Iconic Quotes from Ten Timeless Romantic Films
From classics like Casablanca to modern love stories such as The Notebook, we’ve gathered iconic quotes from ten of the most romantic films to make you swoon this Valentine’s Day. We explore the most tender movie moments portrayed by star-struck lovers or lifelong friends throughout film history. Unlock your inner hopeless romantic with these seriously heartfelt quotes! You in the mood for Valentine’s Day!
Gone With The Wind Quotes
It’s been over 85 years since the release of one of the most well-known films to date, let alone romantic films – Gone with the Wind. Much more complex than just a romance flick, this American epic explores many of human history’s sensitive issues but endeavours to leave viewers with encouraging thoughts of resilience and hope, as well as everlasting love. Here are some of the movie’s top quotes.
1. “After all, tomorrow is another day.”
Scene: Scarlett O'Hara (Vivien Leigh) says this line as she resolves to face the hardships of her life with optimism. After losing everything and witnessing the collapse of the world she knew, she refuses to give in to despair, reminding herself that each day is a new opportunity.
2. "Frankly my dear, I don't give a damn!"
Scene: Rhett Butler (Clark Gable) delivers this sharp line to Scarlett, ending their tumultuous relationship. After all their struggles and heartbreak, Rhett’s emotional detachment and final dismissal are delivered with an unforgettable sense of finality.
3. “It was better to know the worst than to wonder.”
Scene: Scarlett, after learning the truth about her romantic entanglements and the state of her life, expresses a desire to confront her situation, no matter how painful, instead of living in uncertainty.
4. "You should be kissed, and often, and by someone who knows how."
Scene: Rhett makes this bold declaration to Scarlett, showcasing his intense desire and passion for her. This scene is pivotal in highlighting their fiery connection amidst their complicated relationship.
5. "In spite of you and me and the whole silly world going to pieces around us, I love you."
Scene: Rhett says this during a moment of intense vulnerability after the Civil War has ravaged their lives. It’s a raw declaration of love despite the chaos surrounding them.
6. "As God is my witness, I’ll never be hungry again!"
Scene: Scarlett, determined and defiant, makes this vow after the Civil War devastates her home and leaves her destitute. It represents her fierce independence and unyielding will to survive.
7. “With enough courage, you can do without a reputation.”
Scene: Rhett delivers this line to Scarlett when discussing the societal pressures that weigh on her. He admires her courage and shows his belief that strength can overcome any perceived shortcomings.
Casablanca Quotes
Released in 1942, Casablanca’s passionate plot and intricate relationships between characters have cemented the movie as one of the most quotable classic romance films. Below are just some of the movie’s many beautiful quotes:
1. “Of all the gin joints in all the towns in the world, she walks into mine.”
Scene: Rick Blaine (Humphrey Bogart) says this as he sees Ilsa (Ingrid Bergman) enter his Casablanca bar, unknowingly bringing the past back to his life. This quote sets the tone for their emotional and dramatic reunion.
2. "Kiss me as if it were the last time."
Scene: Ilsa, on the eve of their separation, begs Rick for one last passionate kiss. The scene is filled with yearning and heartbreak, as they know this may be their final moment together.
3. "With the whole world crumbling, we pick this time to fall in love."
Scene: Rick says this to Ilsa during one of their heartfelt exchanges. As war looms and their personal lives are torn apart, they acknowledge that their love has blossomed amidst turmoil.
4. "We'll always have Paris."
Scene: Rick and Ilsa share a tender moment as Rick reflects on their past love affair in Paris, before the war interrupted it. This line symbolizes their timeless connection and the memories they’ll cherish forever.
5. "Louis, I think this is the beginning of a beautiful friendship."
Scene: As Rick and Captain Renault (Claude Rains) leave Casablanca together, Rick delivers this line with a knowing smile. It represents the beginning of their partnership and the complex relationships formed throughout the film.
6. “Here’s looking at you, kid.”
Scene: Rick’s iconic farewell line to Ilsa in the final scene of the movie. It captures the bittersweet nature of their love story and the enduring feelings Rick has for her, even as they part ways.
The Bodyguard Quotes
Fresh from celebrating its 31st anniversary, The Bodyguard has solidified itself as one of the best love stories of the '90s. Here are some of the movie’s top quotes that give you a snippet of the electric chemistry and complex relationship between Rachel and her bodyguard, Frank:
1. Rachel: "You afraid I might get picked off in my snazzy running suit?"
Frank: "No, I'm afraid that I might have to jog with you.”
