I saw “Twisters” last night. It’s fine, as far as nostalgia-based sequels go, though flawed. It also has a lot of Stellantis muscle—one main character tools around in a Ram TRX, and there are Durangos—I think with Hemis—aplenty, as well.
So, I need to ask you, which movie, made either for the big screen or TV, has the best automotive product placement? Let’s separate this from TV shows, since long-running series made stars of cars like James Rockford’s Firebird or the Ferrari 308 from Magnum, P.I. Heck, there was an entire series premised around the Dodge Viper.
No, let’s stick with movies (again, whether for the big screen or small) for this one. Obviously the first “Twister” plays a role in this QOTD—more on that below—but there are other movies that pop to mind.
The DeLorean in the “Back to the Future” movies. Aston Martins and BMWs in James Bond films. And so on and so forth.
If you’re feeling a sense of déjà vu, Steph wrote a similar QOTD almost seven years ago, and he also referenced the Dodge Ram in the first “Twister.” That said, that was a long time ago, with new movies being produced since then, so I figured I’d give y’all a chance to update your choices.
A Look Back at Iconic Automotive Product Placements
Back to the Future (1985): The DeLorean DMC-12, with its gull-wing doors and stainless steel body, became an iconic symbol of 1980s pop culture thanks to its starring role as a time machine. The car’s futuristic design and the film’s success cemented its place in automotive and cinematic history.
James Bond Series: The Bond films have featured numerous luxurious and high-performance vehicles over the decades. Aston Martin is perhaps the most synonymous with 007, with models like the DB5 appearing in multiple films. More recently, BMW entered the Bond universe with models like the Z3 and 750iL showcasing advanced gadgets and sleek designs.
Transformers Series: The Chevrolet Camaro gained renewed fame as Bumblebee, the beloved Autobot. This product placement not only highlighted the Camaro’s aggressive styling and performance but also linked the car to a character with a strong emotional connection for fans.
Iron Man (2008): Tony Stark’s garage is a car enthusiast’s dream, featuring models like the Audi R8. The film helped position Audi as a brand synonymous with innovation, luxury, and cutting-edge technology.
Twister (1996): The original “Twister” featured a red Dodge Ram that became an unexpected hero. The truck’s ruggedness and capability were highlighted as it powered through severe weather, adding to its allure and desirability.
The Impact of Automotive Product Placement
Product placement in movies does more than just advertise a vehicle; it often shapes the public’s perception of the brand and model. Cars featured in popular films can become cultural icons, influencing consumer preferences and boosting sales. These appearances often highlight a vehicle’s key features—performance, luxury, durability—in an engaging and memorable way.
Why It Matters
Automotive product placement resonates with viewers because cars are more than just transportation; they’re often extensions of the characters themselves. A well-chosen car can complement a character’s personality, enhance the storyline, and create a lasting impression on the audience. When done right, these placements can lead to iconic moments in film history.
Your Turn
Now it’s your turn. What movie do you think has the best automotive product placement? Is it the sleek elegance of an Aston Martin in a Bond film? The nostalgic appeal of the DeLorean in “Back to the Future”? Or perhaps a more recent example from a blockbuster? Sound off below and let us know your thoughts.
