good speeches from movies

The 30 Best Movie Inspirational Speeches

Cinema's most stirring oratories and spirit-raising team talks.

In times of trouble, you need a little help getting up and going, and film can often provide just that. Cinema has a long and storied history of providing great words of motivation and encouragement, sometimes for the characters' own benefit and occasionally to the audience. Here, we've chosen 30 of the best that should fit almost any occasion - but if you're really pressed for time, here are 40 condensed into a two-minute span { =nofollow}. If you have a little longer, read on!

Also: The 25 Best Movie Bollockings

The Great Dictator

Made at a time when the shadow of World War II was looming over Europe, Charlie Chaplin’s speech here – he’s playing a poor Jewish barber in disguise as a preening dictator and forced to address a Nuremberg-style rally – is a heartfelt plea for sanity and compassion in a time of madness. It’s the perfect antidote to extremism, and uses fiery rhetoric for good. If only we’d be able to pull this switcheroo in real life.

Buy The Great Dictator

Independence Day

Sure, there are cheesemongers with less cheese on offer than you see here and OK, the American jingoism doesn’t work at all for those of us not of a Yank disposition. But Bill Pullman’s slightly sheepish style blends here with steely determination, and he delivers the American St Crispin’s Day speech with conviction. Then, like any US President, he leaps into his fighter jet and flies off to battle aliens.

Buy Independence Day

For those who prefer a little humour in their motivational speeches, try the pitch-black streak in this opener, establishing Russell Crowe’s Maximus Decimus Meridius as a leader of men and a helluva guy. Galloping around the Legions in his cool armour and fur-lined cloak, you might question whether he really needs an entire army to back him up, but you’ll never doubt for a moment that they’d choose to follow him as he unleashes hell.

Buy Gladiator

Any Given Sunday

There’s a lot to be said for a little personal touch to leaven your high-flung rhetoric, and it’s a trick that Al Pacino uses well here, in the first of three American football speeches we’re going to include (hey, we can’t help it if the heavily-padded sport produces some great pep talks). Pacino’s troubled Tony D’Amato unveils his own problems with brutal honesty before using his own failures as a spur to rev on his team to greatness, speaking of team spirit and commitment as someone who has been known to suck at both.

Buy Any Given Sunday

Friday Night Lights

The film has been somewhat overshadowed nowadays by the equally good TV show that followed it, but watch Billy Bob Thornton here and be reminded that Kyle Chandler isn’t the only fundamentally decent man who can inspire a team of small-town boys to great efforts in pursuit of perfection. It’s also worth noting that he puts his emphasis here on excelling and not winning, making it clear that victory isn’t only measured by the scoreboard. Clear eyes, full hearts, can’t lose.

Buy Friday Night Lights

It is, and will probably always be, the greatest inspirational speech ever made. It’s endlessly flexible, and works even when not declaimed by the classically trained (see this Renaissance Man version for proof). And it’s by Shakespeare, still the best writer in Hollywood. We have, controversially perhaps, chosen Branagh’s version over Olivier’s because the latter sounds a little shrill to the modern ear, while Branagh convinces us that he could convince his men. This speech, given by the titular monarch to a vastly outnumbered force about to fight the French, obviously works especially well for English people, but by God, Harry and St George, it’s universal in its rousing effect.

Buy Henry V

This is a little-known film in the UK but it’s revered in certain communities in the US. Sean Astin’s Rudy has overcome dyslexia, poor grades and his relatively small stature to win a place on Notre Dame’s famous Fighting Irish American football team. Only problem is that he’s never been off the bench, and with his final game approaching he threatens to quit the team if he isn’t allowed to play – prompting this inspirational speech / telling off from a friend who points out that he’s being whiny and entitled and needs to grow a pair. Soon he’s back on the bench and given a starting position when his entire team threatens not to play unless he’s given a shot.

An honourable mention for Hector’s pep talk but Achilles wins the battle of the inspirational speeches just as he wins their duel (c’mon, that’s not a spoiler; it’s in the 2000 year-old Iliad). This is a short snippet, but then godlike Achilles, the man-killer, is a man of action rather than words. And what he does say – focusing on lions, glory and the manifold abilities of his small, hand-picked group of Myrmidons – would convince a rock to fight any Trojan who dared oppose it.

Animal House

Not every inspirational speech is about trying to inspire his cohorts to kill people or batter them up and down the length of a football field. Some aspire to a higher goal. Some aspire to debauchery, drinking and probably nudity. Some aspire to party like 1999 might have done had it tried harder. Some aspire to a particular kind of grubby, deranged greatness. One such is John Belushi’s Bluto, and this is the greatest night of his life.

Buy Animal House

The Goonies

Come the hour, cometh the man – and in this case the man is a small, asthmatic Sean Astin, inspiring his fellow Goonies to never say die and to keep going in their quest to find treasure and save their community. In his yellow rain slicker and with his voice on the edge of breaking he may not look like a modern Napoleon, but he has the same effect on his exhausted and discouraged troopers. He’s so good you’ll almost forget to laugh at his mentions of One-Eyed Willy. snigger

Buy The Goonies

The Lord Of The Rings: The Return Of The King

Death comes to us all, and Aragorn ain’t going to lie about it. But he still gees up his troops with the assurance that their civilisation will survive the onslaught of the forces of Mordor. Sure, they’re vastly outnumbered and sure, it seems likely that Frodo has failed in his quest to destroy the Ring in Mount Doom (especially if you’re watching the Extended Edition) but Viggo Mortensen’s Aragorn ensures that no one will be quitting any time soon. Not this day!

Buy The Lord Of The Rings: The Return Of The King

Bill Murray isn’t usually the guy you turn to for sincere, inspiring words of comfort. He’s more the type to puncture any attempt at same, and probably to fast-talk his opponents into giving up and going for a karaoke session while he’s about it. But after his heart grows two sizes during the course of Scrooged, he makes a plea for kindness and niceness from all mankind. He still does it in a recognisably Murray, manic and scattershot way, but that just makes him all the more compelling. Someone hire this man to play Santa Claus.

Buy Scrooged

Stirring sports speeches are limited to American Football. Miracle On Ice chronicles the based-on-truth tale of how the US Olympic hockey team triumphed over their Russian rivals. Kurt Russell's the speech-giver here, playing coach Herb Brooks. "Tonight, we are the greatest hockey team in the world," he tells them. You'll feel a swell of pride and inspiration too.

Rent Miracle

Deep Blue Sea

“You think water’s fast? You should see ice.” Samuel L. Jackson’s been around the block more than once, and he’s seen the worst of mankind. It’s with the weight of that history behind him that he takes charge and orders his fellow survivors of a marine disaster to start pulling together and quit arguing. His speech also has what is, unquestionably, the greatest punchline on this list. Still, it achieves the desired effect once everyone has quit screaming.

Buy Deep Blue Sea

If in doubt, steal from classical history, something that David Wenham’s Dilios demonstrates with aplomb here. In actual history, the one survivor of the 300 was so shamed by his survival that he executed a suicidal one-man attack on the Persians at this Battle of Plataea, but Wenham seems more in control and also like he has quite a bit of back-up. “The enemy outnumber us a paltry three-to-one,” notes Dilios triumphantly. Why, it was hardly worth the Persians turning up.

Good Will Hunting

Here’s an inspirational speech well-suited to highly-paid sports teams and the enormously talented. Ben Affleck’s argument is, basically, that if you’re lucky enough to get extraordinary chances in your life, it’s your duty to the rest of us schmoes to actually take those chances and run with them as far as you can. If you can get past the shellsuit and the hair, he’s basically Yoda-like in his wisdom.

Buy Good Will Hunting

Most people only remember the last word – “Freedom!” – but the rest of the speech is pretty killer too. Mel Gibson’s William Wallace starts off by puncturing his own legend, and acknowledges the urge to cut and run in the face of a far superior English force. But then he reminds his men what they’d be missing if they do, and soon they’re all back on side and facing down the hated English. By the end of this speech, you’ll all hate the English with them – even if you are one.

Buy Braveheart

Coach Carter

You’d expect the inspiration in this basketball film to come from the titular no-nonsense coach, played by a fiery Samuel L. Jackson. But in fact it’s one of his players who nabs the best lines, as he and the team sit studying to keep their grades as high as their scores. There is a little cheating here: Rick Gonzalez’ Timo actually steals his inspirational speech from Marianne Williamson (it’s sometimes wrongly attributed to Nelson Mandela) but he delivers it well so we’re going to allow it.

Buy Coach Carter

While it’s his skills in the ring that he is most lauded for, Rocky Balboa is something of a poet to boot. An incoherent one, certainly; a poet who says “I guess” a lot more often than Wordsworth might like, but a poet nevertheless. His moving words here, as he single-handedly ends the Cold War and ushers in a new era of East-West relations, are just one example. Another is…

Buy Rocky IV

Rocky Balboa

If his last speech was incoherent – in fairness, his rhythm may have been thrown off by the translator – this one verges on incomprehensible when he really gets going. Still, there’s real passion in Rocky’s plea for one last shot and an argument that’s applicable to all sorts of situations of institutional injustice or unfeeling bureaucracy.

Buy Rocky Balboa

Stand And Deliver

Those who've watched him on the modern Battlestar Galactica know that Edward James Olmos is a past master at giving speeches. This is him from a little earlier in his career, playing Jaime Escalante, a real-life teacher who inspired his students to stop dropping out and start taking calculus seriously. Here, he's handing out as pop quiz, so anyone having to home school their kids can take note.

Rent Stand And Deliver

Good Night, And Good Luck

This one is couched particularly at media moguls, but there’s a call for excellence and the highest moral standards here that we would all do well to live by. David Strathairn’s Edward R. Murrow, in a speech lifted directly from Murrow’s actual address to the Radio and Television News Directors Association in 1958, pleads for TV to inform as well as entertain. We feel that if more people saw this speech, Made In Chelsea would be cancelled immediately and reality TV would be banned, so spread the word!

Buy Good Night, And Good Luck

Anyone who has ever flirted with a romantic interest knows the risk of being knocked back, and Jon Favreau's Mike is experiencing a crisis of confidence. Luckily for him, he has Vince Vaughn's Trent to talk him back into the game, and Alex Désert's Charles to remind him that he's so money. He's a bear! And she's a bunny! Everything is going to be fine.

Buy Swingers

Charles Dutton’s second appearance on this list, after Rudy, sees him once again reminding lesser men (and women) to get with the programme, pull the finger out and generally stand up and be counted. But this time they’re facing unstoppable acid-blooded xenomorphs rather than American football players, so he has to be extra-emphatic.

Buy Alien 3

Pirates Of The Caribbean: At World’s End

Remarkably few women get to deliver inspirational speeches in movies – apparently they’re relegated to clapping admiringly from the sidelines. Thank goodness for Elizabeth Swan (Keira Knightley) who is elected King of the Pirates and rouses her troops into action for a last-ditch fight against the Lord Beckett’s overwhelming forces, led by the Flying Dutchman. She may not have quite the lungs of others on the list, but there’s no doubting her conviction as she calls for them to “Hoist the colours!” – the Jolly Roger – and sail out one last time.

Buy Pirates Of The Caribbean: At World’s End

The Replacements

One doesn’t expect lengthy speeches from Keanu “Woah” Reeves (although he’s done his share of Shakespeare actually) but he’s rarely more succinct and to the point than in this chat with his fellow Replacements. And in fact there are few speeches more likely to be effective in motivating an exhausted team for one last effort. “Chicks dig scars” could be used by virtually every example here to drive on the listeners.

Buy The Replacements

Bill Murray at it again, and once more an unconventional speech. This time out, he's John Winger, a loser who decides that he and best pal Russell Ziskey (Harold Ramis) will join the Army. Stuck with a group of oddballs, and, after a night of partying, decides to rally his fellow troops. It works... Sort of. But Murray's typically laconic style works well for the speech itself.

Rent or buy Stripes

The Lord Of The Rings: Return Of The King

All seems lost for Samwise Gamgee (Sean Astin again) and Frodo Baggins (Elijah Wood) as they lie, exhausted, on the slopes of Mount Doom. Frodo’s beyond endurance and raving as the influence of the Ring grows ever stronger on him, and his desperate straits drive Sam to one last push. It’s barely a speech, really – he uses his words better here – but there are few moments more inspirational.

Buy The Lord Of The Rings: Return of The King

The Shawshank Redemption

A quiet moment between Tim Robbins' Andy Dufresne and Morgan Freeman's Red became one of the more memorable moments in Shawshank , a movie with no shortage of them. And for those who are spending more time inside than perhaps they might be used to, Andy's musing on what he would do if he got out of prison are inspirational in themselves, even before he gets to that iconic line.

Rent The Shawshank Redemption

Avengers: Endgame

Steve Rogers, AKA Captain America, is not shy of breaking out speech mode when the moment calls for it. And inspiring the Avengers as they're about to embark on a trip through space and time to retrieve the Infinity Stones certainly seems like that moment. "Whatever it takes," indeed.

Rent Avengers: Endgame

32 Most Inspiring Speeches In Film History

There's nothing better to fire you up than an inspiring speech.

A lot of great speeches come from sports movies, but that's not the only genre that can make us want to run through walls. Some speeches are so good it has us rooting for the bad guys. Most are by the good guys though, and we'll follow those good guys anywhere. Here is our list of the most inspiring speeches in film history. 

Independence Day - President Witmore

President Thomas J. Whitmore's ( Bill Pullman ) speech in Independence Day has become one of the most iconic film moments of the last 50 years. While the movie can be polarizing, some people can't get enough of it, others hope to never see it again. Still, it's hard to find anyone who truly hates the speech and that moment in the film. If you ever find yourself fighting against annihilation by a bunch of E.T.s, this is the speech for you. 

The Hunt For Red October - Captain Ramius

If you thought you could never get fired up about the Soviet Union picking a fight on the United States during the Cold War, check it out. When Captain Marko Ramius ( Sean Connery ) tells his crew that the salad days of the Cold War are not behind them, and the United States will "tremble again - at the sound of our silence," it makes you want to stand up and fight for communism. At least for a brief moment. 

Any Given Sunday (Coach D'Amato)

It's used at almost every professional football game in America, almost every Sunday, because in Any Given Sunday , Coach D'Amato implores his team and the rest of us to claw for every inch we can. It might not be Pacino's most award-winning role, but that scene... that scene is some of his finest and most enduring work. 

Gladiator (Maximus)

"My name is Maximus Decimus Meridius." If those words don't immediately fire you up, it's time to check for a pulse. Audiences spend most of Gladiator waiting for Maximus ( Russell Crowe ) to finally get his revenge on that conniving Commodus ( Joaquin Phoenix ) and finally we get it. Maximus will have his vengeance, in this life or the next.

Friday Night Lights (Coach Gaines)

In Friday Night Lights , Coach Gaines ( Billy Bob Thornton ) tells us how to be perfect. It has nothing to do with the final score, or winning. It's about how we treat each other and ourselves. It's about telling the truth and not letting anyone down. Live in the moment, "with joy in your heart." That's what makes us perfect. The swelling music by Explosions in the Sky only adds to the drama of the moment. 

While he doesn't say "Clear Eyes, Full Hearts, Can't Lose," (that comes from the TV show), he does mention his clear eyes and his full heart and afterward, none of us lose. 

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Henry V (Henry V)

It's not just one of the most inspiring speeches in film history, it's one of the most famous speeches in human history. When William Shakespeare wrote the words to the famous St. Crispin's Day Speech in Henry V , he could not have known that it would be used for centuries afterward to inspire men. For we few, we lucky few, we can watch the speech brilliantly delivered by Kenneth Branagh in one of his finest roles , in his film version from 1989. 

Animal House (Bluto)

"Was it over when the Germans bombed Pearl Harbor?" Of course it wasn't! Bluto (John Belushi) does a lot to inspire the brothers of the Delta house in Animal House but nothing more so than his speech after "Wormer dropped the big one" and suspended the fraternity. Instead of wallowing in self-pity, the men of Delta are inspired to have the best time of their lives, and Wormer? He's a dead man! Marmalard? Dead! Niedermeyer...

Gone With The Wind (Scarlett O'Hara)

Scarlett O'Hara (Vivien Leigh) is not the most sympathetic movie character of all time. In fact, she ranks close to the bottom in that category, but you can't deny the power of her speech just before the end of the first part of the movie. Her family's plantation, Tara, is in shambles, her mother is dead, and her father has lost his mind. When all hope is lost, she promises herself she will fix it, and she will "never be hungry again."

Barbie (Gloria)

It's truly a show-stopping moment in Barbie when Gloria ( America Ferrera ) lays out what it's like to be a woman in today's world. The entire essence of the movie's message is summed up in that brilliant speech. It makes everyone want to jump up on their feet and applaud. It's a moment that will forever live in cinema history. 

Good Will Hunting (Sean Maguire)

It's not just the words that matter. It takes a special actor to deliver a speech like Sean Maguire's in Good Will Hunting . Thankfully there was the great Robin Williams. In a speech that is meant to devastate and inspire Will (Matt Damon), Williams tells him everything he is doing wrong but manages to show him how he can fix it, and open up an entirely new world for himself. It's cutting and loving. And brilliant. "Your move, chief."

Lord Of The Rings: Return Of The King (Aragorn)

Like so many other battle scenes in movies, Aragorn's (Viggo Mortensen) speech at the Black Gates in Lord Of The Rings: Return Of The King has us willing to fight to the death with our fellow soldiers. There is nothing like a leader riding back and forth on horse inspiring his troops. 

Braveheart (William Wallace)

Always remember, that no matter how badly you are treated by a tyrannical English king, he can never take your freedom! William Wallace (Mel Gibson) brilliantly reminds us of that in Braveheart . While it's easy to mock the poor history telling in the movie (and we argue if it was really one of the best movies of 1995 ), you can never say that the speech Wallace gives before the biggest battle in the movie won't have you ready to take on the entire British Empire. 

Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End (Elizabeth)

Speeches made by leaders to inspire men in battle aren't unique in movies. What makes the speech unique in Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End is that the speech is made by a woman. Elizabeth's (Keira Knightly) speech isn't a lot different than a lot of its ilk, but it's more inspiring to hear it from a woman because we've never heard that before. So hoist the colors! 

Stripes (John Winger)

John Winger (Bill Murray) is the biggest misfit in a platoon filled with them in Stripes . He's the least likely to inspire the rest with a razzle-dazzle speech firing them up, yet that's exactly what he does before their graduation from boot camp. Bill Murray has some of the best lines in movie history, and this speech is near the top of them. 

Miracle (Herb Brooks)

"Great moments are born from great opportunity." That is something we can all stand to remember. In Miracle , Herb Brooks inspires his rag-tag team of college kids to defeat maybe the greatest hockey team ever assembled in the Soviet National Team at the 1980 Winter Olympics. The movie is based on a true story and while it's impossible to know exactly with the real Brooks said, if it was anywhere close to what Russell delivers, it's no surprise we all believe in miracles today. 

Rocky IV (Rocky Balboa)

The Cold War inspired a lot of movies, even sports movies like Rocky IV . Early in the Rocky series, Rocky Balboa (Sylvester Stallone) wasn't a man of many words, but at the end of Rocky IV , he finds some of the most inspiring words of the whole series, imploring all of us to get along, despite our differences. 

Swingers (Trent)

What's a good friend if not someone to pep you up when you're feeling low? That's exactly who Trent (Vince Vaughn) is to Mike (Jon Favreau) in Swingers . Not only does he take him to Vegas for a night of fun, on the way home, after the trip doesn't pep Mike up as much as it should, Trent explains exactly why Mike is so money, and he doesn't even know it. 

Network (Howard Beale)

It's scary just how much a movie like Network , released almost 50 years ago is still so relevant. We don't need Howard Beale (Peter Finch) to tell us just how bad things are, we just need to him to inspire us to go to the window, open the window and yell to the world that we're not going to take it anymore! 

The Goonies (Mikey)

"The Goonies never say die!" When all seems lost in the Goonies quest to rescue their neighborhood from developers, Mikey (Sean Astin) reminds them all exactly how far they've come in the quest for One-Eyed Willie's gold. We don't get a lot of inspirational speeches from kids, but when we do, we love them. 

Clueless (Cher)

When Cher (Alicia Silverstone) compares her garden party to a refugee crisis, your inclination is to think she's an airhead. But like so many before and after her, there is kind of a subtle brilliance to her thought process. She takes what she knows and uses that to find the emotion we should all feel for her side of the argument. 

Milk (Harvey Milk)

Milk , based on the true story of Harvey Milk (Sean Penn), is inspiring in and of itself, but Milk's speech on the steps of San Fransisco City Hall at the Gay Pride Rally is a masterpiece. 

Troy (Achilles)

In another classic example of a military leader inspiring his troops, Achilles' (Brad Pitt) speech reminding his men that they are lions, is enough to get anyone to storm the beaches of Troy. There's a reason the story has been told for thousands of years. 

Norma Rae (Norma Rae)

The best thing about Norma Rae's (Sally Field, in one of her best roles ) speech in Norma Rae is that the most important word isn't spoken at all. She simply holds up a sign that says "Union" in the middle of her sweatshop. That's all she needs to "say" to get everyone in the textile mill to agree. It's brilliant. 

We Are Marshall (Jack Lengyel)

We Are Marshall tells the tragic and heroic story of the 1971 Marshall University football team. At the end of the 1970 season, a plane carrying most of the team and its coaches crashed in North Carolina. Before the start of the next season, the new coach, Jack Lengyel (Matthew McConaughey) makes a speech at a memorial for some of the lost players and what he says about never forgetting the past but looking to the future will bring a tear to anyone's eyes.

Legally Blonde (Elle Woods)

More than 20 years after the first Legally Blonde movie was released Elle Woods (Reese Witherspoon) continues to inspire us. With an address like the one she makes at the end of the movie, as she's graduating, it's easy to see why. "You must always have faith in people. And most importantly, you must always have faith in yourself."

Avengers: Endgame (Captain America)

In a room full of superheroes, leave it to Captain America to make the hype speech. In Avengers: Endgame , that's exactly when Cap (Chris Evans) psyches the cadre up for their mission to reverse the Snap. "Whatever it takes."

