best movie speeches

has provided this extensive listing of almost 700 , in multiple parts (organized chronologically), of deserving best film monologues and speeches. Film speeches are normally delivered orally and directed at an audience of three or more people, although there can be exceptions, such as voice-over narrations. They are usually persuasive-type speeches, either designed to promote or to dissuade. Each one is quoted as accurately as possible (and in its entirety), with accompanying screenshots from the scene.

Video store chain Blockbuster Video (in the UK) held a series of polls in late 2003 with its customers to determine the Top 20 Best Film Speeches and Monologues in cinematic history (their selections are all included here). Although there were some excellent choices in their poll, the results almost completely ignored early films, and entirely disregarded films with speeches made by female characters.

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The 10 Most Inspirational Movie Speeches For Cinephiles

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Although films can be more about visuals, many carry impactful dialogue. While body language and facial expressions are necessary for actors, some have proven the mastery of spoken word. Some of these speeches are filled with words, while others have only a few lines. Regardless of how long the moment is, these speeches inspire their audiences.

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Several films contain historically accurate and entertainingly original movie speeches. Many of them stand the test of time, and others mark a new era.

10 The King's Speech: King George VI Challenges Us To Overcome Our Greatest Enemies

The King's Speech's  protagonist, Prince Albert, is pushed to overcome his speech impediment, while dealing with the pressure of being a member of Britain's Royal Family. The Prince and his wife turn to actor and speech therapist Lionel Louge, who digs into the emotional trauma behind the impediment.

The audience's emotional attachment only increases when Prince Albert is named the new King of England and is expected to lead the country into war with Nazi Germany in the late 1930s. His first act as King George happens to be his first wartime radio broadcast. As he works through the stress of relaying his hopeful words for victory, he takes his first steps into overcoming his disability, an inspirational moment in history and cinema.

9 The Return Of The King: Aragorn's Speech Made For A Stirring Start To The Final Battle

Throughout  The Lord of the Rings trilogy, Aragorn makes for a brilliant leader, but often stands aside to let another take over. His hesitation to claim his birthright as King of Men, along with his great humility, is only a part of why his rousing speech at the end of  Return of the King is so impactful.

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The final battle at Mordor is the last obstacle the heroes have to face to end Sauron's chaos , but even after all they've overcome, victory still seems bleak. It's Aragorn's speech that brings back hope for better days and stirs up the men, and the audience's courage, to face the challenge that's ahead of them.

8 Independence Day: The President's Speech Is Iconic For Its Bold Honesty And Empowerment For All

The power of a speech lies in how the speaker captures their audience. Though he struggles at first to rally his troops, President Whitmore's wartime speech is the spark to the war effort against the alien enemy in  Independence Day , .

His honest start defining the venture that they were about to embark on, avoided sugar-coating the situation; they were about to fight for their survival . It's his change in topic, focusing more on how the world is going to fight together and how  "we will not vanish without a fight" , that gives everyone strength.

7 Ratatouille: Anton Ego's Critique Is A Victory For The Artists Who Dream Big

Though the concept of a rat cooking in a restaurant might leave some with an upset stomach, Pixar  took the idea and created the inspirational masterpiece  Ratatouille . The film follows the rat Remy, whose passion for cooing leads him to secretly become a chef at his idol's famed restaurant, Gusteau's.

As the restaurant's popularity rises thanks to Remy's cooking, the harsh critic Anton Ego steps in to test his talent, not realizing he isn't human. After a mass exit from the kitchen staff, Remy is helped by his family to serve Anton his finest meal. Upon discovering Remy's true identity, Anton is forced to accept and now uphold the late Gusteau's ideology of  "anyone can cook" , calling Remy  "the finest chef in France" in his in-depth food critique.

6 Remember The Titans: Coach Boone's Speech Unifies His Team And The Audience

Following the story of the first racially integrated football team in Virginia, Remember The Titans balances its societal commentary and engaging storytelling brilliantly. In one of the film's serious moments, the team is led on a grueling run that leads them to the land where the Battle of Gettysburg historically took place.

As the young athletes take a moment to catch their breath, Coach Boone compares the team's struggle to work together to the bloody battle that happened nearly a century ago.  "If we don't come together, right now... we too will be destroyed -- just like they were" , are some of the influential words Boone shares. As haunting as his speech becomes, it ends on a hopeful note of  "maybe we'll learn to play this game like men."

5 Dead Poets Society: Mr. Keating's Passion For The Arts Breathes Life Into The Audience

Viewers were not prepared for the emotional tour de force of  Dead Poets Society , the story of one English teacher's unique efforts to help his students live their best lives and overcome the pressures pushed onto them. With many of his students carrying a misunderstanding of why they are studying poetry and the arts, Mr. Keating shares poetic words of his own on the connection between poetry and the passion of life.

In his speech, he shares the words,  "poetry, beauty, romance, love, these are what we stay alive for" , and in an effort to convince the young students to think and live for themselves, he adds,  "you may contribute a verse."  The inspiring speech ends with a call to action, both for the characters and the audience,  "What will your verse be?"

4 Hidden Figures: Mary Jackson's Bold Speech Stirs Up Viewers' Courage

With the restriction of segregation holding her from her potential, Mary Jackson's historical fight for an equal education is shared in the remarkable film  Hidden Figures . Mary was already brilliant in engineering before she was given the official job, but she needed the credentials from an accredited school in order to be granted the promotion.

The only school available was, at the time, an all-white high school. Mary boldly stands before a judge and declares  "I have no choice but to be the first."  The genius of her character shines in this scene as she makes a direct connection with the judge, who she points out has done some history-making of his own. The bold approach works and the judge allows her to bend the segregation laws, an empowering step for Mary and for the audience watching.

3 Good Night, And Good Luck: Edward R Murrow's Harsh Criticisms On Media Still Have An Impact Today

Though a moody piece ,  Good Night, and Good Luck presents a light at the end of the tunnel as far as the abuse of mass media goes. It highlights the monumental work of reporter Edward R. Murrow and his fight against the extremes of McCarthyism. It also emphasizes his belief in the power of radio and television broadcasting.

His speech in the film may be a bit dreary for those looking to be uplifted, but it hits inspirational notes where it needs to. In the words from the film,  "This instrument can teach. It can illuminate and, yes, it can even inspire,"  a sentiment that means a great deal to those who share in Murrow's ideology on the power of media.

2 The Princess Bride: Inigo Montoya's 'Introduction' Was Worth The Great Build Up

Inigo Montoya is incredibly likable even though he's helping one of the villains in the  The Princess Bride . His life as a rogue swordsman has all been for the sake of finding the man who murdered his father and taking his vengeance. Coincidentally, that same man is an enemy of the story's hero, Wesley, giving Inigo the support he needs to reach his goal.

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For decades he practiced the same speech over and over again, introducing himself to his father's killer, but when he finally has the man in his clutches, he loses, or so it seems. Unwilling to give in to his devastating wounds, Inigo repeats the same speech, raising his voice louder and louder as his attacks grow in power. At last, he has the murderer right where he wants him and deals the final blow, making for one of the most exciting final battles in cinema that has stood the test of time.

1 Pursuit of Happyness: Chris Gardner's Speech On Chasing After Dreams Applies To All Ages

In one of his most inspirational films, Will Smith plays Chris Gardner, a man down on his luck after he and his son are evicted from their home. The father and son struggle living out on the street as Chris works hard to land a job at a brokerage firm. Toward the end of the film, Chris and his son are playing basketball together as the little boy proclaims one day he'll become a pro player. Without thinking, Chris shuts down his son's dream to spare him from disappointment .

After seeing the impact of his negative words, Chris tells his son,  "Don't ever let somebody tell you, you can't do something, not even me."  He then encourages his son to go after his dreams, telling him  "If you want something, go get it. Period." For everyone in the world, no matter their age, this speech inspired by a true underdog, means a lot.

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Best Movie Speeches of All Time: 15 Most Inspirational Movie Speeches Ever

If you are looking for the collection of the best movie speeches ever then you have come to the right place because in this post I have compiled a list of the top 15 inspirational movie speeches ever .

If you know anything about me then you will know that I love the art of communication. I love reading and I absolutely love speeches. Speeches are an extremely important part of our lives , whether you realise it or not.

