Indie horror films have been captivating audiences for decades with their unique and often low-budget production styles. They have pushed the boundaries of traditional horror and created a genre of their own, with iconic props that have become synonymous with the films they appear in. These props not only add to the story, but they also hold a special place in the hearts of horror movie enthusiasts. In this article, we will take a closer look at 15 iconic props from classic indie horror films that have left a lasting impression on audiences.
1. The Necronomicon – Evil Dead (1981)
The Necronomicon, also known as the Book of the Dead, is a central prop in the cult classic Evil Dead. This ancient Sumerian text is said to contain powerful incantations that can summon the forces of darkness. The film’s protagonist, Ash, discovers the book in the cabin where he and his friends are staying, and its pages are filled with disturbing illustrations and warnings. The Necronomicon has become a staple in horror culture and has appeared in various other films and TV shows.
2. The Chainsaw – The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (1974)
One of the most iconic props in horror movie history is the chainsaw used by Leatherface in The Texas Chainsaw Massacre. This weapon of choice is not only terrifying because of its ability to cause bodily harm, but also because of its raw and brutal nature. The sound of the chainsaw revving up as Leatherface chases his victims has become synonymous with the film and has been recreated in many other horror movies.
3. The Box – Hellraiser (1987)
In Hellraiser, the Lament Configuration Box plays a crucial role in unleashing the demonic Cenobites. This intricate puzzle box is adorned with strange symbols and when solved, it opens a gateway to another dimension. Its design is both alluring and menacing, making it a perfect representation of the film’s themes of pleasure and pain.
4. The Hockey Mask – Friday the 13th (1980)
The iconic hockey mask worn by Jason Voorhees in the Friday the 13th franchise has become a staple in popular culture. Originally, Jason wore a burlap sack over his head, but the hockey mask was introduced in the third installment of the series and has been associated with the character ever since. Its simple yet striking design has made it a popular Halloween costume choice for horror fans.
5. The Saw – Saw (2004)
The Saw franchise is known for its intricate and gruesome death traps, but it’s the rusty, worn-out saw that is the most recognizable prop from the series. This simple tool takes on a whole new meaning in the films as it is used to inflict pain and suffering on the victims of Jigsaw’s twisted games.
6. The Book of the Dead – The Evil Dead (1981)
Similar to the Necronomicon, the Book of the Dead in The Evil Dead is a central prop that holds immense power. It is described as a Sumerian version of the Necronomicon and its pages are adorned with disturbing illustrations and incantations. The book’s presence in the cabin brings about a curse that unleashes demonic forces upon the unsuspecting characters.
7. The Puzzle Cube – Hellraiser (1987)
Similar to the Lament Configuration Box, the Puzzle Cube in Hellraiser is used to open a gateway to another dimension. However, this cube is much smaller and is carried around by one of the film’s main characters, Kirsty, as she tries to escape from the clutches of the Cenobites.
8. The Axe – The Shining (1980)
The axe used by Jack Torrance in The Shining has become an iconic symbol of madness and violence. Its chilling appearance in the film’s iconic “Here’s Johnny!” scene has solidified its place in horror movie history. The axe’s presence throughout the film adds to the sense of impending doom and terror.
9. The Creepy Doll – Child’s Play (1988)
When it comes to creepy props, the Chucky doll from Child’s Play takes the cake. This possessed doll, with its sinister grin and murderous tendencies, has become a beloved figure in horror culture. Its appearance and voice have evolved over the years, but the original doll from the first film remains a fan favorite.
10. The Book of the Dead – Army of Darkness (1992)
The Book of the Dead makes another appearance on this list, this time in the third installment of the Evil Dead franchise, Army of Darkness. This time, the book is opened by Ash, who is transported back in time to medieval Europe, where he must face off against an army of the undead.
11. The Mask – Scream (1996)
The ghostface mask from Scream has become one of the most recognizable horror movie props in recent years. Its simple yet eerie design has been featured in countless Halloween costumes and has become an icon of the slasher genre.
12. The Chainsaw Hand – Evil Dead II (1987)
In the second installment of the Evil Dead franchise, Ash loses his hand and replaces it with a chainsaw, making for one of the most memorable horror movie props of all time. This unique weapon has become a signature of the character and has been featured in other films and TV shows as an homage to the original.
13. The VHS Tape – The Ring (2002)
In The Ring, a cursed VHS tape contains a short film that causes anyone who watches it to die within seven days. This seemingly harmless prop becomes a deadly force in the film and adds to its sense of dread and suspense.
14. The Camera – Paranormal Activity (2007)
In the found footage horror film Paranormal Activity, a couple uses a video camera to capture evidence of the supernatural occurrences happening in their home. This prop becomes an integral part of the story and adds to the film’s realism and sense of terror.
15. The Mask – Halloween (1978)
Last but certainly not least, the iconic mask worn by Michael Myers in the Halloween franchise has become an instantly recognizable horror movie prop. Its blank, emotionless expression adds to the character’s eerie and mysterious nature, making it one of the most iconic props in horror history.
In conclusion, these 15 iconic props from classic indie horror films have become symbols of the genre and have left a lasting impression on audiences. From ancient books filled with dark magic to simple everyday objects turned into deadly weapons, these props have played a crucial role in creating some of the most memorable and terrifying moments in horror movie history. They have become beloved by fans and continue to be featured in new films, cementing their place in the pantheon of iconic horror props.
