Steve Martin's Famous Movie Quotes: A Journey Through the '80s and '90s | MarkMeets | Celebrity News, Music, Movies, TV, London Film Premieres

Steve Martin, renowned for his stand-up comedy and memorable performances in the 1980s and 1990s, left an indelible mark on the world of humor. From his early days as a “wild and crazy guy” in standup to iconic roles in hit films, Martin’s comedic genius continues to resonate decades later. Let’s journey through some of the most unforgettable quotes and scenes that define his comedic legacy.

Table of Contents

Father of the Bride: Hilarity in Hot Dog Aisles

“I am removing the superfluous buns… George Banks is saying no!!” – Father Of The Bride (1991)

In the midst of wedding chaos, George Banks, played by Martin, finds himself in a hilarious rant at the grocery store. The “superfluous buns” incident lands him in jail, providing a side-splitting moment as his daughter prepares to say “I do.”

My Blue Heaven: Arugula and Laughter

“Arugula. I haven’t had arugula in six weeks. It’s a veg-eh-te-ble.” – My Blue Heaven (1990)

Playing Vinnie Antonelli in Witness Protection, Martin delivers comedic gold while grocery shopping. His pronunciation of “arugula” adds a touch of humor, making this one-liner an enduring favorite.

Three Amigos: Confronting Real Bullets

“Well, you slime-eating dogs! You scum-sucking pigs! You sons of a motherless goat!” – Three Amigos (1986)

As Lucky Day in this comedic trio, Martin’s character faces real danger, unaware that the bandits confronting him are genuine threats. The mix of humor and peril showcases Martin’s talent for blending laughter with unexpected twists.

Housesitter: Musical Mishaps

“Too Ra Loo Ra Loo Ral” – Housesitter (1992)

Teaming up with Goldie Hawn, Martin’s character, Newton, finds himself singing a classic Irish-American song in a moment of embarrassment. This laugh-out-loud scene adds a musical touch to the comedy.

Planes, Trains & Automobiles: Uncomfortable Cuddles

“Those aren’t pillows!” – Planes, Trains & Automobiles (1987)

In a classic Thanksgiving film, Martin and John Candy share a motel bed. The realization of an uncomfortably close encounter leads to a humorous yet cringe-worthy moment.

L.A. Story: Love and Night Goggles

“There’s someone out there for everyone. Even if you need a pickaxe, a compass, and night goggles to find them.” – L.A. Story (1991)

Penned by Martin himself, this romantic comedy sees him as a TV weatherman navigating love in Los Angeles. The quote humorously underscores the challenges of finding true love in a sprawling city.

Roxanne: Cyrano with Charm

“I am in orbit around you, I am suspended weightless over you like the blue man in the Chagall, hanging over you in a delirious kiss.” – Roxanne (1987)

In this modern Cyrano de Bergerac adaptation, Martin’s charm shines as he woos Daryl Hannah’s Roxanne. The balcony scene exemplifies Martin’s ability to blend romance with humor seamlessly.

Parenthood: Donut-Driven Humor

“Hey, let’s have five. Let’s have six. Let’s have a dozen and pretend they’re donuts!” – Parenthood (1989)

In Ron Howard’s family comedy, Martin’s character juggles family and career, using humor to cope with the challenges of impending fatherhood.

Little Shop of Horrors: Laughing Gas Antics

“Oh, the gas isn’t for you Seymour, it’s for me. You see, I wanna really enjoy this.” – Little Shop of Horrors (1986)

As the sadistic dentist Orin Scrivello, Martin injects humor into a dental scene, showcasing his knack for wacky roles.

The Out-Of-Towners: Snapping Midwestern Humor

“I’m one of those nice, quiet Midwestern guys that no one expects to snap, but when we do, watch it, baby!” – The Out-Of-Towners (1999)

Teaming up with Goldie Hawn again, Martin brings humor to a disastrous adventure, capturing the essence of his comedic versatility.

Dirty Rotten Scoundrels: Breakdown on the Dance Floor

“Oh god, they’re dancing!! Take me from this place!!” – Dirty Rotten Scoundrels (1988)

In a con artist comedy, Martin’s character Freddy hilariously breaks down at the sight of people dancing, showcasing his knack for physical comedy.