I will enjoy movies not because of their action and adventure but because of their speeches. Speeches have the power to move you emotionally and to even change the way you think of life. Many people are afraid of speaking in public but if you can master the art of public speaking (like the characters in these movies have) it can impact your life dramatically.

There have been many great speeches in movies throughout movie history, some a lot better than others. I have compiled a list of what I believe to be the best movie speeches ever. All of these inspirational speeches from movies have some things in common.

They are extremely moving, they are uplifting and they inspire the viewer to live life to their full potential (even if they do it indirectly). These speeches come out of their character’s moment of strength and out of the wisdom they have gained from their lives (although fictional). By watching these you will be moved and changed forever, you might even pick up some tips about how to become a great public speaker .

I have listed them in ascending order. With the greatest movie speeches of all time being placed furthest down the page. These are all great movie speeches and I believe that everyone will agree. Watch them and enjoy.

15. The Replacements – Pain Heals, Chicks Dig Scars and Glory Lasts Forever

The replacements is a great movie about a team of misfits who are hired to play while the regular football starts go on strike for more money. The speech is short and sweet and informal, which is exactly fitting for this movie. Great speech and a movie well worth watching.

The movie doesn’t end at the grand final. The replacements are only hired for 4 games. This speech occurs during the final of their 4 games. They have already overcome bullying and much adversity to get them here. They are currently losing the game and need to make up for it in the final minutes.

14. Remember The Titans – A Lesson From The Dead

We all remember the remember the titans movie. It is awe inspiring, yet it contains humor and devastating drama. The story takes place at the time of integration of blacks and whites and this football team will have to deal with their colour issues if they ever want to win a game.

This film does not have a truly inspirational movie at the end. There is a locker room scene but it doesn’t qualify for the best movies speeches of all time. This speech however, does.

This speech occurs during a training camp where the black boys and the white boys are starting to come together as a team, despite much racial difficulty. After a long run coach Boone takes them to a sacred place to inspire unity between colors.

13. Dead Poets Society – Seize The Day

I have not seen this movie in a long time, but I was inspired by the fact that they could make a movie about poetry and it could still be interesting. Seize that day before it is too late.

This speech is delivered upon the introduction of the new teacher. He sets himself apart by teaching these boys about life and about the importance of every moment. The crescendo occurs later in the film where the teacher is forced out of his class (fired) and all the boys stand on their tables declaring “Oh Captain, My Captain”.

The concept of seizing the day and not letting it pass you by continues to inspire me, even though I first watched this movie over 10 years ago. Stand up, be inspired and make every day count. It is not so much the speech that is amazing but the impact it has on you.

12. Team America – Dicks F#@K Assholes – WARNING, LOTS OF SWEARING

Team America was a pretty controversial movie, and this speech is incredibly rude and strange. But yet it holds a great element of truth that we can all take home.

This speech happens towards the very end of the movie when Kim Jong Il and the Film Actor’s Guild are trying to destroy the world. This speech is hilarious, and if you look beyond the profanity it can actually be very inspiring.

11. Gladiator- My Name is Maximus

“My name is Maximus” – Damn I was I was as much of a man as this Gladiator was. The way he says it with such conviction is great to watch. Incredible movie and this speech continues to inspire me and give me goosebumps every time I watch it.

Maximus is stripped of his title as chief commander when the King is killed by his power hungry son. His wife is then murdered along with his children and he is forced to become a gladiator. He is so successful and becomes so famous that the new king comes to meet him and wants him to reveal his name.

The shock on the King’s face is priceless. He has just met his match. The movie then goes on to an epic battle between the Gladiator and the king.

10. Rocky Balboa – How Hard You Can Get Hit

Although Rocky does look like he has had a fair bit of plastic surgery he has a great story and gives a great speech all the same. It is amazing that the actor, Sylvestor Stallone, actually has a Rocky type story.

He got hit, and he got hit hard, but he kept coming back for more. He wanted to be an actor, and no one would have ever hired someone that looks like he does and that talks out of the side of their mouth like he does. But he got hit and came back, true inspiration.

9. Lord of The Rings – It is Not This Day

Lord of the Rings is the ultimate trilogy. This speech is given by Aragon, the king, at the black gates of Mordor. He was willing to give his life so that Frodo could have precious time to destroy the ring.

Obviously a poignant moment in the film, I find this speech more inspirational given the fact that Aragon and his army is facing certain death, unless of course Frodo and Sam can destroy the ring. A big gamble that pays off.

8. 300 – Final Speech

Man I wish I had bodies like these guys do, and spirits like they do. They know what they want, they know what they have to do and they go for it. If you are a guy you will love the movie for the raw masculinity, and if you are a woman you will love this movie for the raw masculinity also. 😉

7. The Miracle – Pre Game Speech

If it is based on a true story then it is all the more inspiring. This is the story of the Americans first victory over the Russians in Ice Hockey at the Olympics. They would not have achieved this without the genius of one coach, and they did achieve this and made history.

6. Independence Day – World Independence Day Speech

I watched independence day when I was a kid, but our TV was so blurry I couldn’t see what was happening. But I remembered it had a great speech. I watched it a second time JUST to see the speech. It is a good speech.

5. Armageddon – 14 Brave Souls Speech

Probably my favourite movie of all time, because it has everything in it – Action, Romance, Humour, Drama, Space. It is about the quest to destroy an asteroid heading towards earth (before it destroys the earth). It is extremely funny and emotional also. This speech is from the president of the united states as the astronauts are preparing to launch into space towards the asteroid.

4. Coach Carter – Our Deepest Fear Speech

Coach Carter is an incredible movie about a man who takes on coaching a basketball team in the trouble filled area of Richmond. This speach is from one of his students Timo Cruz who was almost killed working as a drug dealer. Inspiring speech and an incredibly inspiring movie.

3. Any Given Sunday – Al Pacino’s Speech

If I am completely honest with you I have never seen this movie. But I have watched this speech and I love it. An incredible speech and a great movie. Whoever wrote this is a genius.

2. Braveheart – Freedom

Obviously I was questioning putting this speech as number 1. It is based on a true story, it has an Australian in it (like me), it is based in Scotland (where my dad is from) and it is just an incredible speech of sacrifice for something higher than ourselves. But in the end I couldn’t justify putting it as the number 1 speech. Thus is comes in a close second for me in the running for the best movie speech of all time.

1. Lord of The Rings – The Tales That Mattered

It is expected that brave people like William Wallace make brave speeches to inspire those they lead. It is not expected that someone if relative insignificant, who is no great leader nor brave warrior, can make a speech so powerful that it brings you to tears and gives you goose bumps all over. This is definately the best inspirational movie speech of all time. Good work to the writers and the actors.

These are 15 great speeches, and I would say these are the 15 best inspirational speeches of all time. Over time more speeches will need to be added to this list, but these 15 speeches will remain great speeches that have touches the lives of thousands.

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• Scriptwriting

Best Movie Monologues — Top 20 Ranked for Writers & Actors

M ovies have been known to transport us to different worlds, times, and experiences through the power of storytelling. And one of the most magical ways that movies do this is through the use of monologues. From inspiring speeches that make us want to stand up and take action to heart-wrenching confessions that bring us to tears, the best movie monologues can capture the essence of a film and stay with us long after the credits have rolled. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some of the best monologues in movie history that have left an imprint on our hearts and minds. 

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Best Monologues from Movies

20. call me by your name  (2017).

Call Me By Your Name Monologue 

In the film Call Me By Your Name , Elio’s father, played by Michael Stuhlbarg shares a powerful monologue with his son as they sit quietly together. The father reflects on his own experiences with love and heartbreak, and shares a powerful message about the importance of embracing life's challenges and being courageous in the face of uncertainty. 

The monologue is a poignant moment of connection between father and son, and a reminder to all of us to live fully in the present moment, and to never be afraid to take a chance on love, no matter where it may lead us.

Best Movie Monologues in Dramas

19. manchester by the sea (2016).

Manchester by the Sea Police Station Scene

Manchester by the Sea is a powerful film that deals with themes of grief, loss, and redemption. One of the most memorable moments in the film comes in the form of a monologue delivered by the character Lee Chandler, played brilliantly by Casey Affleck, in a police station. 

The monologue is a raw and heartbreaking exploration of the human condition and is a testament to the film's incredible writing and acting. The scene is a pivotal moment in the story and showcases the power of cinema to move us deeply and challenge our understanding of the world around us.

