The helicopter footage shot for The Shining’s title sequence was originally intended to be used only for that sequence. For the later sequence where Jack Torrance returns to The Overlook with Wendy and Danny, Kubrick had originally planned to use a series of ground-based shots showing the yellow Volkswagen towing a small trailer with the family’s possessions. Those shots were filmed by the 2nd unit crew, but during the editing process, Kubrick decided not to use them. He instead made use of more of the footage that had been shot for the title sequence. Many have speculated as to how the Torrance family could have possibly brought all the luggage shown in the hotel’s lobby when they arrive. This explanation answers that question.

This behind-the-scenes photo from The Shining’s 2nd Unit shows camera operator Jeff Blyth, Jeff’s wife, and their camera assistant. The three doubled for the Torrance family in the many unused shots of the car, and are wearing costumes from the film.

Note their “Tony” finger poses.

(photo courtesy Jeff Blyth)