potential to be a decent drama is the writing remains tight.

So, if you're heading out to the movies this weekend be sure to pick up a Heroes card for yourself, and see if you can finagle a few for your friends while supplies last, which may make you a hero in their eyes. Cape anyone?