Hoosiers (Norman Dale)

When tiny Hickman High School makes it to the Indiana State Basketball Finals, they are facing a huge school, in a huge arena. Coach Norman Dale (Gene Hackman) takes only a minute or so to lay out what will make them successful, and a minute is all he needs. It's why Hoosiers one of the best sports movies ever made. 

Rudy (Rudy)

The speech in Rudy is a little different. Rudy really has no audience, save for one person, but that doesn't stop him from delivering a first-rate speech that any Notre Dame alum gets goosebumps when they hear it, including the parts he lifted from the great Knute Rockne.

Juno (Mac MacGuff)

When Juno MacGuff (Elliot Page) is wondering what her future holds, her father Mac MacGuff (J.K. Simmons) explains simply and succinctly, "The best thing you can do is find a person who loves you for exactly what you are." We couldn't have said it better ourselves. 

Stand And Deliver (Jaime Escalante) 

Jaime Escalante (Edward James Olmos) is a no-nonsense math teacher who is determined to get the most from his students. He decides he needs to raise the level of expectations inside and outside of the classroom and he starts by breaking down when he is going to be so hard on his students, to get the most out of them. All they need is ganas – motivation. 

Rocky Balboa (Rocky)

Leave it to Rocky to make a speech in 2006's Rocky Balboa meant to inspire his son to inspire all of us together. It's pure Rocky, leave it all out, don't accept things you don't like, and never make excuses, no matter how hard it is. And it seems like this was advice he took to heart when it became a struggle to make the film . 

300 (Dilios)

Dilios (David Wenham) fires up the Spartans like no other person could. It's truly one of the great hype speeches in film history. It's exactly what you would expect from a civilization of warriors. Whether it really happened or not is irrelevant. The message is the same, "Remember us."

From sports to war, love to education, and beyond, a great speech raises goosebumps like nothing else in film can. These examples are some of the best speeches we've used to inspire us. 

Hugh Scott is the Syndication Editor for CinemaBlend. Before CinemaBlend, he was the managing editor for Suggest.com and Gossipcop.com, covering celebrity news and debunking false gossip. He has been in the publishing industry for almost two decades, covering pop culture – movies and TV shows, especially – with a keen interest and love for Gen X culture, the older influences on it, and what it has since inspired. He graduated from Boston University with a degree in Political Science but cured himself of the desire to be a politician almost immediately after graduation.

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15 Best Movie Speeches of All Time

Dialogues and speeches are the string, which binds the beads of a good cinema. Acting, cinematography, production they can all fall apart if the writing sucks. There are so many movies with great stories who aren’t impactful, because of lame dialogues. On the other hand, people remember even mediocre movies because of a powerful speech. These speeches are so inspirational that they make the listener believe that anything’s possible. The sheer power of words is strong enough to move mountains. In these speeches, the speaker enthralls the audience with his wisdom and experience and motivates them to carry out the impossible in life. We, at the Cinemaholic, made a list of top movie speeches ever that will inspire you. Be ready to get motivated!

15. Pirates Of The Caribbean: At World’s End (2007) – “Hoist The Colours”

Consider this. A fleet of pirate ship have been surrounded by the elite force of Her Majesty’s Royal Navy. The pirates are broken, without any command and their faith lies in their pirate queen Elizabeth who probably due to a turn of fate, became their leader. Tricked into a cornered position, by a cunning lord Beckett, she is left with no choice but retaliate with whatever she has. And she choses this moment to rise to the occasion. She thunders at her fellow pirates, asking them to fight like free men and not surrender meekly like cowards. And it resonates with pirates, irrespective of their clans and they roar as every version of Jolly Roger starts flying high in the wind.

14. V For Vendetta (2005) – “The Revolutionary Speech”

Just like Hitler crafted a dictatorship, disguised within a so-called superior race driven government, in a not so distant future version of London, the chancellor Adam Sutler formed a reign where in the name of security, privacy was looted. In return of order and peace to the society, the people traded their foremost weapon – consent. In the garb of protecting the people, the reigning government unleashed tyranny and oppression. In such times, one fine day, every TV gets tuned into a channel where a man wearing a Guy Fawkes mask speaks to them. He reminds them of Guy Fawkes, who brought a revolution to the people 400 years ago. To end this cruelty and meek submission, he asks everyone to join him in exactly one year later, on 5th of September on the gates of the Parliament. This speech sets in motion, of the events of ‘V for Vendetta’.

13. The Wolf Of Wall Street (2013) – “I’m not fuckin’ leaving”

The high flying, corrupt and megalomaniac Jordan Belfort is finally caught and as a part of the deal with the FBI, he’s supposed to leave Stratton Oakmont and never ever indulge in the market of share trading, which made him so rich. He appears in his office and makes an announcement about his stepping down from the company, in front of his beleaguered colleagues. He explains his pain in leaving them in lurch and how he’s going to miss them all. While talking about their collective effort to make money overcoming their individual struggles in life, all of sudden he realizes, this is place where he belongs after all. And despite the warning of FBI, he screams his lungs out – ‘I’m not fuckin’ leaving !!’

12. Rocky Balboa (2006) – “It ain’t about how hard you hit”

Rocky Balboa is an ageing boxer, who has left the sport, only to come back to it again. His wife’s dead and his son is sick and tired of the name and pressure of being related to Rocky. His father’s fame has started to affect him professionally and personally as well. So he gets the news of his arthritic father, gearing up for another bout of boxing, he discourages him by stating his example of being a failure, despite of being a Balboa. Rocky thunders when he says, ‘It’s ain’t about how hard you hit, it’s about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward.’ He asks him to stop blaming others for his failure. It’s an moving speech with some profound advice for life. Life’s meant to be unfair and its sole plan is to keep you down. Instead of cribbing, you’ve to accept your loses and move forward. That’s how you win.

11. Any Given Sunday (1999) – “Life’s a game of inches”

Before an all important play off game, coach D’Amato, played by Al Pacino gathers around his players. Through many difficulties and infightings, they’ve reached a place where one mistake can cost them everything. He begins the talk with comparing their current position to being in a shit hole and it’s totally up to them to get beat the shit out of themselves or fight hard to come back. He cites his own example of being a broken man who lost money, family and himself for taking bad decisions in life. But life is just like a game of football . It’s all about the margin of error. Just like a game of football, where once one starts losing, he gets the drift of the game and then tries crawl into those inches. He urges them to come together as a team and win it for themselves.

10. Wall Street (1987) – “Greed, for lack of a better word, is Good”

Wall street is about money. Wall street is about power. Wall street is about greed. And greed, ladies and gentlemen, for the lack of a better word, is good. That’s what Gordon Gekko believed in. In a speech to the investors of a loss making paper company Teldar, he explains meticulously that the sole reason the company lost so much of money is because of inefficient people at the top and not because he broke the company to pieces. He argues that his greed of making money actually liberates loss making industries. Greed is an evolutionary trait and it’s greed which has made man go for more, be it knowledge, technology or profit. It’s an amazing take on something which itself is labelled as a biblical sin. Michael Douglas as Gordon Gekko, gives an amazing performance.

9. Dead Poet’s Society (1989) – “Carpe Diem, seize the day boys”

In a school, where discipline is revered, a new English teacher comes in a breather among the strict disciplinarians. To a motley group of students, he reaches out and asks them to come out of their shell. He tells them to live their lives in their own way and not to someone’s expectations. One’s life duration is limited and eventually everyone will die. What will be left, is his legacy. So instead of living a dull life, one should do something to make it extraordinary. That’s the essence of Carpe Diem. The character of John Keating was played by the late Robin Williams , who demonstrates the importance of individuality to the students through this inspiring speech. He inspires them to be achieve greatness rather than to be successful.

8. Remember The Titans (2000) – “Take a lesson from the dead”

At the heights of racism, a black man is appointed as the head coach of a school, where traditionally it’s usually filled up by a white man. Tackling racism and discrimination at every step, coach Boone takes up the challenge. The team suffers from racially motivated conflicts and its success is deterred due to the ever meddling school authorities. Coach Boone takes everything to his stride and takes his team through a gruelling schedule of training at the Gettysburg cemetery where thousands of men died during the battle of Gettysburg. Through this speech, he asks his team to learn from those people, who laid their lives while fighting for each other. He urges them to be better by coming together and play as one team. His speech motivates his team to achieve success. Denzel Washington plays coach Boone in the sports drama ‘Remember The Titans’.

7. Braveheart (1995) – “They may take our lives, but they’ll never take our freedom”

In an English ruled Scotland, a young William Wallace witnesses the English massacring his family. He flees from the country only to return as a rebel who takes charge to lead the rebellion against the English. As he leads a rag-tag army of Scottish peasants and farmers, he asks them to fight as free men, against the enormous English army. When somebody from the army says that it’s better to hide and live than to fight and die, Wallace roars back by saying that the enemy may take their lives but they will never be able to take their freedom. Mel Gibson acted as well as directed this film, which went on to win five academy awards, including Best Picture and Best Director.

6. Scent Of A Woman (1992) – “When shit hits the fan, some guys run and some guys stay”

At the Baird school, which traditionally has given the country many leaders and achievers, a disciplinary meeting takes place, for an act of mischief. While the reason remains trivial at its best, the focus shifts to two persons, who were supposed to be the witnesses of the events. One of those witnesses is a boy, whose father is a key figure in the school management. Hence he gets off the hook, after naming the suspects. Naturally it’s the other guy Charlie, who despite of being innocent, gets to take the blame. And it almost happens but for the presence of Lt Colonel Frank Slade. He makes his point that while everyone chose to be indifferent to the situation, Charlie showed integrity by not behaving as a snitch. And this is the stuff leaders are made of. Al Pacino played Lt Colonel Slade and gave a performance of a lifetime.

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5. Independence Day (1996) – “Today, we celebrate our independence day”

While the world burns and is at the mercy of aliens, it comes down to a few brave men who decide to join forces to fight against the aliens. After repeated attempts of failure, a final assault is planned in the lines of a kamikaze attack, similar to a suicide mission. The president, himself a pilot mans the mission. Before they leave the base, he reminds them that this mission, incidentally to commence on 4th of July will be the biggest battle of their lives. And should they win, it will no longer be an American holiday. Rather it will be the day, when the world will be liberated of their common enemy. It shall be the world’s independence day. It’s a speech that evokes thunderous applause from everyone, as their belief in their leader becomes firm.

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4. Network (1976) – “I’m mad as hell and am not going to take it anymore”

News these days, are more of shock inducing and eye grabbing details rather than journalism based on facts. In ‘Network’, a TV network’s struggle with declining viewership turns into a full-blown war when its own people start making factory made shows to get ratings. The movie is primarily about how TV controls the life and through it audio-visual medium, can sway public opinion about everything. In a way, this is what controls the masses today. When the veteran news anchor Howard Beale screams at his viewers to shout that they’ re mad as hell and are not going to take it anymore, he vents out his frustration at the growing influence of TV on the people. He cites example of life going astray while the TV shows paint a rosy picture. Many years later, as we see today, the real has imitated the reel and today literally the TV controls everything. This speech is truly pathbreaking.

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3. The Shawshank Redemption (1994) – “Get busy living or get busy dying”

There’s nothing new that can be told about ‘The Shawshank Redemption’ . Arguably the best movie ever, this is Andy Dufresne’s story spanning across nineteen years in the infamous Shawshank penitentiary. While Andy makes the most out of his time at the prison doing various jobs, he also gets into a tiff with a corrupt warden over his discharge which leads him into a solitary confinement. When he’s out, his friend Red becomes afraid that this may break him forever. However a nonchalant Andy tells him about his dream destination and his wish to spend rest of his life there, thus explaining that life is all about hope and at times, it comes down to one simple choice – Get busy living or get busy dying. This speech is also a metaphor for being hopeful in the most hopeless of situations.

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2. A Few Good Men (1992) – “You can’t handle the truth”

A soldier dies at GITMO base camp and the blame goes to couple of fellow soldiers as an act of negligence. While the soldiers plead that they were under order to punish the dying soldier, it comes down to one of the most laziest of military lawyers to take up their case. As the case reaches its final stage, upon repeated provocation from the defence lawyer, Colonel Nathan Jessup becomes enraged and tells that at times, despite being wrong, people need to take decision that may take one life but in return save thousands. Freedom comes at a price and being a provider of the same, that’s what entitles him to take decisions which may or may not be ethical. This’s the truth and that possibly cannot be fathomed by a layman. A stunning performance by Jack Nicholson !

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1. The Great Dictator (1940)- “We think too much and feel too little”

Charlie Chaplin ’s ‘The Great Dictator’ is a political satire, in the garb of comedy and it condemns the ways of the contemporary dictators of the time, namely Hitler and Mussolini. A Jewish barber, who’s also a lookalike of the tyrant ruler of a fictional country gets to replace the dictator and ends up in a podium where he has to deliver a speech. He rises to the occasion when he tells his subjects that instead of ruling everyone as a dictator, he wants to help everyone. As human beings, one should rise above the ever engulfing greed. Though the world has progressed into future through numerous innovations, still it does distinguish people based on their caste, creed and colour. Humanity has been lost its meaning in the countless machinery that does our jobs. We’ve become cynical due to our ever growing penchant for knowledge. And that’s where we all lose as mankind.

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The 20 Best Movie Speeches of All Time

Public speaking is not just a skill, it is an art form, one that very few can master.

For most, it is a source for anxiety. The sight of a large crowd and all the attention on one person can make even the most confident individual turn into a stuttering mess. However, when done correctly, they can inspire the very best and, sometimes, the very worst in humanity.

For these 20 films, the art of the speech is on full display, perfectly crafted by screenwriters and actors. Whether it is inspiring a team before the big game, soldiers before the big battle, students before entering the real world or as a rally cry against evil, corruption and the wicked, these speeches have transcended art and have entered the popular lexicon, sometimes as satire, but sometimes as a source of inspirations.

20. Invictus (2009) – “This is it! This is our Destiny!”

Following his release from prison in 1990, Nelson Mandela (Morgan Freeman) ran for government and became President of South Africa, effectively ending Apartheid. Despite this, the country still remained divided and tense. Mandela, however, saw hope in the form of the Springboks, South Africa’s National Rugby Union team.

After beating heavyweights France, Western Samoa and Australia in the 1995 Rugby World Cup, the team faces the number one side: the Legendary New Zealand All Blacks. Overcoming the odds and securing a 15-12 lead, the team only has to hold out for seven minutes. Team captain Francois Pienaar (Matt Damon) addresses his team, telling them to listen to the crowd, all singing in unison, “Heads up, look into my eyes”.

This is a real team captain talking, his message still simple for a rugby team, “Defence, defence, defence”. Plain yet inspiring. Pienaar is portrayed as a man who knows exactly the history he is about create. When asked at the end of the game if he could have done it without the 60,000 South Africans present at the game, “We didn’t have the support of 60,000 South Africans…we had the support of 43 million South Africans”.

The finale with Pienaar receiving the Web Ellis Trophy from a Springbok Jersey wearing Mandela remains not only one of the great moments of sport, but a great moment in human history.

19. Henry V (1989) – “We few, we happy few, we band of brothers”

Very few actors have been able to transport the Bard to the big screen. Lawrence Olivier, Orson Welles, John Gielgud, Ian McKellan are just a few that have succeeded. Today, most of Shakespeare’s plays are adapted into contemporary settings, from fairy tale Venice Beach (Romeo + Juliet) to gangland Melbourne (Macbeth).

However, Kenneth Branagh’s performance in Henry V (following in the footsteps of Laurence Olivier) shows that one can still enjoy a classic, especially when watching the St Crispin’s Day speech.

“From this day to the ending of the world, but we shall be remembered – we few, we happy few, we band of brothers; for he to-day that sheds his blood with me shall be my brother”. Branagh does not deliver this line with awe and gravitas, but rather with joy. A great smile burnt across his face as he rallies his men with promises of immortality.

Perhaps Henry’s heart is filled with joy at the concept of being side by side with his men at his longest hour, or is Branagh portraying a naive boy king who is yet to understand the true horrors of war? One thing is for certain: audience will seldom find such passion and truth in modern Shakespeare.

18. Rudy (1993) – “Since when are you the quitting kind”

There are only a handful of films that men will acknowledge crying in. Rudy (Sean Astin) is one of them. How can you keep a dry eye when watching every member of the University of Notre Dame’s football team walk into the head office before the final game of the year, offering their position up for Rudy.

But before this immortal moment, Rudy quit the team, frustrated at failing to make the final team list of the year. It is only after the dressing down he receives from stadium janitor Fortune (Charles S. Dutton) that he changes his mind, “Since when are you the quitting kind,” he barks at a defeated Rudy. This not only acts as the key turning point for the film, it reveals the true character of Fortune, finally breaking down the emotional brick wall he built between himself and others.

Fortune, just like Rudy, had an opportunity but threw it away out of anger, “And I guarantee a week won’t go by in your life you won’t regret walking out, letting them get the best of you”. There is not softness, no compassion. Not Fortune’s style. Instead he gives Rudy the kick up the arse he needs to continue fighting to earn the title of ‘Fighting Irish’.

17. Mr Smith Goes to Washington (1939) – “Well, I guess this is just another lost cause, Mr Paine”

There is no worse feeling than the moment you realise you have been beat. No second chances, no extra time. Nothing. You have lost. This was the moment that underdog Senator Jefferson Smith (James Stewart) not only realised he had lost but that he had been powerless all along. His first bill draws the wrath of a corrupt politician, not only destroying the bill, but turning Smith’s own constituents against him. Where he is shown the letters and telegrams sent demanding his resignation.

Beaten, exhausted and near collapse he seems resigned to his fate, “well, I guess this is just another lost cause, Mr Paine,” he mumbles, now barely conscious.

Instead, he finds one last ounce of energy, promising to continue the fight against political corruption, “You think I’m licked? Well, I’m not licked and I’m gonna stay right here and fight for this lost cause. Even if this room is filled with lies like these”. Mr Smith goes to Washington remains one of Frank Capra’s best and one of the truly great films on American politics.

16. Dead Poet’s Society (1989) – “Carpe, carpe diem, seize the day boys, make your lives extraordinary”

A good teacher is not meant to simply teach, but rather inspire his students. Guide them into finding their passion and push them into pursuing it. Inspiring teachers are a popular market with films like Stand and Deliver, Mr. Holland’s Opus and October Sky. However, nothing matches the wit, charm and passion found in Dead Poet’s Society’s John Keating (Robin Williams).

Despite the strict and conservative foundations of the school they attend, former student turned poetry teacher Keating encourages his students to rip out the mathematic formula for rating poetry and to stand on their desk shouting poetry, much to the chagrin of the headmaster.

But Keating’s teaching philosophy is laid bare when he shows his students photos of the past alumni who attended, “They’re not that different from you, are they? Same haircuts, full of hormones”, before whispering his magnum opus, “Carpe diem”. Keating is not just teaching poetry, he is teaching the boys to become individuals. To not be constrained by the social mores that there very school is trying to implement.

15. Friday Night Lights (2004) – “I want you to put each other in your hearts forever, because forever is about to happen here”

So inspiring is the coach’s speech to his team that it has become almost cliché. Halftime, down by a lot, exhausted and low morale, the team finds solace in the inspirational words of the calm and collected coach. Friday Night Lights is part of this cliché, but it is one of the few that gets it right.

Only gaining entry into the state final by virtue of a coin toss, the Permian Panthers and their coach Gary Gaines (Billy Bob Thornton) know they are the underdogs. But more than that, Gaines knows for many of them it will be their last game. Some may get a chance to play College Football and there might be that lucky one who goes on to play for the NFL. However, many of these boys will graduate from high school and live out the rest of their life.

In the end, it comes down to how they remember the game, “And that truth is you did everything you could. There wasn’t one more thing you could’ve done. Can you live in that moment as best you can, with clear eyes, and love in your heart, with joy in your heart? If you can do that gentlemen, then you’re perfect”. For the film, football is not about winning or losing, it is about character.

30 Replies to “The 20 Best Movie Speeches of All Time”

Alec Baldwin as Blake in Glengarry Glen Ross.

Shocked this wasn’t here

Tim Robbins in Antitrust.

That speech in Rocky Balboa is awesome. Never gets a lot of love as it says a lot about life.

Anything by Brando as Kurtz in Apocalypse now… snail on a straight razor… but especially this: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mPPGMNOLaMw

Kikuchiyo’s speech about the true nature of farmers and samurai in “Seven Samurai” (1954).

Theoden’s Speech from LotR: The Return of the King.

Belushi’s speech in Animal House!!

Jim Garrison’s closing argument to the jury in JFK

Jim Garrison’s closing speech to the jury in JFK

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BckPa2_A8gI

25th hour(not public but we all saw it) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TgL_5QcZCMo

This is a great idea for a list but Jesus F-ck, this list is embarrassing. The author seems to think that a great movie speech has to always be a motivational one. I mean sh-t, half of his picks are nothing but generic, clichéd sports movies. All the motivational sports speeches have the same message, just worded differently. The only pass I’d give is to “Rocky” because boxing is arguably the purest metaphor of life– “it’s not about how hard you hit, it’s about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward” is poetry.

