The iconic opening scene of the movie Raiders of the Lost Ark features Indiana Jones running through the jungle to escape a group of armed men. The scene ends with Jones scrambling up a tree just in time to see a German plane fly overhead. The plane is then used to transport the Ark of the Covenant to Berlin, where it is hoped that the Nazis can use its power to win the war.
The Plane
The plane used in the movie is a Fieseler Fi 156 Storch, a German reconnaissance aircraft that was used extensively during World War II. The Storch was known for its ability to take off and land in very short distances, making it ideal for reconnaissance missions in difficult terrain.
In the movie, the Storch is modified with added guns and bomb racks. This is not historically accurate, as the Storch was not designed to carry weapons. However, it does add to the drama of the scene and helps to establish the menacing nature of the Nazis.
The Filming
The scene featuring the German plane was filmed in Hawaii, with a full-scale replica of the Storch being used for the close-up shots. The replica was built by the production team and was designed to be as accurate as possible, with attention paid to every detail, from the markings on the plane to the position of the cockpit.
The aerial shots of the Storch flying over the jungle were filmed using a real Storch, which had been modified to look like the one used in the movie. The plane was flown by experienced pilots, who were able to perform the difficult maneuvers required for the scene.
The Legacy
The scene featuring the German plane has become one of the most iconic moments in movie history, and is often referenced in popular culture. The Storch itself has also become a symbol of the Nazi war machine, and is frequently used in movies and television shows as a representation of the evil of the Third Reich.
Overall, the German plane in Raiders of the Lost Ark is a testament to the attention to detail and creativity of the film's production team. The scene is a perfect example of how a well-crafted set piece can add to the overall impact of a movie, and has helped to make Raiders of the Lost Ark one of the most beloved films of all time.