Dr. Strangelove and Other Movies: Where Postage Stamps Come to Life

Introduction

When discussing iconic scenes in film history, one might recall the powerful and satirical Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb. However, the elusive mention of 'licking postage stamps' in this movie has sparked curiosity. This article dives into the myth, explores the script, and delves into the broader context of postage stamps and survival kits in film history.

The Myth: Was There a Mention in Dr. Strangelove?

Many fans and critics have puzzled over an alleged scene in Dr. Strangelove where an on-screen character licks postage stamps. After a thorough investigation of the original script and multiple viewings of the film, it seems this scene is a fabrication. The script does not contain any lines or scenes involving the licking of postage stamps. Let's take a closer look at the dialogue in the film:

Person: I can't see anything about licking or stamps or both.

Person: Let me ask you a question back: was it mentioned in Plan 9 from Outer Space?

Person: Out of curiosity, why is it important? Why do you want to know?

Person: No. Not a single line. I can't even begin to imagine what you might be thinking of. The closest association I can think of is the lipstick and chewing gum found in the survival pack contents.

While these moments exist in the movie, they do not feature any licking of postage stamps. Fans may wonder why such a scene would be absent in such a satire of the cold war era.

Plan 9 from Outer Space: No Postage Stamps, Just Misery

Another point of interest is the comparison to Plan 9 from Outer Space, often dubbed the "worst film ever made." In this film, there is also no mention of postage stamps. The script indicates that in Plan 9, a similar exchange takes place, adding to the confusion:

Person: Was it mentioned in Plan 9 from Outer Space? (No mention of postage stamps in this film either.)

It seems that the idea of licking postage stamps is a myth that has grown over the years, possibly due to misremembering or creative filling in of gaps in memory. In the context of these films, the focus is mainly on survival and the characters' attempts to communicate and survive amidst chaos and calamity.

Survival Kits in Films: Postage Stamps Aside

While postage stamps may not be featured in these films, the concept of survival kits is a common theme. These kits are designed to sustain life in emergencies, often including items like food, water, and even medical supplies. In some cases, tools or other useful items might be included. The survival pack in Dr. Strangelove is a prime example, though it does not include postage stamps:

The closest association I can think of is the lipstick and chewing gum found in the survival pack contents.

In the broader context of film history, survival kits are often depicted as essential to enduring difficult situations. From disaster movies to science fiction epics, these kits represent hope and practicality in the face of adversity.

For instance, in Deep Impact (1998), the main characters carry survival kits that include items such asCompass, flashlight, and water filtration kits. Each item is carefully chosen to address potential needs, just as in the survival packs of Dr. Strangelove or Plan 9 from Outer Space.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

While the myth of postage stamps in Dr. Strangelove persists in fan communities, a thorough review of the script and film demonstrates that no such scene exists. The importance of survival kits and practical items in these films, however, is undeniable, serving as symbols of resilience and humanity in the face of catastrophic scenarios.

The enduring appeal of Dr. Strangelove and Plan 9 from Outer Space lies in their ability to blend satire, social commentary, and bizarre elements into compelling narratives. These films, and their survival kits, continue to resonate with audiences and filmmakers alike, making them enduring pieces of cinematic history.

Next time you watch these films, take a moment to appreciate the survival kits and the real items that could save a character's life, whether they're stamps, lipstick, or something else entirely!