Three Amigos: Real Bullets and Realization

“Oh great, real bullets. You’re in a lot of trouble mister.” – Three Amigos (1986)

As Lucky Day, Martin faces an unexpected turn of events, humorously highlighting the confusion between fiction and reality.

Father of the Bride Part II: Senior Parenthood Humor

“At least going to the movies, that’ll be more economical. One child, two seniors, thanks. Kid’s going to love spending his adolescence in a retirement home. At least we won’t hear him come in late.” – Father of the Bride Part II (1995)

Navigating the challenges of parenthood at an older age, Martin’s character humorously reflects on the implications of becoming a father again.

All Of Me: Body-Sharing Hilarity

“Our body? It’s my body, I’m sharing my body with anyone!” – All Of Me (1984)

Co-starring with Lily Tomlin, Martin’s character deals with the comedic consequences of sharing his body, creating a memorable moment in physical comedy.

Planes, Trains & Automobiles: Storytelling with a Point

“And by the way, you know, when you’re telling these little stories? Here’s a good idea: have a point. It makes it so much more interesting for the listener!” – Planes, Trains & Automobiles (1987)

In a memorable line towards the end of the film, Martin’s character Neal humorously expresses frustration with his travel companion’s constant rambling, leading to an emotional scene.

Roxanne: Defying Insults with Humor

“Obvious: Excuse me, is that your nose or did a bus park on your face? Meteorological: everybody take cover, she’s going to blow! Fashionable: you know, you could de-emphasize your nose if you wore something larger, like… Wyoming…” – Roxanne (1987)

Facing insults about his character’s prominent nose, Martin’s Charlie cleverly responds with a list of humorous comebacks, showcasing resilience with a touch of wit.

Housesitter: Punny Wordplay

“What do you say, Gwen? ‘Gwen’ do you get off… and ‘gwhere’ can we ‘gwo’?” – Housesitters (1992)

In this comedy, Martin’s character Newton engages in pun-filled wordplay with Goldie Hawn’s Gwen, adding a layer of humor to their interactions.

Dead Men Don’t Wear Plaid: Truth About Clients

“That’s one thing I’ve learned about clients. Dead ones don’t pay their bills.” – Dead Men Don’t Wear Plaid (1982)

In this neo-noir comedy, Martin’s private investigator character delivers a classic line, combining humor with the film’s unique style.

My Blue Heaven: Vinnie Antonelli-isms

“I tip everybody, that’s my philosophy. You see actually, it’s not tipping I believe in, it’s overtipping.” – My Blue Heaven (1990)

Embodying the character Vinnie Antonelli, Martin’s comedic philosophy on tipping adds a humorous touch to his interactions.

Three Amigos: Lucky Day’s Inspirational Words

“As sure as my name is Lucky Day, the people of Santa Poco can conquer their own personal El Guapo, who also happens to be the actual El Guapo!” – Three Amigos (1986)

In the face of adversity, Lucky Day delivers an inspirational line, combining humor with motivation in a memorable scene.

Roxanne: Humorous Call for Fire Safety

“You can’t have people, if their houses are burning down, saying, ‘Whatever you do, don’t call the fire department.’ That would be bad.” – Roxanne (1987)

Addressing the absurdity of neglecting fire safety, Martin’s character injects humor into a plea for common sense, showcasing his ability to find comedy in everyday situations.

Father of the Bride: Simple Affair Misconception

“I used to think a wedding was a simple affair.” – Father of the Bride (1991)

Opening the film with a comedic monologue, George Banks humorously reflects on the misconception that weddings are straightforward, setting the tone for the chaotic events to come.

Planes, Trains & Automobiles: Unique Individuality

“Let me close this conversation by saying that you are one unique individual.” – Planes, Trains, Automobiles (1987)

In response to John Candy’s character’s rambling, Martin’s character Neal delivers a snippy yet humorous line, showcasing his unique brand of wit.

As we revisit these classic quotes and moments, it’s evident that Steve Martin’s comedic brilliance transcends time. His ability to blend humor with wit, charm, and a touch of absurdity has left an enduring legacy in the world of comedy. Whether navigating the challenges of parenthood, confronting real bullets in a Mexican village, or sharing a bed in a motel, Steve Martin’s humor is a timeless treasure that continues to bring joy to audiences around the globe. So, let these quotes inspire you to revisit the comedic gems of this unparalleled talent.