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A screen-matched, light-up model miniature Joker helicopter from Tim Burton's Batman. Model miniature helicopters were used in the scene in which the Joker (Jack Nicholson) used a megaphone to mock Batman (Michael Keaton) after the superhero blew up Axis Chemicals, and later, during the film's finale in which one of the Joker's henchmen assisted in the maniacal villain's attempt to escape from a ledge high up on the Gotham Cathedral. Intentional distressing and markings along the side of this model miniature screen-match it to the shot in which the helicopter starts to fly away following the Joker's mocking of Batman during the destruction of Axis Chemicals, the Joker leaning out of the helicopter during that shot being the same megaphone-wielding, sitting Joker model miniature also offered as Lot 52 in this auction.
Two different scale models of the helicopter were created for the production, with this one being the smaller of the two, used for exterior shots of the vehicle in flight. Derek Meddings, the British special effects legend known for his work on Gerry Anderson's "Supermarionation" projects, the James Bond film franchise, and the Superman films starring Christopher Reeve, was the visual effects supervisor on Burton's Batman, overseeing model miniature sequences such as the helicopter sequences.
A scale replica of the Aerospatiale SA 341 Gazelle, the model is made primarily of plastic with wooden rotors and is painted in lime green and white. Decals of the Joker laughing in front of a yellow and red target adorn each side, and three wooden seats finished in gray are located within the cockpit. The exterior of the model is intentionally distressed and dirtied, producing a more realistic appearance.
A red light fitted into the helicopter's left-hand side flashes when powered by a pair of 9V batteries, stored within two battery packs hidden behind the back seat. The seat and battery packs are fitted with a black hook-and-loop closure to allow easy access and replacement. The search lamp illuminates when powered and the rotors spin. The model displays signs of wear, including minor paint wear on the rotor, and some flaking of the green paint, notably on the right side. The lot is accompanied by a Warner Bros. Pictures certificate of authenticity. Dimensions: 27.5" x 25.25" x 9" (70 cm x 64 cm x 23 cm)
Additional Provenance: Certificate of Authenticity from Warner Bros.
Contains electronics; see electronics notice in the Buyer's Guide.
Estimate: $20,000 - 40,000
View all lots from BATMAN (1989)
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