Heritage Auctions and Planet Hollywood Team Up in March to Offer More than 1,600 Treasures Spanning Movie History
From The Ten Commandments, Star Wars, Titanic, Jurassic Park, and everything in between, there’s something from everything you like in this blockbuster auction. In this article, our entertainment auction curators pick their favorite lots.
Paul’s Picks
Paul Bisnette, Entertainment and Music Cataloger
John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum (Lionsgate, 2019), Yamaha MT-09 SFX Stunt Motorcycle and Rig Lot #90607
Played to perfection by the ever-stoic Keanu Reeves, few silver screen assassins can match John Wick’s style, lethality, and mystique presented throughout the now four-film franchise. A man of focus, commitment, and sheer will, Wick is deserving of a vehicle that embodies his legendary status. What better than the sleek, matte black Yamaha MT-09 featured in the adrenaline-pumping third entry of the series? This model was used for green screen special effects work and is housed on top of a bright green painted metal chassis to make it easier to be digitally removed during post-production. In conjunction with skilled stunt puppeteers, intricate choreography, and action-packed performances, this motorcycle stands out during a highspeed chase sequence across the Verrazzano bridge as Wick duels a score of motorcycle-riding henchmen in a loving nod to the 2017 Korean revenge film, The Villainess. This piece of action movie history is sure to please even the most scrutinizing of adrenaline-loving fans and stands as a centerpiece worthy of a Continental collection. And remember, Si Vis Pacem, para bellum. Be seeing you soon.
Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: The Movie (TCF, 1995), Jason David Frank “Tommy Oliver” Saba Stunt Sword and Belt Lot #90244
Like the giant monster-fighting robots synonymous with the Japanese Tokusatsu genre, Power Rangers took young American audiences by storm in the summer of 1993. From network television and video game consoles to toy store aisles and 90s living rooms, it was hard to escape the sheer dominance the franchise had over the youth of the time. Then, on June 30th, 1995, the Power Rangers phenomenon took to the silver screen, further solidifying the franchise as a cultural touchstone that is still relevant today. Standing tall among his fellow crime-fighting teenage superheroes was Tommy Oliver played by the late Jason David Frank. A courageous leader, who with the help of his sentient sword, Saba, helped rally his team, save the city Angel Grove, and defeat the tyrannical Ivan Ooze (Paul Freeman). Used throughout pulse-pounding martial arts films, these two props represent the talent, creativity, and imagination that has helped keep the beloved franchise and costumed hero genre alive for more than 30 years. They are treasures that are instantly recognized and cherished by all of those who have ever uttered the legendary phrase, “It’s Morphin Time!’ while battling endless waves of spacefaring evildoers on playgrounds across the world.
Ghostbusters (Columbia, 1984), “Slimer” Concept Maquette Lot #89681
“We came, we saw, we kicked it’s ass!” This globular green ghoul is arguably the most recognizable and beloved apparition from the Ghostbusters franchise. Like all famous film creatures, the lovable mascot started its spectral life as a pre-production maquette designed to help artists visualize how the life-size puppet used for the film would look. Famously inspired by John Belushi’s Animal House character “Bluto”, the supernatural glutton was designed by special effects artist, Steve Johnson, and affectionately known on set as “Onion Head” during filming. This nickname came from a rather unique odor that was a result of the chemical mixtures used to create the animatronic puppet. Following its debut appearance in the 1984 comedy classic, fans immediately fell in love with the gross, yet somehow endearing ghost, solidifying its future appearances throughout the franchise. It wasn’t until the classic 1986 The Real Ghostbusters animated series, that he finally earned the name “Slimer” which he would continue to carry in all future haunts. From toys to Echo Cooler beverages, this pop culture poltergeist remains a staple to all Ghostbusters fans.
Bradley’s Picks
Bradley Harding, Entertainment and Music Cataloger
Halloween: H20 (Miramax, 1998), Jamie Lee Curtis “Laurie Strode” Axe and Chris Durand “Michael Myers” Mechanic Coveralls Lot #90537
The 20th-anniversary sequel to the classic John Carpenter film may not have been the final confrontation between Laurie (Jamie Lee Curtis) and unstoppable boogeyman Michael Myers, but it offered a satisfying coda to the “sister” plotline set up in Halloween 2 (1981). This cool pairing of Myers’ mechanic coveralls (worn by stunt man Chris Durand) and the “stunt axe” used by Curtis in the tense finale is the perfect acquisition for the Halloween completist. Fans will appreciate the fact that this is the “distressed version” of Myers’ coveralls – complete with tears and blood from Curtis’ double-handed butcher knife attack.
An American in Paris (MGM, 1951), Gene Kelly “Jerry Mulligan” Dress Loafers with COA Signed by Kelly Lot #89085
Gene Kelly was in top form when he made An American in Paris – an exuberant, Technicolor Valentine to the music of George Gershwin. He wore these shoes throughout the film – including the iconic 17-minute dance sequence with Leslie Caron at the climax. The seemingly innocuous black leather dress loafers are imbued with the spirit of Kelly’s creative genius and represent a true relic of Hollywood’s golden age.
Rosemary’s Baby (Paramount, 1968), John Cassavetes Double “Satan” Costume Lot #89167
This was a true cinematic revelation. Though I’m a huge admirer of the 1968 Roman Polanski horror film, I had never heard of a “Satan costume” utilized during filming. The appropriately bizarre leather jumper was used during the scene where Rosemary (Mia Farrow) is given a tranquilizer and “hallucinates” a troubling encounter with a demonic entity. While used sparingly, brief glimpses can be seen during the nightmarish sequence. The suit was worn by actor John Cassavetes (his name is on the collar!), who plays Rosemary’s conflicted husband Guy. A fascinating piece of horror film history, this very rare and incredibly detailed costume does indeed seem conjured by witches.
