Across six decades and 30 movies, Ridley Scott has given us amazing stories. He is known for forging worlds that mirror the ugly realities of life. From Alien to Gladiator, Scott’s movies are notable for their dystopian settings, strong female leads, and one-liners that sting you hard.
In this article, we’ve listed the most iconic quotes from Ridley Scott movies.
Top Quotes from Ridley Scott Movies
1. “In Your Face, Neil Armstrong.”
The Martian
‘The Martian’Source: 20th Century Studios
This moment, as Mark Watney takes a direct jab at Neil Armstrong while showing off the greenhouse he created on Mars, is probably one of the most memorable in The Martian.
The narrative follows an astronaut, Mark Watney, who gets stranded on Mars after his crewmates assume him dead and leave without him. Watney not only survives but, as he claims, ends up “colonizing” Mars before successfully returning to Earth in one piece.
2. “Quality Is Remembered Long After Price Is Forgotten.”
House of Gucci
‘House of Gucci’Source: Universal Pictures, United Artists, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer
A notable Scott hit, this line encapsulates the journey of the renowned fashion brand Gucci and resonates with many aspects of our lives. From the clothes we wear to the people we make connections with, it’s always the quality that decides the worth of something. The beauty of this line lies in its artistic expression in such few words.
3. “People Don’t Always Tell You What They Are Thinking. They Just See to It That You Don’t Advance in Life.”
Hannibal
‘Hannibal’Source: Universal Pictures, Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer
When Hannibal Lecter says, “People don’t always tell you what they are thinking. They just see to it that you don’t advance in life,” it’s pretty clear why he’s a genius, despite his violent instincts.
The philosophy might sound too black-and-white in its judgment; however, its deep resonance with reality is undeniable.
4. “Big Things Have Small Beginnings.”
Prometheus
‘Prometheus’Source: 20th Centuy Studios
Prometheus revolves around the events that preceded the chaos of the Alien franchise. Irrespective of its context, this line from the android David (Michael Fassbender) is highly inspirational to me.
At the same time, it becomes dichotomous when placed in a dark context. I guess I just love the line’s simple versatility.
5. “Yes. I Read You. The Answer Is Negative.”
Alien
‘Alien’Source: 20th Century Studios
To disobey your senior, especially when he is evidently in the wrong, takes a lot of guts. In this scene, as Kane comes back with a face-hugger alien latched onto him, Captain Dallas orders Ripley to ignore quarantine protocols and allow Kane inside.
But Ripley refuses adamantly, saying, “Yes. I read you. The answer is negative.” This one line not only increases our respect for Ripley but also inspires us to do the right thing, despite the harsh consequences.
6. “Once That First Bullet Goes Past Your Head, Politics and All That Sh*t Just Goes Right Out the Window.”
Black Hawk Down
‘Black Hawk Down’Source: Columbia Pictures, Revolution Studios
This single line tears down the glorified imagery of war in a snap. Black Hawk Down follows Captain Mike Steele and his troupe of 100 U.S. Army Rangers who are on a mission to capture two top lieutenants of a Somali warlord. I wish we’d remember Hoot’s words the next time any country wants to go to war.
7. “Are You Not Entertained?”
Gladiator
‘Gladiator’Source: DreamWorks Pictures, Universal Pictures
This particular line unravels the cruelty that is an omnipresent part of humanity. When Maximus emerges as the invincible fighter in the arena on his very first fight, the spectators are stunned into silence by his brutality. Their shock over the bloodshed is extremely unsettling. This question by Maximus is like a wake-up call for humanity.
8. “The Loudest One in the Room Is the Weakest One in the Room.”
American Gangster
‘American Gangster’Source: Paramount Pictures, Universal Pictures
This is indeed a stylish way to put the idea across that “empty vessels make the most sound.” Frank Lucas’ journey to become the Harlem drug lord is a testament to what determination and perseverance can achieve.
But maybe, the real agent of his victory is his quiet, observant nature that always keeps him in the leverage. Also, a man of action is always a step ahead of those who’re all about thoughts.
9. “All Those Moments Will Be Lost in Time… Like Tears in Rain”
Blade Runner
‘Blade Runner’Source: Warner Bros.
A neo-noir sci-fi set in a dystopian, futuristic L.A., Blade Runner is widely considered a masterpiece. One could argue that its climax and this iconic one-liner, delivered by Roy Batty in his dying moments, have garnered a separate fan following of their own.
The line carries heavy emotion, especially coming from a replicant (android, in everyday terms) who is designed without artificial memories and emotions, yet is eager to give life a chance and become human.
10. “My Husband Wasn’t Sweet to Me. Look How I Turned Out.”
Thelma & Louise
‘Thelma & Louis’Source: Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer, Sony Pictures, MGM Pathe Communications
A witty quip by Thelma, who, in an attempt to get an actual break from her marriage, runs away for a weekend trip with her friend, Louise, beautifully summarizes what married women with non-cooperative spouses must feel like, all the time.
Partners want affection, and when that’s evidently lacking in their lives, they tend to lose their minds a little bit. And why not? A woman, in particular, is traditionally expected to give up so much to maintain a family, and in return, can’t she expect her husband to be at least kind to her?
This movie says if he is not, then what comes is all on him.
11. “Quite an Experience to Live in Fear, Isn’t It? That’s What It Is to Be a Slave.”
Blade Runner
‘Blade Runner’ Source: Warner Bros.
Rick Deckard and Roy Batty’s final confrontation is a worthy ending to a movie like Blade Runner. In the end, Batty manages to overpower Deckard, pushing him off the edge, where he hangs on for dear life. In those moments, as Batty looks into his eyes, he says, “Quite an experience to live in fear, isn’t it? That’s what it is to be a slave.”
As sadistic as it might sound, in the immediate context of the scene, the line holds the core essence of a replicant’s life. In that moment, it’s not all about vengeance for Batty. It’s the first time he’s outrightly spoken about his miserable circumstances in the life of a replicant.
Did we miss any? Let us know your favorite line in the list.