Axes have long held a place in our collective imagination, symbolizing strength, survival, and sometimes even terror. From ancient legends to modern storytelling, the axe has been wielded by heroes and villains alike, becoming iconic in various narratives. In movies and TV shows, certain axes have become memorable characters in their own right, carrying with them stories of their own. Here, we explore some of the most famous axes that have made their mark on the screen.
The Shining – Jack Torrance’s Axe
Stanley Kubrick’s 1980 horror classic The Shining features one of the most iconic axes in film history. The fire axe wielded by Jack Torrance, played by Jack Nicholson, is central to one of the film’s most terrifying scenes. In his descent into madness, Jack uses the axe to chop through a bathroom door, leading to the chilling line, “Here’s Johnny!” This moment has been etched into the annals of horror cinema, symbolizing not just Jack’s madness but also the sheer terror experienced by his family.
The axe itself is a standard fireman’s axe, yet its role in the movie transforms it into a symbol of dread. Its brutal simplicity contrasts with the psychological complexity of the film, making it a perfect tool for Kubrick’s exploration of insanity and horror.
Evil Dead Franchise – Ash Williams’ Chainsaw Hand
While technically not an axe, the chainsaw hand of Ash Williams, played by Bruce Campbell in the Evil Dead franchise, deserves mention for its sheer ingenuity and cultural impact. In Evil Dead II, Ash replaces his severed hand with a chainsaw, creating an unforgettable weapon against the demonic forces he battles.
The chainsaw hand has become synonymous with Ash’s character, representing his resilience and darkly comedic approach to the horrors he faces. This inventive use of a cutting tool has inspired numerous homages and parodies, cementing its place in horror and pop culture history.
Braveheart – William Wallace’s Axe
Mel Gibson’s Braveheart (1995) tells the story of Scottish warrior William Wallace and his fight for freedom from English rule. Wallace, portrayed by Gibson, wields a massive two-handed axe in several key battle scenes, symbolizing his strength and determination.
The axe in Braveheart is a historically accurate representation of the weaponry used during the Wars of Scottish Independence. Its presence in the film underscores the brutal and visceral nature of medieval combat, and Wallace’s skill with the axe helps to cement his status as a legendary warrior.
The Lord of the Rings Trilogy – Gimli’s Battle Axes
In Peter Jackson’s epic The Lord of the Rings trilogy, the dwarf Gimli, played by John Rhys-Davies, is rarely seen without his trusty battle axes. Gimli wields a variety of axes throughout the series, each meticulously crafted to reflect the rich culture and craftsmanship of the dwarves.
Gimli’s axes are not just weapons but extensions of his character. They signify his heritage, his strength, and his unyielding spirit in the face of overwhelming odds. The intricate designs of the axes, combined with Gimli’s prowess in battle, make them some of the most memorable weapons in fantasy cinema.
The Walking Dead – Rick Grimes’ Hatchet
In the long-running TV series The Walking Dead, Rick Grimes, played by Andrew Lincoln, often uses a hatchet to fight off zombies and survive in the post-apocalyptic world. The hatchet becomes a practical and reliable tool for Rick, symbolizing his ability to adapt and his relentless fight for survival.
Throughout the series, the hatchet is seen in numerous intense and graphic scenes, showcasing its versatility as both a weapon and a tool. It represents Rick’s pragmatic approach to the challenges he faces and his determination to protect his loved ones at any cost.
Game of Thrones – The Battle Axe of The Hound
Game of Thrones is replete with memorable weapons, but Sandor Clegane, known as The Hound and played by Rory McCann, stands out with his brutal battle axe. The Hound’s axe is a reflection of his fierce and uncompromising nature, often used in scenes of brutal combat.
The Hound’s axe is more than just a weapon; it is a symbol of his internal struggle and his journey from a ruthless killer to a more complex, if still deeply flawed, character. Its heavy, menacing design mirrors The Hound’s own imposing presence and strength.
Vikings – Ragnar Lothbrok’s Axe
In the TV series Vikings, Ragnar Lothbrok, portrayed by Travis Fimmel, wields a distinctive axe that becomes one of his most recognizable symbols. The axe is a traditional Viking weapon, featuring a broad blade and a wooden handle, designed for both combat and everyday use.
Ragnar’s axe is deeply tied to his identity as a warrior and a leader. It accompanies him through many battles and significant moments in the series, representing his ambitions, his struggles, and his legacy. The craftsmanship and historical accuracy of the axe add to its authenticity and appeal.
The Hobbit Trilogy – Thorin Oakenshield’s Axe
In The Hobbit trilogy, another creation of Peter Jackson, Thorin Oakenshield, played by Richard Armitage, wields a fearsome axe named Orcrist. This weapon, along with his sword, is crucial in his quest to reclaim the Lonely Mountain and restore his kingdom.
Thorin’s axe is intricately designed, reflecting the grandeur of the dwarven heritage and their skill in weapon-making. It serves not just as a weapon but as a symbol of Thorin’s royal lineage and his determination to lead his people to victory.
American Psycho – Patrick Bateman’s Axe
In American Psycho (2000), Christian Bale’s character Patrick Bateman uses an axe in one of the film’s most infamous scenes. Bateman, a psychopathic Wall Street executive, murders his colleague Paul Allen with a polished, chrome-plated axe, delivering a chilling monologue before the act.
The axe in American Psycho is a stark symbol of Bateman’s deranged mind and his capacity for violence. Its clean, almost sterile appearance contrasts sharply with the gruesome nature of his crimes, emphasizing the disturbing duality of his character.
Friday The 13th – Jason Voorhees’ Axe
Jason Voorhees, the infamous antagonist of the Friday the 13th franchise, is synonymous with brutal and relentless violence. Among his arsenal of deadly tools, the axe stands out as one of his most iconic weapons. Introduced in the early sequels of the series, the axe became a symbol of Jason’s unyielding and savage nature. Whether it’s the unforgettable image of Jason crashing through a door or the chilling moments when he raises the axe high before delivering a fatal blow, the weapon encapsulates the terror and inevitability that his character brings to the screen.
The axe’s significance in the Friday the 13th films goes beyond its role as a mere instrument of death. It represents the raw and primal fear that Jason embodies. Unlike more sophisticated weapons, the axe is a tool of pure, unadulterated force, reflecting Jason’s own unstoppable and primitive drive to kill. The sheer brutality of the axe attacks in the series amplifies the horror, making it clear that Jason is a force of nature, not to be reasoned with or escaped. Each swing of the axe serves as a reminder of the unstoppable menace lurking behind the iconic hockey mask, solidifying the axe’s place in horror movie history.
Conclusion
Axes in movies and TV shows are more than mere props; they are potent symbols of the characters who wield them and the stories they inhabit. From the psychological horror of The Shining to the epic fantasy of The Lord of the Rings and the historical drama of Braveheart, these axes have left an indelible mark on popular culture. Each one carries its own narrative weight, embodying themes of power, survival, heritage, and madness. As tools of destruction and symbols of resilience, these famous axes continue to captivate audiences and enrich the stories they help to tell.