19 June, 2024
Pens and Pop Culture: The Starring Role of Pens in Movies and TV Shows
From the silver screen to the small screen, pens have played a surprisingly significant role in popular culture. More than just writing instruments, pens in movies and TV shows often carry symbolic weight, serve as crucial plot devices, or even become iconic in their own right. We're going to look at the fascinating portrayal of pens in various cinematic and television contexts.
The Symbolic Pen: More Than Just Ink
In many films and TV shows, pens are imbued with symbolism. They can represent power, creativity, or even the turning point in a character's journey. For instance, in "The Shawshank Redemption," Andy Dufresne's request for a rock hammer and a large poster of Rita Hayworth is approved by the warden only after signing off with his pen, underscoring the pen's role in power dynamics.
Pens as Plot Devices
Pens, often overlooked in everyday life, have been used creatively as plot devices in various movies and TV shows. These instances highlight the versatility of pens, not just as writing tools, but as integral components in storytelling.
"GoldenEye" - The Pen Grenade
In this James Bond film, the pen is ingeniously used as a grenade. This gadget, disguised as an ordinary pen, plays a crucial role in a tense scene, adding to the movie's suspense and showcasing the spy-genre's love for hidden gadgets.
"The Bourne Identity" - The Pen as a Weapon
Jason Bourne's use of a pen in a fight scene is a brilliant demonstration of his resourcefulness and combat skills. This scene underlines the character's ability to adapt and use everyday objects as effective tools for defence.
"Casino Royale" - The Poisoned Pen
Another James Bond film, "Casino Royale," features a pen filled with poison. Bond uses this pen to stage a dramatic and intense scene, highlighting the spy's quick thinking in dangerous situations.
"John Wick" - A Deadly Writing Instrument
In the "John Wick" series, the titular character uses a pen in a combat scene to defeat his adversaries. This moment emphasizes John Wick's reputation as a formidable and inventive fighter, capable of using any object as a lethal weapon.
"Octopussy" - Another Bond Moment
In "Octopussy," a Montblanc pen is filled with acid, again showcasing James Bond's array of gadgets. The pen is used to escape a tricky situation, highlighting the theme of resourcefulness that pervades the Bond series.
"Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade" - A Pen for Survival
In this iconic adventure film, a pen is used in a critical moment to save characters from a dire situation. This scene exemplifies the pen's role as a small but mighty tool in high-stakes scenarios.
Iconic Pen Moments
Pens have had their share of spotlight moments in movies and TV shows, creating scenes that have etched themselves into the cultural memory. From symbolising respect and achievement to defining a character's persona, these pen scenes are as memorable as they are meaningful.
"A Beautiful Mind" - The Pen Ceremony
In this biographical film, the scene where John Nash's colleagues silently present him with pens stands out for its emotional depth. This moment, a non-verbal acknowledgment of his genius, is both heartwarming and poignant, symbolising Nash's acceptance and recognition in the academic world.
"Legally Blonde" - Elle Woods' Pink Pen
Elle Woods' pink, scented resume and matching pen in "Legally Blonde" are more than just accessories; they're a statement of her personality. This pen encapsulates her flair for style and her unapologetic femininity, demonstrating how a simple object can be a powerful extension of a character's identity.
"The Wolf of Wall Street" - 'Sell Me This Pen'
In this film, the scene where Jordan Belfort asks a group of sales professionals to sell him a pen becomes a masterclass in salesmanship. The pen here is used as a metaphor for the art of selling, turning a mundane object into a lesson in persuasion and business acumen.
"Catch Me If You Can" - The Cheque Pen
Frank Abagnale Jr.'s use of a pen to forge checks in "Catch Me If You Can" is central to the film's plot. The pen, in this context, becomes an instrument of deception and cunning, showcasing the protagonist's skill in con artistry.
"Dead Poets Society" - The Symbol of Freedom
The scene in "Dead Poets Society" where John Keating's students stand on their desks and declare "O Captain! My Captain!" while holding pens is a powerful symbol of rebellion and freedom. The pens here represent the students' newfound creativity and independence, inspired by their teacher.
"Harry Potter" Series - The Magical Quill
In the "Harry Potter" series, the quill is a magical object that brings the wizarding world to life. From taking notes in class to the quill that writes on its own at Hogwarts, these writing instruments are integral to the magic and charm of the series.
The Humorous Side of Pens
In the comedy world, pens have often been used to create humorous situations, adding a light-hearted touch to TV shows and movies. From awkward fumbles to quirky plot points, pens can be the source of much laughter, highlighting the comical aspects of everyday life.
"The Office" - Office Antics with Pens
In the hit TV series "The Office," pens often play a role in the show's humour, rooted in the everyday experiences of office life. Characters are seen fumbling with pens, engaging in pen-related pranks, or having overly serious discussions about office supplies. These moments, though seemingly trivial, perfectly capture the absurdity and monotony of working in an office, making the mundane hilarious.
"Seinfeld" - The Upside-Down Pen
In "Seinfeld," a sitcom known for its observational humour, a pen that can write upside down becomes a source of comedic tension. Jerry's fascination and subsequent frustration with this peculiar pen are played up for laughs, showcasing how a simple object can become the centre of a humorous storyline in the world of sitcoms.
