18 Classic Movie Quotes That Would Spark Outrage If Said in Today’s Films
Whether or not you are a movie buff, you’re probably familiar with the famous classic movies that shaped generations. Classic movies often contain iconic lines that have become ingrained in popular culture. However, as we look back, we realize how some of these quotes were downright racist, sexist, or misogynistic and have not aged well with time. Here are 24 classic movie quotes that, if said in today’s films, would likely spark outrage and controversy.
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Pulp Fiction (1994)
“I wanna ask you a question. When you came pulling in here, did you see a sign in front of my house that said ‘dead ***** storage?” – Jimmie Dimmick
The scene plays out between Samuel L Jackson’s character and Jimmie Dimmick, played by director Quentin Tarantino himself. It involves the disposal of a young black man’s dead body and is rather unforgettable. Although, the scene today would not be considered ok due to its racist connotations.
Fight Club (1999)
“She’s a predator posing as a house pet.”- Nameless character
Playing the nameless character, Brad Pitt delivers these lines to the narrator, played by Edward Norton. In an attempt to denigrate Norton’s new girlfriend, played by Helena Bohemia Carter. The lines have a familiar misogynistic undertone and would have created quite a buzz for the wrong reasons if said today.
Clueless (1995)
“Sometimes you have to show a little skin. This reminds boys of being *****, and then they think about ***.” – Cher
Playing the clueless, pretty, rich girl, Alicia Silverstone’s character Cher offers one of the most problematic pieces of advice. The lines might have been considered perfectly innocent then, but they would be enough for the GenZs today to term Cher’s character as “pick me.”
American History X (1998)
“Alright listen up, we need to open our eyes. There’s over two million illegal immigrants bending down in this state tonight. This state spent three billion dollars last year on services, on people who had no right to be here in the first place… 400 million just to lock up a bunch of illegal immigrant criminals who only got in this country because the ******* INS decided it’s not worth the effort to screen for convicted felons.”- Derek Vinyard
Edward Norton’s character delivers these problematic lines, again with blatantly racist undertones. With a stronger consciousness among people regarding tropes like racism, a more well-informed portrayal will only work in contemporary times.
Varsity Blues (1999)
“Listen. You give ’em a Percocet, two Vicodin, and a couple of beers, and the ******* drop. It’s very nice.”-Charlie Tweeder
This entire boys-will-be-boys trope would have difficulty surviving in this woke environment when topics like these are dealt with much more sincerity.
Ace Ventura, Pet Detective (1994)
“Wouldn’t you like me to take your pants off instead?”- Woman to Ace Ventura
With the abundance of these misogynistic tropes, it is safe to say that our beloved classics also had their fair share of cringe-worthy, problematic moments, as is visible in this scene from Jim Carrey-star in this 90’s classic.
10 Things I Hate About You (1999)
“What is it with this chick? She have beer-flavored *******?”- Patrick
Starring Julia Stiles and Heath Ledger, this beloved feminist classic rom-com also had its moments. Dialogues like these never fail to give you the ick, especially when delivered by such lovely actors.
Dazed and Confused (1993)
“That’s what I love about these high school girls, man. I get older, they stay the same age.”- Wooderson
There is just something about women-related problematic tropes that end up in almost every 90s classic movie. You know a scene is bad when even Matthew McConaughey, with his unforgettable charm, cannot make these cringe-worthy lines seem somewhat normal.
There’s Something About Mary (1998)
“I work with (blanked).”- Pat Healy
In this age of social media, there is a greater sense of responsibility when referring to people using certain terms. Largely used at some point in time, they are now deemed as problematic, and just the usage of the word beginning with the little R by Matt Dillon’s character while talking to Mary (Cameron Diaz) would stir a lot of emotions today.
Gone With the Wind (1993)
“We’ll keep our slaves, with or without their approval.”- Gerald O’Hara
This movie is considered the classic of the classics, starring legendary actors like Vivien Leigh and Clark Gable. But with time, the movie’s problematic portrayal of America’s racial History has dimmed its limelight to a great extent. The racist slurs and connotations have become hard to ignore.
Psycho (1960)
“We all go a little mad sometimes…” – Norman Bates
Alfred Hitchcock’s movie Psycho, to this day, remains a prototype for the horror genre. This movie changed the game at the time of its release with its iconic scenes, which are still parodied and referenced in countless movies. This movie’s theme of having transgender people as villains is highly problematic. This would spark an outrage now as mainstream cinema is pivotal in shaping societal mindset.
Empire Records (1995)
“What’s with you? Yesterday you were normal and today you’re like the Chinese guy from The Karate Kid. What’s with you today?”- AJ
Directed by Allan Moyle, this movie starring Liv Tyler is one of the most popular 90s classics. It follows a bunch of misfits working at an independent record shop. This particular dialogue from the movie exoticizes the East, as the character of Mr. Miyagi, who is referred to in the dialogue, isn’t even Chinese but rather Japanese.
The World is not Enough (1999)
Julietta the Cigarette Girl: “Would you like to check my figures?”
James Bond: “Oh, I’m sure they’re perfectly rounded.”
How can we talk about problematic classics and forget James Bond? The movies are no strangers to objectification and sexist portrayals of almost all their female characters, who serve the sole purpose of being Mr. Bond’s love interest. The following lines could be seen as just one droplet from the sea of problems.
Sixteen Candles (1984)
“I’ve got Caroline in the bedroom right now, passed out cold. I could violate her 10 different ways if I wanted to.” – Jack to Ted
The following lines don’t even cover the surface of all that is wrong with sixteen candles. Even the charm of Molly Ringwald couldn’t save the movie. The movie is not only sexist but also racist in its portrayal of The Asian exchange student always referred to as The Chinaman. Some of these beloved classics are so problematic that nothing can help redeem them.
Grease (1978)
Lyrics of the song “Summer Nights”– By Kenickie
Starring John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John, Grease is not just a movie; it’s an emotion for so many people. It’s an absolute singalong staple at weddings and costume parties. But its immense popularity cannot save it from scrutiny over its blatantly ignorant portrayal of consent in its lyrics.
Rush Hour (1998)
“I’ve been lookin’ for your sweet and sour ***!” – Carter
The extremely popular buddy comedy film trilogy, starring Jacki Chan and Chris Tucker, has already been scrutinized for its downright racist dialogues and how it has aged very badly.
Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner (1967)
“You think of yourself as a colored man. I think of myself as a man.”- John Prentice
While intended to convey a message of racial acceptance, this line reflects a colorblind approach that refuses to acknowledge systemic inequalities. In today’s films, such dismissive attitudes toward racial identity would spark rightful criticism and condemnation.
Revenge of the Nerds (1984)
“Hair Pie? Sank you”—Takashi
With Anthony Edwards and Robert Caradine in lead roles, the movie has aged like milk in its representation of minorities and even the portrayal of misfits or nerds. The movie showcased one-note characters that needed more depth. Movies like The Breakfast Club deal with the same topics in a much more informed way.
16 Famous Comedians Whose Jokes Are Forbidden in Today’s World
Related: In the ever-evolving comedy landscape, societal norms and sensitivities play a significant role in shaping acceptable humor. Over the years, certain comedians who were once celebrated for their wit and sharp humor have found themselves in hot water for jokes now deemed offensive or inappropriate.
Here are 16 famous comedians whose jokes are forbidden in today’s world.
