Pop culture references are everywhere in movies and TV shows, but some may be more hidden than others. In this article, we explore 10 references you may have missed. From the classic movie “Groundhog Day” in the Netflix series “Russian Doll,” to “The Matrix” in an episode of “Futurama,” these references provide a fun way for fans to connect and find new meaning in familiar material. Other nods include “The Shining” in “Toy Story,” “Full Metal Jacket” in “The X-Files,” and “The Little Prince” in “Lost.” Whether it’s a subtle reference or an overt homage, pop culture is a common language that brings us together.
10 Pop Culture References in Movies and TV Shows You May Have Missed
Pop culture references are everywhere you look in movies and TV shows. From nods to classic literature and film, to using popular songs and celebrity cameos, pop culture is all around us. Sometimes these references are easy to spot, while others are more hidden. Here are 10 references you may have missed.
1. “Groundhog Day” in “Russian Doll”
The Netflix series “Russian Doll” follows a character who is stuck in a time loop, reliving the same day over and over again. This premise is reminiscent of the classic movie “Groundhog Day” starring Bill Murray. The show not only pays tribute to the movie, but also explores similar themes of self-reflection and personal growth.
2. “The Shining” in “Toy Story”
In “Toy Story,” the character Sid has a carpet in his room that features the iconic hexagonal pattern from “The Shining.” This symbol is prominently featured in the movie as a representation of the labyrinthine nature of the Overlook Hotel.
3. “Full Metal Jacket” in “The X-Files”
One episode of “The X-Files” features a character named Private William Heath who is modeled after the character Private Pyle from the film “Full Metal Jacket.” The episode “Die Hand Die Verletzt” even includes a nod to the movie’s famous boot camp line, “What is your major malfunction, numbnuts?”
4. “The Godfather” in “Breaking Bad”
The critically acclaimed series “Breaking Bad” frequently references “The Godfather,” particularly in its portrayal of the criminal underworld. The character Gus Fring is often compared to the iconic character Vito Corleone, and even shares a similar shooting style.
5. “The Graduate” in “Wayne’s World 2”
In “Wayne’s World 2,” the character Cassandra is seen riding a motorcycle across a bridge in a scene that references the iconic final scene of “The Graduate.” The scene includes the same song, “The Sound of Silence,” and a similar camera angle.
6. “Blade Runner” in “The Simpsons”
In an episode of “The Simpsons,” Bart is seen running through a futuristic cityscape that is lifted straight from the film “Blade Runner.” The episode “Lisa’s Wedding” takes place in 2010, which was still in the future when the episode aired in 1995.
7. “Star Wars” in “Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom”
At the end of “Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom,” the character Indiana Jones is seen fleeing a temple while pursued by a large boulder. This scene is a direct reference to “Star Wars: Episode IV – A New Hope,” in which the character Luke Skywalker must also outrun a similar boulder.
8. “The Little Prince” in “Lost”
The book “The Little Prince” is featured heavily in the TV series “Lost,” particularly in the character of Claire Littleton. The story helps to explore themes of childhood, imagination, and the search for meaning.
9. “Hitchcock” in “The Office”
The episode “Pool Party” of “The Office” features a subplot in which the character Dwight tries to recreate a scene from Alfred Hitchcock’s “Psycho” by hiding in a shower to scare his coworkers. The scene is shot and edited to emulate the iconic shower scene from the movie.
10. “The Matrix” in “Futurama”
In an episode of “Futurama,” the characters are shown living in a virtual reality world that is a direct reference to “The Matrix.” The episode “Anthology of Interest II” explores the concept of simulated reality and the idea that we may not be living in the real world.
Pop culture references are a fun way for movies and TV shows to pay homage to classic works and provide a common language for audiences. By including hidden references, these works allow fans to find new meaning in familiar material and connect with each other over shared interests. These 10 references are just a small selection of the countless pop culture nods hidden throughout the entertainment world.
