While these iconic lines need little introduction, none of them appeared in the original script. From ad-libs to full on improvisations, read on for 17 memorable lines that made it into the movie right on their own.
“Here’s looking at you, kid” – Casablanca
One of the most famous lines in film history was not in the original script of Casablanca. It was an impromptu addition by Humphrey Bogart, who reportedly used the line off-set while teaching Ingrid Bergman how to play poker.
“I’m walking here!” – Midnight Cowboy
Dustin Hoffman’s exasperated exclamation in Midnight Cowboy was not scripted. It came about when a taxi nearly hit him during filming. The authenticity of the moment made it a classic.
“I’m king of the world!” – Titanic
Leonardo DiCaprio’s enthusiastic declaration in Titanic was ad-libbed on the spot. Director James Cameron liked it so much, he decided to keep it in the final cut.
“You can’t handle the truth!” – A Few Good Men
While the line was in the script, Jack Nicholson’s delivery was completely his own. The passionate and memorable delivery made the line one of the most famous in cinematic history.
“I know” – Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back
In response to Princess Leia’s declaration of love, Harrison Ford, as Han Solo, was originally scripted to say “I love you too.” However, Ford felt his character would respond differently, leading to the now-iconic response.
“I’m just one stomach flu away from my goal weight.” – The Devil Wears Prada
Emily Blunt came up with this darkly humorous line on her own. It was a perfect encapsulation of her character’s obsession with appearance and dieting in the fashion industry.
“Here’s Johnny!” – The Shining
Jack Nicholson’s chilling line in The Shining was completely unscripted. It was a reference to Johnny Carson’s introduction on The Tonight Show, and added an unexpected touch of pop culture to the horror film.
“You talking to me?” – Taxi Driver
Robert De Niro’s monologue in Taxi Driver was largely improvised, including this famous line. His powerful performance added depth and menace to his unhinged character.
“Leave the gun. Take the cannoli.” – The Godfather
The line was a memorable addition by actor Richard Castellano. It perfectly exemplified the blend of casual normalcy and violent crime that characterizes The Godfather.
“A census taker once tried to test me. I ate his liver with some fava beans and a nice Chianti.” – The Silence of the Lambs
The script called for Hannibal Lecter to share a chilling anecdote, but the specifics were left to Anthony Hopkins. His choice added an extra layer of horror to an already terrifying character.
“Like tears in rain” – Blade Runner
Rutger Hauer added this poetic line to his character’s final speech. It offered a poignant reflection on mortality that elevated the film’s thematic depth.
“There’s no crying in baseball!” – A League of Their Own
Tom Hanks ad-libbed this now-iconic line. It perfectly encapsulated his character’s tough, no-nonsense approach to coaching an all-women’s baseball team during World War II.
“Why so serious?” – The Dark Knight
Heath Ledger improvised many of his lines as the Joker, including this chilling catchphrase. His unique interpretation of the character is now iconic.
“I improvised the sound of silence.” – Lost in Translation
Bill Murray’s character was meant to whisper something to Scarlett Johansson’s character in the film’s finale. The actual words were never scripted, making the moment even more enigmatic and memorable.
“Do I feel lucky? Well, do ya, punk?” – Dirty Harry
Clint Eastwood’s iconic challenge was slightly improvised. His confident delivery made the line one of the most famous in film history.
“Funny how? Like I’m a clown? I amuse you?” – Goodfellas
Joe Pesci’s explosive rant in Goodfellas was largely improvised, based on a real-life encounter Pesci had experienced. His ad-libbing created one of the film’s most intense and memorable scenes.
“We’re gonna need a bigger boat” – Jaws
This line was not in the original script but was added by actor Roy Scheider during filming. It perfectly captured the daunting reality of the characters’ situation.
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