Taxis have become iconic symbols in many TV shows and movies, adding a unique charm and character to the stories they help tell. From the bustling streets of New York City to futuristic cities in sci-fi films, these famous cabs have driven their way into our hearts. Join us as we take a ride through some of the most memorable taxis from your favorite TV shows and movies, and discover why these vehicles have become unforgettable icons on screen.
Contents
Travis Bickle’s Checker Cab – Taxi Driver
Travis Bickle’s Checker Cab in Taxi Driver is one of the most iconic taxis in film history. The 1975 Checker Marathon, with its rugged and utilitarian design, perfectly complements the gritty, dark atmosphere of New York City in the 1970s. This taxi not only serves as Travis’s mobile confessional but also symbolizes his isolation and descent into madness. The cab’s presence throughout the film helps to highlight the character’s growing disconnect from the society around him.
Jim Carrey’s Checker Cab – The Mask
In The Mask, Jim Carrey’s character, Stanley Ipkiss, often finds himself in or around his Checker Cab. This 1970s classic taxi represents his mundane life as a bank clerk before he discovers the transformative powers of the magical mask. The cab scenes are pivotal, highlighting Stanley’s transition from an ordinary man to the extraordinary, zany character that drives the film’s comedic narrative.
Korben Dallas’s Flying Taxi – The Fifth Element
Korben Dallas’s flying taxi in The Fifth Element is an unforgettable vehicle in the realm of sci-fi. Set in a futuristic 23rd-century New York City, this airborne cab, a modified New York City taxi, is equipped with advanced technology and sleek design. It plays a crucial role in the film as Korben, played by Bruce Willis, uses it to escape authorities and save the world alongside Leeloo. Its unique flying capabilities and the chase sequences make it iconic.
The Crazy Taxi – Crazy Taxi (Video Game)
The Crazy Taxi from the video game Crazy Taxi is a symbol of wild, arcade-style fun. Released in 1999, this game features a vibrant, exaggerated taxi driving experience where players race against time to pick up and drop off passengers. The game’s distinctive yellow cabs, complete with over-the-top customizations and physics-defying stunts, have made a lasting impression on gamers, making these taxis iconic in their own right.
Hell Cab – Scrooged
The Hell Cab in Scrooged is driven by the Ghost of Christmas Past and serves as a portal through time for Bill Murray’s character, Frank Cross. This ghostly, vintage taxi is adorned with supernatural elements, emphasizing the film’s darkly comedic take on the classic Charles Dickens story. The Hell Cab’s eerie ambiance and role in Frank’s transformative journey make it a standout in holiday movie history.
London Taxi – Sherlock (TV Show)
The London taxi in the TV show Sherlock is emblematic of the series’ modern take on the classic detective stories. Often seen ferrying Sherlock Holmes and Dr. John Watson around London, these black cabs are synonymous with the city’s culture and the series’ contemporary setting. Their inclusion helps ground the show’s mysteries in a recognizable and authentic London backdrop.
Flying Taxi – Blade Runner
The flying taxis in Blade Runner are iconic representations of the film’s dystopian, cyberpunk vision of the future. These hovercars, or spinners, are used by the police and other characters to navigate the sprawling, neon-lit cityscape. Their advanced design and seamless integration into the film’s atmospheric world have made them a lasting symbol of futuristic transportation in sci-fi cinema
Black Cab – Doctor Who (TV Show)
The black cab in Doctor Who is often seen transporting the Doctor and companions through London. Its appearance in various episodes helps to ground the fantastical adventures in a familiar setting. As a quintessential element of British culture, the black cab’s inclusion in the show adds to its authenticity and appeal.
This article originally appeared in MyCarMakesNoise.
More from MyCarMakesNoise
20 Military Vehicles with Controversial Designs
Military vehicles often embody strength and innovation, but sometimes their designs spark debate. In this article, we explore 20 military vehicles that have stirred controversy with their unique and unconventional aesthetics. Read More
20 Intriguing Details About the Toyota Prius
The Toyota Prius is renowned for its hybrid technology and fuel efficiency, setting a standard in the automotive industry. Introduced in 1997, it was the world’s first mass-produced hybrid car, combining a gasoline engine with an electric motor. Read More
Discover the 15 Secrets Auto Detailers Use for Car Maintenance
Keeping your car in top condition doesn’t have to be a mystery. Auto detailers have a few tricks up their sleeves that can make a big difference in maintaining your vehicle. Read More
