The Movie
In the 1994 action movie “True Lies,” Arnold Schwarzenegger plays Harry Tasker, a secret agent who lives a double life as a computer salesman. In one of the movie’s most memorable scenes, Tasker commandeers a Harrier jump jet to pursue the film’s villains, leading to a thrilling aerial chase sequence.
The Harrier Jump Jet
The Harrier jump jet is a vertical and short takeoff and landing (V/STOL) aircraft that was first introduced in the late 1960s. It was designed by British company Hawker Siddeley and later produced by McDonnell Douglas. The Harrier is known for its ability to take off and land vertically, making it ideal for operations in confined spaces or rough terrain.
The Scene
In the scene from “True Lies,” Tasker is pursuing the villains in a limousine on a busy Miami freeway. When the villains escape onto a nearby bridge, Tasker spots a Harrier jump jet parked on a nearby airfield. He commandeers the aircraft and takes off vertically, narrowly avoiding a collision with a passenger plane.
The Chase
With the help of his co-pilot, played by Tom Arnold, Tasker pursues the villains in the Harrier through the streets of Miami, causing chaos and destruction along the way. The sequence features impressive aerial stunts and special effects, and remains one of the most memorable scenes from the movie.
The Legacy
The scene from “True Lies” has become iconic in the world of action movies, and is often cited as one of the greatest action sequences of all time. The use of a Harrier jump jet in the scene was particularly innovative, and has inspired many other movies and TV shows to feature the aircraft in their own action scenes.
Conclusion
Arnold Schwarzenegger’s portrayal of Harry Tasker in “True Lies” remains one of his most iconic roles, and the scene featuring the commandeering of a Harrier jump jet is one of the most memorable moments in action movie history. The legacy of the scene continues to inspire filmmakers and audiences alike, and serves as a testament to the enduring appeal of high-octane action sequences.