As a cinephile who’s spent countless hours immersed in the rich and varied world of John Cusack‘s cinematic journey, I can confidently say that he’s more than just an actor; he’s a storyteller, a philosopher, and a poet in his own right. His characters are as complex as they come, mirroring the intricacies of life itself.
John Cusack’s on-screen personas have delivered some of the deepest and thought-provoking quotes ever written, not to mention the hilarious one-liners that leave us in stitches. In his most memorable films such as “Say Anything…”, “Better Off Dead”, “The Sure Thing”, “Hot Tub Time Machine”, and numerous others, his characters embodied wisdom amidst their often absurd situations. Here are some of the most iconic quotes from John Cusack’s filmography.
“I’m not really making any plans. I’m just sort of letting the universe surprise me, right?” – Hot Tub Time Machine
In many aspects, the movie “Hot Tub Time Machine” and John Cusack’s character within it can be seen as quite self-referential or meta. As a performer who gained prominence during the 1980s, he seems to embody the spirit of going along with the times.
“You know, junk food doesn’t deserve the bad rap that it gets. Take these pork rinds for example. This particular brand contains two percent of the R.D.A. – that’s Recommended Daily Allowance – of riboflavin.” – The Sure Thing
In a straightforward and conversational manner: Walter, portrayed by Cusack in The Sure Thing, may come off as annoying at first glance. Yet, much like other characters played by him, Cusack skillfully turns those peculiarities into qualities that are adorable and endearing.
“Gee, I’m real sorry your mom blew up, Ricky.” – Better Off Dead
In the movie “Better Off Dead“, Lane Meyer initially doesn’t seem to have much luck on his side. However, it would be unjust to hold him responsible for Ricky’s mother’s car accident, despite bringing the gasoline to dinner, since accidents can happen unexpectedly.
“I don’t want to sell anything, buy anything, or process anything as a career. I don’t want to sell anything bought or processed, or buy anything sold or processed, or process anything sold, bought, or processed, or repair anything sold, bought, or processed. You know, as a career, I don’t want to do that.” – Say Anything…
John Cusack is one on of the most underrated romantic leads in the last few decades. His most notable role is probably Say Anything… and his most famous quote from the movie explains exactly what he doesn’t want to do with his life.
“Thanks. I work at Kentucky Fried Chicken. I sell biscuits and gravy all over the Southland.” – Grosse Pointe Blank
Martin Blank in the movie “Grosse Pointe Blank” is one of Cusack’s most sarcastic characters, which speaks volumes. Whenever he attempts to clarify his profession at this high school reunion or invents something on the spot, it sounds like he’s being evasive, and yet some people still find him believable.
“Nobody’s looking for a puppeteer in today’s wintry economic climate” – Being John Malkovich
In a different tone, “Being John Malkovich” stands among Cameron Crowe’s darkest comedies, with Cusack’s character reflecting a chilliness akin to the bleak economic environment portrayed in the film. It’s undeniably one of his finest acting performances, even amidst its somber undertones.
“I have a great fear of tools. I once made a birdhouse in woodshop and the fair housing committee condemned it. I can’t.” – Better Off Dead
In “Better Off Dead,” Lane is initially reluctant to take on responsibilities, but Monique (played by Diane Franklin) manages to captivate him in a positive way. Eventually, she convinces him to step out of his comfort zone, going as far as motivating him to repair his own car with the help of tools.
“The making of a great compilation tape, like breaking up, is hard to do and takes ages longer than it might seem. You gotta kick off with a killer, to grab attention. Then you got to take it up a notch, but you don’t wanna blow your wad, so then you got to cool it off a notch. There are a lot of rules.” – High Fidelity
In the story of “High Fidelity,” music holds immense significance for Rob Gordon. Therefore, creating a mixtape isn’t something casual; it requires careful consideration. There are certain guidelines that must be adhered to, and one of them is understanding precisely how to kick things off, as he explains below.
“She gave me a pen. I gave her my heart and she gave me a pen.” – Say Anything…
One of the saddest moments in ’80s film history occurs when Lloyd offers his heart to Diane, only to receive a pen from her as she breaks up with him. This tragic scene, unfolding in the pouring rain, is incredibly poignant.