"Friends" - The Giant Poking Device
In an episode of "Friends," a pen is part of a makeshift 'poking device' used by the characters to check on their neighbour. This innovative use of a pen, along with other household items, contributes to the show's lighthearted and sometimes absurd humour.
"The Simpsons" - Homer's Pen Mishaps
"The Simpsons," renowned for its satirical humour, has featured several episodes where pens are used for comedic effect. Homer Simpson's struggles with a pen, whether leaking in his shirt pocket or misunderstanding its purpose, add a touch of humour that resonates with the audience's experiences.
"Parks and Recreation" - Ron Swanson's Pen Standoff
In "Parks and Recreation," a scene where Ron Swanson refuses to use a pen because it's too 'fancy' humorously highlights his character's disdain for anything that isn't utilitarian. This pen standoff is a subtle yet effective way to add humour while staying true to the character's personality.
"The Big Bang Theory" - The Pen as a Nerd's Tool
"The Big Bang Theory," a show centred around a group of nerdy friends, uses pens to add humour related to scientific and academic pursuits. Whether arguing over the physics of a pen's mechanism or using a pen for an impromptu science demonstration, the show finds humour in the geeky side of pens.
Pens in Science Fiction and Fantasy
In the imaginative realms of science fiction and fantasy, pens often take on extraordinary functions that stretch the boundaries of reality. These genres reinvent the pen, transforming it into a device of intrigue and wonder.
"Men in Black" - The Neuralyzer
Perhaps the most iconic example in this genre is the neuralyzer from the "Men in Black" series. This pen-like gadget is used by secret agents to erase people's memories, a crucial tool for maintaining the secrecy of their operations. The neuralyzer blends the everyday familiarity of a pen with high-tech, fantastical functionality, creating a memorable and iconic piece of sci-fi equipment.
"Harry Potter" Series - Magical Quills
In the "Harry Potter" universe, quills are not just writing instruments but magical tools that can bewitch, enchant, or even write on their own. These magical quills add a layer of enchantment to the act of writing, fitting seamlessly into the wizarding world's charm.
"Doctor Who" - The Sonic Screwdriver
While not a pen in the traditional sense, the sonic screwdriver used by the Doctor in "Doctor Who" shares similarities with a multifunctional pen. This device can perform various functions, from unlocking doors to performing complex technical tasks, embodying the multifaceted utility that pens often represent in sci-fi.
"Star Trek" - The PADD
In "Star Trek," the Personal Access Display Device (PADD) often comes with a stylus pen, used for navigating and inputting data. These futuristic pens signify advanced technology and the evolution of writing and communication tools in the Star Trek universe.
"Fringe" - The Observer's Pen
In the TV series "Fringe," the Observers use a unique pen that can both write and perform other functions, like healing wounds. This pen serves as a symbol of the Observers' advanced technology and mysterious nature.
"The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy" - The Electronic Thumb
Though not a pen, the electronic thumb in "The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy" resembles a pen in its size and portability. It's a device used for hitchhiking across the galaxy, illustrating how ordinary objects can be reimagined to have extraordinary purposes in sci-fi narratives.
The Pen in Dramatic Roles
In dramatic television and film genres, pens often take on roles that are laden with significance and symbolism. From the courtrooms of legal dramas to the bustling halls of medical series, pens are not just writing tools but emblems of authority, decision-making, and pivotal moments.
"Suits"
In this popular legal drama, the act of signing contracts or important legal documents is frequently central to the plot. Here, it symbolises legal power, finality, and the gravity of decisions being made. A pen in the hands of a lawyer or a client often marks a climactic moment of commitment or resolution.
"The Good Wife"
Similarly, in "The Good Wife," pens are used during significant legal moments. Whether it's finalising a case or signing affidavits, the pen underscores the seriousness and the finality of legal actions.
"Grey’s Anatomy"
In medical dramas like "Grey’s Anatomy," pens are more than writing instruments; they are tools that signify medical knowledge and authority. Doctors and nurses are often seen with pens clipped to their scrubs, ready to jot down medical notes or prescriptions, underscoring their professionalism and expertise.
"House M.D."
In "House M.D.," the lead character, Dr. Gregory House, frequently uses a pen for diagnostic purposes, writing on whiteboards to brainstorm treatments. The pen here becomes a symbol of medical investigation and the pursuit of solutions to complex medical cases.
"Sherlock": In detective series like "Sherlock," a pen might serve as a crucial piece of evidence, leading to the unravelling of a mystery. It can be a clue that aids in piecing together the puzzle of a crime, signifying the detective's attention to detail and analytical prowess.
"Law & Order": In "Law & Order," they are often seen in the hands of detectives taking notes during investigations or interviews, symbolising the gathering of information and the building of cases.
Conclusion: The Pen's Enduring Role in Pop Culture
Throughout the history of film and television, pens have served as powerful symbols, comedic tools, plot devices, and even icons in their own right. Their versatility as objects has allowed them to be woven into a variety of narratives, from action-packed thrillers to introspective dramas. As pop culture continues to evolve, it's clear that the pen, in all its forms, will remain a staple on screen, continuing to write its story in the annals of cinematic and television history.
The Printed Pens Team