Best Monologues from Movies 

18. gone girl (2014).

Gone Girl  •  Cool Girl Monologue

In Gillian Flynn's Gone Girl , one of the most memorable and chilling moments comes in the form of the "cool girl" monologue by Rosamund Pike playing Amy Dunne. The monologue is both a scathing critique of societal norms and a poignant examination of the masks we wear to fit in.

With razor-sharp prose and a gut-punch of a message, the "cool girl" monologue is a standout moment in an already-iconic novel.

Famous Movie Monologues

17. hidden figures (2016).

Hidden Figures Bathroom Speech Scene

This powerful monologue from the award-winning   Hidden Figures is short, but powerful. As one of the few black women working as mathematicians at NASA during the Civil Rights era, Katherine Johnson, played by Taraji P. Henson, is constantly faced with discrimination and segregation. 

Her words ring with a raw truth and an unflinching determination to fight against the systemic racism that surrounded her every day. The bathroom may seem like a small issue, but it becomes a poignant symbol of the larger struggle for equality and dignity in a world that seeks to diminish the humanity of those who do not fit into its narrow mold.

Oscar Winning Best Monologues from Movies

16. everything everywhere all at once.

Everything Everywhere All at Once  •  Monologue 

One of the most recent monologues on this list comes from The Daniels’ iconic Everything Everywhere All at Once  (2022). The scene features the character of Ling, played by Michelle Yeoh, who reminisces about a past life where she wished to share the mundane yet intimate moments of daily life with someone she loved. 

We brought the monologues into StudioBinder’s screenwriting app to analyze it further and see how it helped land Ke Huy Quan his first Oscar.

The monologue is a testimony to the emotional depth and subtlety of the film's storytelling, and it will surely leave a lasting impression on anyone who watches it.

15. The Tragedy of Macbeth (2021)

Tomorrow, and tomorrow, and tomorrow 

While the writing of the monologue itself can’t be attributed solely to the Coen’s, their adaptation of it on the screen as well as Denzel Washington’s brilliant performance gives it a spot on this list. 

In this  adaptation  of  Macbeth from the Coen Brothers , Denzel Washington delivers a haunting performance in the iconic "Tomorrow Tomorrow Tomorrow" monologue. The Coen Brothers' haunting imagery , coupled with Washington's unforgettable performance, makes this one of the most captivating and memorable adaptations of Shakespeare's tragedy.

Tarantino’s Best Movie Monologues

14. inglorious basterds (2009).

Inglourious Basterds Monologue

Brad Pitt's opening monologue in one of Quentin Tarantino's best movies , Inglourious Basterds , is a tour de force in cinematic storytelling. Playing the role of Lt. Aldo Raine, Pitt delivers a fiery and captivating speech that sets the stage for the entire film.

His aggressive and almost comical demeanor adds to the intensity of his words, as the audience is pulled into the world of WWII-era Europe. 

As an actor, Pitt brings a larger-than-life quality to the role that perfectly captures Tarantino's punk rock style of filmmaking. Overall, Pitt's opening monologue in Inglourious Basterds is a masterclass in acting and writing, and sets a tone for the film that is both exciting and unforgettable.

Famous Movie Monologues in Voice Over

13. american psycho (2000).

Morning Routine  •  American Psycho

The morning routine voice-over monologue in American Psycho has become one of the most iconic and recognizable scenes in film history. Christian Bale's portrayal of the psychotic Patrick Bateman perfectly captures the absurdity and darkness of the character's morning rituals. 

The monologue's absurdity and dark humor have made it a favorite among fans, and it has since been parodied and referenced in countless films, TV shows, and even internet memes. Bale's mesmerizing performance and the monologue's unique mix of horror and humor have solidified its place in cinema history as one of the most memorable and iconic monologues.

Best Movie Monologues in Action Films

12. the matrix (1999).

Blue Pill or Red Pill  •  The Matrix

"Red or blue? The choice is yours." These famous words spoken by Morpheus in the sci-fi blockbuster, The Matrix , have become synonymous with the idea of making life-altering decisions. The moment when Morpheus holds out his palms, offering Neo the choice between the red pill and the blue pill, is a pop culture classic. 

The red pill or blue pill monologue is more than just a movie quote, it's a metaphor for the truth-seeking journey we all embark on at some point in our lives. Whether we choose the red pill and accept the harsh realities of the world or the blue pill and live in blissful ignorance, this moment in The Matrix will forever be remembered as a pivotal point in cinematic history.

11. The Godfather  (1972)

THE GODFATHER  •  Opening Scene

While there are a few great monologues in one of the greatest gangster films of all time The Godfather perhaps the most iconic is found in the opening scene.

"Bonasera, Bonasera." These two simple words, uttered by Salvatore Corsitta have become synonymous with cinematic brilliance. The opening monologue delivered by Corsitta is a masterful display of storytelling that sets the tone for what is to come. In just a few short minutes, we are transported into the world of the Corleone family and understand the power dynamics at play. 

The melancholic music, coupled with the somber tone of the scene is a stark contrast to the violence that lies ahead. Salvatore Corsitta's monologue is not only a scene-setting device but also an iconic moment in cinematic history. 

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Robin Williams’ Famous Movie Monologues

10. good will hunting (1997).

Robin Williams' Speech  •  Good Will Hunting

Robin Williams' performance in Good Will Hunting was unforgettable, particularly his powerful monologue in the park scene. In that scene, Williams, who played the character of therapist Sean Maguire, talked to Matt Damon's character Will Hunting about love, loss, and life.

It was a perfectly written and performed monologue that achieved exactly what it had to for the plot, character, and emotional story

Williams' performance in Good Will Hunting remains a testament to his incredible talent and his ability to connect with audiences in meaningful ways. His work in the film will be remembered for years to come as a true cinematic masterpiece.

9. The Shawshank Redemption (1994)

The Shawshank Redemption  •  Rehabilitation

Through his measured and melodic delivery, Freeman brought a sense of wisdom and gravitas to his monologue in The Shawshank Redemption , making it a standout moment in the film. He spoke with empathy and insight about the challenges of re-establishing oneself in society after being incarcerated.

Critics and audiences alike praised Freeman for his performance, which was a testament to his incredible talent as an actor. His portrayal of Redding remains one of the highlights of his career, and his monologue is often considered to be one of the most poignant and memorable moments in the film.

Brando’s Best Movie Monologues

8. apocalypse now (1979).

Apocalypse Now: Marlon Brando Horror Speech 

It would be difficult to have any sort of best monologue list without one mention of Marlon Brando. In one of Francis Ford Coppola’s best films Apocalypse Now , Brando's character, Colonel Kurtz, delivers a haunting speech in which he reflects on his experiences during the Vietnam War.

Despite the notorious challenges on set with Brando, his performance in the monologue scene is truly mesmerizing. He was given free reign to improvise (since Brando never read the script) which in the end contributed to the truly immortal performance.

Overall, Brando's monologue in Apocalypse Now is a testament to his talent as an actor. Despite the challenges, he was able to deliver a performance that is still talked about and revered today.

Monologues Movies Female Performances

7. fences (2016).

Fences  •  The Same Spot As You Scene

Viola Davis' performance as Rose in the film Fences cements her as one of the best actors working today. As Rose confronts her husband (Denzel Washington) about his infidelities and his failure to appreciate her sacrifices, Davis delivers a raw and emotional performance that leaves a lasting impact on the audience. 

Her words are filled with pain and frustration, yet also with a deep sense of resilience and determination. Through her powerful delivery and aching vulnerability, Davis captures the essence of a woman who has endured years of hurt and betrayal but refuses to be broken. It's a stunning moment in a truly unforgettable film.

Great Monologues in Movies

6. to kill a mockingbird (1962).

All Men Are Created Equal  •  To Kill a Mockingbird

In the film adaptation of Harper Lee's masterpiece novel, To Kill a Mockingbird , Gregory Peck delivers a stunning closing argument monologue that leaves a lasting impact on the viewer. 

Peck plays Atticus Finch, a small-town lawyer defending a black man falsely accused of rape. With unwavering conviction, Peck captures the essence of Atticus, delivering a poignant speech that speaks to the human spirit and embodies the virtues of courage, compassion, and equality.

His masterful portrayal of Atticus Finch is a testament to his exceptional talent as an actor and solidifies his place as a Hollywood legend.