If you wanna go for a sports speech, then why not one of the most iconic speeches in American history? 1. “Today, I consider myself the luckiest man on the face of the earth.” –Lou Gehrig’s farewell speech, The Pride of the Yankees https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OyT4mPBe4YQ

2. “In the name of God, do your duty.” –Atticus Finch pleading with the jury to commit to social justice, To Kill a Mockingbird https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DYNxQL87tAY

3. “Every time you break the seal on that liquor bottle, that’s a government seal you’re breaking!” –Malcolm X opening the eyes and ears of folks living in Harlem, Malcolm X https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cT1jLY20tLo&t=40s

4. “Rehabilitated, it’s just a bullshit word.” –Ellis Boyd Redding lecturing to the parole board about the truth of prisoner rehabilitation, The Shawshank Redemption https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gcn6v7IaIfA

5. “You’re no crazier than the average asshole out walking on the streets!” –Randall McMurphy advising the other patients that a person isn’t crazy simply cuz he doesn’t conform to society’s arbitrary standards, One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ehPcYibzUKc

6. “Was it over when the Germans bombed Pearl Harbor?? HELL NO!!!” — Parody of clichéd motivational movie speeches, Animal House https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ep-xgd_eETE

7. “Our great war is a spiritual war.” –Tyler Durden offering sobering realizations about life in the modern age, Fight Club https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zi9ivZL7vmA

8. “Macho shithead” –Dorothy Michaels calling out a director for perpetuating female stereotypes, Tootsie https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V95u7t_4WVc

9. “I have killed for my country and I don’t feel good about it.” –Luke Martin, a Vietnam vet laying out the truth about war to high school students, Coming Home https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=duyYbn2TkvY

10. “Together we shall give them a 5th of November that shall never ever be forgot.” –V rallying the citizens of the UK to rebel against their tyrannical government, V for Vendetta https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KKvvOFIHs4k

11. “I’m trying real hard to be the shepherd.” –Hitman Jules Winnefield lecturing a small time crook on the errors of his ways, Pulp Fiction https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3PeyiU3uWJ8

12. “The whole trial’s out of order!” –Arthur Kirkland pointing out the inherent flaws of the American legal system, And Justice For All https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hGomfEiWS9Q&t=137s

13. “It’s called gentrification.” –Furious Styles speaking the truth about life in the ghettos of America https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BadSZDpvq-s

The Return of The King – both Théoden’s and Aragorn’s pre-battle speeches definitely deserved a spot on here.

Apparently the best movie speeches of all time were all in english…

“We few, we happy few, we band of brothers”

Peter Graves’ final speech in It Conquered the World 1956 (MST3K version)

“He learned almost too late that man is a feeling creature… and, because of it, the greatest in the universe. He learned too late for himself that men have to find their own way, to make their own mistakes. There can’t be any gift of perfection from outside ourselves. And when men seek such perfection… they find only death… fire… loss… disillusionment… the end of everything that’s gone forward. Men have always sought an end to the toil and misery, but it can’t be given, it has to be achieved. There is hope, but it has to come from inside — from man himself.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tx7A6eQqBc8

Scent of a Woman – Slades speech

Paltry, surely??

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The Greatest Movie Speeches/Monologues of all time!

1. Scent of a Woman

2. American Beauty

6. The Shawshank Redemption

7. Braveheart

8. City Hall

9. We Were Soldiers

10. No Country for Old Men

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21 great speeches from the movies

“remember the titans” — a lesson from the dead.

Struggling through the heated process of integration, Coach Herman Boone (Denzel Washington) teaches his football players a lesson they will never forget at Gettysburg Battlefield.

“Dead Poet’s Society” — Carpe Diem

“But if you listen real close, you can hear them whisper their legacy to you. Go on, lean in. Listen, you hear it?”

“Miracle” — This is Your Time

U.S. Olympic Hockey Coach Herb Brooks (Kurt Russell) delivers this stirring pregame speech as his team prepares to take on the Soviet Union in the 1980 Winter Olympics, and he does so wearing spectacular plaid pants.

“The King’s Speech” — Radio Broadcast

When his brother abdicates the throne, newly crowned King George VI must confront two obstacles: an impending war with Germany and a stammer. The movie follows the king’s journey as he meets with speech therapist Lionel Logue (Geoffrey Rush), culminating in the king’s first radio speech to declare war on Germany in 1939.

“Gladiator” — My Name is Maximus

After being stripped of his headline as chief commander and suffering through the murder of his wife and children, Maximus (Russell Crowe) is forced to become a gladiator. He finally comes face to face with the man responsible, and this is what he says.

“The Alamo” — There’s Right, and There’s Wrong

Leave it to the Duke to tell it like it is. John Wayne, we couldn’t have said it better (or been a cooler Davy Crockett).

“The Return of the King” — Not This Day

“A day may come when the courage of men fails, when we forsake our friends and break all bonds of fellowship, but it is not this day.”

“Independence Day” — We Will Not Go Quietly

The aliens are coming, and Earth is uniting to fight. Good to know we can rely on the president of the United States to rally the planet.

“Coach Carter” — Our Deepest Fear

Timo Cruz (Rick Gonzalez) almost died working as a drug dealer. He makes this speech to the man who saved him from a life on the streets, his basketball coach.

“Armageddon” — 14 Brave Souls

POTUS strikes again! Not aliens this time, but an asteroid headed for Earth. Will space ever give us a break?

“The Two Towers” — There’s Some Good in This World

Always faithful, always loyal, Samwise Gamgee is the unassuming hero who in the darkest of hours reminds us all what matters most. This speech deserves a new adjective: goosebump-and-tear-inducing.

“Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows, Part 2” — They Didn’t Die in Vain, But You Will

Neville. Is. A. Boss. Thank you, and goodnight.

“Secondhand Lions” — Things Worth Believing In

A young Haley Joel Osment and a not-so-young-but-always-awesome Robert Duvall steal the show as great uncle Hub gives part of his famous “what every boy needs to know about being a man speech” to his nephew Walter.

“Casablanca” — Here’s Looking At You, Kid

Ingrid Bergman will get on that plane if it is the last thing Humphrey Bogart does!

“Guys and Dolls” — Ear Full of Cider

“On the day when I left home to make my way in the world my Daddy took me to one side. ‘Son,’ my daddy says to me, ‘I am sorry I’m not able to bankroll you to a very large start, but not having the necessary lettuce to get you rolling, instead I’m going to stake you to some very valuable advice…'”

“West Side Story” — Killed by Hate

Yes, they danced around with knives, and the whole musical has haunted you since you were forced to watch it in high school, but you have to admit that Maria’s closing speech is a powerful reminder to us all.

“Brian’s Song” — Rare Form of Courage

Chicago Bears running back Brian Piccolo passed away from cancer in 1970. A month before his death, Piccolo’s best friend and teammate Gale Sayers accepted the George S. Halas Award for Most Courageous Player. In his speech, Sayers told the audience they had selected the wrong man and gave a beautiful speech about his dying friend, re-enacted here in the 1971 movie “Brian’s Song.”

“Star Wars: A New Hope” — Help Me, Obi-Wan Kenobi. You’re My Only Hope

Note to self: If you need something done, just end your speech with “you’re my only hope.”

“The Muppet Movie” — I’ve Got a Dream

Winner of “the most moving speech ever given by an amphibian.”

“Footloose” — A Time to Dance

Each time you “cut footloose” you can thank Ren McCormack (Kevin Bacon) for fighting for your right to boogie.

“The Princess Bride” — Drop Your Sword

Any speech that makes a grown man drop his weapon and voluntarily hand himself over to be tied up is a good speech.

Did we miss an awesome movie speech? Tweet us @UniverseBYU or comment below.

Related articles more from author, award-winning james rees shares how he creates amazing art, r.a.d. program teaches students self-defense, authentic taste of home: japanese restaurant in downtown provo serves traditional home-cooked meals.

The 21 greatest movie award speeches of all time

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Queeries is a weekly column by CBC Arts producer Peter Knegt that queries LGBTQ art, culture and/or identity through a personal lens. 

If something didn't quite feel right this past weekend, it could have been one of a wide array of historically miserable reasons. Perhaps the fact that you didn't see your family for the holidays for the first time in your life? Or how we're just getting unsettled into what everyone is warning us will be the darkest winter our society has faced since at least World War II? (Hey, at least you didn't yet know that your week would have the rumblings of an American Civil War!) But for the many of us that rely on a different kind of "season" to get us through winters that are just a normal amount of dark, there was something else missing from our first Sunday night in January: the Golden Globes.

Whatever, I get it: awards shows are mostly meaningless, particularly the Golden Globes, which are voted on by a handful of journalists no one has really heard of (some of whom occasionally write wildly erroneous and offensive in-flight magazine profiles of Drew Barrymore ). But they are also fun , and if there's one thing completely absent from any person who is behaving's life right now, it's fun. Adding in that the greatest awards host duo of all time Tina Fey and Amy Poehler had already been announced to return, not having the Globes to ease our bluest post-holiday blues was especially unfortunate.

Now, the Golden Globes are still allegedly going to happen on February 28th with Fey and Poehler still on board . But February 28th sounds like years from now at this point, and in past years we would have had the SAG Awards, the Independent Spirit Awards, the BAFTAs and the Oscars all happen by that point as well. There's also a solid chance they'll get delayed again, as was just announced would happen with the Grammy Awards . So to help ease you through this awards-free winter, I took to one of my favourite past times: re-watching hours and hours of old speeches, largely by actresses. And I have come up with this highly scientific and completely undebatable list of the greatest movie award speeches of all time. May they help you get to the other side:

21. Melissa Leo's Oscar speech for The Fighter  

Not enough awards acceptance speeches are truly unhinged, which is what makes Melissa Leo's from the 2011 Oscars so very special. After a deeply creepy presentation by the late Kirk Douglas, Leo capped off a season where she went rogue with her own hilarious personal ad campaign with a speech so wonderfully wild it must been both watched (above) and read . 

20. Bong Joon-Ho's various Oscar speeches for Parasite

It's easy to forget that some very good things indeed happened in 2020, one of which was the sweep of the Oscars by Bong Joon-Ho's Parasite . The film won four trophies and became the first non-English language winner of best picture. And Bong's speeches throughout the night (and last awards season in general) were as charming as it gets, in part because of his flawless translator Sharon Choi .

19. Gabourey Sidibe's Spirit Award speech for Precious

Few awards season runs have been as delightful to watch as Gabourey Sidibe's for Precious . Nominated for essentially every award for her first time ever on camera, she would unfortunately lose the Oscar to Sandra Bullock . But the night before that, she got her moment at the Spirit Awards, offering an adorable speech that recalled how she saved her money to see Welcome To The Dollhouse in high school. 

18. Louise Fletcher's Oscar speech for One Flew Over The Cockoo's Nest

This classic Oscar speech from 1976 saw Fletcher win for playing the monstrous Nurse Ratched in One Flew Over The Cuckoo's Nest . Her iconic opening line — "It looks like you all hated me so much that you've given me this award for it" — remains one that future Oscar winners should aspire to. 

17. Alfred Hitchcock's honorary Oscar speech 

The legend that is Alfred Hitchcock tragically never won a competitive Oscar despite five nominations. So when they finally gave him an honorary one in 1968, there was definitely some deserved shade thrown in the minimalism of his speech. 

16. Bette Midler's Golden Globe speech for best new female star

For decades, the Golden Globes would hand out two gendered awards for best "new star," which infamously ended shortly after allegations that Pia Zadora's husband may or may not have bought her a win . But a saving grace of the category's existence is this hilariously crass speech Bette Midler gave in 1980.

15. Meryl Streep's Golden Globe speech for The Devil Wears Prada

Meryl Streep has given dozens of acceptance speeches over the years, and few people are as good at them as she is. But while her three Oscar speeches are fine , she tends to be much more loose and entertaining at the Golden Globes, where she has won a record nine awards from 33 nominations. Of her competitive wins, this speech she gave for The Devil Wears Prada is the epitome of the grace, charm and humility that makes her so singular.

14. Jamie Bell's BAFTA speech for Billy Elliot

Jamie Bell was just 14 years old when he surprised the BAFTAs by beating out Tom Hanks, Michael Douglas and that year's Oscar winner Russell Crowe for the 2001 lead actor trophy. And the entire audience seemed to glow from his lovely little speech. It even got a smile out of Joaquin Phoenix!

13. Cher's Oscar speech for Moonstruck

Speaking of glowing, few actresses have ever looked quite as luminous as Cher when she took the Oscar stage in 1988 to accept her award for Moonstruck (which, if you're looking for a winter quarantine viewing, is a perfect movie). And her gracious, elegant speech that followed proved that even if winning that Oscar didn't mean Cher truly is somebody , she was already more than well on her way. 

12. Adam Sandler's Spirit Award speech for Uncut Gems

The Oscars might have snubbed his extraordinary work in Uncut Gems , but Adam Sandler still won last year's award season with this hysterical speech at the Spirit Awards the night before. It was hands down the best moment of the season and maybe one of the funniest speeches ever given at an awards show.

11. Ruth Gordon's Oscar speech for Rosemary's Baby

"I can't tell you how encouragin' a thing like this is." Just the delivery of Ruth Gordon's 1969 best supporting actress Oscar speech for Rosemary's Baby warrants inclusion on this list alone. Coming 55 years after her first film, it's also just lovely to see a legend get her due. 

10. Mahershala Ali's SAG speech for Moonlight and Barry Jenkins and Tarell Alvin McCraney's Oscar speech for Moonlight

While it was tempting to include the truly unprecedented and shocking 2016 best picture Oscar snafu on this list (which I surely don't need to remind you had the world thinking  La La Land won best picture when in fact Moonlight had), I'd rather direct you to the two best speeches given by the Moonlight team that season: speeches they weren't forced to deliver after spending a few minutes believing they'd lost. Mahershala Ali's SAG Award speech for best supporting actor and Barry Jenkins and Tarell Alvin McCraney's Oscar speech for best adapted screenplay are both mini-master classes in public speaking. And you can also read the speech for best picture that Jenkins would have given under normal circumstances here . 

9. Sally Hawkins's Golden Globe speech for Happy-Go-Lucky

There is a very special place in my heart for both Sally Hawkins's performance as Poppy in Happy-Go-Lucky and this wonderfully raw and sincere speech she gave when she beat out Meryl Streep and Emma Thompson for a Golden Globe in 2008.

8. Shirley MacLaine's Oscar speech for Terms of Endearment

"I'm gonna cry because this show has been as long as my career," MacLaine opens her 1984 speech for Terms of Endearment . "I have wondered for 26 years what this would feel like. Thank you so much for terminating the suspense." An instant classic speech, it also is just wild to be reminded of the extraordinary gay fact that Rock Hudson and Liza Minnelli handed Shirley MacLaine her Oscar.

7. Every speech Olivia Colman gave for The Favourite

Every. Single. One. And they should have let her go on for 10 more minutes at the Oscars. 

6. Emma Thompson's Golden Globe speech for Sense and Sensibility

Emma Thompson delivered her 1996 Golden Globe speech for best screenplay in character as Jane Austen, and it is one of the most brilliant things an awards season stage has ever seen. 

5. Halle Berry's Oscar speech for Monster's Ball

The first and somehow still only Black woman to win the Oscar for best actress, Halle Berry's 2002 speech was criticized by many at the time as "over-the-top" . But I mean, what would you do if you had to get up on stage in front of hundreds of millions of people and represent becoming the first Black woman to ever win an Oscar?! Besides, we should be so lucky to get such genuine displays of emotion more often. This was history being made, and Halle Berry let herself feel it.

4. Sally Field's Oscar speech for Places in the Heart

In probably the most misquoted line in awards speech history, when Sally Field won her second Oscar in 1985 for Places in the Heart , she did not just say, "You like me, you really like me!" What Field actually says is: "The first time I didn't feel it, but this time I feel it. And I can't deny the fact that you like me. Right now, you like me!" But either way, it's a wonderful speech and a wonderful moment, and we still can't deny the fact that we (really) like Field very much.

3. Tom Hanks's Oscar speech for Philadelphia

The only speech to have been loosely adapted into a movie (as far as I know at least), it was alleged that Tom Hanks outed his high school drama teacher when he accepted his Oscar for playing a gay man dying from AIDS  Philadelphia . This, of course, inspired the movie In & Out (which oddly enough got Joan Cusack an Oscar nomination for playing the fictionalized fiancée of Hanks's teacher) and a New York Post headline that screamed "OUTED AT THE OSCARS!" But Hanks had actually contacted his teacher , Rawley Farnsworth, asking permission to disclose his sexuality. Farnworth agreed, and what resulted is one of the most tear-jerking speeches to ever happen on an Oscar stage and a huge step forward for the mainstream acknowledgment of HIV/AIDS*. (* This statement is very complicated but this is supposed to be a fun list so just do some further reading if that's of interest to you!)

2. Oprah Winfrey and Meryl Streep's honorary Golden Globe speeches

Two years in a row, two of the most famous women in the world brought down the house at the Golden Globes with their powerful, rousing acceptance speeches for that year's respective honorary award (and these were the years 2017 and 2018, so there were some things to discuss). I re-watched both at least once a month to get me through 2020, and I'll keep doing the same until/if 2021 starts to lighten up. 

1. Julia Roberts's Oscar speech for Erin Brockovich

"I see you stick man!" One of the most joyous things available to watch on the internet, Julia Roberts's 2001 Oscar speech is basically the biggest movie star in the world having the biggest moment of her career and ... loving it up there. Nothing compares to its energy, and I dare future Oscar winners to challenge its glory.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Peter Knegt (he/him) is a writer, producer and host for CBC Arts. He writes the LGBTQ-culture column Queeries (winner of the Digital Publishing Award for best digital column in Canada) and hosts and produces the talk series Here & Queer. He's also spearheaded the launch and production of series Canada's a Drag, variety special Queer Pride Inside, and interactive projects Superqueeroes and The 2010s: The Decade Canadian Artists Stopped Saying Sorry. Collectively, these projects have won Knegt four Canadian Screen Awards. Beyond CBC, Knegt is also the filmmaker of numerous short films, the author of the book About Canada: Queer Rights and the host of the monthly film series Queer Cinema Club at Toronto's Paradise Theatre. You can follow him on Instagram and Twitter with the same obvious handle: @peterknegt.

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Best Movie Monologues — Top 20 Ranked for Writers & Actors

M ovies have been known to transport us to different worlds, times, and experiences through the power of storytelling. And one of the most magical ways that movies do this is through the use of monologues. From inspiring speeches that make us want to stand up and take action to heart-wrenching confessions that bring us to tears, the best movie monologues can capture the essence of a film and stay with us long after the credits have rolled. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some of the best monologues in movie history that have left an imprint on our hearts and minds. 

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Best Monologues from Movies

20. call me by your name  (2017).

Call Me By Your Name Monologue 

In the film Call Me By Your Name , Elio’s father, played by Michael Stuhlbarg shares a powerful monologue with his son as they sit quietly together. The father reflects on his own experiences with love and heartbreak, and shares a powerful message about the importance of embracing life's challenges and being courageous in the face of uncertainty. 

The monologue is a poignant moment of connection between father and son, and a reminder to all of us to live fully in the present moment, and to never be afraid to take a chance on love, no matter where it may lead us.

Best Movie Monologues in Dramas

19. manchester by the sea (2016).

Manchester by the Sea Police Station Scene

Manchester by the Sea is a powerful film that deals with themes of grief, loss, and redemption. One of the most memorable moments in the film comes in the form of a monologue delivered by the character Lee Chandler, played brilliantly by Casey Affleck, in a police station. 

The monologue is a raw and heartbreaking exploration of the human condition and is a testament to the film's incredible writing and acting. The scene is a pivotal moment in the story and showcases the power of cinema to move us deeply and challenge our understanding of the world around us.

Best Monologues from Movies 

18. gone girl (2014).

Gone Girl  •  Cool Girl Monologue

In Gillian Flynn's Gone Girl , one of the most memorable and chilling moments comes in the form of the "cool girl" monologue by Rosamund Pike playing Amy Dunne. The monologue is both a scathing critique of societal norms and a poignant examination of the masks we wear to fit in.

With razor-sharp prose and a gut-punch of a message, the "cool girl" monologue is a standout moment in an already-iconic novel.

Famous Movie Monologues

17. hidden figures (2016).

Hidden Figures Bathroom Speech Scene

This powerful monologue from the award-winning   Hidden Figures is short, but powerful. As one of the few black women working as mathematicians at NASA during the Civil Rights era, Katherine Johnson, played by Taraji P. Henson, is constantly faced with discrimination and segregation. 

Her words ring with a raw truth and an unflinching determination to fight against the systemic racism that surrounded her every day. The bathroom may seem like a small issue, but it becomes a poignant symbol of the larger struggle for equality and dignity in a world that seeks to diminish the humanity of those who do not fit into its narrow mold.

Oscar Winning Best Monologues from Movies

16. everything everywhere all at once.

Everything Everywhere All at Once  •  Monologue 

One of the most recent monologues on this list comes from The Daniels’ iconic Everything Everywhere All at Once  (2022). The scene features the character of Ling, played by Michelle Yeoh, who reminisces about a past life where she wished to share the mundane yet intimate moments of daily life with someone she loved. 

We brought the monologues into StudioBinder’s screenwriting app to analyze it further and see how it helped land Ke Huy Quan his first Oscar.

The monologue is a testimony to the emotional depth and subtlety of the film's storytelling, and it will surely leave a lasting impression on anyone who watches it.

15. The Tragedy of Macbeth (2021)

Tomorrow, and tomorrow, and tomorrow 

While the writing of the monologue itself can’t be attributed solely to the Coen’s, their adaptation of it on the screen as well as Denzel Washington’s brilliant performance gives it a spot on this list. 

In this  adaptation  of  Macbeth from the Coen Brothers , Denzel Washington delivers a haunting performance in the iconic "Tomorrow Tomorrow Tomorrow" monologue. The Coen Brothers' haunting imagery , coupled with Washington's unforgettable performance, makes this one of the most captivating and memorable adaptations of Shakespeare's tragedy.

Tarantino’s Best Movie Monologues

14. inglorious basterds (2009).

Inglourious Basterds Monologue

Brad Pitt's opening monologue in one of Quentin Tarantino's best movies , Inglourious Basterds , is a tour de force in cinematic storytelling. Playing the role of Lt. Aldo Raine, Pitt delivers a fiery and captivating speech that sets the stage for the entire film.

His aggressive and almost comical demeanor adds to the intensity of his words, as the audience is pulled into the world of WWII-era Europe. 

As an actor, Pitt brings a larger-than-life quality to the role that perfectly captures Tarantino's punk rock style of filmmaking. Overall, Pitt's opening monologue in Inglourious Basterds is a masterclass in acting and writing, and sets a tone for the film that is both exciting and unforgettable.

Famous Movie Monologues in Voice Over

13. american psycho (2000).

