There were over 250 special invited guests to this private affair including your friends at Helmet Hut who produced the vintage helmets that were worn in the movie. They brought some of their vintage Syracuse helmets with them to get autographed. Can you imagine helmet guys finally getting to actually walk the “red carpet” with the leading stars of the movie such as Dennis Quaid and Rob Brown? The fashion reporters roved the carpet asking the dignitaries and movie stars to describe their outfits, accessories and who designed them. Perhaps not fully understanding the nature of the question, the Helmet Hut guys, still clutching their now signed vintage helmet treasures, proudly replied “early Riddell, flared sides, burnt orange hue, navy trim with genuine leather appointments.”

Helmet Hut vintage helmets were predominately displayed throughout the entire film. The helmets may not have been as critical to the plot of “The Express” as say “Bruce” the mechanical shark was to the movie “Jaws.” However, the Helmet Hut attendees may have been just as thrilled and proud as the shark designers were after seeing, for the very first time, how much realism their finished product contributed to the movie.

It was also a perfect opportunity for guests to visit the new “Helmet Wall of Fame” that stunningly encircles the HOF’s recently expanded gift shop. The display features over 40 vintage Helmet Hut reproductions of helmets worn by former Heisman winners.