“If I show up at your door, chances are you did something to bring me there.” – Grosse Pointe Blank
Martin Blank’s profession as an assassin is extremely hard to defend, yet it must be acknowledged that he strives for justification and maintains honesty towards the woman he cherishes.
“It’s not easy getting rides. Do you know what I mean? I mean most people are real afraid to pick up hitchhikers. I mean you never know who you might pick up. I mean I could be some crazed slime ball. I mean a real deranged, violent psycho. You know what I mean? I mean a guy who would rip out your heart and eat it” – The Sure Thing
In “The Sure Thing,” John Cusack made a significant breakthrough, demonstrating his multifaceted acting abilities. He’s not just witty and affectionate, but also exaggerated and side-splittingly funny, as seen when he surprises the kind driver with a terrifying prank in the car.
“I got a question. If you guys know so much about women, how come you’re here at like the Gas ‘n’ Sip on a Saturday night completely alone drinking beers with no women anywhere?” – Say Anything…
Lloyd Dobler might appear somewhat immature and uncertain about his path in life, yet he exhibits remarkable maturity and wisdom for someone of his age. In essence, he embodies a unique depth that sets him apart from others, even those who may seem more worldly or established. Despite being stereotypically associated with the slacker generation, he’s far from the rowdy crowd loitering outside the convenience store on a typical Saturday night.
“I knew this trip was a bad idea. Every time I hang out with you, man, it’s some kind of disaster. I got guilted into coming on this trip and now I’m back in the freakin’ ’80s. And I hate this decade!” – Hot Tub Time Machine
Essentially, this individual attained fame in the 1980s, becoming a symbol of the era, and is often involved in a private joke among insiders. Despite moving forward in his career, it’s hard to imagine he doesn’t cherish that period with warm feelings.
“Look, Sergeant Pepper, I really need you to shut up about that.” – Grosse Pointe Blank
In the movie “Grosse Pointe Blank,” Joan Cusack shares the screen with her real-life brother. Although her character is portrayed as his competent assistant, she often acts more like a protective older sibling by repeatedly urging him to attend his high school reunion and reminding him about it. Eventually, he becomes frustrated and asks her to stop. Fortunately, she persists.
“So, what am I gonna do now? Just keep jumping from rock to rock, for the rest of my life, until they’re not any rocks left?” – High Fidelity
Rob Gordon might not have everything perfectly sorted yet, but he’s self-aware enough to recognize that adjustments are needed. In a sense, he’s walking his own path, and even though it might be rocky at times, he’s moving in the right direction.
“That’s right, they start me at the drive-up window and I gradually work my way up from shakes to burgers, and then one day my lucky break comes: the french fry guy dies and they offer me the job! But the day I’m supposed to start, some men come by in a black Lincoln Continental and tell me I can make a quick 300 just for driving a van back from Mexico!” – The Sure Thing
In a typical scene reminiscent of a John Cusack character, Gib becomes overly zealous in detailing the consequences if he fails to be with Alison (Daphne Zuniga). However, she seems oblivious to his words, immersed as she is in her swimming laps.
“She only speaks French, Roy. She doesn’t speak imbecile” – Better Off Dead
Many of Cusack’s characters, such as Lane Meyer, may initially appear calm or timid, but they are steadfast in their resolve to defend justice when provoked beyond their limits. For instance, when a jock makes advances towards one of his friends.
“Joe. She’s written 65 songs… 65. They’re all about you. They’re all about pain.” – Say Anything…
In the film “Say Anything…“, one of Lloyd’s most notable traits is his unwavering devotion to his friends, particularly the two female characters portrayed. One of these women is deeply distraught following her split with Joe, who appears to be mocking her for amusement. Lloyd pleads with him to cease this behavior.
“One night with me and she’ll probably go blind with ecstasy. Poor creature. Gee, I hope she doesn’t grab onto my leg and start crying once the date’s over. What would I do?” – Better Off Dead
Lane Meyer’s self-assurance seemed to falter following his breakup at the film’s start; however, by the conclusion, it was evident that he had reclaimed his composure. The moment where he motivates himself before going on a date with Monique serves as proof of this transformation.
