While many movies are recognizable by costumes and settings, certain props are just as iconic. They represent key aspects of the story or the world the characters live in. The props do not exist simply to enhance the story or the visuals, but to drive the plot altogether. Here are 8 movie props that became almost as famous as the actor.
8. Lightsaber (Star Wars)
Whether you’re a Star Wars super fan or you’ve never seen the movies, most people will recognize a lightsaber when they see one. They are essential weapons in the Star Wars universe. Jedi are typically associated with green or blue lightsabers, while the Siths carry red lightsabers. These colors perfectly display the contrast between good and evil during the famous lightsaber battles.
A myriad of replicas of this iconic prop are sold. Whether you want to display it on your wall or recreate your own lightsaber battles, any Star Wars fan can get their hands on a replica of this famous movie prop.
7. The Red and Blue Pills (The Matrix)
The red and blue pills are likely the most iconic props from the science fiction movie The Matrix. In a world where humans live in a false reality, the main character is given a choice: take the blue pill and live in blissful ignorance, or take the red pill and face the harsh reality.
This scene became so iconic that it became a metaphor for the way people live their lives. Taking the blue pill refers to valuing comfort, predictability, and complacency. Taking the red pill is associated with taking risks, seeking the truth, and personal growth.
6. Proton Packs (Ghostbusters)
The most essential part of the Ghostbusters franchise is, of course, catching ghosts. This would be impossible without their famous proton packs. These packs feature a device that is worn on someone’s back (used to store the ghosts), and a hand-held neutrona wand (used to catch the ghosts).
This famous group is almost impossible to imagine in action without this iconic prop. The proton packs ensure that even non-Ghostbusters fans can recognize the team of ghost catchers.
5. Hockey Mask (Friday the 13th)
Jason Voorhees’ mask is possibly more iconic than his actual facial features. After taking the mask from one of his victims to shield his appearance, it became a signature part of the killer’s appearance. Jason Voorhees is one of the most recognizable horror movie characters due to his white hockey mask with red accents.
4. Ruby Slippers (The Wizard of OZ)
This famous pair of shoes is worn by Dorothy in the classic film The Wizard of OZ. They were gifted to her by Glinda the Good Witch to help her find her way home. At the end of the movie, simply tapping the ruby red shoes together three times, saying, “There’s no place like home,” is what helps Dorothy get back to Kansas.
Though the shoes did not belong to her, they became an iconic part of her outfit. No Dorothy costume is complete without the sparkly red slippers.
3. Infinity Gauntlet (Avengers: Infinity War)
The Infinity Gauntlet sets the tone for the Avengers films, especially Avengers: Infinity War. The weapon was created for Thanos to harness the power of all the Infinity Stones. When all six stones are collected, the wearer can use their power to change reality in unthinkable ways. For Thanos, it was snapping half the population out of existence.
The Infinity Gauntlet has been made into toy replicas, realistic recreations, and even LEGO sets. This iconic prop is sure to remind any fan of the famous villain and superhero team.
2. Wand (Harry Potter)
Although every wand is unique, each Harry Potter wand is an iconic symbol of this classic movie and book series. Wizards and witches use them for everyday tasks, dangerous battles, and sometimes pranks, if you’re anything like the Weasley twins.
For any Harry Potter fan, a wand is the most important piece of merchandise you can get. Whether it is a replica of a specific character’s wand, a magic Universal Studios wand, or a homemade version, anyone is sure to understand the reference.
1. DeLorean Time Machine (Back to the Future)
This car, alongside the flux capacitor that enables its time travel, is one of the most iconic movie cars ever made. It enables Marty and Doc Brown to travel to the past, to the future, and home again. The classic car isn’t seen many places besides this movie (most people do not know that it was once a real car), making it an even more iconic prop.
Any fan can recognize this film from the ending scene, when the car begins to fly.