5. Pulp Fiction (1994)

Pulp Fiction  •  The Gold Watch monologue

In the iconic film Pulp Fiction , Christopher Walken proves his ability to captivate audiences even when he has only a few minutes of screen time. Playing the role of Captain Koons, Walken's character regales a young Butch Coolidge with the history of the watch, which had been passed down through generations of Coolidge's family. 

The intensity in Walken's voice and delivery captures the attention of audiences as he recounts the watch's journey from a prisoner of war camp in Vietnam to Coolidge's father, who died with the watch hidden in his rectum. 

Rocky’s Best Monologues from Movies

4. rocky balboa (2006).

Rocky Balboa's inspirational speech

In the 2006 film Rocky Balboa , Sylvester Stallone delivers an inspiring monologue as Rocky Balboa, the boxing legend, as he motivates his son. 

Stallone's delivery is masterful, depicting the wise and grounded wisdom of a seasoned fighter imparting his knowledge to his son. It is a powerful speech that resonates with anyone who has had to face struggles and hardships in life, and it serves as a reminder that the only things that can truly hold us back are the limits we place on ourselves.

3. Persona (1966)

Persona  •  Alma’s Confessions

The 1966 film Persona features a riveting monologue delivered by Bibi Andersson in her role as Alma, a nurse caring for a mentally unstable actress. In the monologue, Alma pours out her innermost thoughts and feelings, confessing her darkest secrets and desires to the actress. 

The monologue provides a deep understanding of who Alma is, giving the audience insight into her complex psyche.  The monologue beautifully explores the themes of identity, self-discovery, and the blurred lines between reality and fiction. 

Spielberg’s Dramatic Monologues from Movies

2. jaws (1975).

Jaws  •  The Indianapolis Speech Scene 

The Indianapolis Speech monologue in one of Spielberg’s best films Jaws is considered one of the most iconic movie monologues of all time. In the scene, Quint, played brilliantly by Robert Shaw, tells the story of the sinking of the USS Indianapolis and the horrific events that followed. 

Shaw's delivery of the monologue is spellbinding, drawing the audience in with his captivating storytelling and vivid descriptions of the shark attack, the struggle for survival, and the aftermath. Even decades after the movie's release, the Indianapolis Speech remains a powerful moment in one of cinema’s most unforgettable films. 

Best Monologues from Movies of All Time

1. the great dictator (1940).

Charlie Chaplin  •  Final Speech from The Great Dictator

Charlie Chaplin's closing monologue in the film The Great Dictator is a powerful plea for peace, unity and compassion, and it remains one of the most iconic speeches in cinema history. The speech denounces fascism, anti-Semitism, and intolerance, and calls for humanity to embrace love, respect and brotherhood. The speech's universal message is as relevant today as it was when the film was made over 80 years ago. 

It continues to inspire people all over the world to strive for peace and to stand up against hate and oppression. Chaplin's eloquent words remind us that, as human beings, we have the capacity to create a better world for ourselves and for future generations. 

The Best One-Liners in Cinema

On the opposite end of the monologue is the cinematic one-liner. Check out our next article to see some of the best single-line deliveries in all of cinema, ranging from comedies to dramas.

Up Next: Best One-Liners→

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The 20 Best Movie Speeches of All Time

7. Rocky Balboa (2006) – “It ain’t about how hard you get hit…”

This entry may raise a few eyebrows. After all, clear and coherent speech is not one of Rocky Balboa’s strengths. The punch drunk former champion boxer speaks with a obvious slur and a simple vocabulary. But wisdom comes from the life you have lived and Rocky has lived one very memorable life.

Rocky is now a restaurant owner, drifting through life following the death of his wife, Adrian. When a boxing simulation predicts that, in his prime, Rocky would have defeated the current and unpopular champ Mason Dixon, he is coaxed back into the ring in a high profile exhibition match. Rocky faces much derision and concern, especially from his only son Robert (Milo Ventimiglia) who begs him to not embarrass both of them.

Rocky instead praises his son, “Then the time came for you to be your own man and take on the world, and you did. But somewhere along the line, you changed. You stopped being you.” Robert’s corporate career is clearly due to his father’s name and this does not sit well with Rocky, who is not taking the blame for Robert’s woes, “It ain’t about how hard you hit, it’s about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward.”

With those now immortal words, Rocky gives his son a dressing down for blaming him but ultimately shows where his heart lies, “Cowards do that and that ain’t you! You’re better than that! I’m always gonna love you no matter what, no matter what happens. You’re my son and you’re my blood. You’re the best thing in my life. But until you start believing in yourself, ya ain’t gonna have a life.”

6. Patton (1970) – “No bastard ever won a war by dying for his country”

So powerful was Patton and the performance of the great George C. Scott that US President Nixon reportedly kept a copy at the White House, supposedly inspiring him to bomb Cambodia in the early 1970s. One could easily understand the hawkish behaviour of the disgraced former president after watching Patton’s opening speech before an American flag.

“No bastard ever won a war by dying for his country…he won it by making the other poor, dumb bastard die for his country”, that was Patton to a tee, a mixture of pragmatism and disdain for the romantic. He talks about how ‘real’ Americans love to fight and love a winner, having no respect for a loser. He also rails against individuality, stating those that promote it “don’t know any more about real battle than they do about fornicating”.

Patton’s rhetoric and visual language about the evils of the ‘Hun’ could inspire even the most dedicated conscientious objector to pick up a rifle. It is amazing this film received such acclaim upon its release and was not criticised as propaganda or jingoism, especially in the final years of the Vietnam War. George C. Scott’s performance is something to behold.

Despite constantly apologising to director Franklin J. Schaefer for not capturing the complexity of Patton, Scott delivers one of the finest performances of his career. This is not a film praising war but is a war film through the eyes of a man who praised war.

5. Network (1976) – “I’m mad as hell and I’m not going to take it anymore!”

It is incredible how much acclaimed screenwriter Paddy Chayefsky predicted in terms of modern media: paranoid media personalities, reality TV, corporate mergers and tabloid TV.

It also produced some of the best performances from acclaimed thespians Peter Finch, Faye Dunaway, William Holden, Ned Beatty, Beatrice Straight and Robert Duvall but the film is best remembered for veteran new anchor Howard Beale’s (Finch) passionate yet unhinged rant against the system, one that very quickly takes advantage of him.

“We know the air is unfit to breathe and our food is unfit to eat and we sit watching our TV’s while some local newscaster tells us that today we had fifteen homicides and sixty three violent crimes as if that’s the way its supposed to be”. It is almost impossible not to watch this scene, now forty years old, and not draw connotations between Beale’s words and the world we live in today, one lashing out at elitism, globalisation and mainstream media.

Beale’s message is not one of direction, telling them not to protest or get involved in local politics, but instead, just to get mad, “I want you to get up right now and go to the window. Open it, and stick your head out, and yell ‘I’m mad as hell and I’m not going to take it anymore!” With those immortal words, Beale started a social movement, one in and out of the film’s fictional world, one that would ultimately lead to his downfall.

4. Braveheart (1995) – “They may take our lives…but they’ll never take our freedom!”

The face of Scottish independence may now be through a legally binding referendum, but 400 years ago, the Scottish took to the fields and dealt with their issues through swords, spears and kilts. One of their most famous commanders was William Wallace (Mel Gibson), who led the Scottish against the English led by King Edward the Longshanks (Patrick McGoohan).

Preparing for their first major engagement against the English at Stirling Bridge, the Scottish are uneasy. This is their first battle and the sight of the English archers and cavalry make even the hardest veterans consider retreat until Wallace arrives on horseback.

The sight of him does little to reassure the Scottish, as many have heard of his immense size and bloodlust. Wallace acknowledges their disappointment, “Yes, I’ve heard. Kills men by the hundreds and if he were here, he could consume the English with fireballs from his eyes and bolts of lightening from his arse”.

It takes a special quality to be able to use self-deprecating humour to inspire an army and Wallace has it. But it is ultimately his screams of freedom that rally a mostly divided army into battle.

3. Any Given Sunday (1999) – “Life’s a game of inches”

Speeches given by coaches are a work of art. Many great thespians have tackled the challenge including Denzel Washington, Matthew McConaughey, Billy Bob Thornton, Samuel L. Jackson and Gene Hackman but none have come close to the raw intensity displayed by Al Pacino as Tony D’Amato, a once great coach now facing a forced retirement at the hands of the new owner.

