All movies contain props to some extent, but only a rare few of them become iconic.
At their best, they become shorthand for the movie itself.
With this in mind, this list looks at some of the famous famous props in cinema history.
Image by Federico Napoli
Some are symbols of good, others of evil, but all have become indispensable pieces of pop culture.
10The Mask
‘The Mask’ (1994)
“Somebody stop me!”
In short,the Heart of the Ocean represents Rose’s journey and her lost love.
Image via New Line Cinema
It’s a simple but brutally effective design.
The inclusion of the hockey mask was something of a happy accident.
It’s thus probably the most recognizable cinematic MacGuffin of the last decade.
The visual and philosophical weight of the pills quickly made an impact inThe Matrix.
Theyare not just physical objects but symbols of choice, reality, and liberation.
4Ruby Slippers
‘The Wizard of Oz’ (1939)
Theres no place like home.
Image via Warner Bros.
Few cinematic weapons can compete with the Lightsaber in terms of sheer awesomeness.
They make for some ofthe best swordfights ever captured on celluloid.
It’s a stand-in for the entireStar Warsfranchise.
The later movies expanded the weapon with various new models and alterations, adding to the excitement.
Claiming the top spot on this list is the One Ring, Middle-earth’s most powerful and malevolent artifact.
Crafted by the Dark Lord Sauron, the Ring propels the whole series.
It grants its wearer invisibility and prolonged life, but exerts a corrosive influence that few can resist.
In short, when it comes to the most iconic movie props, the One Ring rules them all.
NEXT:The Best Low-Budget Movies That Looked Expensive, Ranked
Image via Paramount Pictures
Image via Warner Bros. Pictures
Image via Lucasfilm
Image via New Line Cinema.
