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Batman's (Michael Keaton) 1:4-scale Batmobile filming model from the Batmissile sequence of Tim Burton's Batman Returns. Needing a quick escape from the GCPD cars that pursued him following the Penguin's (Danny DeVito) remote hijacking of the Batmobile, Batman activated a last-resort function that caused the Batmobile to shed much of its form and become the sleek Batmissile, which allowed the caped crusader to slip away through a tight space between two buildings.

This ornately designed model represents the first stage in the iconic transformation of the Batmobile into the Batmissile. Built by the Skotak brothers' acclaimed effects house 4-Ward Productions, this specific miniature was designed to be photographed from a rear overhead angle during the transformation sequence and was engineered for practical, on-camera effects.

Constructed from black fiberglass over a wood frame and foam-filled for durability, the model includes detailed dials and gauges within the cockpit interior and additional surface detailing on the cockpit roof designed to read accurately under camera scrutiny. It was built with several functional mechanisms to simulate the Batmobile's disintegration: the cockpit's center cover strips were rigged to blow off via compressed air; internal cables were used to draw the left and right halves of the cockpit cover together; and rear-mounted cables lifted the fenders to suggest they were blowing off, revealing the sleeker Batmissile beneath.

This was one of several specialized miniatures created to achieve the full transformation effect. Later-stage models, including a more refined Batmissile version, used compressed air to fully eject the fenders and side panels. Notably, the fins at the rear of this miniature were deliberately cut down during production to allow cameras to get closer to the car for tight shots. These sections were later carefully restored for display using non-permanent pins to preserve the original filming modifications. A restored turbine nose cone - possibly not present during filming - was also added after production.

The model is accompanied by four original production-made wheels which are not currently mounted. The rear wheels were never installed during production, while the front wheels may have been bolted on at one point. Also included is a complete set of replica wheels and tires, with the tires cast in authentic rubber, for enhanced display presentation. The model exhibits grime and scuffs throughout from production and storage.

The Batmobile itself remains one of the most celebrated designs in superhero cinema. Originally conceived by production designer Anton Furst and concept artist Julian Caldow for Burton's 1989 Batman, this Art Deco-inspired interpretation became a pop culture icon: sleek, menacing, and unmistakably Gotham. A striking piece of visual effects history, this model embodies the ingenuity and practical artistry that defined the pre-digital era of blockbuster filmmaking. It also serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of Batman's most iconic ride. Dimensions: 60" x 25.5" x 13" (152.5 cm x 64.75 cm x 33 cm)

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Estimate: $50,000 - 100,000

View all lots from BATMAN RETURNS (1992)

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