Morning Routine  •  American Psycho

The morning routine voice-over monologue in American Psycho has become one of the most iconic and recognizable scenes in film history. Christian Bale's portrayal of the psychotic Patrick Bateman perfectly captures the absurdity and darkness of the character's morning rituals. 

The monologue's absurdity and dark humor have made it a favorite among fans, and it has since been parodied and referenced in countless films, TV shows, and even internet memes. Bale's mesmerizing performance and the monologue's unique mix of horror and humor have solidified its place in cinema history as one of the most memorable and iconic monologues.

Best Movie Monologues in Action Films

12. the matrix (1999).

Blue Pill or Red Pill  •  The Matrix

"Red or blue? The choice is yours." These famous words spoken by Morpheus in the sci-fi blockbuster, The Matrix , have become synonymous with the idea of making life-altering decisions. The moment when Morpheus holds out his palms, offering Neo the choice between the red pill and the blue pill, is a pop culture classic. 

The red pill or blue pill monologue is more than just a movie quote, it's a metaphor for the truth-seeking journey we all embark on at some point in our lives. Whether we choose the red pill and accept the harsh realities of the world or the blue pill and live in blissful ignorance, this moment in The Matrix will forever be remembered as a pivotal point in cinematic history.

11. The Godfather  (1972)

THE GODFATHER  •  Opening Scene

While there are a few great monologues in one of the greatest gangster films of all time The Godfather perhaps the most iconic is found in the opening scene.

"Bonasera, Bonasera." These two simple words, uttered by Salvatore Corsitta have become synonymous with cinematic brilliance. The opening monologue delivered by Corsitta is a masterful display of storytelling that sets the tone for what is to come. In just a few short minutes, we are transported into the world of the Corleone family and understand the power dynamics at play. 

The melancholic music, coupled with the somber tone of the scene is a stark contrast to the violence that lies ahead. Salvatore Corsitta's monologue is not only a scene-setting device but also an iconic moment in cinematic history. 

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Robin Williams’ Famous Movie Monologues

10. good will hunting (1997).

Robin Williams' Speech  •  Good Will Hunting

Robin Williams' performance in Good Will Hunting was unforgettable, particularly his powerful monologue in the park scene. In that scene, Williams, who played the character of therapist Sean Maguire, talked to Matt Damon's character Will Hunting about love, loss, and life.

It was a perfectly written and performed monologue that achieved exactly what it had to for the plot, character, and emotional story

Williams' performance in Good Will Hunting remains a testament to his incredible talent and his ability to connect with audiences in meaningful ways. His work in the film will be remembered for years to come as a true cinematic masterpiece.

9. The Shawshank Redemption (1994)

The Shawshank Redemption  •  Rehabilitation

Through his measured and melodic delivery, Freeman brought a sense of wisdom and gravitas to his monologue in The Shawshank Redemption , making it a standout moment in the film. He spoke with empathy and insight about the challenges of re-establishing oneself in society after being incarcerated.

Critics and audiences alike praised Freeman for his performance, which was a testament to his incredible talent as an actor. His portrayal of Redding remains one of the highlights of his career, and his monologue is often considered to be one of the most poignant and memorable moments in the film.

Brando’s Best Movie Monologues

8. apocalypse now (1979).

Apocalypse Now: Marlon Brando Horror Speech 

It would be difficult to have any sort of best monologue list without one mention of Marlon Brando. In one of Francis Ford Coppola’s best films Apocalypse Now , Brando's character, Colonel Kurtz, delivers a haunting speech in which he reflects on his experiences during the Vietnam War.

Despite the notorious challenges on set with Brando, his performance in the monologue scene is truly mesmerizing. He was given free reign to improvise (since Brando never read the script) which in the end contributed to the truly immortal performance.

Overall, Brando's monologue in Apocalypse Now is a testament to his talent as an actor. Despite the challenges, he was able to deliver a performance that is still talked about and revered today.

Monologues Movies Female Performances

7. fences (2016).

Fences  •  The Same Spot As You Scene

Viola Davis' performance as Rose in the film Fences cements her as one of the best actors working today. As Rose confronts her husband (Denzel Washington) about his infidelities and his failure to appreciate her sacrifices, Davis delivers a raw and emotional performance that leaves a lasting impact on the audience. 

Her words are filled with pain and frustration, yet also with a deep sense of resilience and determination. Through her powerful delivery and aching vulnerability, Davis captures the essence of a woman who has endured years of hurt and betrayal but refuses to be broken. It's a stunning moment in a truly unforgettable film.

Great Monologues in Movies

6. to kill a mockingbird (1962).

All Men Are Created Equal  •  To Kill a Mockingbird

In the film adaptation of Harper Lee's masterpiece novel, To Kill a Mockingbird , Gregory Peck delivers a stunning closing argument monologue that leaves a lasting impact on the viewer. 

Peck plays Atticus Finch, a small-town lawyer defending a black man falsely accused of rape. With unwavering conviction, Peck captures the essence of Atticus, delivering a poignant speech that speaks to the human spirit and embodies the virtues of courage, compassion, and equality.

His masterful portrayal of Atticus Finch is a testament to his exceptional talent as an actor and solidifies his place as a Hollywood legend.

5. Pulp Fiction (1994)

Pulp Fiction  •  The Gold Watch monologue

In the iconic film Pulp Fiction , Christopher Walken proves his ability to captivate audiences even when he has only a few minutes of screen time. Playing the role of Captain Koons, Walken's character regales a young Butch Coolidge with the history of the watch, which had been passed down through generations of Coolidge's family. 

The intensity in Walken's voice and delivery captures the attention of audiences as he recounts the watch's journey from a prisoner of war camp in Vietnam to Coolidge's father, who died with the watch hidden in his rectum. 

Rocky’s Best Monologues from Movies

4. rocky balboa (2006).

Rocky Balboa's inspirational speech

In the 2006 film Rocky Balboa , Sylvester Stallone delivers an inspiring monologue as Rocky Balboa, the boxing legend, as he motivates his son. 

Stallone's delivery is masterful, depicting the wise and grounded wisdom of a seasoned fighter imparting his knowledge to his son. It is a powerful speech that resonates with anyone who has had to face struggles and hardships in life, and it serves as a reminder that the only things that can truly hold us back are the limits we place on ourselves.

3. Persona (1966)

Persona  •  Alma’s Confessions

The 1966 film Persona features a riveting monologue delivered by Bibi Andersson in her role as Alma, a nurse caring for a mentally unstable actress. In the monologue, Alma pours out her innermost thoughts and feelings, confessing her darkest secrets and desires to the actress. 

The monologue provides a deep understanding of who Alma is, giving the audience insight into her complex psyche.  The monologue beautifully explores the themes of identity, self-discovery, and the blurred lines between reality and fiction. 

Spielberg’s Dramatic Monologues from Movies

2. jaws (1975).

Jaws  •  The Indianapolis Speech Scene 

The Indianapolis Speech monologue in one of Spielberg’s best films Jaws is considered one of the most iconic movie monologues of all time. In the scene, Quint, played brilliantly by Robert Shaw, tells the story of the sinking of the USS Indianapolis and the horrific events that followed. 

Shaw's delivery of the monologue is spellbinding, drawing the audience in with his captivating storytelling and vivid descriptions of the shark attack, the struggle for survival, and the aftermath. Even decades after the movie's release, the Indianapolis Speech remains a powerful moment in one of cinema’s most unforgettable films. 

Best Monologues from Movies of All Time

1. the great dictator (1940).

Charlie Chaplin  •  Final Speech from The Great Dictator

Charlie Chaplin's closing monologue in the film The Great Dictator is a powerful plea for peace, unity and compassion, and it remains one of the most iconic speeches in cinema history. The speech denounces fascism, anti-Semitism, and intolerance, and calls for humanity to embrace love, respect and brotherhood. The speech's universal message is as relevant today as it was when the film was made over 80 years ago. 

It continues to inspire people all over the world to strive for peace and to stand up against hate and oppression. Chaplin's eloquent words remind us that, as human beings, we have the capacity to create a better world for ourselves and for future generations. 

The Best One-Liners in Cinema

On the opposite end of the monologue is the cinematic one-liner. Check out our next article to see some of the best single-line deliveries in all of cinema, ranging from comedies to dramas.

Up Next: Best One-Liners→

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Video store chain Blockbuster Video (in the UK) held a series of polls in late 2003 with its customers to determine the Top 20 Best Film Speeches and Monologues in cinematic history (their selections are all included here). Although there were some excellent choices in their poll, the results almost completely ignored early films, and entirely disregarded films with speeches made by female characters.

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The 10 Most Inspirational Movie Speeches For Cinephiles

Whether short and sweet or long-winded, some film speeches have stirred up intense emotions within their audiences.

Although films can be more about visuals, many carry impactful dialogue. While body language and facial expressions are necessary for actors, some have proven the mastery of spoken word. Some of these speeches are filled with words, while others have only a few lines. Regardless of how long the moment is, these speeches inspire their audiences.

RELATED:  10 Great Movies That Surprisingly Aren't Adapted From A Book

Several films contain historically accurate and entertainingly original movie speeches. Many of them stand the test of time, and others mark a new era.

10 The King's Speech: King George VI Challenges Us To Overcome Our Greatest Enemies

The King's Speech's  protagonist, Prince Albert, is pushed to overcome his speech impediment, while dealing with the pressure of being a member of Britain's Royal Family. The Prince and his wife turn to actor and speech therapist Lionel Louge, who digs into the emotional trauma behind the impediment.

The audience's emotional attachment only increases when Prince Albert is named the new King of England and is expected to lead the country into war with Nazi Germany in the late 1930s. His first act as King George happens to be his first wartime radio broadcast. As he works through the stress of relaying his hopeful words for victory, he takes his first steps into overcoming his disability, an inspirational moment in history and cinema.

9 The Return Of The King: Aragorn's Speech Made For A Stirring Start To The Final Battle

Throughout  The Lord of the Rings trilogy, Aragorn makes for a brilliant leader, but often stands aside to let another take over. His hesitation to claim his birthright as King of Men, along with his great humility, is only a part of why his rousing speech at the end of  Return of the King is so impactful.

RELATED: 10 Best Fantasy Movies For Lord Of The Rings Fans

The final battle at Mordor is the last obstacle the heroes have to face to end Sauron's chaos , but even after all they've overcome, victory still seems bleak. It's Aragorn's speech that brings back hope for better days and stirs up the men, and the audience's courage, to face the challenge that's ahead of them.

8 Independence Day: The President's Speech Is Iconic For Its Bold Honesty And Empowerment For All

The power of a speech lies in how the speaker captures their audience. Though he struggles at first to rally his troops, President Whitmore's wartime speech is the spark to the war effort against the alien enemy in  Independence Day , .

His honest start defining the venture that they were about to embark on, avoided sugar-coating the situation; they were about to fight for their survival . It's his change in topic, focusing more on how the world is going to fight together and how  "we will not vanish without a fight" , that gives everyone strength.

7 Ratatouille: Anton Ego's Critique Is A Victory For The Artists Who Dream Big

Though the concept of a rat cooking in a restaurant might leave some with an upset stomach, Pixar  took the idea and created the inspirational masterpiece  Ratatouille . The film follows the rat Remy, whose passion for cooing leads him to secretly become a chef at his idol's famed restaurant, Gusteau's.

As the restaurant's popularity rises thanks to Remy's cooking, the harsh critic Anton Ego steps in to test his talent, not realizing he isn't human. After a mass exit from the kitchen staff, Remy is helped by his family to serve Anton his finest meal. Upon discovering Remy's true identity, Anton is forced to accept and now uphold the late Gusteau's ideology of  "anyone can cook" , calling Remy  "the finest chef in France" in his in-depth food critique.

6 Remember The Titans: Coach Boone's Speech Unifies His Team And The Audience

Following the story of the first racially integrated football team in Virginia, Remember The Titans balances its societal commentary and engaging storytelling brilliantly. In one of the film's serious moments, the team is led on a grueling run that leads them to the land where the Battle of Gettysburg historically took place.

As the young athletes take a moment to catch their breath, Coach Boone compares the team's struggle to work together to the bloody battle that happened nearly a century ago.  "If we don't come together, right now... we too will be destroyed -- just like they were" , are some of the influential words Boone shares. As haunting as his speech becomes, it ends on a hopeful note of  "maybe we'll learn to play this game like men."

5 Dead Poets Society: Mr. Keating's Passion For The Arts Breathes Life Into The Audience

Viewers were not prepared for the emotional tour de force of  Dead Poets Society , the story of one English teacher's unique efforts to help his students live their best lives and overcome the pressures pushed onto them. With many of his students carrying a misunderstanding of why they are studying poetry and the arts, Mr. Keating shares poetic words of his own on the connection between poetry and the passion of life.

In his speech, he shares the words,  "poetry, beauty, romance, love, these are what we stay alive for" , and in an effort to convince the young students to think and live for themselves, he adds,  "you may contribute a verse."  The inspiring speech ends with a call to action, both for the characters and the audience,  "What will your verse be?"

4 Hidden Figures: Mary Jackson's Bold Speech Stirs Up Viewers' Courage

With the restriction of segregation holding her from her potential, Mary Jackson's historical fight for an equal education is shared in the remarkable film  Hidden Figures . Mary was already brilliant in engineering before she was given the official job, but she needed the credentials from an accredited school in order to be granted the promotion.

The only school available was, at the time, an all-white high school. Mary boldly stands before a judge and declares  "I have no choice but to be the first."  The genius of her character shines in this scene as she makes a direct connection with the judge, who she points out has done some history-making of his own. The bold approach works and the judge allows her to bend the segregation laws, an empowering step for Mary and for the audience watching.

3 Good Night, And Good Luck: Edward R Murrow's Harsh Criticisms On Media Still Have An Impact Today

Though a moody piece ,  Good Night, and Good Luck presents a light at the end of the tunnel as far as the abuse of mass media goes. It highlights the monumental work of reporter Edward R. Murrow and his fight against the extremes of McCarthyism. It also emphasizes his belief in the power of radio and television broadcasting.

His speech in the film may be a bit dreary for those looking to be uplifted, but it hits inspirational notes where it needs to. In the words from the film,  "This instrument can teach. It can illuminate and, yes, it can even inspire,"  a sentiment that means a great deal to those who share in Murrow's ideology on the power of media.

2 The Princess Bride: Inigo Montoya's 'Introduction' Was Worth The Great Build Up

Inigo Montoya is incredibly likable even though he's helping one of the villains in the  The Princess Bride . His life as a rogue swordsman has all been for the sake of finding the man who murdered his father and taking his vengeance. Coincidentally, that same man is an enemy of the story's hero, Wesley, giving Inigo the support he needs to reach his goal.

RELATED:  10 Modern Movies To Watch If You Like Princess Bride

For decades he practiced the same speech over and over again, introducing himself to his father's killer, but when he finally has the man in his clutches, he loses, or so it seems. Unwilling to give in to his devastating wounds, Inigo repeats the same speech, raising his voice louder and louder as his attacks grow in power. At last, he has the murderer right where he wants him and deals the final blow, making for one of the most exciting final battles in cinema that has stood the test of time.

1 Pursuit of Happyness: Chris Gardner's Speech On Chasing After Dreams Applies To All Ages

In one of his most inspirational films, Will Smith plays Chris Gardner, a man down on his luck after he and his son are evicted from their home. The father and son struggle living out on the street as Chris works hard to land a job at a brokerage firm. Toward the end of the film, Chris and his son are playing basketball together as the little boy proclaims one day he'll become a pro player. Without thinking, Chris shuts down his son's dream to spare him from disappointment .

After seeing the impact of his negative words, Chris tells his son,  "Don't ever let somebody tell you, you can't do something, not even me."  He then encourages his son to go after his dreams, telling him  "If you want something, go get it. Period." For everyone in the world, no matter their age, this speech inspired by a true underdog, means a lot.

NEXT:  10 Most Inspirational Anime Speeches That Will Motivate Anyone

Movies & TV

Performed by the most

Dramatic onscreen monologues aren’t just catnip for the Oscars . Whether they appear in emotional dramas, comedies, or even action films, they can be the defining moment of a character’s arc — especially when that character is a woman.

Many of the greatest actors of our time have had the chance to show their impressive chops with a well-placed speech — and stuck the landing. Here, we’ve compiled a list of the most memorable monologues, from the few classics you’re probably familiar with (it doesn’t get more iconic than Princess Leia begging Obi-Wan for help in the first Star Wars , setting off an entire franchise in the process), to some lesser-known speeches to impress and devastate you, too. Amy Adams and Ellen Burnstyn ’s monologues, in particular, will be sure to blow your mind if you haven’t seen them before. So sit back, relax, and let these performances wash over you. Spoiler alert, you will absolutely need tissues to make your way down the list, though they’re not all sad; more humorous speeches have also been included, to ensure you don't start sobbing at your desk. Happy watching!

Saoirse Ronan — ‘Little Women’

Jo (Saoirse Ronan), who’s basically the heroine of Little Woman , struggles with her creative passions, societal pressure, and longing to be loved. All of her emotions come pouring out in this monologue, making it one of the reasons this film feels so relevant to a modern audience. In Ronan’s brilliant hands, it’s not whining — it’s a revelation about the world and her place in it.

Watch On Amazon Prime

Laura Dern — ‘Marriage Story’

Marriage Story is the story about a union that’s ended, and it talks a lot about the roles that a husband and wife/dad and mom are supposed to take on. Leave it to divorce lawyer Nora (Laura Dern) to offer a scathing takedown of our “our Judeo-Christian whatever” society, and our deeply hypocritical treatment of women and mothers, all while wearing a fabulous dress. It’s deeply witty and true all at once.

Watch On Netflix

Frances McDormand — ‘Something’s Gotta Give’

This sweet Nancy Meyer rom-com embraces the middle-aged woman as a hot, sexual being. But it’s also a supremely smart takedown of social constructs that limit women as they get older. Here, Zoe (Frances McDormand) brilliantly takes Harry (Jack Nicholson), and society at large, to task for overlooking successful 60-something women. They deserve love too, dammit.

Watch On Hulu

Julia Roberts — 'Erin Brockovich'

There are a lot of terrific monologues in this movie, but the infamous "Numbers" speech is truly unforgettable — largely because of Roberts' no-nonsense delivery. It also offers Roberts’ character the chance to live out a fantasy that every woman has had: being able to tell off a guy who’s hitting on you when you're really just trying to live your life in peace.

Julia Stiles — '10 Things I Hate About You'

Kat Stratford's poem in 10 Things I Hate About You was notorious for making all '90s girls cry — chances are most of us felt exactly like this at some point during high school. It's also a great, universally relevant monologue about love and loss, perfectly delivered by Julia Stiles. (And bonus points for how it cements the movie’s brilliant inversion of Shakespeare’s The Taming of the Shrew .)

America Ferrera — 'Sisterhood Of The Traveling Pants'

Even if you’re not a child of divorce, just thinking about the scene in Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants when Carmen (American Ferrera) calls her dad, Al (Bradley Whitford), to confront him for leaving her is enough to break your heart. Ferrara plays Carmen as fierce and independent, so to watch her be so vulnerable is also a masterclass in acting.

Rosamund Pike — ‘Gone Girl’

It seems impossible to feel sorry for a sociopath — until you watch this monologue. Amy Dunne (Rosamund Pike) is enacting a plan to frame her husband Nick (Ben Affleck) for her murder, and she tells us exactly why. Underneath her quest for vengeance is an endless black hole of hurt and frustration. As horrified as we are by her, we can totally relate.

Carrie Fisher — 'A New Hope'

Carrie Fisher famously never forgot the lines to this Princess Leia monologue from A New Hope , and many fans haven't either. Four decades and two trilogies later, there isn't a Star Wars speech more iconic than Princess Leia's message to Obi-Wan Kenobi; these days, it’s also a tribute to the late Fisher’s immense talent. “You’re my only hope.”

Viola Davis — 'Fences'

There's no way that Viola Davis' monologue in Fences won't be taught in acting schools until the end of time. Davis took home the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress in 2017 for her performance as Rose — a devoted, unfulfilled housewife who, in a single monologue, sums up her life of joy, pain, and disappointment. Like Troy (Denzel Washington), all we can do is watch in awe.

Ellen Burstyn — ‘Requiem for a Dream’

Requiem for a Dream is a tough movie to watch, but this scene is particularly wrenching. Ellen Burnstyn’s Sara makes an emotional plea to her son (Jared Leto), telling him that she needs amphetamines to lose weight, be on her favorite game show, and really just have a reason to live. “It makes tomorrow all right,” she says tearfully.

Vivien Leigh — 'Gone With The Wind'

Despite its many faults, Gone With the Wind is probably one of the most quotable movies in Hollywood history, and this monologue performed by Vivien Leigh is a big reason why. Her character can be deeply unlikeable, but this is the exact moment you come to empathize with her. It also gave way too many people the burning need to say "as God as my witness" a whole bunch.

Amy Adams — 'Junebug'

Amy Adams earned her first Oscar nomination for Junebug , and after watching this monologue, you’ll understand why the critics couldn’t get enough of her performance. In this scene, Ashley (Adams) is desperately trying to put on a brave face after giving birth to a stillborn baby. She goes through every emotion: anger, fear, sadness, and finally a tiny bit of acceIt's as heartbreaking as it is impressive.

Alicia Silverstone — 'Clueless'

The fact that Cher's Clueless (1995) speech was everywhere in the Women's March of 2017 — "It does not say RSVP on the Statue of Liberty" signs galore — is proof enough of the lasting power of this monologue. But the most hilarious part of it might be that on some crazy, meta level... what she says kind of makes sense?

Michelle Williams — 'Manchester By The Sea'

In this heartbreaking monologue, Michelle Williams shows exactly why she was nominated for an Oscar for her turn in Manchester By The Sea . This scene shows Williams’ character, Randy, reaching out to her ex, Lee, who accidentally allowed their house to catch on fire, resulting in the passing of their young children. Through tears, she begs him to forgive her for her cruelty in blaming him.

