Franchise continuations like Jurassic World: Dominion and Obi-Wan Kenobi use plenty of callbacks to remind audiences of the originals that made them fans in the first place, optimizing the use of nostalgia. But, there is one technique perhaps most effective and important when it comes to remembering epic films: quotes.
From the Jedis’ “may the Force be with you” to Dorothy’s “I have a feeling we’re not in Kansas anymore,” quotes are one of the ways audiences remember and immortalize films that resonate with them. With the wide selection of great films out there, Ranker has taken to narrowing down the list to the greatest movie quotes of all time.
Note: Ranker lists are live and continue to accrue votes, so some rankings may have changed after this publishing.
Sudden Impact (1983)
“Go ahead, make my day.”
Sudden Impact is the fourth film in the Clint Eastwood-starring Dirty Harry series. Following inspector Harry Callahan as he tracks down and later teams up with a wronged victim-turned-serial-killer, the film is a gritty crime thriller that did not do as well as other films in the series.
However, the film rose to popularity due to Eastwood’s delivery of the famous line “Go ahead, make my day.” This quote is stated while Harry is diffusing a robbery-hostage situation. The high stakes and sheer confidence of the line make it famous among action lovers and fans of good lines alike.
The James Bond Universe
“Bond. James Bond.”
The James Bond franchise is one that keeps on delivering, with its latest addition being 2021’s No Time to Die. Many actors have played the role, from Sean Connery to Pierce Brosnan and, more recently, Daniel Craig. Although there have been some casting and thematic shifts, fans can still expect the same formulaic approach to the series.
Along with the usual action-packed thrill and suave style in the films, viewers will also remember the famous “Bond, James Bond” catchphrase inherent to the franchise. Not only has this line become a staple of most Bond films, it also shows how far the series has come whilst still retaining its original charm and heart.
The Princess Bride (1987)
“My name is Inigo Montoya. You killed my father. Prepare to die.”
A must-watch movie from the 80s, The Princess Bride is widely adored today as a cult classic fantasy film, blending genres with its interwoven themes of humor, romance, and action. Among its many admired scenes and quotes is one that stands above the rest when Inigo finally gets to duel with his father’s murderer.
Given all the buildup Inigo had before this scene, including establishing the importance of this vengeance and rehearsing the quote, this monumental moment is forever encapsulated within this beloved quote and has even been turned into a meme due to its popularity.
Gone With The Wind (1939)
“Frankly, my dear, I don’t give a damn.”
Gone With the Wind may not have aged well in all aspects; however, it still remains a popular classic for its timeless theme of tragic romance, regarded as one of the most epic love stories in movies. Despite its apparent outdated and regressive views, the film amassed wide acclaim upon its release and is considered one of the highest-grossing blockbusters of all times based on adjusted grosses (via Box Office Mojo).
The film’s most remembered and parodied line is the famous, “Frankly my dear, I don’t give a damn.” Delivered right near the film’s end, it portrays Rhett’s self-realization of his worth which comes at a very tragic time as Scarlett has finally discovered her true feelings – the epitome of terrible timing and the pains of love.
A Few Good Men (1992)
“You can’t handle the truth!”
A Few Good Men was an incredibly successful film, lauded for its ensemble cast’s great performances and the enthralling tale of marines in an intense court trial. Among many other fantastic things to come out of the film is the classic quote, “You can’t handle the truth!”
Jack Nicholson’s line delivery – combined with it being stated at the climax of the trial – makes the quote not only one of the most memorable ones in the movie but one of the greatest of all time. Plus, the versatility of the statement has helped it rise in popularity and parody.
The Star Wars Franchise
“May the force be with you.”
Star Wars is a franchise that started decades ago but is still rolling in its success, continuing its legacy with new additions and spin-offs, like the latest Obi-Wan Kenobi. Given its massive cinema-defining history and widespread influence, the film has quite a few scenes and lines that are known by almost everyone.
One such quote is, of course, the legendary “May the force be with you.” The phrase has stayed with the franchise from the beginning to the present, tying all its chapters together and serving as the ultimate callback in newer stories. It’s become a staple quote for most Star Wars fans – so much so that even May the 4th has adopted it.
Jaws (1975)
“You’re gonna need a bigger boat.”
Jaws is one of the earlier great-beast thrillers, depicting the tale of a small town beach being terrorized by a great white shark and a band of locals who are determined to put an end to it. The film itself was a blockbuster hit, winning over critics and audiences alike, and still being seen as one of the best shark movies.
The film’s famous “I think you’re going to need a bigger boat” is one of the most remembered and adored quotes of all time. The shark’s sudden appearance, mixed with Schneider’s pure shock as he delivers the line, makes it unforgettable – especially when paired with the crew’s real-life inside joke about needing the bigger boat.
Die Hard (1988)
“Yippee-ki-yay, ************.”
Whether or not Die Hard is a Christmas film is still up for debate, but a unanimous opinion about the film seems to be that it is one of the best action flicks out there. Die Hard was a blockbuster success upon release and is generally adored for its gripping, fast-paced story.
Bruce Willis’ performance of sheer heroism and perseverance makes this line not only one of his most iconic movie quotes but one of the greatest movie quotes of all time. Even when surrounded by danger and death, John McClane stands courageous in the face of adversity, with this phrase being his equivalent of giving the film’s villains a great big middle finger.
The Terminator (1984)
“I’ll be back.”
Widely regarded as one of the most memorable sci-fi films of all time, James Cameron’s Terminator depicted Arnold Schwarzenegger as the futuristic assassin sent back in time to prevent future catastrophe. The film was a massive success, leading to an eventual franchise.
Arnold’s most famous quote is repeated throughout the film, banking off the success of the original scene. The Terminator’s stoic delivery of this line, seconds before ruthlessly bursting through the police station with a car, makes the moment a very defining and memorable one in film history and easily one of the greatest quotes.
The Godfather (1972)
“I’m going to make him an offer he can’t refuse.”
When it comes to the greatest quotes of all time, Marlon Brando’s “I’m going to make him an offer he can’t refuse” takes the win. Playing the titular Godfather, Vito Corleone, Brando delivers the line with his trademark calm, poised yet powerful tone.
This monumental quote depicts the sheer power behind the Godfather’s corrupt politics and showcases his legacy when his son repeats the line later on. It perfectly encompasses everything The Godfather served as a commentary on and earned its numerous accolades and immense fame.