Having miraculously reached the playoffs, D’Amato addresses the team in the locker room. “I don’t know what to say really”, he mulls, pacing before the team. He describes the position they are in before acknowledging all his faults: the loss of his family, the loss of his money and his intense self-loathing, “We’re in hell gentleman.” But it is D’Amato’s references to football as a game of inches that stands strong, “One half a step too late or too early you don’t quite make it. One half a second two slow, too fast and you don’t quite catch it”.

Inches are everything, especially in the game of football. To D’Amato, these inches are not just the difference between winning and losing, but between living and dying. With his team now pumped and ready to play, D’Amato ends with, “now…what are you going to do?”

2. Independence Day (1996) – “Today will no longer be known as an American holiday”

American presidents have always been the best choice of protagonist whether they are taking on terrorists (Air Force One) or Congress (The Contender). It is not surprising that one of the greatest inspiring speeches in cinema history came from a president. What is surprising is that it is speech about defeating evil, genocidal aliens.

With the world planning one final assault against the marauding aliens, President Whitmore (Bill Pullman) delivers an impromptu speech before the remnants of the US Military, reminding them that they will be participating in the largest battle in the history of mankind, “Mankind. That word should have new meaning for all of us today”. But the cornerstone of this is the reminder that the worldwide counterattack is occurring on the 4th July, America’s Independence Day, “And should we win the day, the fourth of July, will no longer be known as an American holiday, but as the day the world declared in once voice: ‘We will not go quietly into the night, we will not vanish without a fight’. We’re going to live on, we’re going to survive. Today we celebrate our Independence Day!” This is more than just a speech, it’s poetry.

1. The Great Dictator (1940) – “You are not machines! You are not cattle! You are men!”

Comedy legend Charlie Chaplin received his only Academy Award nomination for acting for his role as Hynkel, the dictator of Tomania, and the Jewish barber. Chaplin, however, admitted that had he known of the true extent of the horrors of Nazi Germany and the concentration camps, he would have never made The Great Dictator.

Today, Chaplin is best remembered for his physical comedy, having inspired by the likes of Federico Fellini, Billy Wilder and Jackie Chan, but one of the film’s most touching moments is the speech given by the barber, impersonating Hynkel.

The film is comedy and a satire of the various fascist leaders at the time, including Hitler, Mussolini and Franco, but Chaplin’s speech takes the film in a more sombre direction, “Our knowledge has made us cynical; our cleverness hard and unkind. We think too much and feel too little. More than machinery, we need humanity”.

Chaplin avoids facts and reason and appeals to the audiences’ humanity, their emotions. His call for love and the rejection of dictators and their hatred brings the same rhetoric and tone we see from those same dictators, except with a different message. Tarkovsky once said that Chaplin’s work will never be forgotten and in this time of fear, anger and hatred, we can only hope that is true.

The Best Speeches In Movie History

By Sean Thiessen | Published 9 months ago

Movies are often celebrated for their lasting images, but with the dawn of the Sound Era , the form became an opportunity for great speeches. There have been many great monologues delivered over the course of film history, but some have left a lasting mark on our culture that will never fade. Here are a few of the best speeches in movie history.

Darth Vader – Star Wars: Episode V – The Empire Strikes Back

Darth Vader’s revelation that he is Luke Skywalker’s father may be taken for granted now, but this brief movie speech is one of the most impactful in film history. It is one of the most quoted (and misquoted) movie lines ever written, and it changed the course of one of film’s largest franchises .

Written by Lawrence Kasdan, The Empire Strikes Back edged the Star Wars trilogy into darker and edgier territory. It is still regarded as the gold standard for the middle chapter of a trilogy, embraced for its bold “down” ending.

The “I am your father” movie speech changes the relationship between Luke and Vader forever. It is more than a great movie speech – it is a monumental plot point, and therefore one of the best speeches put to film.

President Whitmore – Independence Day

A great movie speech is more than a string of pretty words, it is a function of character. President Whitmore’s speech in Independence Day is an inspiring call to action for humanity. It is extra satisfying because it comes from a man who has struggled to find his voice as a leader.

The speech is as relevant today as it was in 1996. It challenges people to put aside their differences and to unite on the grounds of simply being human. In just a couple of minutes, Whitmore tears down physical and ideological borders to bring humanity together for the fight of a lifetime.

William Wallace – Braveheart

Sometimes a movie speech cuts to the core of life and what is worth living for. That is exactly the case in Braveheart . William Wallace’s speech to the Scottish army, passionately delivered from horseback by Mel Gibson, challenges a group of men ready to run to stand up to tyranny.

He forces the men to look to the future. Even if running preserves their lives, will they ever be satisfied knowing that they did not live with honor?

This movie speech allows viewers to contend with the same question of courage. For William Wallace, life and liberty are one and the same. Death in pursuit of freedom is no great loss; running away from destiny is a fate far worse.

Chris Gardner – The Pursuit of Happyness

A great movie speech is often great in its context, but in The Pursuit of Happyness , Chris Gardner delivers words all people can live by. After downplaying his son’s dreams of being a professional basketball player, the young boy throws the basketball aside.

Gardner sees the damage his jaded perspective has on his son, and he doubles back fast. He tells his son that he can do anything he sets his mind to, and to never listen to the naysayers, even if they are the people closest to him.

In a movie filled with heartbreaking and inspiring moments, this scene between Gardner and his son on the basketball court ranks as not only a great scene in the movie, but a great movie speech in the history of film.

Charlie Chaplin – The Great Dictator

Charlie Chaplin is one of the few filmmakers to make a successful transition from the silent era to sound films, and he made good use of the technology in The Great Dictator .

At the film’s climax, Chaplin delivers what many consider to be the greatest movie speech ever written. The impassioned address to the world calls on a people entrenched in fascism to rise up and fight for democracy. 

Released in the midst of World War II, the film is a scathing critique of Adolf Hitler and the Axis powers. Chaplin’s speech tears apart the Nazi agenda, calling for people to use advancements of knowledge and science for the betterment of all people, regardless of race.

It is a condemnation of tyranny and a call for democracy that is as relevant today as it was in 1940.

Maximus – Gladiator

“What we do in life echoes in eternity.” Russell Crowe delivers more than one great movie speech in 2000’s Gladiator , but his address to his troops before battle contains some of the best lines in the film.

Maximus challenges his frightened soldiers to imagine what they will be doing three weeks from that day, and it will be so. He then expands the consequences of their actions, noting that fighting the good fight and being brave, even if it kills them, will reward them in the afterlife.

Whether one believes in the afterlife or not, Maximus’s words ring true. Even after a person passes, the echo of a life can be heard, for better or worse, for generations to come. 

John Keating – Dead Poets Society

Another movie full of brilliant speeches, Dead Poets Society delivers a truly masterful message with its “Carpe Diem” speech. Delivered by John Keating, the English teacher played with wit and whimsy by Robin Williams, the speech encourages a class of young men to seize the day. It reminds the boys that, though they may feel invincible, their lives will one day end.

The speech catches the class of young men off guard. Keating has an offbeat approach to education at this straight-laced private school. At first, he seems like a fool. As he continues his shocking speech, his class becomes entranced by the spell of a life well lived that Keating casts through poetry and imagination.

Carpe diem is now a popular phrase embraced by Western culture, and the words of Mr. Keating continue to echo through the generations.

Coach Boone – Remember the Titans

Aside from a war movie, there may not be a better vehicle for a movie speech than a sports film. In Remember the Titans , Denzel Washington plays Coach Boone, a man tasked with uniting an unruly high school football team. One of his strategies: great speeches.

Boone delivers wonderful addresses throughout the film, but the best might be his speech at Gettysburg. After waking the team up at 3 AM, Boone leads the team on a run through the woods. They arrive at a cemetery on the battlefield of Gettysburg. 

Boone reminds his team what happens when people let their differences tear them apart, warning that, if the members of the team do not choose to respect each other, they, too, will fall.

Samwise Gamgee – The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King

If ever you seek a model for friendship, look no further than Samwise Gamgee. In the Lord of the Rings final, The Return of the King , Sam delivers an epic movie speech to rule them all. He tries to revive a fading Frodo with musings of the blossoming flowers and fruits of their home back at the Shire.

