Top 10: Awesome Lines #2
Jan. 25, 2008
Source: AITH
by: Matt Withers
There's not much more satisfying in this world than a good one-liner. Especially in horror flicks where we don't always get treated to the top tier screenwriting talent that other genres tend to enjoy.
So what is it that makes 'em work when they do? It can be situation, presentation, or sometimes we even get unbelievable writing. And of course everybody has their personal faves. So make sure to Spit Bullets if your most loved doesn't make the list. Share and share alike!
Sure Lecter gets all the props in SOTL, but for sheer creepy factor I have to go with cross-dressing psycho who talks about you in the third person while you're stuck in a pit. Don't believe me? Try "Have the lambs stopped screaming, Clarice?" and this line in a bar and see which one gets the more terrified response. I'm just kidding of course. We prefer our readers stay out of jail whenever possible, but you see what I mean.
I do not love this movie. I think it's one of Kubrick's weakest and most obvious efforts. Part of the problem is that we know Jack is gonna go all Jack on us, and that's what we want. So there's nothing scary about his character arc. Still doesn't change the fact that when it comes to badass badassery, there's nothing better than seeing Nicholson take an axe to that bathroom door and announce his presence with authority.
Life isn't fair. If it was then sweet, talented young girls wouldn't die at age 12, POLTERGEIST curse or not. But here's the thing, with two little words Heather O'Rourke managed something most people never achieve - immortality. She scared us, fascinated us, and left a lasting mark on the cinematic landscape. Not too shabby.
A lot of times lines like this work great for trailers, but it's difficult to make them ring true in the context of a scene. Not here. When the Cenobites first reveal themselves to Kirsty it's one of the best villain entrances ever. It has so much exposition that it should fall on it's face, but no, we get a seminal moment in sack tightening history.
THE EXORCIST specializes in nastiness. Peeing on the floor, masturbating with a crucifix, spewing pea soup, and all delivered by the angelic countenance of young Linda Blair. But when it comes to top of the line verbal throwdowns, nothing beats a pre-teen taunting a priest about his damned mothers oral dexterity. No question that little head-turner would have kicked ass at playing the Dozens.
12:11PM on 01/26/2008