Sally Field — 'Steel Magnolias'

Another tearjerker, Sally Field's devastated and furious monologue at the end of Steel Magnolias is as honest a representation of grief as one can find in a Hollywood production. Not long after having her second child, Shelby (Julia Roberts) loses her life. Her mom M'Lynn (Field) has to bury her daughter, and there’s nothing okay about it. And then, in the very last second, there’s a moment of lightness.

Hilary Duff — 'A Cinderella Story'

Millennials the world over will remember this movie as the modern-day fairy tale we all kind of needed growing up. Hilary Duff's monologue might not be known the world over, and it’s honestly a bit silly. But it's also a glorious moment of catharsis: a girl standing up to her former crush for his bad behavior and getting a bit of closure. It deserves a place on the list for that reason alone.

Lupita Nyong'o — 'Us'

Us is a terrifying look at how the suffering of some often underpins others’ joy and success. And in this monologue, Lupita Nyong'o's Red (the actor’s tethered character) explains in disturbing detail exactly how that works. It's a stunning performance from Nyong'o, featuring an altered voice and a slow delivery that just gets under your skin. Equally impressive? She’s acting against herself.

Jennifer Lopez — 'Hustlers'

It's hard not to cheer when Jennifer Lopez's Ramona goes off on the Wall Street corruption responsible for 2008’s economic crash. Lopez is a veteran actor, but here, she delivers a career-defining performance. In this one moment, she explains why Wall Street guys who come into the strip club deserve to be conned. It's enough to have even the most upstanding citizen ready to do some crimes.

Taraji P. Henson — 'Hidden Figures'

Taraji P. Henson's exasperated monologue in Hidden Figures is really the most memorable scene in the film, and the moment the audience has been waiting for. In this pivotal scene, Katherine (Henson), tired of being forced to live like a second class citizen at work, finally unloads on her boss about the struggles of working in a segregated office.

This article was originally published on April 13, 2017

Cinematic Masterpieces: 25 Monologues That Shaped Film

A movie monologue is a speech given by a single character. They often happen at important turning points, i.e., at the point of no return or near the end – at the movie’s climax .

For the monologue to be convincing, the actor who delivers the speech has to convince the audience—big or small—in the film so that we, as viewers, are persuaded, and our disbelief is suspended.

I mention the rhetorical appeals throughout the article to add context to the quotes. If you’re unsure about what ethos, logos, and pathos are, click here .

1. The Newsroom: “America is not the greatest country in the world anymore.”

In this powerful monologue from The Newsroom (2012) , Will McAvoy (Jeff Daniels) explains to a sophomore why he thinks that America isn’t the greatest country in the world anymore.

Notice how he uses logos and pathos, which tells us that he has both the brain and the heart when it matters.

2. Contact. – Jodie Fosters Pitch

In this scene from Contact (1997) , we see Ellie Arroway (Jodie Foster) trying to secure funding for her SETI project.

Test your knowledge in the ultimate sci-fi movie quote quiz .

Notice how she abandons logos for pathos when the board initially denies her funding. Her passion convinces the mystical billionaire S.R. Hadden (John Hurt) to fund her research.

3. The Dark Knight: Joker meets the mob and does a Pencil Trick

In this scene from Batman: The Dark Knight (2008) , we see the Joker (Heath Ledger) trying to convince the mob of Gotham City to pay him half of their money to kill Batman.

Notice how he establishes credibility and authority (ethos) from the beginning so that the mob knows he is no fool (pun intended).

Heath Ledger did a great job as Joker, and his posthumous Academy Award for this role is well-deserved.

4. Hidden Figures. “Be The First” Appeal To The Judge

In this scene, Hidden figures (2016) , we see a strong appeal made by one of the female protagonists, Marie Jackson (Janelle Monáe), to the skeptical judge to allow her to attend an all-white high school.

In this 1-minute monologue, notice how she uses pathos to establish common ground and get the judge to see it from her point of view.

5. Independence Day. President Speech.

In this cult scene from Independence Day (1996) , the President of the United States, Thomas J. Whitmore (Bill Pullman), gives a motivational speech to the Air Force before the final battle against the aliens.

It’s a powerful speech. It comes from authority (ethos) – POTUS himself – who in the movie is raised to a pedestal as if he is not only the president of the US but the entire human population on earth.

The motivational speech is a pure pathos appeal based on fear and hope – we fight, win, or die!

Independence Day has many memorable lines. Check out the best quotes from the Independence Day movie .

6. The Devil’s Advocate. Al Pacino’s monologue about God

Here’s a great example of a monologue from the antagonist in a movie.

In this scene from The Devil’s Advocate (1997) , the devil (Al Pacino) gives a speech about God. As the devil himself, you won’t find a more authoritative figure (ethos) except maybe God.

The monologue is a pathos appeal – rooted in anger, of course – to establish a common ground with our protagonist, Kevin Lomax (Keanu Reeves).

7. Scent of a Woman. “I’ll Show You Out of Order!”

Here’s a dramatic monologue by Al Pacino from the movie Scent of a Woman (1992) .

In this scene, the blind military veteran Lt. Col. Frank Slade (Al Pacino) defends the young prep school student Charlie Simms (Chris O’Donnell).

We see Slade establish credibility and authority (ethos) through his powerful appearance and references to his time in the military.

And though he is blind, he sees right through the school’s hypocrisy, which he unveils with his passionate choice of words and intonation (pathos).

It’s a great scene and an iconic performance by Al Pacino.

8. Braveheart: Freedom Speech

In this monologue from Braveheart (1995) , we see William Wallace (Mel Gibson) give a powerful speech to the clansmen of Scotland.

The pathos appeal is rooted in the clans’ fear of losing their independence and freedom from England. The purpose is to persuade the clans to unite and fight against the English army.

9. Good Will Hunting. “Your Move Chief”

Here’s a favorite scene from one of my favorite films, Good Will Hunting (1997) .

In the scene, we see the therapist, Dr. Sean Maguire (Robin Williams), giving Will Hunting (Matt Damon) an important lesson about life.

The monologue from Williams’ character becomes the turning point for Will, as he finally decides to be honest with his therapist and himself.

Williams’s character has life experience and credibility (ethos). Though he might not be a genius like Will, he knows enough (logos) to dismantle Will’s intellectual bullshit, which up to this point, has worked as a shield not to let anyone see who he is inside.

Maguire sees right through Will’s facade. It’s a warm and caring talking-to and lecture (pathos) that persuades Will to drop his guard and open up and one of the best moments in the film.

Robin Williams did a great job in this movie and was rewarded an Academy Award as Best Actor in a Supporting Role, which is well deserved if you ask me!

10. Good Will Hunting. “My boy’s wicked smart”

Here’s another scene from Good Will Hunting.

In this scene, we see some of Will’s (Matt Damon) genius as he rips apart a condescending Harvard student, Clark, who tries to make a fool of his best friend, Chuckie (Ben Affleck).

We see how Will uses logos to outwit Clark (Scott William Winters) while establishing authority and dominance (ethos) at the same time.

He already has the upper hand when he suggests a fight, as both he and Chuckie are used to fighting, as we can see from their bruised faces.

Ultimately, it’s a double-win for Will, as Clark loses to muscles and brains.

Speaking of wins, it’s no surprise that Damon and Affleck’s script received an Oscar for Best Screenplay.

11. Wall Street. “Greed […] is Good”

In this scene from the movie Wall Street (1987) , we see the anti-hero Gordon Gekko (Michael Douglas) persuading the audience at a shareholder’s meeting, announcing that “greed [..] is good. Greed is right, greed works”.

He establishes himself as an authority when he speaks of himself as a liberator of companies instead of their destroyer. He refers to the massive amount of money his takeovers have afforded other shareholders through the years.

The monologue aims to persuade the shareholders that it is a good idea to accept Gekko’s takeover bid.

He does this by—apparently—establishing common ground (pathos) with shareholders on the floor while speaking against the vice presidents on the board who make a lot of money.

12. Apocalypse Now. “The Horror”

In this monologue from Apocalypse Now (1979) , Colonel Walter E. Kurtz (Marlon Brando) recalls the horrors of war. We’re invited into his mind to witness first-hand the cause of his insanity.

It’s a horrifying monologue (no pun intended) filled with pathos, which contrasts Kurtz’s screwed reasoning that if you can embrace horror, then you can “kill without feeling… without passion… without judgment”.

In doing so, Colonel Kurtz equals being able to kill without emotion and conscience with strength in its purest form.

13. The Matrix Reloaded. The Merovingian on Causality

In this scene from The Matrix Reloaded (2003) , we see the antagonist, The Merovingian (Lambert Wilson), lecturing Neo et al. on causality, i.e., cause and effect.

As a program himself (logos), he separates himself from human avatars in the matrix – embodied by the female guest – who are controlled by emotions and instincts (pathos).

The “why” in his monologue is reasoning (logos) and power.

If you don’t understand “why,” a.k.a. the cause, you become a slave to your emotions (pathos) and those who understand the “why” because they can control you by manipulating those emotions.

14. Kill Bill Vol. 2: Kill Bill on Superheroes

In this memorable performance from Kill Bill Vol. 2 (2004) , we see Bill (David Carradine) speaking about how Superman differs from other superheroes.

Other superheroes—like Spider-Man—are weak and human, except when they have transformed into their superhero alter ego and put on their masks.

It is the opposite way around with Superman. Superman is always a superhero underneath his cape, and his alter ego, Clark Kent, is the weak one.

The speech is an analogy to female assassin Beatrix Kiddo (Uma Thurman), a.k.a. The Bride, a.k.a. Arlene Plimpton.

As her former teacher, Bill doesn’t condone her wish to live a simple life like Arlene Plimpton. In Bill’s perspective, becoming Mrs. Plimpton resembles Superman becoming Clark Kent – a weak alter ego. Bill sees Beatrix Kiddo as “a natural born killer.”

As her former teacher and a feared assassin, Bill already possesses much authority (ethos). And though the Superman analogy might seem like a logos appeal, it is a pathos appeal where Bill tries to re-establish a common ground with his former apprentice.

It’s the classical “we are the same you and I” antagonist monologue, but it is wrapped in clever Tarantino writing.

15. Ratatouille. “Anyone can cook”

Here’s a scene from one of my favorite Disney films, Ratatouille (2007) by Pixar.

It’s a wonderful climactic monologue near the end of the film, where the cooking of the rat Remy (Patton Oswalt) and Linguini (Lou Romano) is judged by the feared food critic Anton Ego (Peter O’Toole).

It’s not only a well-written monologue on art and criticism. It is also about the transformative power of acceptance, courage, and risk-taking, as Anton Ego has to revise his biased views on cooking.

As a feared food critic, Anton Ego has established himself as an authority (ethos) that can make or break a restaurant through the power of his words (logos).

But when he writes the review, he risks and loses this credibility. Instead, he is reborn and reconnected with the happy feelings from his childhood (pathos), which he hasn’t been in contact with for years.

16. Mona Lisa Smile. Katherine’s speech to the class.

In this Mona Lisa Smile (2003) scene, we see art history teacher Katherin Ann Watson (Julia Roberts) in a passionate speech to her students at Wellesley College in 1953.

Julia makes a strong pathos appeal to get the students to see that there is more to life than getting married and fill out the roles the girls “were born to fill” – as her highly conservative student Elizabeth “Betty” Warren (Kirsten Dunst) had written in an editorial for the college paper.

She also uses logos appeals, showing the class contemporary ads with demeaning portraits of women, which act as a mirror to the young students.

It’s a powerful 2-minute monologue of female empowerment.

17. The American President.

In this monologue from the movie The American President (1995) , we see the Democratic President of the US, Andrew Shepherd (Michael Douglas), giving a speech before the press about free speech.

He also rebukes the attacks by his political opponent – the Republican Senator Bob Rumson.

It’s a passionate monologue (pathos) contrasting his earlier measured speeches (logos). Again, we see how logos is overtaken by pathos when it matters.

18. Malcolm X

In this powerful speech from the movie Malcolm X (1992) , we see Malcolm X (Denzel Washington) address Harlem’s citizens.

It’s a classic us-against-them speech in which he first establishes a common ground with the black community of Harlem (pathos) by peeling away all that could divide them and then putting them against the white man, a.k.a. the government and politicians.

19. A Few Good Men. “You can’t handle the truth!”

In this famous movie monologue from A Few Good Men (1992), we see Col. Nathan R. Jessep (Jack Nicholson) admitting that he ordered Code Red – a violent extrajudicial punishment – which led to the death of marine officer William Santiago.

Up until this point, the courtroom battle has been a case of providing evidence and a battle of wits (logos) between Jessep and lawyers Daniel Kaffe (Tom Cruise) and JoAnne Galloway (Demi Moore).

But as Kaffe catches Jessep in a lie, things heat up, and Nicholson gives a powerful and passionate monologue rooted in anger (pathos), starting with the famous words, “You want the truth? You can’t handle the truth!”

It’s also an excellent example of using a rhetorical question to set up the answer.

20. Skyfall. “Mommy was very bad.”

In this scene from Skyfall (2012), James Bond (Daniel Craig) meets the villain Silva (Javier Bardem) for the first time.

Check out our list of the best 007 movies of all time .

As Silva enters the room where Bond is captured, he gives a disgusting (pathos) monologue about getting rid of a rat infestation on his grandmother’s island when he was a kid.

The rats thrived by eating coconuts, and the way to get rid of the rats was to capture them in an oil drum and let them eat each other until there were only two left.

The two survivors will now have changed their nature to feast on rats instead of coconuts and are released into the wild.

Of course, the two surviving rats are an analogy of Bond and Silva, whose natures have been changed as they are both trained MI6 agents. Instead of killing other rats, the two agents have a license to kill other humans—or at least one of them does. For Silva, killing is a feast in itself.

21. Samuel L. Jackson in Pulp Fiction (1994)

Another honorable mention is Jules Winnfield’s (Samuel L. Jackson) citation of the verse Ezekiel 25:17 in Pulp Fiction by Quentin Tarantino:

Anyone familiar with Pulp Fiction might remember that the quote appears twice in the film.

The second time is in the final scene where Jules lectures Ringo, a.k.a. Pumpkin, on how to be a bad-ass motherfucker – or is it a shepherd?

Here is the monologue in full.

Well, there’s this passage I got memorized: Ezekiel 25:17: ‘The path of the righteous man is beset on all sides by the inequities of the selfish and the tyranny of evil men. Blessed is he who, in the name of charity and good will, shepherds the weak through the valley of the darkness. For he is truly his brother’s keeper and the finder of lost children. And I will strike down upon thee with great vengeance and furious anger those who attempt to poison and destroy my brothers. And you will know I am the Lord when I lay my vengeance upon you.” I’ve been sayin’ that shit for years. And if you heard it, that meant your ass. I never gave much thought to what it meant. I just thought it was some cold-blooded thing to say to a motherfucker before you popped a cap in his ass. But I saw some shit this mornin’ made me think twice. Seee, now I’m thinking: maybe it means you’re the evil man. And I’m the righteous man. And Mr. 9-millimeter here, he’s the shepherd protecting my righteous ass in the valley of darkness. Or it could mean you’re the righteous man and I’m the shepherd and it’s the world that’s evil and selfish. I’d like that. But that shit ain’t the truth. The truth is you’re the weak. And I’m the tyranny of evil men. But I’m tryin’, Ringo… I’m tryin’ real hard to be the shepherd. – Jules Winnfield

22. Meryl Streep in One True Thing (1998)

In this heartwarming (and heartbreaking at the same time) monologue, Meryl Streep plays a cancer-stricken mother, Kate Gulden, talking to her daughter Ellen (Renée Zellweger). The latter is upset with her father, George (William Hurt).

It’s a moment of truth about marriage, the idea of a good father, and life and death at the most basic level. And it’s filled with pathos.

It’s another excellent performance from Meryl Streep, who was nominated for Best Actress at the Academy Awards.

23. ‘Tears in the Rain’ by Rutger Hauer in Blade Runner (1982)

I’m a huge Blade Runner fan, so this may be biased. But I love this final monologue from the Nexus-6 model Roy Batty (Rutger Hauer):

It’s a pivotal moment in the film because the Nexus model chooses to save Rick Deckard’s (Harrison Ford) life.

At this point, it is assumed by most that Deckard is human, so for a Nexus model to save a human, the Tyrell Corporation’s idea of creating robots that are ‘more human than human’ is enforced.

Viewed analytically, the logos of the cold-blooded soldier Nexus-6 model give way to a pathos-filled moment in its final hour.

24. John Goodman in The Big Lebowski (1998)

One of the movie’s most hilarious monologues is from Walter Sobchak (John Goodman). Granted, this movie is filled with crazy dialog and scenes and is one of the best comedy movies of all time .

In this scene, Walter gives a ceremonious speech before he scatters Theodore Donald ‘Donny’ Kerabatsos’s (Steve Buschemi) ashes near the sea while The Dude (Jeff Bridges) listens in the background.

Donny, a trusted friend and bowling partner, was true to the trio until the end. Donny dies from a heart attack after an altercation with the nihilists who’ve just set the Dude’s car on fire at the movie’s end.

But even though the three friends have bowled for years, the Dude and Walter don’t know much about Donny. So Walter has to make up a speech on the spot, which is more logos than pathos.

Here it is in full:

Donny was a good bowler and a good man. He was… he was one of us. He was a man who loved the outdoors… and bowling. And as a surfer, he explored the beaches of southern California from La Jolla to Leo Carillo and up to Pismo. He died.. he died as so many young men of his generation before his time. In your wisdom, Lord, you took him… as you took so many bright, flowering young men at Khe Sanh, and Lan Doc, and Hill 364. These young men gave their lives, and so Donny. Donny who loved bowling. And so… Theodore Donald Karabotsos… in accordance with what we think your dying wishes might well have been… we commit your final, mortal remains to the bosom of the Pacific Ocean, which you loved so well. Goodnight, sweet prince. – Walter Sobchak

25. Joaquin Phoenix in Gladiator (2000)

Gladiator (2000), directed by Ridley Scott, is one of my favorite movies. It’s a great story with amazing performances—not least by Joaquin Phoenix as Commodus and Russell Crowe as Maximus.

In this pathos-filled scene, Commodus realizes that his father, Marcus Aurelius (Richard Harris), won’t let his son be the new emperor of Rome. Instead, he’ll pass the torch to his general Maximus.

Commodus tries to redeem himself and let his father know that he is ready to be the new emperor:

[Commodus] You wrote to me once… listing the four chief virtues. Wisdom, justice, fortitude, temperance. As I read the list, I knew I had none of them. But I have other virtues, Father. Ambition. That can be a virtue when it drives us to excel. Resourcefulness. Courage. Perhaps not on the battlefield, but… there are many forms of courage. Devotion… to my family… to you. But none of my virtues were on your list. Even then, it was as if you didn’t want me for your son. [Marcus Aurelius kneels: Oh, Commodus… you go to far.] [Commodus] I search the faces of the Gods for ways to please you, to make you proud. One kind word, one full hug where you pressed me to your chest and held me tight… would have been like the sun on my heart for a thousand years. What is it in me that you hate so much? All I’ve ever wanted was to live up to you. Caesar. Father. [Marcus Aurelius: Commodus. Your faults as a son is my failure as a father.]

Tough love! That’s ancient Rome’s idea of a good father for you! Probably not the best or wisest way to respond to a disgruntled son from whom you’ve just denied the emperor’s throne.

Honorary mentions: Charlie Chaplin in The Great Dictator

Any famous movie monologues list wouldn’t be complete without mentioning this quote from the final scene in The Great Dictator (1940) by Charlie Chaplin.

The quote is as relevant then as it is today:

Machinery that gives abundance has left us in want. Our knowledge has made us cynical; our cleverness, hard and unkind. We think too much and feel too little. More than machinery, we need humanity. More than cleverness, we need kindness and gentleness. Without these qualities, life will be violent, and all will be lost.– A Jewish Barber A Jewish Barber

The quote encompasses pathos, logos, and ethos, making this one of the best movie monologues ever.

What makes great monologues from movies?

It can be valuable and fun to view and understand the monologues from a rhetorical perspective and apply the rhetorical appeals ethos, logos, and pathos .

Ethos, logos, and pathos are tools for persuading an audience to support you.

An ethos appeal is the speaker’s credibility and authority, a logos appeal is to logic and reasoning (in what’s being said), and a pathos appeal is to the audience’s emotions and passions.

For a monologue to be effective, the character has to have credibility, and he or she has to speak with pathos, a.k.a. passion. In other words, he or she has to speak to our hearts.

I find that pathos, more than logos, often powers these speeches.

Monologues aren’t just for protagonists.

However, the best monologues from movies aren’t reserved for the protagonist. Villains have held some great movie monologues throughout film history, which we’ll examine.

Monologues for villains are so common that Disney’s Pixar made fun of them in The Incredibles. Check out this comedic monologue from Syndrome:

So those were the best film monologues I could think of.

Did I miss any obvious ones? What are your favorite famous movie quotes?

Let me know in the comments below.

Up Next: If you’re an aspiring actor, here are some 1-minute monologues for auditions.

Jan Sørup is a indie filmmaker, videographer and photographer from Denmark. He owns filmdaft.com and the Danish company Apertura, which produces video content for big companies in Denmark and Scandinavia. Jan has a background in music, has drawn webcomics, and is a former lecturer at the University of Copenhagen.

4 thoughts on “Cinematic Masterpieces: 25 Monologues That Shaped Film”

This is really helpful for my drama class, and it has one that I’ve looked for before and couldn’t find, so thank you.

Thank you. I’m glad you found it useful. Good luck in drama class 🙂

Yoo I needed a monoloague to declaim in class, this website helped me a lot to find it. Thankss!!!

thank you so much this help me in my performance.

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The most inspiring sports movie speeches of all time light a fire under every sports fan's heart. They are typically given by head coaches of underdog teams who need a pre-game or halftime locker room pick-me-up to encourage the pursuit of victory against a challenging opponent. They can also arise in other unique ways that encapsulate the feelings of sportsmanship, teamwork, and a love of the game that reminds every athlete, coach, and fan why they play ball.