Frodo cannot remember the sweetness of food, as he is consumed by darkness and fear brought on by carrying the Ring of Power. With that, Sam decides it is time for this quest to end. Sam grits his teeth and delivers his culminating line: “I can’t carry it for you, but I can carry you!”

Sam heaves Frodo onto his shoulders and ascends Mount Doom in one of the most poignant moments of the entire trilogy.

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The monologues that appear on this list are a collection of strong and memorable performances across American film. All of the monologues featured are in English. While there are numerous other monologues that could have easily also been featured on this list, special attention was given holistically so that the monologues here are representative of a wide array of movies, actors, directors, writers, and genres. This means that classic and celebrated monologues appear alongside monologues of equal merit, although perhaps less recognition. The list may have a numeric ranking, but it is also important to acknowledge how varied and exceptional each of these monologues is. The list takes into consideration the writing and performance of each monologue, but it also considers factors like cultural relevance and the larger effect that the monologue itself had on the film or within popular culture.

Additionally, movie "rants", which are a form of monologue, have their own list which can be viewed here . This includes Alec Baldwin in  Glengarry Glen Ross  (1992), Jack Nicholson in A Few Good Men (1992), and Peter Finch in Network (1976).

While this list only includes films, there is also a companion list that examines the greatest monologues in television, which can be found here.

Here are the  20 Greatest Monologues in Movie History:

20. Laurence Fishburne in The Matrix

In his famous monologue from The Matrix (1999), Morpheous offers Neo a choice between two pills - and Laurence Fishburne opens up the world of the Matrix to the viewers of the Wachowski sisters' groundbreaking film.

The Matrix is everywhere. It is all around us. Even now, in this very room.

Morpheous reveals that Neo is a slave trapped in a prison, who has been made to believe that he's free even while he is trapped in a machine. Of course, Neo chooses the "red" pill, which allows him to see the truth and escape the Matrix.

The monologue helps to showcase Fishburne's immense vocal control. As he tells Neo the truth, relating Neo's journey to Alice going down the rabbit hole, he manages to capture complex emotions: amusement at Neo's skepticism, awareness of the absurdity, and yet, a grounded, clear, and determined stance that has come from years of staring into the harsh abyss of reality. The speech captures the complexities of both Morpheous and the Matrix, and it signals a turning point for the film.

19. Angela Lansbury in The Manchurian Candidate

Dame Angela Lansbury is perhaps best known for her roles in musicals ( Mame ), mysteries ( Murder, She Wrote ), and animated films ( Beauty and the Beast ). However, one of Lansbury's most famous and acclaimed portrayals is that of Mrs. Eleanor Iselin, in The Manchurian Candidate (1962). Mrs. Iselin is the mother of Staff Sergeant Raymond Shaw (Laurence Harvey); Shaw has been brainwashed to obey Communist orders, and his mother is his handler. Mrs. Iselin instructs her son in a detailed monologue of his mission: "You are to shoot the presidential nominee through the head."  Lansbury's character is cold, articulate, demanding - devoid of any maternal qualities. But then, she reveals that she did not know that her own son would be the agent, and that after he completes his mission, she will exact her revenge. Her delivery and performance - coupled with long, wide takes that are reminiscent of a stage play - create the portrait of a dynamic and memorable villain.

18. Salvatore Corsitta in The Godfather

In the opening moment of The Godfather (1972), Amerigo Bonasera (played by Salvatore Corsitta) utters, " I believe in America ." Then, in agonizing detail, he recounts the story of his daughter getting savagely beaten by two American men. He demands, begs for vengeance from Marlon Brando's Don Corleone. As Bonasera tells Don Corleone the plight of his daughter, the camera slowly pans out on the scene. Without any pretext, the audience is transported directly into the brutal and violent world of the film.

Don Corleone, as it happens, is the godfather of Bonasera's daughter, and his assurance that Bonasera will receive justice is coupled with his menacing:

" Someday, and that day may never come, I will call upon you to do a service for me. But until that day, accept this justice as a gift on my daughter's wedding day. "

It is the perfect way to introduce Don Corleone to the world.

17. The Blair Witch Project

Heather Donahue's monologue, as she clutches a camera in the dark and apologizes to her parents, is perhaps the most iconic moment of  The Blair Witch Project (1999). The low-budget indie horror film would go on to influence and inspire countless horror movies and indie film producers in the years to come. Donahue's voice and close-up footage of her face was also used in the film's famed marketing campaign - her (largely improvised) words were what drew people to the theaters in droves. In the film, Donahue (who plays a character of the same name) is one of three student filmmakers who goes to investigate a local legend and disappears - the film is "pieced together" after the filmmakers' disappearance when it was "discovered" a year later. In the monologue, Donahue is alone, afraid, and scared for her life, capturing the paranoia and fear that The Blair Witch Project instilled in countless audience members.

16. Viggo Mortensen in Return of the King

Some monologues are meant to rally people together, from teammates on a sports team to men about to go to war. From as early as Shakespeare's "St. Crispin's Day" speech in Henry V (performed hundreds of years later on screen by Laurence Olivier in 1944 and by Kenneth Branagh in 1989) to The Mighty Ducks (1992), monologues can be used by leaders to inspire.

Perhaps the best example of this "genre" of monologue is Aragorn (played by Viggo Mortensen) during the final battle of The Return of the King (2003) at the Gates of Mordor. Aragorn has grown over the course of The Lord of the Rings trilogy, and this speech does not only look to the ensuing battle, but also at the journey that has led him to this point. He encourages his men, saying:

" A day may come when the courage of men fails, when we forsake our friends and break all bonds of fellowship, but it is not this day. A hour of wolves and shattered shields, when the age of men comes crashing down, but it is not this day!"

It is hard to imagine the skeptical and closed off Strider uttering these words, but Aragorn has embraced his destiny and role as king. He is prepared to die for his friends, his kingdom, and his mission.

15. Faye Dunaway in Mommie Dearest

The wire hanger monologue from the cult-classic  Mommie Dearest (1981) is famous for its absurdity. The film got mixed reviews, but the monologue is the highlight of Faye Dunaway's performance as Joan Crawford. The film is a biography film that portrays Crawford as an abusive adoptive mother to her two children; the script was based on the memoir of Crawford's adopted daughter. In the scene, Crawford discovers a wirehanger, which she claims will damage the clothes, in her daughter's closet. She takes the use of the wire hanger very personally, saying that she is delibarately being sabotaged and undermined by her young children. Dunaway's over-the-top performance in the scene is a feat to behold: she screams and rants, she throws clothes, and she beats her daughter. It's clear why this is the moment from the film that audiences remember - she's deranged, she's horrifying, and she is a thing of nightmares.

14. Rosamund Pike in Gone Girl

Rosamund Pike plays the titular "girl", Amy, in  Gone Girl   (2014), who disappears under mysterious circumstances which make it seem as though her husband murdered her. In a chilling voiceover, Amy reveals that she isn't dead, but instead has gone into hiding. While the audience watches her escape and transformation into a different person, Amy explains how she had actively tried to embody the paradoxical male desire of the "cool girl" - a woman who is effortlessly attractive, interested in sports and other "masculine" hobbies, and who is never demanding or judgmental. After years of trying to please her husband, Amy realized that he didn't know her at all, and decided to take matters into her own hands. At the end of her reflection, she says coldly, as if to justify why she framed her husband for her murder:

Can you imagine, finally showing your true self to your soulmate, and having him not like you?

13. Robin Williams in Good Will Hunting

Over the course of his career, Robin Williams has performed a number of incredible monologues. From  The Dead Poets Society   (1989) to  The Birdcage (1996), Williams has played a number of characters who inspired, berated, and joked - and he was a known improviser who would ad lib and add his own personal charm. Even in  Good Will Hunting (1997), Williams has a number of inspirational and hilarious monologues as Sean Macguire, a therapist who has been asked to help a troubled mathematical genius Will Hunting after Will has a run in with the police.

At first, Will is cocky, refusing to open up to Sean, and asserting his intelligence. Sean fires back with a monologue telling Will that he knows nothing about life:

You don’t know about real loss, because that only occurs when you love something more than you love yourself. I doubt you’ve ever dared to love anybody that much. I look at you; I don’t see an intelligent, confident man; I see a cocky, scared shitless kid.