“Hey, my brotha, can I borrow a copy of your ‘Hey Soul Classics’?” – Say Anything…
Lloyd’s bond with his nephew may not be the film’s main focus in “Say Anything…“, yet the movie beautifully portrays his affectionate nature towards the child. Remarkably, he appears to impart a small ritual involving a special tape to him.
“Likes to brag that he killed more men than cancer.” – Con Air
Although Con Air might seem a bit illogical upon deep reflection, there’s no denying that it’s an incredible movie. It boasts fascinating characters and unforgettable scenes. Even though John Cusack’s performance isn’t as flamboyant as some of the other actors, he delivers some fantastic lines.
“I killed the president of Paraguay with a fork. How have you been?” – Grosse Pointe Blank
Martin Blank’s dynamic with his therapist, portrayed by Alan Arkin, is quite amusing. As he grapples with preparations for his reunion, he consistently surprises the therapist with his remarks, causing him to become uneasy.
“I hired these guys for three days a week and they just started showing up every day. That was four years ago.” – High Fidelity
Hey, at least they are loyal! Right? They are annoying, to be sure.
“No no no, I went the other road. Six figures, doing business with lead-pipe cruelty, mercenary sensibility.” – Grosse Pointe Blank
Martin Blank shows both self-assurance and apprehension as he encounters the formidable father of his former girlfriend, whom he’s bound by contract to neutralize. This interaction is quite engaging and underscores the absurdity that the film masterfully portrays.
“Hey, I’m not the smartest guy in the world, but I’m certainly not the dumbest. I mean, I’ve read books like ‘The Unbearable Lightness of Being’ and ‘Love in the Time of Cholera,’ and I think I’ve understood them. They’re about girls, right? ” – High Fidelity
Rob in High Fidelity is just so cheeky and this is a perfect example. The snarkiest of snark.
“You don’t know how lucky you are being a monkey. Because consciousness is a terrible curse. I think. I feel. I suffer. And all I ask in return is the opportunity to do my work. And they won’t allow it… because I raise issues.” – Being John Malkovich
In the film “Being John Malkovich,” Cusack’s persona is generally quite gloomy, and this somber tone persists even during his interactions with a monkey.
“I’m Lloyd, and we’re gonna watch the movie ‘Cocoon.’ I’ve never actually seen it, but I heard it’s very good, it makes you happy, that’s a good thing. It’s about a group of older people who go to outer space… hope I didn’t give anything away there.” – Say Anything…
As a gamer penning pieces for such platforms as TopMob, I can assure you that the anticipation and anxiety surrounding spoilers in my articles is something everyone here shares deeply.
“‘The degree of civilization in a society can be judged by observing its prisoners.’ Dostoevsky said that… after doin’ a little time.” – Con Air
Any truly great Cusack character is going to have a little philosophy for you. Even in Con Air.
“I am looking for a dare to be great situation.” – Say Anything…
Lloyd doesn’t have it all figured out, but he knows what he wants.
“I was sitting there alone on prom night, in a rented tuxedo, and my whole life flashed before my eyes. And I realized finally, and for the first time, that I wanted to kill somebody. So I figured since I loved you so much, it’d be a good idea if I didn’t see you anymore.” – Grosse Pointe Blank
In the line of work Martin has chosen, explaining his actions to those close to him can be virtually unjustifiable, yet he makes an effort, sometimes revealing more than necessary. This earns him respect, despite the occasional candidness that might seem excessive.
“What came first, the music or the misery? Did I listen to pop music because I was miserable? Or was I miserable because I listened to pop music?” – High Fidelity
This is a question we could all ask ourselves, right?
“Real smooth, Cliff.” – 16 Candles
In his early career, John Cusack made an appearance in the film “16 Candles.” Over time, this movie has lost some of its charm due to several factors, and unfortunately, this reflects on Cusack’s character as well. However, there is one particular scene that remains amusing, and it comes across as quite innocent compared to the rest of the content.
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2024-10-31 01:37