The timeless tale of inspiring underdogs in sports movies is the culmination of blood, sweat, and tears as well as fearlessness in the face of a formidable opponent. The best speeches in sports movies often remind those it is intended for to keep up their determination and maintain their belief in themselves. The most inspiring moments in sports movies come from the mutual desire to become greater than the sum of any given team's parts and often speak to notions of greatness and achievement that transcend the court or playing field.

RELATED: 12 Awesome Sports Movies Not Based On A True Story

10 Hoosiers - “I Don’t Care What The Scoreboard Says”

In the 1986 classic basketball film Hoosiers , Coach Norman Dale (Gene Hackman) delivers a passionate speech to his Hickory High School Huskers varsity team. Dale walks into a timid locker room in a make-or-break moment that will determine how the Indiana team will approach their big game. Dale's speech denounces the common anxieties that come with pre-game jitters, reminding his team not to focus on winning a distant state championship but to instead remember that the road to victory begins with one step. Dale encourages his team to forget about the crowds and the scoreboard, which leads to an iconic slow clap that fires the Huskers up before they hit the court.

9 Remember The Titans - “Leave No Doubt”

Remember the Titans is full of inspiring moments, but none capture the same intensity of the mid-game motivational speech given by Coach Bill Yoast (Will Patton). During the Northern Virginia Regional Championship Football Game, Yoast pulls his defensive players aside and reinforces their main objective, telling them to blitz the opponent's quarterback all night. After one of his star players quits during the game, Yoast improvises by subbing in back-up Alan Bosley (Ryan Gosling) and delivered the legendary line "You make sure they remember, forever, the night they played the Titans. Leave no doubt!"

8 Glory Road - “Take It”

The most motivational speech in the basketball film Glory Road is delivered by head coach Don Haskins (Josh Lucas) to his Texas Western basketball team as they are just two minutes from winning a national championship. In the huddle during a timeout, Haskins reminds his players that the key to winning a championship is about heart and which team wants to win the most. His inspiring speech encourages the underdog basketball team to take the victory from the established favorites since they will not hand it over simply. The speech is a declaration of the required willpower that turns competitors into champions.

7 Field Of Dreams - “People Will Come”

James Earl Jones delivers one of the most iconic speeches in all sports movies in Field of Dreams . Terence Mann (Jones) paints a portrait of what the baseball filed will inspire if Ray (Kevin Costner) builds it in his cornfield. The speech intercuts with Ray's contemplation of whether he should sell his property to ensure that he won't lose all of his financial assets. The inspirational speech creates the vision of a magical baseball field that will captivate every fan and player's attention and will ultimately prevent Ray from having to sell his beloved property. Mann memorably reminds Ray that if he builds the field, people will come.

6 Friday Night Lights - “Perfect”

Before the popular Friday Night Lights television series began, a 2004 movie of the same name starred Billy Bob Thornton as Coach Gary Gaines. Gaines delivers a brutally raw and honest speech to his team of football players that reminds them of the fleeting nature of life, encouraging them to seize the opportunity to win while they still have it. Gaines reiterates to his team at their most crucial and vulnerable moment that his notion of being "perfect" is not about winning the game, but about becoming good, reliable people through the game. It's a poignant speech that dives into how life is much bigger than any sports game.

RELATED: 10 Saddest Sports Movie Moments That Will Definitely Make You Cry

5 We Are Marshall - “You Cannot Lose”

We Are Marshall is one of the most devastating sports films ever made with many tear-jerking moments. Coach Jack Lengyel (Matthew McConaughey) brings his college football team to the final resting place of former Marshall players and staff members who died in a tragic plane crash. In a grim yet powerful speech, Lengyel reminds his players that although their opponent is physically stronger and more efficient than them, they aren't aware of how passionate they are. Lengyel's message touches on the deepest motivation of any sports competition, which is the commitment and heart in every player and team that can fuel an underdog to victory.

4 Coach Carter - “Our Deepest Fear”

One of the most motivational speeches in sports films is surprisingly not delivered by a coach but a player. In Coach Carter , point guard Timo Cruz (Rick Gonzalez) stands up and recites a poetic monologue that demonstrates the life lessons Coach Carter (Samuel L. Jackson) had taught him during their basketball season. Cruz begins by saying, "Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure." The moment delivers one of the rare speeches in sports movies that is applicable to philosophy and life in all areas, making it exceptionally profound even to non-sports fans.

3 Rocky Balboa - “It’s Not About How Hard You Hit”

Another beautifully constructed speech that applies to life outside the ring can be found is 2006's Rocky Balboa . Rocky (Sylvester Stallone) gives an impassioned pep talk to his son that delicately criticizes and motivates him to rise to difficult challenges. One of the most poignant parts of the speech is when Rocky says, "It ain't about how hard you can hit, but about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward." It's an incredible message about the importance of resiliency and overcoming obstacles in order to find success and happiness in life.

2 Miracle - “Great Moments Are Born From Great Opportunity”

In Miracle , Coach Herb Brooks (Kurt Russell) delivers one of the best pre-game speeches of all time. Brooks's command of the 1980 U.S. Men's Olympic Hockey team is akin to an army general, which is appropriate given the international tensions between the United States and the Soviet Union during the Cold War at the time. Brooks's speech is focused on the unification and determination required to achieve the highest form of victory. It stresses the importance of disavowing any self-doubt in order to make the most of rare opportunities when they are given.

1 Any Given Sunday - “Life Is A Game Of Inches”

The most inspirational speech in all sports movies is performed by Al Pacino in Any Given Sunday . Coach Tony D'Amato (Pacino) gives a speech that is motivational, heartfelt, relatable, and poetic all at once, proclaiming that life itself is a game of inches that must be earned, just like football. The speech is performed like a sermon that highlights the significance of margins of error in both football and life, which makes all the differences between winning and losing. D'Amato's speech perfectly combines passion, intelligence, and philosophy to create the most inspiring sports movie speech of all time.

• Sports Movies

10 Best and Most Inspirational Speeches in Movies

By Film Threat Staff | August 8, 2019

In addition to plot and cast, a vast number of movies can impress viewers with speeches they contain. In some cases, they are as meaningful that become assigned to be analyzed in the educational process. This blog post can be useful as online help with your assignment if you face issues with finding motivational sources for your presentation or writing task. You can read the  writemypapers.org review to find out more about writing help. It provides consideration of the best ten inspirational speeches from modern and classical movies.

When students need to write a speech, there are a few ways to help them compose a masterpiece. The first way is to turn to a  speech writing service  where they can hire a professional writer who will write a custom speech that meets their demands, and the other way is to have a look at some strong examples presented in this article.

10. “The Show Goes On” Wolf Of Wall Street (2013)

In Wolf Of Wall Street , the main hero’s speech is inspiring because it includes consideration of success, mainly financial. Presented instances of how people achieve wealth, after being poor ones, can make individuals to take a chance when an opportunity appears. His speech has since, apart from being an honorable person, it is also significant to have decent living conditions.

9. “We are special” Gridiron Gang (2006)

The speech of the coach (Dwayne Johnson) reflects that all people are special, regardless of any circumstances, like imprisonment. He inspires to think that even in cases when human is not a part of high society, he or she can achieve considerable goals and show that he or she is worth to be recognized. It is only essential to make efforts and do all actions one can to be better.

8. “Dream” The Pursuit of Happyness (2006)

It is worth saying that the entire film is quite touching since it reflects relations between father and son. In this scene, an adult man teaches his son to fight for his dream, when people around consider it impossible. The main idea of the speech: if somebody believes that you can not achieve your goals, then do not listen to such people. They are not right if they see you as a person with no power to reach your goals.

7. “Our Deepest Fear” Coach Carter (2005)

In Coach Carter , speech goes about fear to be successful, since it implies the possibility to influence other people. However, success can become an inspirational tool, which can make other people also to get past fears. Moreover, in the speech, one can see the rethinking of how it is significant to make efforts in order to “shine.”

6. “Being Perfect” Friday Night Lights (2004)

The movie includes a scene with the inspiring speech of the coach, who talks about what it means to be perfect. From his perspective, being perfect lies in the attitude towards relatives and friends, in love and truth, which a person express. His words can make an individual think over the noted points, as valuable indicators of perfection. As well, one can consider whether he or she expresses love towards surroundings, tells the truth, and have no remorse.

5. “Respect each other” Remember the Titans (2000)

Speech presented in Remember the Titans goes about friendship and respectful attitude to each other. It can make an individual think over the significance of peaceful relations since disagreements are destroying for mankind. The hero insists on being respectful despite any features of individuals like race, nationality, or point of view. From the selected scene, one can recognize that friendly relationships can be quite useful in achieving common goals, especially when it goes about teamwork.

4. “Presidents Speech” Independence Day (1996)

In this film, the president of America talks about the significance of humankind and friendship among all nations. His speech is inspiring since it goes about unification, which can be beneficial in terms of struggling with enemies and saving people. In general, it reflects the need to forget about nationality, race, gender, and other feature of identity because without focusing on them, humans can easily cooperate and protect humankind more effectively. This speech can be quite useful for consideration of international relations.

3. “Freedom” Braveheart (1995)

This scene contains the speech of William Wallace (Mel Gibson) about freedom, as an essential part of a human being. From his point of view, freedom is more significant than mere life with its routine. As well. The speech can inspire individuals to take actions for the sake of more meaningful things like love, faith, truth, or pride, instead of making nutrition and sleep crucial.

2. “Get Busy Living” The Shawshank Redemption (1994)

This inspiring speech reflects the faith of a person in a successful and happy future, even if it requires a lot of efforts to achieve this goal, while another man surrenders. At this point, each person can choose own path, namely “get busy living” or “get busy dying,” as the main hero says. Therefore, you should always think about the future life with a positive attitude, and imagine how and where you will be happy.

1. “We are Mutants” Stripes (1981)

In the selected scene, the main hero John Winger (Bill Murray) talks to his military colleagues, inspiring them to be good soldiers. From his speech, it is possible to emphasize the significance of identity background, which is forming by generations. His statements can inspire individuals to be proud of their bloodline, even if their ancestors are not recognized as worthy people. Thus, this speech can be considered as an inspirational one in terms of American patriotism. 

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Not a single female speaker? Shocking

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How does Al Pacino’s “Game of inches” speech from Any Given Sunday not make this list? Should be top of the pile🙈

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The Best Monologues in Movies, Ranked

W ords are powerful agents of change. Words turn our dreamy imaginations into tangible realities. Words hold a multiplicity that amounts to more clever, concise, and carefully constructed meanings and uses. Without words, there is no story. Silent films, with their mannerisms and body language, even have their dialogue to carry a story. Narration, conflict, comedy, tragedy, philosophizing, words ebb and flow to create and destroy worlds of possibilities.

Update August 30, 2023: This article has been updated with even more great movie monologues.

Some words are better than others. It is the difference between the "monk" and the "monkey." Words are their own worlds themselves, transporting us into the mind and heart of the speaker. A character's impassioned cries, their weary and turbulent hesitance, and their reasonable requests make us feel and understand where they are coming from and where they want to go. Dialogues are great between characters. Monologues show there are times when characters get their point across so well that you could not have said it better yourself.

Halloween (1978)

Dr. Samuel Loomis, explaining the unknown origin of evil in Michael Myers while standing in the place where Michael committed murder, does the trick and is such a treat. John Carpenter was right to cast Donald Pleasance as the voice of reason against a mindless slasher. No matter how hopeless the world seems, Loomis manages to maintain what is left of sanity in an insane world.

Gladiator (2000)

Russell Crowe introducing himself as Maximus is how everyone should introduce themselves. Our spouse and child have not been murdered, nor have we been enslaved and forced to fight to the death for commoners' and rulers' amusement, but the words still hold true. Enough words to garner a sequel from Alien (1979) director, Ridley Scott. Determined to right the wrong, these moving words rally the gladiator in us all.

Taken (2008)

When he witnesses his daughter's abduction while being on the other end of the phone a few thousand miles away, Bryan Mills (Liam Neeson) uses his one chance to speak to the perpetrators and delivers an iconic monologue. He makes it clear that he has no idea who they are or what they want, but his choice of words sends shivers down the spine of anyone who listens.

Related: 15 Movie Villain Monologues That Go on Forever

The devoted father assures the abductor that he will find him and end his life, and the emphasis in his words confirms that there is no doubt about it. Taken provides a monologue, which will leave you with all the feels, good and bad, and with the certainty that Neeson is one of the greatest actors of all time.

Pulp Fiction (1994)

Before the bullets fly, Samuel L. Jackson quoting Ezekiel 25:17 to exact vigilante justice, gets better every time he recites it. This monologue takes liberties with the Bible verse and is delivered differently each time; but it sounds righteous enough to be the word of God. Quentin Tarantino's writing here works with contrasting extremes, visually and metaphorically, through Jackson's delivery and performance.

Ghostbusters (1984)

Rick Moranis is Louis Tully who, unfortunately for him and fortunately for us, gets possessed by Vinz Clortho, a demigod and minion of the evil entity, Gozer. The plot at this point in the film is coming to fruition in a clever and fun way. The end of the world through the unlikeliest of characters is irony at its finest; Louis is locked out of places in the film and then becomes the Keymaster! His fervent energy and comedic timing make for an unmatched string of nonsense words that rival Edward Lear and Lewis Carroll's wordsmith whimsy.

Marriage Story (2019)

Laura Dern, the actress who took on the role of divorce lawyer Nora Fanshaw in Noah Baumbach's drama Marriage Story , won an Oscar for Best Supporting Actress in 2020, and needless to say she more than deserved it. She not only delivers an outstanding performance throughout the entire masterpiece, but Dern also impresses with a mind-blowing monologue, which pretty much sums up the difficulties of being a mother.

Related: Academy Awards: Best Acceptance Speeches from the 2020s

Nora Fanshaw is tough-talking, explaining how mothers have entirely different (and also unrealistic) expectations to live up to compared to fathers. Laure Dern seemingly lets her own beliefs and emotions flow into the scene, providing the audience with a speech that will be referenced for many years to come.

Jaws (1975)

Robert Shaw has this calm wistfulness that is incredibly haunting. A matter-of-fact man who skirts death but understands it, maybe even has become numb to death itself, gives a schoolboy charm that is unnerving. Or perhaps he was a drunken sailor telling the tale from the point of view of someone who should have been a dead man. The Indianapolis speech was Steven Spielberg's favorite moment from the film, and it made everyone think twice about going in the water.

Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory (1971)

Willy Wonka, the delightful candy maker, turning into a militant rule-follower was completely out of character. When he declares, "you get nothing!" the finite power of that line scars children, making them feel like they are to blame, even though they did no wrong. Gene Wilder is a multifaceted actor and gives us the sarcastic, but good-hearted tomfoolery of the confectionery genius. A performance akin to eye candy that is sweet enough to eat.

Woman King (2022)

The historical drama Woman King is the embodiment of female empowerment, as it tells the true story of the warriors, who protected their home, the Kingdom of Dahomey, with all their strength. The movie is centered around Nanisca (Viola Davis), the General of the all-female warriors, who are recruited, trained, and prepared for battles. When enemies are threatening their home, Nanisca calls them to raise their weapons in union and tap into their incredible power.

These women are a force to be reckoned with , and the General's speech reflects just that. Supported and encouraged by chants during her speech, Nanisca fills her warriors with motivation, and ensures them that the upcoming fight is for them, for their future, and for their country.

V for Vendetta (2005)

Hugo Weaving puts on a very vivacious and vaudevillian performance through the literary device of alliteration. Written by the Wachowskis, and based on the DC Comics graphic novel, V for Vendetta by Alan Moore, the screenplay does not mince words. The anti-authoritarian and protesting appeals are strongly written and are carried with powerful, poetic, pageantry. V's words make you want to fight for freedom forever.

Hidden Figures (2016)

Hidden Figures gives a voice to three incredible African-American women, Mary Jackson (Janelle Monáe), Dorothy Vaughan (Octavia Spencer), and Katherine Gobels Johnson (Taraji P. Henson), who played a significant role with regard to sending the first person to space. While it offers space for numerous important themes and manages to convey them in a genuine way, Hidden Figures gained even more attention from a specific scene with Katherine.

Having to face segregation on a daily basis, Katherine is obliged to follow bathroom restrictions, among multiple other things. In an epic monologue she proclaims the injustice she has to endure, when she is forced to use a restroom for colored women, which is located far away from her workplace. Apart from interrupting her work, it strips her of her civil rights . Her speech is empowering, even though it focuses on the unjust restrictions she has to fight against.

Barbie (2023)

At this point, it shouldn't come as a surprise that Greta Gerwig's latest project, Barbie , stands out with one of the most impactful monologues ever filmed. While Margot Robbie's Barbie and Ryan Gosling's Ken can be considered the two protagonists of the movie, there are many more characters, who add significant value to the storyline .

Especially Gloria, who is portrayed by America Ferrera, is bestowed with the special role of delivering a meaningful message, and connecting with the majority of viewers out there. Barbie takes on a feminist approach, filling Gloria's monologue with the truth of having to adapt to beauty standards and expectations created within the patriarchy. It is shocking, truthful, painful, yet also empowering.

Rocky V (1990)

To be fair, the Rocky franchise has a lot of great moments. Rocky V, admittedly, was the least well-received in the series. Between Rocky V and Rocky Balboa (2006), Mickey's monologue gets the golden glove. Rocky's boxing coach is more than a contender; he is a life coach. You can feel the life in his every word. His candid spirit takes a hard jab at that indifferent, quitting attitude that rears its ugly head. One of the best performances from Burgess Meredith comes with one of the best motivational scenes in cinematic history.

Jonathan Glazer’s Warning at the Oscars

The director of The Zone of Interest accepted his award with an anti-war speech that drew praise and confusion.

The Oscars are not built for somber appeals about current events, though the show has tried in the past to balance celebration with seriousness. Sometimes that effort has worked: In 2002, after 9/11, Tom Cruise opened the evening with a vague but elegant speech about needing movie magic “more than ever,” which eased the apparent anxiety in the room. Other times, it couldn’t completely control the proceedings: In 2003, shortly after the Iraq War began, the show tried to dissuade flashy displays of emotion and even scrapped the red carpet. But the notoriously vocal director Michael Moore had other ideas, using his Best Documentary acceptance speech to criticize President George W. Bush until he was booed offstage.

This year seemed poised for another festive but dry evening, devoid of any real reminders of life outside Hollywood. But then the historical drama The Zone of Interest won for Best International Feature, and the director, Jonathan Glazer, flanked by two of the film’s producers, used his speech to deliver a stark message to the audience. “Right now,” he said, his hands shaking as he held the piece of paper on which he’d written his remarks, “we stand here as men who refute their Jewishness and the Holocaust being hijacked by an occupation which has led to conflict for so many innocent people. Whether the victims of October the 7th in Israel or the ongoing attack on Gaza—all the victims of this dehumanization.” (Unsurprisingly, the response to his remarks has been intense—a mix of praise and derision but also confusion stemming from some people seizing on only the first part of what he said, and assuming he was refuting his Jewishness full-stop.)

Referencing the ongoing Israel-Hamas war has been rare for winners on the awards campaign trail this year. Protests have occurred—an activist supporting Palestine disrupted the audio feed at the Independent Spirit Awards in February, and a pro-Palestinian rally occurred outside the Oscars. But beyond wearing red pins supporting a cease-fire, those inside the glamorous theaters have rarely addressed the conflict so directly.

That is, except for the team behind The Zone of Interest , a film about how people can become numb to atrocities happening right in front of them. It follows the mundane daily routines of a German Nazi family that lives on a property adjacent to the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp in 1943. Glazer designed the film to never actually show what is unfolding inside the camp, instead relying on an eerie soundscape created by Johnnie Burn and Tarn Willers—both of whom took home the Oscar for Best Sound—that hints at the horrors. The movie is a study of how avoidance is its own form of cruelty . “All our choices were made to reflect and confront us in the present, not to say, ‘Look what we did then,’ rather ‘Look what we do now,’” Glazer said at the Oscars. “Our film shows where dehumanization leads at its worst.”

And although The Zone of Interest is largely restrained, to the point of playing almost like a documentary, it does contain one significant stylistic flourish: Glazer shoots scenes of a young Polish resistance fighter in black-and-white night vision, so that when she furtively leaves apples at a forced-labor site for the prisoners inside Auschwitz, she’s dramatically illuminated. The director closed his speech by referencing the real-life woman who inspired her character. “How do we resist? Aleksandra Bystroń-Kołodziejczyk, the girl who glows in the film as she did in life, chose to,” he said. “I dedicate this to her memory and her resistance.”

The film never shows the fruit being picked up by its intended recipients, and there’s no telling whether Glazer’s words will have much of an impact beyond last night. But as he spoke, the crowd applauded him—and a few speeches later, the Ukrainian director Mstyslav Chernov received a warm reception while addressing another dire war abroad . Accepting the Best Documentary Feature trophy for 20 Days in Mariupol , which chronicles the first weeks of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022, he said, “I wish I never made this film. I wish to be able to exchange this [award for] Russia never attacking Ukraine, never occupying our cities.” Of course, that’s not possible, Chernov acknowledged. But, he explained, “cinema forms memories, and memories form history.”

And so can speeches, in their own way.

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The 10 Best Helena Bonham Carter Movies, Ranked

Get yourself 'A Room with a View' and cancel your trip to the 'Fight Club' to check out Helena Bonham Carter's best movies instead.

One of the best actors of her generation, Helena Bonham Carter 's eye-catching career spans both the screen and stage, with her incredible back catalog suitably appreciated by a plethora of awards. A two-time Academy Award nominee, BAFTA winner, and nine-time Golden Globe nominee, Bonham-Carter has consistently produced quality work that has caught the eye of critics and audiences.

With her professional career beginning in 1983 when she was just 17, Bonham-Carter has played a range of iconic, eccentric characters, from evil witches to Shakespearean ladies. She even voiced a character in Call of Duty: Black Ops 4 , proving there isn't a single franchise that isn't bettered by her inclusion. These are Helena Bonham-Carter's best movies , a mix of critical gems and blockbuster hits that prove she is a chameleon of considerable might.

