'The Italian Job' Bus Scene at the De La Warr Pavilion

‘The Italian Job’ Bus Scene at the De La Warr Pavilion

Few movie scenes are as legendary as the daring bus chase in ‘The Italian Job.’ So, imagine my surprise finding a real-life mock-up of this classic movie scene at the De La Warr Pavilion in Bexhill. This installation, blending film nostalgia with modern art, is crafted by Royal Academician Richard Wilson and aptly named ‘Hang On A Minute Lads, I’ve Got a Great Idea.’ So, glimpse some snapshots from my visit to the exhibit below.

The Plot of ‘The Italian Job’

‘The Italian Job,’ a British heist film from 1969 directed by Peter Collinson, features Michael Caine as Charlie Croker, the mastermind leading a group of skilled criminals in a gold heist in Turin, Italy. Among its many memorable moments, the film features an iconic bus chase that has become a hallmark of cinematic history. While attempting to dodge the Italian police, the gang seized a bus, using it as their getaway vehicle to flee with the stolen gold.

The Famous Bus Scene in ‘The Italian Job’

The bus chase scene, famous for its innovative cinematography and suspenseful narrative, culminates in a heart-stopping moment as the bus teeters over a cliff with the gold they stole near one end of the bus and the robbers at the other. The scene creates a tense and unforgettable climax that epitomises the film’s blend of action and wit. Michael Caine’s character ponders how to retrieve the gold, which is slipping further away. Eventually, he declares, “Hang On A Minute Lads, I’ve Got a Great Idea.” And with that, the film concludes! This iconic scene has made a lasting impression on audiences and filmmakers, solidifying “The Italian Job” as a timeless classic in British cinema.

'The Italian Job' Bus Scene on the roof of the De La Warr Pavilion

About Richard Wilson RA

Richard Wilson RA is a renowned British artist celebrated for his innovative and thought-provoking works. Born in 1953 in London, Wilson has established himself as a leading figure in contemporary art, known for pushing the boundaries of sculpture and installation. Throughout his career, he has delved into themes of space, perception, and the interplay between art and its surroundings. Moreover, Wilson’s ability to challenge traditional artistic norms has earned him international acclaim and recognition in the art world.

Immersing in Cinematic History: The Art Installation by Richard Wilson

Furthermore, Wilson erected the installation ‘Hang On A Minute Lads, I’ve Got A Great Idea’ on top of the De La Warr Pavillion, Bexhill, in 2012. It’s a captivating tribute to Michael Caine’s iconic closing line in the movie. Additionally, this ambitious artwork reinterprets the dramatic bus scene, enabling visitors to observe the cliffhanging bus in its full-scale glory. Through precise attention to detail, Wilson immerses viewers in cinematic history, providing a new lens to explore the fusion of art and popular culture.