Unraveling the Mystery of the Three Seashells in ‘Demolition Man’

As we look back on the 31st anniversary of the release of ‘Demolition Man’, the iconic action and science fiction film starring Sylvester Stallone, Sandra Bullock, and Wesley Snipes, one particular detail continues to captivate fans: the infamous three seashells used in the futuristic bathroom.

“I happened to be on the toilet”

Daniel Waters, co-writer of the screenplay for ‘Demolition Man’, was the mastermind behind the concept of the three seashells in the script. It’s only fitting that he sheds light on their origin. However, the story behind it is far from glamorous, as it turns out that credit is due to fellow screenwriter Larry Karaszewski (‘Ed Wood’). Here’s how they explain it:

Waters: “I was trying to think of futuristic things, what would be funny to find in a bathroom instead of toilet paper? I needed something, so I called up my friend Larry Karaszewski, the writer of ‘Ed Wood’ and ‘The People vs. Larry Flynt’. Coincidentally, Larry was on the toilet, and I said: Come on, you’re in the bathroom and you need something.”

Karaszewski: “I had three seashells next to the toilet in a jumble of things.”

Waters: “Perfect.”

Unfortunately, Waters has no intention of clarifying how exactly these three seashells are used. Nevertheless, the mystery adds to the humor and leaves us in the same perplexed state as Stallone’s character.

The closest we get to an explanation is Sandra Bullock’s tongue-in-cheek response during the promotional campaign for ‘Gravity’ when an MTV reporter inquired about the seashells. She quipped:

“Well, think of a bidet, okay? There are different processes. You have number one, you have number two, and then the cleanup. The seashells can also be used as little maracas. See, it’s a musical instrument and a hygiene item! It was obvious. It was obvious to me when I read it. I thought you were a smart man, but obviously that’s not the case.”

In the end, the hero John Spartan’s practical solution to avoiding their use altogether seems to be the best approach if faced with that situation in the future: fines.

Conclusion

As we delve into the quirky world of ‘Demolition Man’, the enigmatic three seashells continue to baffle and amuse fans, adding a unique charm to the film that has stood the test of time.

FAQs

1. What inspired the concept of the three seashells in ‘Demolition Man’?

The idea was born out of a brainstorming session between co-writers Daniel Waters and Larry Karaszewski, who sought a futuristic alternative to toilet paper.

2. How did Sandra Bullock humorously explain the use of the three seashells?

Bullock likened them to a bidet, with different functions for each shell, including a musical twist.

3. Why did the writers choose to leave the functionality of the three seashells ambiguous?

The ambiguity adds to the comedic appeal of the film, leaving audiences to ponder the mystery on their own.

4. What was John Spartan’s solution to avoid using the three seashells?

John Spartan opts for fines as a way to bypass the peculiar bathroom utensils in the futuristic world of ‘Demolition Man’.

5. Who were the main actors in ‘Demolition Man’?

The film starred Sylvester Stallone, Sandra Bullock, and Wesley Snipes in lead roles.

Tags

Cinemarecap, Sylvester Stallone, Sandra Bullock, Wesley Snipes, Demolition Man, Science Fiction, Action