Many action films feature iconic car chases and famous vehicles themselves; with the Batmobile, Back to the Future’s DeLorean and James Bond’s Aston Martin db5 to name just a few. However, it’s not just cars that are in the film spotlight; there are many movies set on board – or featuring – boats and ships which are just as exciting. From the suspense and terror we feel for the crew on board as they junt the famous shark in Jaws, to Willy Wonka’s surreal riverboat, there are plenty of nautical vessels on film that bring a lot of excitement to the plot. If you want to know more about some of the most famous boats ever immortalised on film, see our roundup below.
Orca – Jaws
‘You’re going to need a bigger boat’ has become one of the most recognisable lines in film history, and the Orca fishing boat from Steven Speilberg’s blockbuster certainly went through the mill during the film. After being smashed up by the eponymous 25 foot great white shark, the last shot of the Orca is of its mast sinking into the sea. Two versions of the boat were used for the film; one purchased from a local lobster fisherman, and a glass fibre replica for the shark scenes.
USS Missouri – Under Siege
Steven Seagal’s ex-Navy Seal turned chef had to defend this battleship from a group of terrorists in the smash hit film from 1992. The USS Missouri is a real battleship, and the last to be commissioned by the United States. Weighing a whopping 45,000 tons and measuring 887 ft long, it’s best known as the site of the surrender of the Empire of Japan, which ended World War II.
The Riverboat – Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory
The infamous psychedelic boat scene from the 1971 film scared and delighted children in equal measure, and even the cast were not informed about was going to happen prior to filming. Gene Wilder’s Willy Wonka takes the remaining Golden Ticket winners and their guardians on a trip down the chocolate river; reciting a poem as increasingly surreal images and colours flash in the background. It might not be a boat you want to board, but it’s a scene that won’t be forgotten in a hurry!
Jenny – Forrest Gump
Tom Hanks’ Forrest Gump names this shrimping boat after the love of his life, Jenny Curran, in the 1994 Oscar winner. After a Hurricane sweeps through Bayou le Batre, Jenny is the only shrimping vessel left still standing, and a booming business allows Forrest to acquire ‘twelve Jenny’s’ by the end of the film.
While you may not own a boat that’s as dramatic as any of the above, if you’re in need of safe and secure boat transport, get in touch with SG Haulage. We’re experienced in moving boats of all shapes and sizes, from small speedboats to large yachts, and we understand the care and attention to detail required to safely move these vessels. For more information or to discuss your requirements, give us a call today or visit the website to find out more.
