Best Movie Lines of All Time: Top 10

Every once in a while line from a movie comes along that just bears repeating because it’s clever, symbolic of a decade, or just fabulously well-written. While there are hundreds of great choices out there when it comes to great movie quotes, there are only a few lines in a movie that truly stand out in the crowd as being worthy of praise for their insight, entertainment and the ease with which they move into our collective cultural consciousness. Here are some of the best movie lines of all time, in no particular order.

1. “May the Force be with you.” Whether you’re a Star Wars nerd or have taken part in any culture since the release of the film you’re likely familiar with this iconic quote, repeated numerous times since uttered by Han Solo (and others) in Star Wars.

2. “You don’t understand! I coulda had class! I coulda been a contender! I coulda been somebody, instead of a bum, which is what I am.” This quote from Marlon Brando’s performance in On the Waterfront is not only a classic line but also helped garner the actor an Oscar win for his largely improvised performance.

3. “Here’s looking at you, kid.” Perhaps one of the most often quoted and most famous lines, this line from Casablanca has stood the test of time.

4. “Toto, I’ve got a feeling we’re not in Kansas anymore.” Taken from Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz, this quote has gone on to become a commonly used turn of phrase.

5. “Frankly, my dear, I don’t give a damn!” Angrily spoken by Rhett Butler in Gone with the Wind, this quote marked the first time a swear word was used in a film.

6. “If you build it, he will come.” The baseball classic Field of Dreams features this quote, inspiring the Kevin Costner character to reconnect with the ghosts of baseball past.

7. “You’ve got to ask yourself one question: ‘Do I feel lucky?’ Well, do ya punk?” Clint Eastwood launched a flurry of popularity for Dirty Harry with this quote and his no nonsense persona.

8. “I’ll be back.” Said in classic Arnold accented fashion, this Terminator quote has been repeated as nauseum.

9. “I’m going to make him an offer he can’t refuse.” Another Marlon Brando classic, this Godfather quote had a powerful effect.

10. “You talkin’ to me?” This oft quoted DeNiro quote from Taxi Driver has been spoofed and requoted numerous times since the release of the film.

Narrowing down the best movie lines of all time to just 10 is obviously an overwhelming task. There are certainly other classic lines from a movie not included. If you have other favorite lines in a movie that you want to share, please add a comment and let us know!

This feature of top movie lines was contributed by Sarah Russel, who writes about the graduate degree. She welcomes your feedback at SarahRussel1234 at gmail.com

See also:

• Best Movie Soundtracks
  

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