10 'Hamlet' (1990)

Directed by franco zeffirelli.

Hamlet is widely considered one of William Shakespeare's best works , with many small and big screen adaptations attempting to bring this seminal play to a modern audience. This 1990 interpretation, directed by Franco Zeffirelli , stars Mel Hibson in the titular role of the revenge-driven Prince of Denmark who vows to exact retribution after his Uncle, Claudius ( Alan Bates ), murders his father to become King.

A young Bonham Carter elegantly shines as the iconic Ophelia, with her credentials as a Shakespearean actor on full display as her character slowly unravels into tragedy. Not one to be tied down by history, Zeffirelli takes certain liberties with the original tale but does so in a way that honors the theming of Shakespeare's classic and revered play. Even if Gibson isn't entirely believable as Hamlet, the film remains a sweeping and solid adaptation guaranteed to bring a tear to any viewer's eye .

Watch on Prime

9 'Enola Holmes 2' (2022)

Directed by harry bradbeer.

Following the commercial success of the first Enola Holmes , a second was simply a must. The sophomore installment of the Sherlock Holmes spin-off follows Millie Bobby Brown 's titular character, now a detective-for-hire, who becomes embroiled in the hunt for a missing girl. Her investigation uncovers a conspiracy even larger than she could have imagined, crossing paths with her brother's own case.

Bonham Carter can both command the screen and work seamlessly with other actors. Her portrayal of Eudoria Holmes is one of her best in our current decade, mixing her trademark eccentricity with genuine emotion. The first Enola Holmes was a bombastic adventure full of thrills and action, and the sequel certainly lives up to that reputation. At a time when many have bemoaned Netflix's conveyor belt of movies, Enola Holmes 2 promises that quality is still at the heart of what they do, producing one of the best mystery movies in Netlix's library .

Enola Holmes 2

*Availability in US

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8 'The Wings of the Dove' (1997)

Directed by iain softley.

Based on Henry James ' 1902 novel of the same name, this dual project between the Brits and the Americans details the choice between comfort and happiness. A woman, Kate Croy (Bonham Carter), must choose between the love of her life and her wealthy aunt. However, after realizing that her love for a journalist is shared by her aunt, an opportunity arrives to grab the best of both worlds.

In a role that earned her a nod for Best Actress at the Academy Awards, Bonham Carter is irresistible as Kate, with her intelligent and manipulative portrayal subtly accompanied by an irrepressible charm impossible not to fall for. Although it may not have aged with the fame it once promised, The Wings of the Dove is an underrated gem in Bonham Carter's catalog that showcases her and the rest of the ensemble's acting talent. The film also earned Oscar nods for Best Adapted Screenplay and Best Costume Design, but sadly did not win in any three of the categories.

Rent on Amazon

7 'Corpse Bride' (2005)

Directed by tim burton, mike johnson.

Widely considered Tim Burton 's best animation, Corpse Bride tells the gothic tale of a groom, Victor ( Johnny Depp ), who is scared of announcing his vows and takes to the woods to practice. After finally getting them right, he is suddenly greeted by a deceased woman, the titular Corpse Bride (Bonham Carter), who rises from her grave believing she has just become wedded to Victor.

Not just a physical performer, Bonham Carter's talents also extend to voice work, and this performance breathes true life into a character most certainly dead. Aesthetically gripping, as all of Burton's work tends to be, Corpse Bride stands as one of his most tender stories , with the central plot ready to melt even the coldest of hearts. A Halloween movie that has transcended the season, Corpse Bride more than deserved its 2006 nomination for Best Animated Feature at the Academy Awards.

Corpse Bride

6 'harry potter and the deathly hallows: part 1' (2010), directed by david yates.

Featuring Bonham Carter's most sadistic scene in the entire franchise, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 1 sees the Wizarding World on the brink of collapse as Voldemort ( Ralph Fiennes ) and the Death Eaters close in on Harry ( Daniel Radcliffe ). Having overtaken Hogwarts and controlling many crucial roles within the Ministry of Magic, the villains chase Harry, Ron ( Rupert Grint ), and Hermione ( Emma Watson ), who are on a mission to destroy the Horcruxes.

Perhaps Bonham Carter's most recognized role, Bellatrix Lestrange is one of literature's most evil women, and the actress feels almost born to play the role. In no film more than Deathly Hallows: Part 1 does the audience get to witness her unhinged madness , with the scene inside Malfoy Manor enough to give anyone nightmares. A great setup for an epic finale, Deathly Hallows: Part 1 is perhaps the most mature of the Potter movies , with Radcliffe, Watson, and, of course, Bonham Carter putting in franchise-best performances.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows - Part 1

5 'the king's speech' (2010), directed by tom hooper.

Fans of The Crown will be used to seeing Bonham Carter play a member of the British Royal Family . Alas, years before she joined the Netflix show, she starred in Tom Hooper 's The King's Speech as Queen Consort Elizabeth. Based on a true story, the movie follows Colin Firth 's King George VI following his brother's abdication in 1936. With expectations high and a steadfast ruler required for a nervous nation, the King must overcome his stammer with the help of his wife and an unorthodox but brilliant therapist ( Geoffry Rush ).

The King's Speech 's genius has been marveled over ever since its release. A winner of four Academy Awards, including the coveted Best Picture prize, the movie excels in all aspects of filmmaking, from dialogue to costume . On a budget of just $15 million, the film glided towards its nearly $500 million at the box office, making it one of 2010's biggest success stories. This Box Office triumph is thanks in no small part to the movie's cast, with Bonham Carter producing a performance bathed in the care of a mother and the weight of a royal figurehead. So good was her performance that it earned her a second Academy Award nomination, proving that a biopic about a man can be promoted to greatness by a woman.

The King's Speech

4 'sweeney todd: the demon barber of fleet street' (2007), directed by tim burton.

Tim Burton's Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street is a reimagining of the classic Stephen Sondheim musical. After being wrongfully imprisoned, barber Benjamin Barker (Depp) returns to his Victorian London home with a new identity, Sweeney Todd, and a desire for revenge. Thus, he begins his rampage of murder alongside his new accomplice, tenant and fellow lunatic Mrs. Lovett (Bonham Carter).

Never before has bloodthirsty killing been so tuneful, with Sweeney Todd both toe-tapping and stomach-churning. Depp and Bonham Carter are simply captivating as the central pair, with Bonham Carter's business-savvy Mrs. Lovett a devilish delight in every scene. Bolstered by some of the most famous songs in musical history, Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street ebbs and flows between indulgent and terrifying , with Burton's trademark gothic atmosphere oozing from every frame. Sweeney Todd was nominated for an impressive three Academy Awards, winning Best Art Direction.

Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street

3 'a room with a view' (1985), directed by james ivory.

Before they were casting spells in the Harry Potter universe, Bonham Carter and Maggie Smith shared the screen in James Ivory 's A Room with a View . This romantic drama stars Bonham Carter as Lucy Honeychurch, a young woman who vacations to Florence accompanied by her chaperone, Charlotte (Smith). To her surprise, Lucy is swept off her feet by a dashing gentleman, George Emerson ( Julian Sands ), with memories of their summer fling haunting her dreams for years to come.

At just 19 years old, Bonham Carter's ability to act beyond her years is on full display in A Room with a View , with Lucy's charming innocence captured impeccably by the actor. The movie never fails to disappoint in its promise of period romance, with the sparkling chemistry of the central couple creating an immersive experience that invites the audience to be privy to the blossoming relationship. One of the most revered additions to Bonham Carter's filmography, A Room with a View received a staggering eight Academy Award nominations, cementing its reputation as one of the best period dramas from the '80s .

A Room with a View (1985)

2 'howard's end' (1992).

Following the success of A Room with a View , the combination of director Ivory and Bonham Carter made its greatest collaboration, 1992's Howard's End . Another period piece, Howard's End follows the familial politics and broken relationships of two families surrounding a cherished British estate. The movie details the intricate class system prevalent in the early 20th century, based on the novel by E. M. Forster .

No other film showcases Bonham Carter's intrinsic ability to capture the audience than Howard's End , with the actor thriving seamlessly alongside some of Britain's best performers. From Emma Thompson to Anthony Hopkins , no star shines too bright in this movie, with Tony Pierce-Roberts ' cinematography capturing the endearing twinkle in each of their eyes. At the 1993 Academy Awards, the film led the running with an eye-watering nine nominations, winning three, most notably Best Actress for Thompson. Simply engrossing, sweeping, and swoon-worthy, Howard's End can be confidently labeled a masterpiece .

Watch on Tubi

1 'Fight Club' (1999)

Directed by david fincher.

David Fincher 's magnum opus, Fight Club , based on the book by Chuck Palahniuk, follows an unnamed insomniac man ( Edward Norton ) lamenting the repetitive mundanity of his white-collar job. His life changes forever when he meets Tyler Durden ( Brad Pitt ) on a plane. Soon, the two start the titular Fight Club, transforming into a small terrorist cult hell-bent on resetting capitalist inequality.

Thought-provoking and mind-bending, Fight Club is a dark, twisted tale of a slow spiral into madness , punctuated by a mysterious woman named Marla Singer (Bonham Carter). In perhaps her greatest performance to date, Bonham Carter is both unhinged and adorable as a woman on the brink of loneliness looking for any vice to help her out, whether that be smoking, support groups, or the protagonist. Despite the sad misunderstanding of the movie's morals by many who view it, Fight Club is an anti-toxic masculinity call to action that proves just how dangerous that mindset can be. Gorgeous cinematography is met with a fascinating plot boasting one of cinema's greatest-ever twists. One doesn't talk about Fight Club unless it's to sing its praises.

NEXT: The 10 Most Iconic Female Characters in Tim Burton Films

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Sorry Haters, ‘Madame Web’ Is More Fun Than Any MCU Movie Since ‘Avengers: Endgame’

Where to stream:.

• Dakota Johnson

Stream It Or Skip It: ‘Madame Web’ on Netflix, a Megafiasco That Traps Poor Dakota Johnson in Superhero Hell

‘madame web’ ending explained: dakota johnson’s superhero movie sets up a sequel that likely won’t happen, maya rudolph and jimmy fallon say they “lost it” during will ferrell’s last ‘snl’ read-through in 2002: “we were all just crying”, ‘madame web’ comes to digital, but when will it be streaming on netflix.

Shortly after Madame Web was added to Netflix on Tuesday, one of the rising Google trends was “Why is Madame Web so bad?”

I can only assume this is because, Netflix subscribers, like me, are slowly coming to the correct realization that Madame Web —the much-mocked superhero film starring Dakota Johnson that flopped in the box office—is not so bad. It is, in fact, quite fun. All those haters just didn’t see the vision. But me and Dakota have that Madame Web foresight, and we can see this movie as the silly, campy romp it’s clearly meant to be.

To be clear, I’m not trying to argue that Madame Web is a good movie. Obviously, it’s not a good movie! But it’s also not nearly as bad as the critics and internet memes—many of which were already calling Madame Web the worst film of the year—made it out to be. You see, there are good movies. There are bad movies. And then there are fun movies. And Madame Web, while not good, is most definitely fun.

Directed by S.J. Clarkson in her feature film debut, Madame Web s tars Johnson as the little-known Marvel character Cassie Webb. We meet Cassie as a 30-year-old paramedic whose near-death experience on the job triggers a latent superpower: the ability to see the future minutes before it happens. This power drives Cassie to save three teenage girls—Julia Cornwall (Sydney Sweeney), Anya Corazon (Isabela Merced), and Mattie Franklin (Celeste O’Connor)—from being murdered by a deranged guy with Spider-Man-esque powers. As it turns out, this guy can see the future too, and in his visions, he’s murdered by these teen girls. But not if he kills them first!

The movie is at its best when Johnson acts as the reluctant babysitter to these three teenage Charlie’s-Angels- in-training. Johnson’s dry, deadpan delivery works perfectly with her character’s socially awkward misanthropy, as well as the movie’s playful tone. I mean, the exaggerated enunciation when she says “Las Arañas”—which literally just means “the spiders” in Spanish, but in the context of the film refers to a secret society of spider-people—is in the running for best line delivery of the year. Plus, the movie inexplicably takes place in 2003, which means every so often we get a cheeky little reference to Cassie watching American Idol , or a poster for Beyoncé’s Dangerously In Love album in the background. Does it make sense for the narrative? Not really! Was I having the time of my life jamming out to Britney Spears’s hit single, “Toxic”? You bet!

I have to be honest: I had infinitely more fun watching Dakota Johnson responding, “I don’t know, man” to a guy who asks if he’s on the correct train than I have at any of the Marvel Cinematic Universe movies or TV shows from Disney in the last five years. I don’t care about the multiverse. I don’t care about the lore. I don’t care what “Phase” of Marvel we’re in now. (Four? Eight? I literally could not tell you.)

Madame Web doesn’t just take place in 2003, it recreates the feeling of watching a superhero movie in 2003. It doesn’t expect, or even reward, any prior knowledge of comic books from audiences. More importantly, it doesn’t take itself too seriously. These are people with made-up powers running around in tights. No one should be trying to get an Oscar nomination. It’s not that deep! I mean, even the new Deadpool movie looks like it’s going for a more serious tone. Deadpool ! The guy makes pegging jokes!

Scoff at my taste in cinema if you must, but I simply can’t hate a movie that makes superheros silly again. Las arañas know what I’m talking about.

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Critics are calling 'Furiosa' one of the 'greatest prequels ever made' — but not better than 'Fury Road'

• "Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga" continues the franchise's high-octane action legacy.
• Critics praised the movie's stunts and performances, but said it doesn't surpass "Mad Max: Fury Road."
• Here's a roundup of what critics are saying about the movie.

"Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga" marks the fifth movie in George Miller's high-octane action franchise.

Following the success of 2015's "Max Mad: Fury Road," which took in over $380 million at the worldwide box office , "Furiosa" tells the origin story of one of the main characters from "Fury Road," Charlize Theron's Imperator Furiosa.

"Furiosa" follows the title character, now played by Anya Taylor-Joy, over a 15-year span as she journeys into the Wasteland and ultimately becomes a badass War Rig driver.

Now that the movie has had its world premiere at the Cannes Film Festival, here's what critics are saying about the movie, Taylor-Joy and Chris Hemsworth's performances, and whether it's as good as the beloved "Fury Road."

"Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga" opens in theaters May 24.

Critics praised the movie's action sequences

The "Mad Max" franchise is known for its extreme stunts and action sequences, and critics say there are plenty more to enjoy in "Furiosa."

"The movie is teemingly, sprawlingly, phantasmagorically ambitious," wrote Variety critic Owen Gleiberman , adding that it "contains a handful of awesome action moments."

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"The mammoth scale and vision of Miller continue to delight, and 'Furiosa' absolutely deserves to be seen as big and loud as possible, a feat of technical prowess and cinematic ambition that only comes along once every few years (if we're lucky!)," wrote Hannah Strong of Little White Lies .

Anya Taylor-Joy doesn't have a lot of dialogue, but that's not an issue

Taylor-Joy, the film's star, reportedly only has around 30 lines of dialogue in the movie, but the lead being mum shouldn't come as a surprise to anyone who is a fan of the franchise. Mel Gibson, the original Mad Max, rarely spoke; same for Tom Hardy, who played Max in "Fury Road."

Critics say Taylor-Joy's lack of speech emphasizes her other qualities.

"[Taylor-Joy] is phenomenal," wrote John Nugent of Empire , "her big, intense eyes standing out starkly against her engine-oil-smeared forehead, emoting subtly in a dialogue-light role."

"The virtuosity of Miller's approach is so arresting that you might not even notice how seldom Furiosa actually speaks; like Charlize Theron before — or after? — her, Taylor-Joy conveys so much strength and desperation through the whites of her eyes alone that words would only cheapen the unparalleled purity of her purpose," wrote IndieWire's David Ehrlich .

Chris Hemsworth is impressive as the franchise's latest villain

Hemsworth plays the snarly bearded Warlord Dementus, the latest outlandish — and very buff — villain in the franchise.

"He's never had a villain showcase quite like this before, and what's so striking about it is how merciless it is; even with the occasional dropped hint at his tragic backstory, there's never a question of redemption for Dementus," wrote Liz Shannon Miller for Consequence . "It's genuinely fearless work."

One critic says it's one of the best prequels ever made

IndieWire 's David Ehrlich called the movie "one of the greatest prequels ever made" in large part because the Furiosa character is so captivating.

"Furiosa is reborn as the rare film character who's become iconic twice over in two distinct (but inseparable) forms, and future generations will awe at the fact that 'Fury Road' came first," he wrote.

But it's not as good as "Fury Road"

For all the praise "Furiosa" is receiving, many critics believe it doesn't surpass Miller's thrilling opus, "Mad Max: Fury Road."

"'Furiosa' is a big step down from 'Mad Max: Fury Road,'" opined The Hollywood Reporter critic David Rooney . "Whereas the 2015 instant action classic had grit, gravitas and turbo-charged propulsion that wouldn't quit, this fifth installment in the dystopian saga grinds on in fits and starts, with little tension or fluidity in a narrative whose shapelessness is heightened by its pretentious chapter structure."

"Scene for scene, 'Furiosa' is very much a complement to 'Fury Road,' yet the new movie never fully pops the way the earlier one does," wrote Manohla Dargis of The New York Times .

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Jelly Roll Talks Emotional 'Die or Be in Jail' 2024 ACM Awards Acceptance Speech: 'It Saved Me' (Exclusive)

Jelly roll on being 'vulnerable' with 'save me' and finding his path in life (exclusive), vanessa hudgens on her 'masked singer' win and the support of hollywood pals in pregnancy, jelly roll's wife bunnie xo catches daughter bailee ann sneaking out, yvette nicole brown shares updates on wedding planning and 'community' movie (exclusive), liam hemsworth takes over henry cavill's role in the witcher: first look, ludacris proudly brags about daughter karma graduating college with honors, patrick mahomes breaks his silence on harrison butker's controversial speech, how tom brady is 'doing his best' to co-parent with 'offended' gisele bündchen after roast (source), kelly rowland seemingly scolds security guards at 2024 cannes red carpet, mary lou retton on life after near-death mystery illness: why she needed fundraising (exclusive), ‘little people, big world’: matt roloff on show's uncertain future (exclusive), taylor swift rips open her dress during eras tour wardrobe malfunction, brian wilson makes surprise appearance at ‘the beach boys’ documentary premiere, 50 cent gives update on in-the-works diddy documentary, 'brats' documentary first look: '80s stars reunite to unpack brat pack era, reba mcentire almost spoiled lainey wilson's grand ole opry surprise on 'the voice', katie maloney and ariana madix on their 'scary and exciting' next chapter with something about her, john stamos shares story behind olsen twins reunion at bob saget tribute (exclusive), kim kardashian slams sister khloé as 'unbearable', how muni long landed mariah carey for ‘made for me’ remix (exclusive), paris hilton plans to keep her kids away from social media for as long as possible (exclusive), the singer won the award for his collaboration with lainey wilson, 'save me.'.

Jelly Roll is feeling grateful to be alive after a year filled with nominations and wins for his music. 

On Thursday, the 37-year-old singer took to the stage of the 2024 ACM Awards to accept the trophy for Best Music Event along with his collaborator, Lainey Wilson , for their song "Save Me." After the win, he popped backstage to discuss with ET's Rachel Smith his emotional acceptance speech and why he was nearly moved to tears in the moment alongside the Yellowstone actress, 30. 

"I was so emotional because it saved me," he shared of their meaningful single. "'Save Me' was really the beginning of me finding my real voice and it was kind of me stepping out of my shell and being comfortable and just being open and vulnerable."

He added, "I always wrote vulnerable music but never to that degree and it just changed my whole life. You've got to remember, I dropped 'Save Me' in the middle of 2020, it was a really dark time, and people connected with it and I get thousands of messages about how much that song has helped people. This song meant so much to me and I was so emotional because I think tonight was the last night it qualified for any cycle. So if I didn't win tonight, it never got what I thought it deserved."

During the live broadcast, Wilson first took the stage to deliver her own remarks following their win and quickly passed the torch over to Jelly Roll, who got up to the mic and shared that with "no pun intended," their song really did change his life for good. 

"I'm going to try not to get emotional but no pun intended, but seriously, this song saved me," he said on stage."I was in a dark place, I wrote it from my soul -- I knew people would connect with it."

He continued, "One year ago today Lainey and I stood on this stage and debuted it. This song is a triple platinum record, I wrote it with a high school friend, we never thought we'd be songwriters, I never thought I'd be standing here."

As he went on, Jelly Roll doubled down on his shock and gratitude at the honor and candidly shared where a younger version of himself thought he would end up in life. 

"I thought I would die or go to jail and I'm standing here as an ACM Award winner," he said as the camera flashed to his wife, Bunnie XO , in the audience clapping and nodding. The  Whitsitt Chapel  artist previously  served time behind bars  before turning his life around through music. 

Before exiting the stage after his first win of the night -- the singer took one last moment to get the already-fired-up crowd even more raucous, calling out, "You hear what I'm talking about, Texas? Let's go baby."

Jelly Roll was honored with four nominations at the ACM Awards on Thursday, including nods in the Entertainer of the Year and Male Artist of the Year categories. The signs of recognition are just the latest after he took the GRAMMY Awards and the CMTs by storm earlier this year.

At the CMT Awards in early April, he pulled off a clean sweep in all of his nominated categories, a feat he also did in 2023. He spoke with ET's Cassie DiLaura backstage after the wins and shared his surprise at another round of trophies he would be taking home. 

"I don't know what to say. I'm out of words. By the last time I got up there, I was like, 'Man, this is crazy,'" the artist shared. "It's just unreal, man."

In June 2023,  Jelly Roll spoke with ET  and explained the importance music has played in his life and why he continues to make music for those who find themselves in a similar situation to the one that he went through before his success. 

"I think at some point in life, everything in life has let me down. But music was always my constant," he shared. "Like, when I had nothing else, I had a boombox. When I was incarcerated, I had a set of headphones and a little radio."

