Road trip movies are a classic genre that never gets old. From the iconic “Thelma and Louise” to the recent hit “Little Miss Sunshine,” these movies have captured the hearts of audiences for decades.
However, one thing that has always stood out in these movies is the cars that the characters drive. In this article, we will take a closer look at what makes the car in a road trip movie so important.
The Importance of Cars in Road Trip Movies
Cars have always been an integral part of road trip movies. They serve as both a mode of transportation and a symbol of freedom. In these movies, cars often take on a life of their own and become characters in their own right.
The car that the characters drive often reflects their personality and values. For example, in “Little Miss Sunshine,” the family drives a beat-up VW bus that reflects their unconventional and quirky nature. In contrast, in “The Fast and The Furious” franchise, the cars are sleek and powerful machines that represent speed, danger, and rebellion.
The Car in Road Trip Movie
In many road trip movies, the car is just as important as any other character in the film. One such movie is “Dumb and Dumber.” In this classic comedy, Lloyd Christmas (Jim Carrey) and Harry Dunne (Jeff Daniels) embark on a cross-country road trip to return a briefcase to its rightful owner.
The car they drive is an old 1984 sheepdog van with shag carpeting on the interior walls. The van, affectionately known as “Mutt Cutts,” has been modified to look like a giant sheepdog with fur all over it. The wacky design of this car perfectly complements Lloyd’s and Harry’s eccentric personalities.
The Design
The Mutt Cutts van was designed by art director Aaron Osborne and built by the film’s transportation coordinator, Gordie Merrick. The exterior of the van was covered in real fur, which was sewn onto the body of the vehicle. The interior was also completely covered in shag carpeting to complete the look.
The Legacy
The Mutt Cutts van has become an iconic part of pop culture and is one of the most memorable cars in movie history. To this day, fans still recreate the van for Halloween costumes or for car shows. The Mutt Cutts van has also inspired a line of toys, t-shirts, and other merchandise.
Conclusion
In conclusion, road trip movies are not just about getting from point A to point B. They are about the journey and the experiences that come along with it.
The cars that characters drive serve as both a mode of transportation and a symbol of their personalities. In “Dumb and Dumber,” the Mutt Cutts van perfectly reflects Lloyd’s and Harry’s goofy nature and has become an iconic part of movie history.