Famous Movie Scenes That Were Actually Rip-Offs of Another Film

Film directors and producers often draw inspiration from previous works to create new and exciting scenes. However, sometimes these inspirations take on a more direct form, manifesting as rip-offs or the re-use of scenes from other films. We explore some of the most notable instances where famous movie scenes were heavily influenced or directly taken from other movies.

1. Mosquito Squadron (1969) and 633 Squadron (1964)

Among the few movies to feature the de Havilland Mosquito, 'Mosquito Squadron' (1969) and '633 Squadron' (1964) share a striking similarity in their aerial footage. The latter film is one of the most remarkable portrayals of the Mosquito, with both films utilizing the aircraft's unique capabilities to create engaging and realistic scenes.

2. The Shining (1980) and Problem Child (1990)

The iconic line "Here's Johnny" from 'The Shining' has become an integral part of film culture. However, this line and the accompanying attitude have been featured in other movies, showing the influence and pop-culture impact of the original scene.

For example, 'Problem Child' (1990) uses the "Here's Hobby" line in a similar context. This recycled dialogue can be seen in other movies as well, such as 'Cape Fear' (1991) where the "Here's Daddy" scene is featured in the theatre. Another notable film that uses this line is 'Seed of Chucky' (2004).

3. The Phantom Carriage (1921) and The Shining (1980)

The infamous axe scene in 'The Shining' originated from the 1921 silent film 'The Phantom Carriage.' Both scenes share thematic similarities where an axe is used as a symbol of dread and haunting dimensions, reflecting the influence of earlier film techniques on contemporary storytelling.

4. Play It Again, Sam (1972) and Casablanca (1942)

'Play It Again, Sam' (1972) features Woody Allen as a film critic obsessed with 'Casablanca' (1942). The film liberally borrows scenes from 'Casablanca' to create a comedic additionally setting. 'Herb Carter' (Woody Allen), with the help of Humphrey Bogart's character, attempts to seduce the wife of his best friend, using 'Casablanca' as a comedic foundation.

5. Midway (1976) and Tora! Tora! Tora! (1970), Storm Over the Pacific (1960)

'Midway' (1976) heavily utilizes battle scenes from 'Tora! Tora! Tora!' (1970) and 'Storm Over the Pacific' (1960). These scenes, particularly the footage of American planes attacking Japanese ships, appear to be sourced from 'Storm Over the Pacific,' making this a classic example of film re-use in wartime scenarios.

One particularly memorable sequence in 'Storm Over the Pacific' features Japanese anti-aircraft crews being killed one by one, symbolizing the brutal and unforgiving nature of war. The use of such vivid and emotional scenes from 'Storm Over the Pacific' in 'Midway' underscores the influence of earlier films on future war movie depictions.

6. Star Trek and Its Sequels

Several Star Trek sequels have borrowed heavily from previous films in their opening sequences and other key scenes. 'Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan' borrows footage from 'Star Trek: The Original Series,' and 'Star Trek III: The Search for Spock' reuses not only the opening sequence but also the ship's log. This trend continues through 'Star Trek IV: The Voyage Home' and 'Star Trek: Generations,' both of which borrow significantly from earlier installments in the franchise.

7. Iron Eagle and The Transformers

'Iron Eagle' (1986) and its sequels 'Iron Eagle II' and 'Iron Eagle III' re-use scenes from previous movies, with 'Iron Eagle IV' reusing footage from all three previous films. Similarly, 'Revenge of the Flesh Eaters,' a 1990 film that reuses scenes from 'Terminator 2: Judgment Day' (1991) and 'Iron Eagle' (1986).

'Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen' (2009) draws heavily on its predecessor 'Transformers' (2007) with some reused footage, albeit with significant changes to the plot and characters. Nevertheless, the re-use of visual effects and music sets develops the film's atmosphere and action sequences.

8. Austin Powers and The Spy Who Shagged Me

In 'Austin Powers: The Spy Who Shagged Me' (1999), Dr. Evil shows a scene from 'Independence Day' (1996) to scare President Johnson. This scene serves as a humorous nod to the earlier film, creating a crossover experience for audiences familiar with both movies.

9. Earth vs. the Flying Saucers and The War of the Worlds

'Earth vs. the Flying Saucers' (1956) borrows a scene of an exploding building from 'The War of the Worlds' (1953), highlighting the enduring influence of earlier science fiction films on modern depictions of alien invasions.

10. Space Mutiny and Battlestar Galactica

'Space Mutiny' (1983) reuses substantial footage from 'Battlestar Galactica' (1978), making it a prime example of how space opera films can draw from sources within the same genre. This re-use of space footage further cements the genre's influences and continuities.

In conclusion, the film industry has a rich history of borrowing and reusing scenes, often for comedic effect, thematic parallels, or simply to save on production costs. These instances highlight the deep interconnectedness of film and the lasting impact of earlier works on the field.