The Prop That William Shatner's Character in Airplane 2 Referenced: An In-Depth Look at Sci-Fi Film Gear

In the much-maligned but famously quoted Airplane 2: The Sequel, William Shatner's character, Cmdr. William Crentis, encounters a prop that is both a nod to classic sci-fi and a humorous non-sequitur in the film's context. This prop is the infamous dual red beam, a piece of film equipment that has become a symbol of sci-fi tropes and has found a place in various productions despite its lack of functional purpose.

Famous Quotation and Context

During a particularly chaotic scene in Airplane 2, Shatner's character comments on a prop that is present in an airplane cockpit. The prop, which features blinking red lights in side-by-side glass tubes, is a clear reference to a common trope in science fiction films and TV shows. The dialogues around this prop have become a classic moment in film history, showcasing both the absurdity and the distinctive charm of this piece of equipment.

Understanding the Prop

The dual red beam prop is a simple yet intriguing piece of film equipment. Its design is intentionally kitschy and reminiscent of the kind of technology that might be seen in spacefaring vessels in the 1950s and '60s—a period when the space race was in full swing and science fiction was rapidly evolving. The prop's appearance is characteristically 'old-school sci-fi,' with blinking red lights that imply some kind of sophisticated or critical function.

However, beyond its visual appeal, the dual red beam prop does not serve any functional purpose. The blinking lights are purely decorative and add to the ambiance of the scene without contributing plotwise. This makes the prop an interesting subject of scrutiny in the context of film production and design—after all, why would a director choose to include a non-functional prop that only serves to aestheticize a scene?

Popular Usage in Science Fiction Media

The dual red beam prop has seen extensive use in science fiction media over the years. It has appeared in numerous films, TV shows, and even video games. Whenever a production requires a 'blinkie' or 'flickering lights' prop, this design is often a default choice due to its classic sci-fi feel. This prop is particularly fitting for scenes set in spaceships, laboratory settings, or any other environment where futuristic technology is prevalent.

The dual red beam's ubiquity can be attributed to its simplicity and its ability to quickly convey an atmosphere of high-tech mystery or danger. It’s the kind of prop that adds a touch of retro-futuristic flair, making any production feel more polished and evoking a sense of nostalgia and wonder.

Renting and Using the Prop

For filmmakers, the dual red beam prop can be rented from a variety of equipment rental companies. These props are invaluable for creating the right atmosphere in scenes that demand a certain level of technological mystique. They are particularly useful in settings where the exact nature of the equipment is not crucial to the plot, allowing the audience to maintain a sense of wonder and intrigue.

When considering the rental of such a prop, it’s important to understand that while the dual red beam is a powerful stylistic tool, its inclusion in a production should be done with purpose. It should enhance the visual storytelling rather than distract from it. In the context of a film like Airplane 2, the prop serves to add a humorous non-sequitur and reinforce the self-aware humor of the movie. However, in a dramatic or more serious sci-fi production, the presence of such a prop should be more carefully considered to ensure it contributes effectively to the overall mood and tone of the scene.

Conclusion

The dual red beam prop, referenced in William Shatner's line in Airplane 2, is a testament to the enduring appeal of classic sci-fi tropes in modern media. Its simple and iconic design has made it a staple in the film industry, serving as both a practical tool and a stylistic element for evoking a sense of time and place. For anyone interested in the world of film production or science fiction media, understanding the role and usage of props like the dual red beam provides valuable insights into the creative choices that shape our favorite films and shows.