The Tarot Card, with its rich symbolism and mystical allure, has captivated audiences for centuries. Its presence in movies and television adds an element of intrigue, magic, and suspense to storytelling. Whether used as a plot device, a tool for character development, or a means of foreshadowing, Tarot cards and readers have left an indelible mark on the world of cinema and television. In this article, we will explore the appearance of Tarot in movies and television, delving into five notable films and five captivating television shows that feature Tarot cards or characters who are Tarot readers.
5 Movies Which Tarot Cards Are In
- “The Magician” (1958): Directed by Ingmar Bergman, “The Magician” is a Swedish film that explores themes of illusion, reality, and existentialism. The story follows a traveling magician named Albert Emanuel Vogler, who uses Tarot cards as part of his act to mesmerize audiences. The Tarot cards serve as a symbolic representation of Vogler’s manipulation of perception and reality, blurring the lines between truth and deception.
- “Live and Let Die” (1973): In this James Bond film, directed by Guy Hamilton, Tarot cards play a pivotal role in the plot. The villain, Dr. Kananga, uses a deck of Tarot cards to predict the fate of his enemies and manipulate their actions. The appearance of the Tarot cards adds an element of mystique and danger to the story, as Bond must decipher their cryptic messages to uncover Dr. Kananga’s plans.
- “The Ninth Gate” (1999): Directed by Roman Polanski, “The Ninth Gate” is a psychological thriller that revolves around rare books and occult mysteries. The protagonist, played by Johnny Depp, is hired to authenticate a rare book that is rumored to contain the secret to summoning the devil. Throughout the film, Tarot cards are used as a means of divination and guidance, leading the protagonist on a perilous journey into the realm of the supernatural.
- “The Love Witch” (2016): Directed by Anna Biller, “The Love Witch” is a stylish and satirical homage to 1960s pulp horror films. The protagonist, a beautiful and enigmatic witch named Elaine, uses Tarot cards as part of her seductive spells and rituals to ensnare unsuspecting men. The Tarot cards serve as a visual motif throughout the film, reflecting the protagonist’s manipulation of love and desire.
- “Now You See Me” (2013): In this heist thriller directed by Louis Leterrier, a group of illusionists known as the “Four Horsemen” use Tarot cards as part of their elaborate magic acts. The Tarot cards are used to predict the outcome of their audacious heists and to leave clues for their pursuers. The appearance of the Tarot cards adds an element of mystery and suspense to the film, as the characters must decipher their hidden meanings to unravel the Four Horsemen’s plans.
5 Television Shows Which Tarot Cards Are In
- “Penny Dreadful” (2014-2016): Created by John Logan, “Penny Dreadful” is a Gothic horror series that weaves together classic literary characters and supernatural themes. The character Vanessa Ives, played by Eva Green, is a skilled Tarot reader who uses her intuitive abilities to navigate the dark and dangerous world of Victorian London. Tarot cards are featured prominently throughout the series, serving as a conduit for spiritual guidance and prophetic visions.
- “Twin Peaks” (1990-1991, 2017): Created by David Lynch and Mark Frost, “Twin Peaks” is a cult classic mystery drama that follows FBI Special Agent Dale Cooper as he investigates the murder of high school student Laura Palmer in the fictional town of Twin Peaks. Tarot cards make several appearances in the series, including a memorable scene in which the character Audrey Horne has her Tarot cards read by the enigmatic Log Lady.
- “American Horror Story: Coven” (2013-2014): The third season of the anthology series “American Horror Story,” subtitled “Coven,” revolves around a coven of witches in New Orleans. The character Fiona Goode, played by Jessica Lange, is a powerful witch who uses Tarot cards to divine the future and manipulate events to her advantage. The Tarot cards serve as a symbol of the characters’ connection to the supernatural and their quest for power and immortality.
- “True Detective” (2014): Created by Nic Pizzolatto, “True Detective” is a crime anthology series that explores dark and existential themes through the lens of police investigations. In the first season, detectives Rust Cohle and Marty Hart, played by Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson, investigate a series of ritualistic murders in Louisiana. Tarot cards are featured prominently in the investigation, serving as a clue to the killer’s motives and identity.
- “The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina” (2018-2020): Based on the Archie Comics series of the same name, “The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina” follows the titular character Sabrina Spellman, a teenage witch navigating the challenges of high school and the supernatural world. In several episodes, Tarot cards are used as a means of divination and guidance by Sabrina and other characters, reflecting the series’ themes of magic, fate, and destiny.
The appearance of Tarot in movies and television adds a layer of mystique, symbolism, and intrigue to storytelling. Whether used as a plot device, a tool for character development, or a means of foreshadowing, Tarot cards and readers play a significant role in shaping the narrative and exploring themes of fate, destiny, and the supernatural. From classic films to cult television shows, Tarot continues to captivate audiences with its timeless allure and enigmatic symbolism, inviting viewers to delve into the mysteries of the unknown.