Scene: Rachel (Whitney Houston) teases Frank (Kevin Costner) as she jogs, showcasing their playful chemistry early in the film. It’s a lighthearted moment before the intensity of their bond deepens.
2. Rachel: "And you're ready to die for me?"
Frank: "It's the job.”
Rachel: "And you'd do it? Why?”
Frank: "I can't sing.”
Scene: In this tense moment, Rachel questions Frank about his commitment to protecting her. It’s both a humorous and touching exchange that shows Frank’s loyalty, even as he hides his emotions.
3. Rachel: "Will you grab that jacket for me? The red one, please?”
Frank: "I'm here to keep you alive, not help you shop.”
Scene: Frank's dry humor shines through as he begrudgingly helps Rachel shop for clothes, demonstrating the blend of professional duty and personal connection growing between them.
True Romance Quotes
Another top romance film to celebrate its recent 31st anniversary, True Romance is a modern-day Bonnie and Clyde that has some truly memorable movie quotes. Alabama and Clarence have one of the coolest, most iconic modern love stories you'll come across.
1. “I had to come all the way from the highway and byways of Tallahassee, Florida to Motor City, Detroit to find my true love.”
Scene: Clarence (Christian Slater) reflects on the strange and wonderful fate of meeting Alabama (Patricia Arquette). This line symbolizes the randomness of love and how it can come from unexpected places.
2. “If you gave me a million years to ponder, I would’ve never guessed that true romance and Detroit would ever go together.”
Scene: Clarence speaks to the contrast of his life in Detroit and his whirlwind romance with Alabama. The quote exemplifies the unexpected nature of true love, particularly when life seems mundane.
3. “If there’s one thing this last week has taught me, it’s better to have a gun and not need it than to need a gun and not have it.”
Scene: In a chaotic moment, Clarence muses about the importance of being prepared, blending humor with the wild, unpredictable nature of their romance.
4. “I'm gonna go jump in the tub and get all slippery and soapy and then hop in that waterbed and watch X-rated movies 'til you get your ass back in my lovn' arms.”
Scene: Alabama's playful and bold nature is on full display as she speaks to Clarence, revealing the passionate, carefree nature of their relationship.
5. Alabama: "Have you seen your lovely little wife today?
Clarence: "Are you speaking of my beautiful, charming, sexy wife, Mrs. Alabama Worley?”
Alabama: "Why, are there any others, Mr. Worley?”
Clarence: "No, none for me.”
Scene: This sweet exchange between the couple shows the depth of their mutual admiration and playful love, even amidst their chaotic lives.
6. “You just said you love me, now if I say I love you and just throw caution to the wind and let the chips fall where they may and you're lying to me I'm gonna f****in' die.”
Scene: Alabama and Clarence have a moment of raw vulnerability as they lay their feelings on the line. It reflects the emotional intensity of their bond.
Before Sunrise Quotes
Before Sunrise, the first of the ‘Before’ trilogy, is a revered film in the romance genre for its charming screenplay and authentic acting that boasts unmatched chemistry between the two characters. As the basis of the film consists of two young strangers learning about one another through the expression of their thoughts and feelings, it's the perfect romantic film to gather quotes about love and life of which linger on the brain.
1. “Listen, if somebody gave me the choice right now, of to never see you again or to marry you, alright, I would marry you, alright. And maybe that’s a lot of romantic bullshit, but people have gotten married for a lot less.”
Scene: Jesse (Ethan Hawke) confesses his feelings to Celine (Julie Delpy) during a moment of vulnerability, expressing his deep connection with her. The raw honesty of this scene makes it one of the most emotional in the film.
2. “If there’s any kind of magic in this world…it must be in the attempt of understanding someone.”
Scene: Celine shares her philosophical take on life and love, encapsulating the essence of their fleeting yet profound connection in the film.
3. “But isn't everything we do in life a way to be loved a little more?”
Scene: This reflective line from Celine touches on the universal desire for connection and affection, and the ways in which people seek love throughout their lives.
4. “Well, I kind of see love as this escape for two people who don’t know how to be alone. It’s funny, people always talk about how love is this totally unselfish, giving thing, but if you think about it, there’s nothing more selfish.”
Scene: In this moment, Celine delves deep into her thoughts on love, revealing her complexities and the dualities of their relationship.
