A 1939 Ford that featured in the groundbreaking movie “Who Framed Roger Rabbit,” is heading to auction.
Combining live-action and animation, the film is set in an alternate history Hollywood in 1947, where humans and cartoon characters, referred to as “toons,” co-exist.
The production was actually shot at Elstree Studios in London, with the car, a model 91A V8 t, appearing alongside Bob Hoskins in multiple scenes and the film’s promotional material.
One promo photograph shows Hoskins and Roger Rabbit standing by the car, while Roger’s sultry wife Jessica peers from inside.
Auctioneers Car & Classic say the vehicle made its way to the UK sometime in the 1960s.
“The 1980s saw the V8-powered sedan benefit from a lengthy restoration whilst spending time in a museum before its screen debut in 1988 in the hit movie that witnessed cartoon characters living alongside real people,” they said.
“The Ford’s art deco style body ensured it was the perfect prop in Toontown, near Los Angeles, the backdrop for the movie.
“It was a core element of the famous 40s iconography that gave the film its distinct, noir tone.”
The Disney-backed picture received critical acclaim and was praised for its successful mix of live action and animation and went on to win four Academy Awards alongside many other accolades.
After a bare-metal respray in the mid-80s ahead of its silver screen debut, the glossy black paint and trim remain in excellent, original condition, confirming the quality of the work.
Dale Vinten of Car & Classic says: “This is a Ford with a very special backstory, playing a key part in a movie that many will remember for its unique blend of actors – both real and cartoon.
“Today the car not only holds that appeal to fans of Roger, Jessica and Bob Hoskins, but it also is a very original pre-war Ford that benefits from subtle upgrades to enjoy and show for many years to come.
The five day auction starts on Aug. 19 with estimates that the car could sell for somewhere between $25,442 – $38,164.
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