Memorable Quotes from the Iconic Movie Airplane!
A Classic Comedy Full of Quotable Lines
Airplane! is one of the most beloved comedy films of all time. Released in 1980, the movie follows the story of Ted Striker (Robert Hays) as he attempts to land a stricken passenger plane filled with quirky characters. What makes this movie so special is its witty dialogue, hilarious one-liners, and memorable quotes that are still quoted today.
The Most Iconic Quotes from Airplane!
“I am serious. And don't call me Shirley.”
This line, delivered by the character Dr. Rumack (Leslie Nielsen), is undoubtedly the most famous quote from the movie. It’s also the most misquoted, with many people mistakenly saying “don’t call me Shirley!”
“Striker: Surely you can't be serious. Rumack: I am serious. And don't call me Shirley.”
This quote is often used to show a misunderstanding between two characters. The first character, Striker (Robert Hays), believes Dr. Rumack (Leslie Nielsen) is not being serious, but the doctor quickly corrects him and insists he is serious.
“Looks like I picked the wrong week to quit drinking.”
This line, delivered by the character Roger Murdock (Peter Graves), is often used to express frustration. It’s an example of the movie’s tongue-in-cheek humor, as Murdock is implying that the current situation is so bad that he wishes he had never quit drinking.
“Striker: Don't you think you ought to check on the second engine? Murdock: Why bother? We'll be dead in five minutes.”
This quote is often used to indicate that something is futile or useless. In the movie, Striker (Robert Hays) is suggesting that they should inspect the second engine, but Murdock (Peter Graves) believes they don’t have enough time to bother with it.
“Don’t call me baby!”
This line, delivered by the character Elaine Dickinson (Julie Hagerty), is often used to indicate someone is annoyed or irritated. In the movie, she is responding to a man who has been hitting on her.
“I speak jive.”
This line, delivered by the character Johnny (Stephen Stucker), is often used to show that someone is cool or hip. In the movie, Johnny is trying to impress the other passengers with his ability to understand hip-hop slang.
“This woman has just become a nun.”
This line, delivered by the character Dr. Rumack (Leslie Nielsen), is often used to indicate a sudden change or transformation. In the movie, he is referring to a woman who has just taken a vow of celibacy.
Final Thoughts
Airplane! is full of memorable quotes and lines that are still quoted today. Whether you’re looking for a witty one-liner or an expression of frustration, you’ll find it in this classic comedy. So, the next time you’re in need of a quote, look no further than Airplane!