5. “I like to feel his eyes on me when I look away.”
Scene: Celine's confession highlights the depth of attraction and connection that sparks between her and Jesse, a moment of intimacy that transcends words.
6. “You know, I have this awful paranoid thought that feminism was mostly invented by men so that they could like, fool around a little more.”
Scene: Celine’s playful yet thought-provoking comment reveals her sharp wit and personality as she and Jesse engage in deep, philosophical conversation.
7. “You know what’s the worst thing about somebody breaking up with you? It’s when you remember how little you thought about the people you broke up with and you realize that is how little they’re thinking of you. You know, you’d like to think you’re both in all this pain but they’re just like “Hey, I’m glad you’re gone”.
Scene: Celine’s vulnerability comes to the forefront here, sharing her fear of being forgotten. It’s a poignant reflection on the emotional aftermath of relationships.
The Notebook Quotes
The Notebook has remained an established romance film of the 21st century thanks to its exploration of unwavering and irrevocable love, gathering a steadfast cult following over the years. From young, rambunctious love to everlasting companionship, the story of Noah and Allie is a guaranteed tearjerker. Here are just some of the movie’s most poignantly romantic quotes.
1. “I am nothing special; just a common man with common thoughts, and I’ve led a common life…But in one respect I have succeeded as gloriously as anyone who’s ever lived: I’ve loved another with all my heart and soul; and to me, this has always been enough.”
Scene: Noah (Ryan Gosling) reflects on his love for Allie (Rachel McAdams), emphasizing that true success is found in loving someone deeply, even without wealth or fame.
2. “The best love is the kind that awakens the soul and makes us reach for more, that plants a fire in our hearts and brings peace to our minds, and that’s what you’ve given me.”
Scene: Noah reads a letter to Allie, pouring out his heart to her after years of separation. This quote is the essence of the passionate, transformative love they share.
3. “If you’re a bird, I’m a bird.”
Scene: Allie and Noah share a deeply romantic moment, expressing their willingness to be with each other, no matter the cost. This line captures their devotion.
4. “So, it’s not gonna be easy, it’s gonna be really hard. And we’re gonna have to work at this every day, but I wanna do that because I want you. I want all of you, forever. You and me. Everyday.”
Scene: Noah’s commitment to Allie is unwavering, as he pledges to work through the struggles of life with her by his side.
5. “It wasn’t over. It still isn’t over.”
Scene: In a climactic moment, Noah yells this to Allie, reawakening their love. This is the defining moment of their love story, showing that true love never dies.
6. “That’s my sweetheart in there, I’m not leaving her. This is my home now.”
Scene: Noah makes this statement with unwavering conviction as he defends his love for Allie. It’s a powerful declaration of loyalty and commitment.
Crazy Stupid Love Quotes
Crazy Stupid Love has gathered a renowned status as one of the best romantic comedies of recent years, integrating multiple character arcs and their tumultuous, realistic relationships alongside comedic and poignant moments. This leaves lots of opportunity for unforgettable quotes - discover the ones we have included below!
1. “The war between the sexes is over. We won the second women started doing pole dancing for exercise.”
Scene: Jacob (Ryan Gosling) says this in a playful moment with Cal (Steve Carell) while trying to help him navigate the dating world. Jacob's confidence and charm shine through here, making this line both comedic and a little over-the-top.
2. Emily: "I'm trying to think about what I want... (looks at restaurant menu)”
Cal: "Why don't we just say it at the same time? One, two, three...
Emily: "I want a divorce.”
Cal: (simultaneously) "Crème brulée...”
Scene: In a deeply awkward but humorous moment, Cal and Emily (Julianne Moore) have an uncomfortable dinner where Cal tries to prepare for a serious conversation, only to be blindsided by Emily’s announcement of divorce. The clash between something as light as dessert and the heavy news creates the perfect comedy.
3. Hannah: "I am here to bang the hot guy that hit on me at the bar.”
Jacob: "Jacob.”
Hannah: "Jacob...”
Jacob: "Are people still saying "bang?"
Hannah: "Oh, I do. We're gonna bang.”
Scene: This exchange happens when Hannah (Emma Stone) meets Jacob at a bar and isn’t shy about her intentions. The interaction is cheeky and sets the stage for their unexpected, yet passionate, romance.
4. Hannah: "Take of your shirt.”
Jacob: "Why?”
