MC Escher's Impact

"Relativity" by M.C. Escher

In 2015, the third installment of the "Night at the Museum" trilogy, "Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb,"" chose to use Escher's "Relativity" as inspiration for their movie poster and scenes. One scene features characters running around a set based on "Relativity.""

"Relativity" has been used as inspiration for many bodies of work in the film industry. Out of Escher's many works, it is the most directly and indirectly influential piece in popular culture, including movies, cartoons, video games and even an unofficial LEGO version.

"Labyrinth" (1986)

In this movie, Jim Henson's musical features an adventure about a young girl saving her younger brother from the Goblin King. This film features a stairwell based on "Relativity" in the film's most climactic scene. Alongside, a copy of the image "Relativity" can also be found on the main character's bedroom wall.

"Contact" (1997)

Based on Carl Sagan's novel, this science fiction drama's quest is centered around the protagonists making first contact with alien life they had just discovered. In the beginning of the film, there is a transport pod which bares a striking resemblance to Escher's "Cube with Magic Ribbons.""

"The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring" (2001)

In Peter Jackson's movie adaptation of J.R.R. Tolkien's famous fantasy trilogy, the fellowship explores the Mines of Moria which bare a striking resemblance to Escher's "Procession in Crypt.""