Sean puts Will in his place, and this risky play actually convinces Will to start opening up to Sean. Sean doesn't beg Will, he doesn't push him, he simply says, " Your move, chief ."

12. Charlize Theron in Monster

Charlize Theron's portrayal of real-life serial killer Aileen Wuornos in  Monster (2003) won her critical acclaim and ultimately an Oscar for Best Actress. One of the most moving parts of the film is a monologue when Aileen reflects on her life, and remembers when she was a young and hopeful little girl. She describes herself, waiting for a movie scout to discover her like Marilyn Monroe and to take her away from her life, seeing her as a diamond in the rough. Unfortunately, the audience already knows that is not how Aileen's life turned out; instead, she has become a prostitute, who eventually turns to murdering her clients. In the final line, Aileen says:

Yeah. I lived that way for a long long time. In my head, dreaming like that. It was nice. And one day, it just stopped.

Reality took its toll on the young girl, and she gave up.

Steven Spielberg's Jaws (1975) helped to bring about the rise of the blockbuster, but one of the films' quietest moments is also its most powerful. Robert Shaw plays the shark hunter Quint, whose hatred of sharks is as obsessive as Ahab's hatred of Moby Dick. In his captivating monologue about being aboard the USS Indianapolis, Quint details to Roy Scheider's Martin Brody and Richard Dreyfuss's Matt Hooper the story of how the ship was sunk by the Japanese in World War II. He then tells them about a number of shark attacks that killed men, including Quint's friends, before his very eyes over the four days leading to his rescue. Interestingly, actor Robert Shaw actually helped to write the monologue, contributing along with two screenwriters to craft the horrifying story. The result is an absolutely riveting long-take monologue that many fans cite as the best part of the entire film.

10. Charlie Chaplin in The Great Dictator

Charlie Chaplin's 1940 satire  The Great Dictator  was mocking Adolf Hitler long before Pearl Harbor brought the United States into World War II. The film, Chaplin's first full-sound movie, gained commercial and critical success in America. Chaplin plays a Jewish man who is mistaken for the country's dictator, Adenoid Hynkel - hilarity (of course) ensues, at Hitler's expense. Despite this, the film ends on a powerful and serious note when Chaplin makes an impassioned speech. Chaplin condemns dictators and promotes the power of democracy. The speech is a call to arms, and in the years to come, it would be a rallying point for America as it went back to war. Even though Chaplin's words were clearly meant for his own moment and location in history, they resonate with fans today as much as ever. The speech is simply a masterpiece for all times.

9. Morgan Freeman in The Shawshank Redemption

Morgan Freeman's performance in The Shawshank Redemption  (1994) as Ellis Boyd Redding - or "Red" for short - garnered him an Oscar nomination. His character, who has spent the last two decades in prison, gives a number of speeches in the film. However, of all of these speeches, his voiceover in the final moments of the film is truly inspiring and exceptional. After being let out of prison, Red decides to break his parole and join his friend, Andy, in Mexico. While the camera pans to the Pacific, Red says:

I hope I can make it across the border. I hope to see my friend and shake his hand. I hope the Pacific is as blue as it has been in my dreams. I hope.

After years in captivity, Red is given the chance to live again - and he takes it. The monologue is the culmination of the film, and, with the aid of Freeman's legendary voice, it does not disappoint.

8. Marlon Brando in Apocalypse Now

Marlon Brando is regarded as one of the greatest actors of all time, and his numerous acclaimed performances over the course of his prolific career make it difficult to choose a single performance that encapsulates his many talents as an actor. If there was one monologue, however, it would be his powerful performance as Colonel Kurtz, the central antagonist of the film  Apocalypse Now (1979). Kurtz reflects on the horrors of war, and decides that judgment is what inhibits soldiers from doing whatever is necessary. He praises the Viet Cong forces for not showing the same weakness as American soldiers do. Kurtz is a man who is willing to commit horrors of his own, but it is clear that his mind has been warped by his experiences in war. This twisted character allows Brando to illustrate his range, and paint a horrifying story of mutilation and cruelty with words alone.

7. Ellen Burstyn in Requiem for a Dream

Ellen Burstyn's Sara in  Requiem for a Dream  (2000) is an Oscar-nominated performance that fans have not soon forgotten. Burstyn is a powerhouse who brings immense energy and emotional depth to every scene, including her moving monologue to her grown son, Harry (Jared Leto). Sara explains that her life has been meaningless without people to take care of - but since she has been offered a spot on a television game show, she has a reason to wake up in the morning and smile, " It makes tomorrow all right ."  Requiem for a Dream is a story of addiction and what it can cost people, and Sara's addiction begins with her dream life, where she isn't lonely and people like her. Even though Sara claims to be happy in the monologue, it's a heart-wrenchingly sad look into her lonely life - apparently even a member of the camera crew teared up while filming her.

6. Tom Wilkinson in Michael Clayton

A well-placed (and well-paced) monologue can create some of cinema's most memorable moments. For instance, in the opening moments of  Michael Clayton (2007), Tom Wilkinson delivers a voiceover monologue as Arthur; as he recounts an incident to Michael, it becomes clear that Arthur is having some sort of mental health lapse. As Arthur speaks at an increasing pace, his words are coupled with shots of the law firm, largely devoid of people, as the credits appear. Arthur's breakdown puts the events of the film into motion, and this opening sequence propels the viewer directly into the story without any pretext. The audience is left to figure out who Arthur and Michael are from the pieces; the film chooses to show rather than tell, and the result is truly masterful storytelling. Tom Wilkinson was nominated for an Academy Award for his portrayal of Arthur, and this monologue showcases what a truly brilliant actor he is; with only his voice, he is able to convey so much about his character and propel the story along at an incredible pace.

5. Meryl Streep in Sophie's Choice

Meryl Streep's performance as Sophie in  Sophie's Choice (1982) is legendary; even for Streep's incredible career,  Sophie's Choice is perhaps her single most acclaimed film and performance. In the film, Sophie has a number of confessional monologues as she recounts the events that led to her being a prisoner in Auschwitz who was forced to choose which of her two children would live. In one monologue, she explains that her father was actually himself a Nazi sympathizer who believed that the Jews should be exterminated. As Sophie tells the story, the film intercuts close-ups of Streep's face, staring directly into the camera with visuals of the events. After Sophie hastily tries to type up her father's speech, he makes mistakes because of her grammatical mistakes. She repeats his harsh words: " Zosia, your intelligence is pulp . Pulp. " After all these years, it is clear that these words still ring in Sophie's ears, and Streep's delivery is perfect.

4. Mo'Nique in Precious

Mo'Nique won both the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress and a Sundance special jury prize for her portrayal of Mary, the mother of Precious in Precious (2009). Mary physically and emotionally abuses Precious, and seemingly turns a blind-eye to Precious's father's sexual abuse, which has resulted in two pregnancies. When Mary is confronted about this, she tearfully breaks down, saying that she secretly resents Precious:

That was my man and he wanted my daughter. And that’s why I hated her because it was my man who was supposed to be loving me, who was supposed to be making love to me, he was fucking my baby and she made him leave, she made him go away… It was Precious’ fault because she let my man have her and she didn’t say nothin’, she didn’t scream, she didn’t do nothin’...

Mary's confession is the last straw for Precious; she leaves her mother, and goes to live on her own.

3. Samuel L. Jackson in Pulp Fiction

Quentin Tarantino loves a good monologue. His films are full of characters waxing ex tempore (and usually profanely). At the end of  Pulp Fiction   (1994), Samuel L. Jackson's Jules Winnfield recites Ezekiel 25:17 for the last time - well, in the film anyway. Samuel L. Jackson proudly still knows the Bible verse and has quoted it on talk shows before. As Jules tries to de-escalate the attempted robbery in the diner, he explains to robbers Ringo (Tim Roth) and Yolanda (Amanda Plummer) that he always quotes Ezekiel 25:17 before he kills someone. However, the significance of the verse itself isn't even necessarily clear to him. He concludes by saying:

Or it could mean you're the righteous man and I'm the shepherd and it's the world that's evil and selfish. Now I'd like that. But that shit ain't the truth. The truth is you're the weak. And I'm the tyranny of evil men. But I'm tryin', Ringo. I'm tryin' real hard to be a shepherd.