Hannah: "Will you take off your shirt?”
(Jacob removes his shirt)
Hannah: "Seriously!? It's like you're photoshopped!”
Scene: Hannah’s shock and admiration as Jacob (Ryan Gosling) strips down is a funny moment that reflects her initial disbelief at his perfect physique, setting the tone for their budding attraction.
5. “You're as ready as you're ever gonna be. You play your strengths, pal. That's all any of us can do. I'm mysterious, I'm, you know, good in bed and you're -- you are a...uh...you know, stable employed adult.”
Scene: Jacob gives Cal (Steve Carell) a pep talk before his first attempt to win back his wife, Emily. It’s a comedic, yet sincere moment where Jacob encourages Cal to play to his strengths—albeit humorously defined.
6. Cal: "Who told you that Emily and I are getting divorced?
Cal's Boss: "Amy heard you crying in the bathroom - we all thought it was cancer.”
Cal: "Oh....”
Cal's Boss: "Thank God, man..." (laughing)
Cal: (laughs) "Yeah, just my relationship...”
Scene: This comedic exchange happens at Cal’s workplace, where the news of his impending divorce spreads in a humorous, yet heartwarming way, showing the strange empathy his coworkers have for him.
The Great Gatsby Quotes
Delving into the Jazz Age of the 1920s, The Great Gatsby is based on the 1925 novel that explores tropes of untiring love, complicated relationships and scandals amongst the wealthy elite. Far from just a romance film, The Great Gatsby reflects a social critique of the upper class and its propensity toward greed and excess. However, it is a tale of love at its core – take a look at these top movie quotes below.
1. Jordan Baker: "He bought that house to be near her. He threw all those parties, hoping she'd wander in one night. He constantly asked about Daisy. I was just the first person that knew her.”
Nick Carraway: "All that for a girl he hasn't seen in five years.”
Scene: Jordan (Elizabeth Debicki) shares this insight with Nick (Tobey Maguire) at one of Gatsby’s extravagant parties. It reveals Gatsby’s obsessive longing for Daisy and the extent to which he orchestrated his entire life around her.
2. “We can't lose each other and let all this glorious love end in nothing. Come home. I'll be here waiting and hoping for every long dream of you to come true.”
Scene: Gatsby (Leonardo DiCaprio) desperately pleads with Daisy (Carey Mulligan) to leave her husband, Tom. His words echo the yearning and idealism that define his love for her, pushing for a love that transcends reality.
3. “I knew it was a great mistake for a man like me to fall in love.”
Scene: Gatsby reflects on his past and his ill-fated pursuit of Daisy, realizing that his desire to build an idealized life around her was ultimately flawed. This line speaks to the tragic nature of his character.
4. Daisy Buchanan: "I wish we could just run away.”
Jay Gatsby: "Run away? No. Daisy, darling, that wouldn't be respectable. We're gonna live here, in this house. You and me.”
Scene: In a moment of vulnerability, Daisy wishes for a simple life with Gatsby. However, Gatsby, ever focused on status and appearances, insists that they continue living in the extravagant world he’s built for her.
5. “They were careless people, Tom and Daisy. They smashed up things and people, and then retreated back into their money and their vast carelessness.”
Scene: Nick’s (Tobey Maguire) reflection on Tom and Daisy’s destructive behavior sums up the moral decay of the wealthy characters in the novel. It’s a scathing critique of their selfishness and their detachment from the consequences of their actions.
6. “Let us learn to show our friendship for a man when he is alive and not after he is dead.”
Scene: Nick speaks this line at Gatsby’s funeral, lamenting how the man who threw countless parties and tried to be loved by all was forgotten after his death. It’s a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of life and love.
7. “He looked at her the way all women want to be looked at by a man.”
Scene: This line is narrated by Nick as he watches Gatsby look at Daisy with longing and adoration. It encapsulates the all-consuming nature of Gatsby’s love for her and the way he idealizes her as the center of his world.
Me Before You Quotes
Me Before You, based on Jojo Moye’s novel, is a romance film that explores the complicated, blossoming relationship between a quadriplegic and his caregiver. Providing insight into life’s relentless and unexpected hurdles, the movie is filled with quotes not just about love, but also of resilience, self-worth and living life to the fullest. Discover our top quotes below.
1. “I thought, briefly, that I would never feel as intensely connected to the world, to another human being, as I did at that moment."