Macy’s Picks
Macy Shackelford, Entertainment and Music Cataloger
Absolutely Fabulous (BBC One TV, 1992-1996), Joanna Lumley “Patsy Stone” Chanel Ensemble from Episode “Magazine” Lot#89234
I wasn’t familiar with Absolutely Fabulous before working on this costume, but it is on my to-watch list now. This ensemble was designed by Karl Lagerfeld for the Chanel Fall 1991 collection, arguably at the height of the designer’s career. A different colorway was featured on the runway, but I prefer the bright purple on the jacket. Fashion and runway were so fun and whimsical at this time, nothing like the boring zombie walks we see a lot of today. I really enjoyed seeing the bias label on this suit. It features so many handwritten details about the fabric and style, which displays the care and specificity that went into its creation. This would definitely be snatched up in any vintage fashion shop today.
The Scarlet Letter (Buena Vista, 1995), Demi Moore “Hester Prynne” Dress Lot #90261
After working on so many costumes across a plethora of films, I was constantly surprised by the quality of certain ensembles. This Demi Moore gown was worn when “Hester Prynne” was sentenced to wear the scandalous red “A” in the film. Academy Award-winning costume designer Gabriella Pescucci went above and beyond with this gown. The embroidery along the teal underskirt and stomacher looks like it was pulled from a 17th-century gown at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. And the fabrics used are so fine and luxurious, especially the delicate lace along the neckline and sleeves. On the inside, it looks so period-accurate and traditional with stays and padding along the bodice. This was one costume I didn’t want to put away just so I could keep looking at all the details.
The Addams Family (Paramount, 1991), Raul Julia “Gomez Addams” Baby Portrait Lot #89891
I love this piece because not only is it hysterical and odd, but it is also a true display of how set design can really set a scene with background details. This painting is one of many in the foyer of the Addams Family mansion. In the film, you see it for one moment when someone passes by, but that doesn’t stop the set designer from commissioning this ridiculous artwork that completely encapsulates Gomez’s character as an infant. This piece was sitting out while we worked on the auction for some time, and it got a chuckle out of me anytime my eyes found it.
Colin’s Picks
Colin Tait, Entertainment and Music Senior Cataloger
Muppet Treasure Island (Buena Vista, 1996), Kermit the Frog “Captain Abraham Smollett” Ensemble Lot #90432
The Muppets were a huge part of my childhood, and I’ve been very fortunate to share my love of Kermit and the gang with my own children. Whether playing an intrepid reporter in Sesame Street, the host of The Muppet Show, or the banjo-playing would-be comedian in The Muppet Movie, Kermit and his friends always bring me back to moments of my childhood and are synonymous with innocence, joy, and fun. You can only imagine my immense thrill when I opened a box to see a Kermit-sized ship captain’s outfit, including a Kermit-sized frock coat, Kermit-sized puffy shirt, Kermit-sized powdered wig, Kermit-sized tricorn hat, and even a Kermit-sized cutlass. The meticulous craftsmanship of the miniature costume enhances the Muppets’ magic, not only making them feel like figments of Jim Henson’s imagination but real-life figures that move and breathe in our world. Muppet items are very rare in auctions, especially items worn by Kermit, making his original captain’s uniform a must-buy for any kid at heart.
Chinatown (Paramount, 1974), Roman Polanski “Man with Knife” FX Switchblade Lot #89304
Since Alfred Hitchcock’s 1929 cameo in Blackmail, directors like Martin Scorsese, Quentin Tarantino, and Spike Lee have made appearances in their own movies, paying homage to the iconic “Master of Suspense.” Roman Polanski, renowned director of Chinatown, is another example. Not only did he put his main character, detective Jake Gittes (Jack Nicholson), through a gauntlet of dangerous obstacles and nefarious conspiracies, but Polanski went one step further, taking on the role of a nameless figure who memorably slashes Jake’s nostril with a switchblade knife. This very switchblade is a notable piece at the Treasures of Planet Hollywood auction, and finally, one lucky winner can recreate this memorable scene with the key prop from this classic film.
The Shawshank Redemption (Columbia, 1994), Morgan Freeman’s “Ellis ‘Red’ Redding” Screen-Matched Olympian Pro Master Mickey Mantle Fielder’s Mitt Lot # 90175
If you don’t love The Shawshank Redemption, I’m not sure that I trust you. This film could very well be the ultimate litmus test for distinguishing humans on websites, surpassing traditional CAPTCHAs. According to IMDb, my sentiment isn’t unfounded; “The Shawshank Redemption” consistently secures a top spot in IMDb’s list of the 250 best films ever made, and in 2016, it earned its place in the National Film Registry. The profound friendship between Ellis Boyd “Red” Redding (played by Morgan Freeman) and Andy Dufresne (played by Tim Robbins) is timeless, making the chance to possess a movie prop even more special.
This glove is from the scene where Red and Andy first meet, and Andy asks to buy a rock hammer from him. Legend has it that the glove was several sizes too small for Freeman, and although the actor didn’t complain, his hand was bleeding after the first several takes. Freeman’s portrayal of the prison’s elder statesman is phenomenal, and the bond between Andy and Red – just like our bond to the film – is one for the ages. Who wouldn’t want to own a piece of that?
Browse all the Planet Hollywood movie memorabilia lots in this special auction.
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