The 59th annual  Academy of Country Music Awards  streams live May 16 on Prime Video. Check out  all the nominees  and the  full winners list .

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The Funniest Famous Movie Speeches Of All Time

Some of the funniest movie speeches ever, not surprisingly, can be found in some of the most hilarious classic film comedies. Whether it's Bluto trying to be motivational by rallying his frat brothers in the comedic Animal House , Ferris' many speeches to the camera in Ferris Bueller's Day Off  or Groucho Marx entertaining a room filled with party-goers in Animal Crackers , these funny movie speeches represent the best of the best where hilarity is concerned. Check out inspiring movie speeches and the best tough guy monologues , too! 

Limiting a list of funny monologues from movies was a challenge– while most of these are from comedy movies, others are from funny parts of more serious movies. I'm sure I left off some of your favorites, so if I did, please add them. This is an Open List, meaning anyone can contribute. Please do! And while you're here, vote on your favorites, too.

What are some famous funny speeches? What are the funniest movie speeches ever? Looking for more movie speeches and monologues? Check out this list of the most inspiring movie speeches and this list of the best, most famous movie monologues for fun!

Ferris Bueller's Day Off

The key to faking out the parents is the clammy hands. It's a good non-specific symptom. A lot of people will tell you that a phony fever is a dead lock, but if you get a nervous mother, you could land in the doctor's office. That's worse than school. What you do is: you fake a stomach cramp, and when you're bent over, moaning and wailing, you lick your palms. It's a little childish and stupid, but then, so is high school.

I did have a test today. That wasn't bulls**t. It's on European Socialism. I mean, really, what's the point? I'm not European, I don't plan on being European, so who gives a crap if they're socialist? They could be fascist anarchists - that still wouldn't change the fact that I don't own a car. Not that I condone fascism, or any -ism, for that matter. Isms, in my opinion, are not good. A person should not believe in an -ism - he should believe in himself. I quote John Lennon: "I don't believe in Beatles - I just believe in me." A good point there. Of course, he was the Walrus. I could be the Walrus - I'd still have to bum rides off of people.

Matthew Broderick delivers a series of really clever, genuinely funny speeches straight into the camera in 1986's Ferris Bueller's Day Off . Hard to pick a favorite, but this might be it!

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• # 14 of 399 on The Best Movies Of The 1980s, Ranked

National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation

Hey! If any of you are looking for any last-minute gift ideas for me, I have one. I'd like Frank Shirley, my boss, right here tonight. I want him brought from his happy holiday slumber over there on Melody Lane with all the other rich people and I want him brought right here, with a big ribbon on his head, and I want to look him straight in the eye and I want to tell him what a cheap, lying, no-good, rotten, four-flushing, low-life, snake-licking, dirt-eating, inbred, overstuffed, ignorant, blood-sucking, dog-kissing, brainless, dickless, hopeless, heartless, fat-a**, bug-eyed, stiff-legged, spotty-lipped, worm-headed sack of monkey s*** he is! Hallelujah!

More Clark Griswold, you say? Why yes, of course. Second best Clark Griswold flip-out ever, this one from 1989's Christmas Vacation .

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• # 4 of 703 on The All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
• # 25 of 399 on The Best Movies Of The 1980s, Ranked

So, OK, like right now, for example, the Haitians need to come to America. But some people are all "What about the strain on our resources?" But it's like, when I had this garden party for my father's birthday right? I said R.S.V.P. because it was a sit-down dinner. But people came that like, did not R.S.V.P. so I was like, totally buggin'. I had to haul ass to the kitchen, redistribute the food, squish in extra place settings, but by the end of the day it was like, the more the merrier! And so, if the government could just get to the kitchen, rearrange some things, we could certainly party with the Haitians. And in conclusion, may I please remind you that it does not say R.S.V.P. on the Statue of Liberty?

Cher's speech to the class expressing her unique views on Haitian immigrants in 1995's Clueless  is definitely interesting. Clueless  is a great comedy - and, in my opinion, pretty underrated.

Happy Gilmore

My name is Happy Gilmore. Ever since I was old enough to skate, I loved hockey... wasn't the greatest skater though. But that didn't stop my dad from teaching me the secret of slapping the greatest slapshot. My dad worshiped hockey, my mom didn't, that's why she moved to Egypt, where there's not a hockey rink within 15 hundred miles. Dad always took me to games to cheer for our favorite player, Terry O'Riley, the Tazmanian Devil. He wasn't the biggest guy in the league, but he feared nobody, just like me. Handsome fellow huh? He always said that when I grew up I could be anything I wanted to be, but I never wanted to be anything but a hockey player. Yeah my childhood was going great, but life is full of surprises. After the funeral, I was sent to live with my grandma in Waterberry. I was kinda nervous since I really didn't know her that well, but she dressed like Gene Simmons from KISS to cheer me up, she's the sweetest person in the world. See after my dad died I developed kinda a short fuse. You see that kid over there just stole my party blower, and instead of asking for it back, I felt that I had to belt him in the head a bunch of times with a hammer. Look at me go. But I was always quick to say I was sorry. During high school I played junior hockey and still hold two league records; most time spent in the penalty box, and I was the only guy to ever take off his skate and try to stab someone. After I graduated I had a lot of different jobs; I was a road worker, a janitor, a security guard, a gas station attendant, and a plumber. Lately I've been working construction, it's not a bad racket, I'm a pretty good shot with a nail gun, but one day my boss, Mr. Larson, uh got in the way. Apparently he also has a short fuse. Look at that monster. He got a few lucky punches in there, but I still feel I won the fight. Anyways, those other jobs weren't for me. I was put on this planet for one reason, to play hockey.

Adam Sandler's 1996 comedy Happy Gilmore  is a hilarious movie, and Happy's explanation here about why he was put on the Earth to play hockey is a classic example.

• Dig Deeper... 'Happy Gilmore' Is Secretly A Drama About Dealing With Loss And Grief
• # 19 of 703 on The All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
• # 77 of 769 on The Most Rewatchable Movies

I think you’re all f**ked in the head. We’re ten hours from the f**king fun park and you want to bail out! Well, I’ll tell you something, this is no longer a vacation, it’s a quest. It’s a quest for fun. I’m gonna have fun and you’re gonna have fun. We’re all gonna have so much f**king fun we’ll need plastic surgery to remove our g*d damn smiles! You’ll be whistling "Zippity Doo Da" out of your a**holes! (laughs) I gotta be crazy! I’m on a pilgrimage to see a moose! Praise Marty Moose! Holy s***!

Clark Griswold is barely hanging on, and in this hilarious bit from 1983's Vacation , Chevy Chase delivers without question one of the funniest rants from any comedy movie ever.

• # 31 of 399 on The Best Movies Of The 1980s, Ranked
• # 10 of 703 on The All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
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License to kill gophers by the government of the United Nations. Man, free to kill gophers at will. To kill, you must know your enemy, and in this case my enemy is a varmint. And a varmint will never quit - ever. They're like the Viet Cong - Varmint Cong. So you have to lie back on superior intelligence and superior firepower. And that's all she wrote.

Bill Murray's demented groundskeeper, Carl Spackler, in 1980's Caddyshack  is my favorite Murray character ever. His description of why gophers (aka Varmint Cong) must die is a classic.

• Dig Deeper... Drug-Fueled Stories From Behind The Scenes Of 'Caddyshack'
• # 3 of 64 on The Best Movies Of 1980
• # 34 of 399 on The Best Movies Of The 1980s, Ranked

National Lampoon's Animal House

Over? Did you say 'over?!' Nothing is over until we decide it is! Was it over when the Germans bombed Pearl Harbor? Hell no!

And it ain't over now. 'Cause when the goin' gets tough...the tough get goin'! Who's with me? Let's go! Come on! (runs out, nobody follows, runs back in) What the f**k happened to the Delta I used to know? Where's the spirit? Where's the guts, huh? 'Ooh, we're afraid to go with you Bluto, we might get in trouble.' Well just kiss my ass from now on! Not me! I'm not gonna take this. Wormer, he's a dead man! Marmalard, dead! Niedermeyer...

Otter interrupts Bluto's motivational speech at this point, throwing his support behind his frat brother, even though he's "psychotic."

In this classic funny speech from 1978's Animal House , Bluto (John Belushi) has just learned that Dean Wormer has kicked them all out of school. His speech rallying tries his fraternity brothers together is one for the ages.

• Dig Deeper... Behind The Scenes Stories From 'Animal House' That Are Way More Insane Than The Movie
• # 23 of 703 on The All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
• # 227 of 769 on The Most Rewatchable Movies

Blazing Saddles

I don't know if you ever heard of me before, but I used to be called 'The Waco Kid.' I was just walking down the street, and I heard a voice behind me say, "Reach for it Mister!" I spun around and there I was face to face with a six-year-old kid. Well I just threw my guns down and walked away....little bastard shot me in the a**! So I limped to the nearest saloon, crawled inside whiskey bottle, and I've been there ever since.

Gene Wilder's Jim (The Waco Kid) delivers a hilarious speech explaining his history in 1974's Mel Brooks comedy Blazing Saddles .

• Dig Deeper... 13 Behind-The-Scenes Stories From The Making Of 'Blazing Saddles'
• # 32 of 288 on The 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
• # 2 of 703 on The All-Time Greatest Comedy Films

The Naked Gun: From the Files of Police Squad!

Jane, it's me, Funny-face. You love Frank Drebin. And Frank Drebin loves you. Jane, listen to me, if you don't love me, you might as well pull that trigger, because without you, I wouldn't want to live anyway. 

I've finally found someone I can love - a good, clean love... without utensils. It's a topsy-turvy world, Jane, and maybe the problems of two people don't amount to a hill of beans, but this is our hill and these are our beans. Since I met you, I've noticed things I never knew were there - birds singing, dew glistening on a newly-formed leaf, stop lights. Jane, this morning, I bought something for you. It's not very much, but pretty good for an honest policeman's salary. It's an engagement ring. I'd have given it to you earlier, but I wanted to wait until we were alone. I love you, Jane.

Leslie Nielsen's speech of love at the end of The Naked Gun is not only funny, but heartwarming in a simple way.

• # 86 of 399 on The Best Movies Of The 1980s, Ranked
• # 12 of 703 on The All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
• # 356 of 769 on The Most Rewatchable Movies

Animal Crackers

Friends, I'm going to to tell you of the great mysterious wonderful continent known as Africa. Africa, God's country. And he can have it...Well, sir, we left New York drunk and early on the morning of February second. After fifteen days on the water and six on the boat we finally arrived on the shores of Africa.

We at once proceeded 300 miles into the heart of the jungle where I shot a polar bear. This bear was 6 foot 7 in his stocking feet and had shoes on. This bear was anemic and couldn't stand the cold climate. He was a rich bear and could afford to go away in the winter. From the day of our arrival we led an active life. The first morning saw us up at six, breakfasted, then back in bed at seven. This was our routine for the first three months. We finally got so we were back in bed at six-thirty.

One morning I was sitting in front of the cabin smoking some meat There wasn't a cigar store in the neighborhood. As I say, I was sitting in front of the cabin when I bagged six tigers. I bagged them, I bagged them to go away, but they hung around all afternoon. They were the most persistent tigers I've ever seen. The principal animals inhabiting the African jungle are moose, elk and Knights of Pythias .

Of course you all know what a moose is, that's big game. The first day I shot two bucks that was the biggest game we had. As I say you all know what a moose is? A moose runs around on the floor, and eats cheese and is chased by the cats. The elks on the other hand live up in the hills, and in the spring they come down for their annual convention. It is very interesting to watch them come down to the water-hole; and you should see them run when they find it is only water-hole. What they're looking for is a elk-a-hole. One morning I shot an elephant in my pajamas. How he got in my pajamas, I'll never know. But that is entirely irreverent to what I was talking about. We took some pictures of the native girls, but they weren't developed. But we're going back again in a couple of weeks...

Now, of course I had to include the Marx brothers on this list somehow. In this hilarious speech, Groucho Marx (as Captain Jeffrey Spaulding), describes his many adventures in Africa to a captive group of party-goers in the classic 1930 movie Animal Crackers .

• # 200 of 703 on The All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
• # 234 of 632 on The 600+ Funniest Movies Of All Time
• # 13 of 48 on The 48 Best '30s Comedy Movies

The Big Lebowski

Donny was a good bowler, and a good man. He was...he was one of us. He was a man who loved the outdoors, and bowling, and as a surfer he explored the beaches of southern California from La Jolla to Leo Carillo, and up to Pismo. He died.. he died as so many young men of his generation before his time, and in your wisdom, Lord, you took him. Just as you took so many bright, flowering young men at Khe San, and Lan Doc, and Hill 364. These young men gave their lives, and so did Donny. Donny who loved bowling. And so, Theodore Donald Karabotsos.. in accordance with what we think your dying wishes might well have been....we commit your final mortal remains to the bosom of the Pacific Ocean, which you loved so well. Goodnight, sweet prince.

Walter's eulogy for his buddy Donny in 1998's The Big Lebowski  goes horribly wrong (and yeah, he has to somehow tie all of this in to Vietnam). After this speech, delivered on a beautiful bluff, Walter (John Goodman) dumps Donny's ashes - which promptly blow all over The Dude.

• Dig Deeper... 15 Behind-The-Scenes Stories From 'The Big Lebowski' That Show Why The Dude Abides
• And Deeper... 'The Big Lebowski' Fan Theories That Really Tie The Film Together
• # 36 of 703 on The All-Time Greatest Comedy Films

City Slickers

Value this time in your life kids, because this is the time in your life when you still have your choices, and it goes by so quickly. When you're a teenager you think you can do anything, and you do. Your twenties are a blur. Your thirties, you raise your family, you make a little money and you think to yourself, "What happened to my twenties?" Your forties, you grow a little pot belly you grow another chin. The music starts to get too loud and one of your old girlfriends from high school becomes a grandmother. Your fifties you have a minor surgery. You'll call it a procedure, but it's a surgery. Your sixties you have a major surgery, the music is still loud but it doesn't matter because you can't hear it anyway. Seventies, you and the wife retire to Fort Lauderdale, you start eating dinner at two, lunch around ten, breakfast the night before. And you spend most of your time wandering around malls looking for the ultimate in soft yogurt and muttering "how come the kids don't call?" By your eighties, you've had a major stroke, and you end up babbling to some Jamaican nurse who your wife can't stand but who you call mama. Any questions? 

Mitch's career day speech at his kids' school in 1991's City Slickers  definitely deserves a spot of honor on this list. Billy Crystal is hysterical in this movie!

• Dig Deeper... 9 Behind-The-Scenes Stories From 'City Slickers'
• # 129 of 288 on The 250+ Best Western Movies Of All Time
• # 79 of 703 on The All-Time Greatest Comedy Films

Raising Arizona

That night I had a dream. I dreamt I was as light as the ether, a floating spirit visiting things to come. The shades and shadows of the people in my life rassled their way into my slumber. I dreamt that Gale and Evelle had decided to return to prison. Probably that's just as well. I don't mean to sound superior, and they're a swell couple of guys, but maybe they weren't ready yet to come out into the world. And then I dreamed on, into the f*ture, to a Christmas morn in the Arizona home where Nathan Junior was opening a present from a kindly couple who preferred to remain unknown. I saw Glen a few years later, still having no luck getting the cops to listen to his wild tales about me and Ed. Maybe he threw in one Polack joke too many. I don't know. And still I dreamed on, further into the f*ture than I'd ever dreamed before, watching Nathan Junior's progress from afar, taking pride in his accomplishments, as if he were our own, wonderin' if he ever thought of us, and hopin' that maybe we'd broadened his horizons a little, even if he couldn't remember just how they got broadened. But still I hadn't dreamt nothin' about me 'n Ed, until the end. And this was cloudier, 'cause it was years, years away. But I saw an old couple bein' visited by their children, and all their grandchildren too. The old couple wasn't screwed up, and neither were their kids or their grandkids... And I don't know. You tell me. This whole dream, was it wishful thinkin'? Was I just fleeing reality like I know I'm liable to do? But me and Ed, we can be good, too. And it seemed real. It seemed like us, and it seemed like, well, our home. If not Arizona, then a land not too far away, where all parents are strong and wise and capable, and all children are happy and beloved. I don't know. Maybe it was Utah.

• # 85 of 703 on The All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
• # 122 of 399 on The Best Movies Of The 1980s, Ranked
• # 633 of 769 on The Most Rewatchable Movies

Team America: World Police

See, there's three kinds of people: dicks, p*ssies and a**holes. P*ssies think everyone can get along, and dicks just want to f*ck all the time without thinking it through. But then you got your a**holes, Chuck. And all the a**holes want us to sh*t all over everything! So, p*ssies may get mad at dicks once in a while, because p*ssies get f*cked by dicks. But dicks also f*ck a**holes, Chuck. And if they didn't f*ck the a**holes, you know what you'd get? You'd get your dick and your p*ssy all covered in sh*t!

Random bar guy offers a downtrodden Gary a simple (and highly offensive) speech explaining how the world works in 2004's Team America: World Police .

• # 419 of 703 on The All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
• # 86 of 114 on 50+ Movies That Need Sequels
• # 8 of 61 on The Funniest Movies About Politics

Dr. Strangelove or: How I Learned to Stop Worrying and Love the Bomb

He said war was too important to be left to the generals. When he said that, 50 years ago, he might have been right. But today, war is too important to be left to politicians. They have neither the time, the training, nor the inclination for strategic thought. I can no longer sit back and allow Communist infiltration, Communist indoctrination, Communist subversion and the international Communist conspiracy to sap and impurify all of our precious bodily fluids .

• # 96 of 262 on The 200+ Best War Movies Of All Time
• # 72 of 703 on The All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
• # 721 of 769 on The Most Rewatchable Movies

It was this brother who, on the day of her death, swore to the good Lord above that he would follow in her footsteps, and, and, and, and, and, and, and, and, and, and, and, just, just, just, just, just, just, just, just, just, just owe it all up to her. But on her terms. As a woman. And just as proud to be a woman as she ever was. For I am not Emily Kimberly, the daughter of Dwayne and Alma Kimberly. No, I’m not. I’m Edward Kimberly, the reckless brother of my sister Anthea … Edward Kimberly, who has finally vindicated his sister’s good name. I’m Edward Kimberly. Edward Kimberly.

Dustin Hoffman delivers a hilarious speech in 1982's Tootsie , and you betcha he's on this list. Here, he decides he wants off of the soap opera (where he's been playing a woman, Dorothy). So he goes for the big reveal, letting everyone know that Dorothy is really Michael.

• # 230 of 399 on The Best Movies Of The 1980s, Ranked
• # 385 of 703 on The All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
• # 547 of 769 on The Most Rewatchable Movies

After that, it got pretty late and we both had to go. But it was great seeing Annie again. And I realize what a terrific person she was and how much fun it was just knowing her. And I thought of that old joke. You know, the, this, this guy goes to a psychiatrist and says, 'Doc, uh, my brother's crazy. He thinks he's a chicken.' And uh, the doctor says, 'Well, why don't you turn him in?' And the guy says, 'I would, but I need the eggs.'

Well, I guess that's pretty much now how I feel about relationships. You know, they're totally irrational and crazy and absurd and - But uh, I guess we keep going through it because most of us need the eggs.

• # 59 of 96 on The Very Best Oscar-Winning Movies For Best Picture
• # 544 of 703 on The All-Time Greatest Comedy Films
• # 95 of 199 on The Best Movies Of The '70s, Ranked
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The greatest, funniest, and most iconic movie and TV quotes from your all-time favorite comedies (and a few you probably haven’t seen).

Un-silence of the lambs: Donald Trump (again) praises fictional cannibal Hannibal Lecter

WASHINGTON - Former President Donald Trump replayed an odd campaign-and-movie riff over the weekend: Praise for a fictional cannibal and murderer, one of the most evil characters in the history of cinema.

Hannibal Lecter .

"The late, great Hannibal Lecter," Trump said during a rally Saturday in Wildwood, N..J., citing the psycho protagonist of the novel and Oscar-winning film "The Silence of the Lambs" while discussing immigration policy.

Trump praised Lecter - portrayed by Oscar-winning Anthony Hopkins in the 1991 film - while attacking migrants who are in the United States illegally.

"Has anyone ever seen ‘The Silence of the Lambs’?" Trump told a crowd of supporters. "The late, great Hannibal Lecter. He’s a wonderful man."

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Trump, who did speak in mocking tones and did not appear to be serious, then made reference to the film's famous final scene in which Lecter follows his next victim down a crowded street.

"I'm having an old friend for dinner," Lecter's character had just said in a phone call with newly minted FBI agent Clarice Starling (portrayed by Jodie Foster in another Oscar-winning performance).

At his New Jersey rally, Trump said: “He often times would have a friend for dinner. Remember the last scene? ‘Excuse me, I’m about to have a friend for dinner,’ as this poor doctor walked by. ‘I’m about to have a friend for dinner.’"

Trump closed his tribute by saying: "But Hannibal Lecter. Congratulations. The late, great Hannibal Lecter.”

It was unclear whether Trump was saying the United States should act like Hannibal Lecter, or whether he was comparing some migrants to the crazed serial killer.

Trump has praised Lecter and The Silence of the Lambs in years past, calling the latter one of his favorite movies.

The former president has invoked Lecter while echoing his highly exaggerated claims that prisoners and mental patients are pouring across the U.S. border. "That's 'Silence Of The Lambs;' that's Hannibal Lecter," Trump said during the New Hampshire primary campaign.  "Did you ever hear of Hannibal Lecter? They're being dropped into our country. Hannibal Lecter is coming in."

During a 2023 event in Iowa, Trump confused the character with Hopkins by saying, "Hannibal Lecter, how great an actor was he?” The former president also mistakenly quoted the actor as saying he loved Trump, though there is no record of such a comment ever being made.

Trump's Saturday tribute in New Jersey to a movie character killer drew criticism from his opponents.

On the social media site X, foreign policy author Anne Applebaum wrote: "At what other moment in American history could a presidential candidate praise a fictional serial killer, and inspire almost no reaction at all?"