Scene: Lou (Emilia Clarke) reflects on the deep emotional connection she shares with Will (Sam Claflin) during their time together. It captures the moment when their bond grows stronger than just caregiving and blossoms into something life-changing.
2. "I will never, ever regret the things I've done. Because most days, all you have are places in your memory that you can go to."
Scene: Will shares this line with Lou, reflecting on his life and the memories that define him. It is a bittersweet sentiment that reveals Will’s understanding of the importance of living fully, even if only for short moments.
3. “They say you only really appreciate a garden once you reach a certain age, and I suppose there is a truth in that. It's probably something to do with the great circle of life. There seems to be something miraculous about seeing the relentless optimism of new growth after the bleakness of winter, a kind of joy in the difference every year, the way nature chooses to show off different parts of the garden to its full advantage."
Scene: Lou reflects on the metaphor of a garden while caring for Will. It symbolizes the unexpected beauty and change in life, even when things seem bleak.
4. "Just live well. Just live."
Scene: Will’s parting words to Lou after making his decision about his life. It’s a call to live without regrets and embrace every opportunity that life offers.
5. "I would rather be with you — even the you that you seem to think is diminished — than with anyone else in the world."
Scene: Will expresses his love for Lou, accepting her for all her quirks and imperfections. It’s a heartfelt moment of vulnerability and love between the two.
6. "I don't know what I think. All I know is that most of the time, I would rather be with him than anyone else I know."
Scene: Lou confesses her feelings for Will, acknowledging how deeply he has impacted her life. It reflects her emotional journey as she falls in love with him despite the challenges.
7. "So, this is it. You are scored on my heart, Clark. You were from the first day you walked in, with your ridiculous clothes and your bad jokes and your complete inability to ever hide a single thing you felt."
Scene: Lou’s declaration of love to Will captures the pure honesty and deep affection she feels for him, despite his tough exterior. It’s a touching moment of truth between them.
Crazy Rich Asians Quotes
Crazy Rich Asians fleshes out modern relationships, exploring the notion of love, identity, and family and how this coincides with the level of emotional support within the Asian community. This leaves ample opportunity for resounding quotes throughout the movie that are sure to leave you wondering about love and its ever-evolving requirements in modern society.
1. “You asked about my ring. The truth is Nick’s father had it made when he wanted to propose to me because Ah Ma wouldn’t give him the family ring. I wasn’t her first choice. Honestly, I wasn’t her second. I didn’t come from the right family, have the right connections. And Ah Ma thought I would not make an adequate wife to her son.”
Scene: Rachel (Constance Wu) reveals the complexity of her relationship with Nick’s (Henry Golding) family and the struggles she’s faced in gaining their acceptance. This quote speaks to themes of family expectations and societal status.
2. “Gosh, she’s so badass. You know, I bet if you told her you’d leave Nick for a million dollars, she will write that check. They do that around here.”
Scene: Peik Lin (Awkwafina) humorously describes the power dynamics within the rich Asian community. It highlights the wealth and extravagance that often dictate relationships and decisions in their world.
3. “Well, exactly. You are so different from all of the women that I grew up with. And I love who I am around you. I don’t want that to change. And that’s selfish, I know. I’m sorry that you had to deal with that on your own. But I’m here now. Whatever happens, we’ll get through it together. Dead fish and all. All right?”
Scene: Nick’s heartfelt speech to Rachel reveals his love and commitment to her, regardless of the pressures from his family. It’s a pivotal moment that demonstrates his decision to choose love over familial expectations.
4. “Pursuing one’s passion. How American. Well, your mother’s very open-minded, not like here, where parents are obsessed with shaping the life of their children.”
Scene: Eleanor (Michelle Yeoh) comments on Rachel’s American background, contrasting it with the expectations of traditional Asian families. It’s a critique of cultural differences and the tension between individuality and family obligations.
5. “Our brains so hate the idea of losing something that's valuable to us that we abandon all rational thought, and we make some really poor decisions.”
Scene: This line reflects the internal struggle many of the characters face in the movie, particularly when it comes to love and the fear of loss, often leading to irrational decisions.
6. “Wow! I think I’ve just fallen in love with your all over again.”
Scene: After Nick takes a major risk for Rachel, she expresses her admiration and love for him. This quote encapsulates the deepening of their connection and their journey to understand and accept each other fully.
If this has put you in the mood for romantic movies, click here to see our full collection for Valentine's Day!