Jules lets Ringo and Yolanda go, and maybe is better for it.

2. Viola Davis in Doubt

Beatrice Straight famously won an Oscar for her supporting performance in Network (1976), winning with only five minutes and forty seconds of screen time. Straight's performance does feature a short monologue, but her performance in the scene as a whole, including the dialogue with her philandering husband really showcases why she deserved the award.

Viola Davis's performance in Doubt (2008) is in a similar vein. Davis was nominated for an Oscar for Best Actress in a Supporting role for her performance, which was under eight minutes and less than two scenes. Davis's monologue, however, is her crowning achievement, a powerful and sorrowful story.

Sister Aloysius Beauvier (Meryl Streep) approaches Donald Miller's mother (Davis) to tell about the possibility that Father Flynn (Phillip Seymour Hoffman) is abusing Donald. Mrs. Miller reveals that she doesn't care - her son is gay, which has meant that he is bullied and his father beats him. She claims that she doesn't want to know why Father Flynn is kind to her son, because her son needs his kindness. Mrs. Miller leaves the domineering Sister Beauvier speechless - and Davis steals the scene from Meryl Streep.

1. Gregory Peck in To Kill a Mockingbird

There are a number of powerful courtroom dramas that lend themselves to impressive monologues: lawyers, witnesses, and defendants will speak uninterrupted, which provides an opportunity for actors to demonstrate their talents. Jack Nicholson's speech in A Few Good Men (1992), when he shouts the famous, " You can't handle the truth ," occurs in a courtroom - and is featured on our list of best movie rants.

The number one spot for movie monologues, however, is saved for the courtroom speech of Atticus Finch. Gregory Peck's Atticus in To Kill a Mockingbird (1962) is one of the most beloved heroes in cinematic history, even being voted number one on the American Film Institute's list of movie heroes. Peck won an Oscar for the role, and when watching his portrayal, it's no wonder why. His performance culminates in Atticus Finch's legendary defense of Tom Robinson, a black man on trial for a violent crime he didn't commit. In his closing remarks to the jury, Finch invokes God, American ideals, truth, and the duty of the jurors - he famously ends with the line:

In the name of God, do your duty. In the name of God, believe Tom Robinson .

Despite Atticus Finch's efforts, Tom is condemned by an all-white jury, and denied justice by a jury of his peers. The audience, however, is certainly won over by Peck's legendary performance.

What monologue do you think is the greatest of all time? Join the conversation in the comments!

10 Best and Most Inspirational Speeches in Movies

By Film Threat Staff | August 8, 2019

In addition to plot and cast, a vast number of movies can impress viewers with speeches they contain. In some cases, they are as meaningful that become assigned to be analyzed in the educational process. This blog post can be useful as online help with your assignment if you face issues with finding motivational sources for your presentation or writing task. You can read the  writemypapers.org review to find out more about writing help. It provides consideration of the best ten inspirational speeches from modern and classical movies.

When students need to write a speech, there are a few ways to help them compose a masterpiece. The first way is to turn to a  speech writing service  where they can hire a professional writer who will write a custom speech that meets their demands, and the other way is to have a look at some strong examples presented in this article.

10. “The Show Goes On” Wolf Of Wall Street (2013)

In Wolf Of Wall Street , the main hero’s speech is inspiring because it includes consideration of success, mainly financial. Presented instances of how people achieve wealth, after being poor ones, can make individuals to take a chance when an opportunity appears. His speech has since, apart from being an honorable person, it is also significant to have decent living conditions.

9. “We are special” Gridiron Gang (2006)

The speech of the coach (Dwayne Johnson) reflects that all people are special, regardless of any circumstances, like imprisonment. He inspires to think that even in cases when human is not a part of high society, he or she can achieve considerable goals and show that he or she is worth to be recognized. It is only essential to make efforts and do all actions one can to be better.

8. “Dream” The Pursuit of Happyness (2006)

It is worth saying that the entire film is quite touching since it reflects relations between father and son. In this scene, an adult man teaches his son to fight for his dream, when people around consider it impossible. The main idea of the speech: if somebody believes that you can not achieve your goals, then do not listen to such people. They are not right if they see you as a person with no power to reach your goals.

7. “Our Deepest Fear” Coach Carter (2005)

In Coach Carter , speech goes about fear to be successful, since it implies the possibility to influence other people. However, success can become an inspirational tool, which can make other people also to get past fears. Moreover, in the speech, one can see the rethinking of how it is significant to make efforts in order to “shine.”

6. “Being Perfect” Friday Night Lights (2004)

The movie includes a scene with the inspiring speech of the coach, who talks about what it means to be perfect. From his perspective, being perfect lies in the attitude towards relatives and friends, in love and truth, which a person express. His words can make an individual think over the noted points, as valuable indicators of perfection. As well, one can consider whether he or she expresses love towards surroundings, tells the truth, and have no remorse.

5. “Respect each other” Remember the Titans (2000)

Speech presented in Remember the Titans goes about friendship and respectful attitude to each other. It can make an individual think over the significance of peaceful relations since disagreements are destroying for mankind. The hero insists on being respectful despite any features of individuals like race, nationality, or point of view. From the selected scene, one can recognize that friendly relationships can be quite useful in achieving common goals, especially when it goes about teamwork.

4. “Presidents Speech” Independence Day (1996)

In this film, the president of America talks about the significance of humankind and friendship among all nations. His speech is inspiring since it goes about unification, which can be beneficial in terms of struggling with enemies and saving people. In general, it reflects the need to forget about nationality, race, gender, and other feature of identity because without focusing on them, humans can easily cooperate and protect humankind more effectively. This speech can be quite useful for consideration of international relations.

3. “Freedom” Braveheart (1995)

This scene contains the speech of William Wallace (Mel Gibson) about freedom, as an essential part of a human being. From his point of view, freedom is more significant than mere life with its routine. As well. The speech can inspire individuals to take actions for the sake of more meaningful things like love, faith, truth, or pride, instead of making nutrition and sleep crucial.

2. “Get Busy Living” The Shawshank Redemption (1994)

This inspiring speech reflects the faith of a person in a successful and happy future, even if it requires a lot of efforts to achieve this goal, while another man surrenders. At this point, each person can choose own path, namely “get busy living” or “get busy dying,” as the main hero says. Therefore, you should always think about the future life with a positive attitude, and imagine how and where you will be happy.

1. “We are Mutants” Stripes (1981)

In the selected scene, the main hero John Winger (Bill Murray) talks to his military colleagues, inspiring them to be good soldiers. From his speech, it is possible to emphasize the significance of identity background, which is forming by generations. His statements can inspire individuals to be proud of their bloodline, even if their ancestors are not recognized as worthy people. Thus, this speech can be considered as an inspirational one in terms of American patriotism. 

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Not a single female speaker? Shocking

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27 Movie Monologues That Are So Expertly Acted, They May Just Be The Best Of All Time

"Denzel Washington giving the 'Tomorrow and tomorrow and tomorrow' monologue in Macbeth (2021) somehow made 500-year-old material feel fresh."

BuzzFeed Staff

We recently asked members of our BuzzFeed Community , "If there was an Academy Award category for Best Monologue Delivered by an Actor in a Motion Picture, what scene(s) do you think definitely would've taken home the gold?" and movie lovers came through with some absolutely wonderful nominations for this fake award!

So, with that in mind, here are just a few of the monologues who'd like to thank the academy:, 1. jaws (1975).

"Quint's speech about the U.S.S. Indianapolis sinking and the survivors being surrounded by sharks . One of the great scenes in cinema, in my opinion."

— cggriffith12

You can watch the scene here:

View this video on YouTube

2. manchester by the sea (2016).

" Michelle Williams is barely in the film, and she runs away with the entire thing in a single scene. The pent-up grief is palpable and the way she conveys what she’s lost and her need to make sense of it without descending into histrionics is an acting masterclass."

— nicolnicolson

3. Us (2019)

"It's just so creepy and well done!"

4. Call Me By Your Name (2017)

"The speech the dad gave at the end to Elio. It's beautiful and heartbreaking, and some of the best advice about love I’ve ever heard."

5. Steel Magnolias (1989)

"Sally Field's speech at the funeral. It makes me cry every time."

— heatherd4d685cb43

6. 10 Things I Hate About You (1999)

"When Julia Stiles reads the poem. The acting just puts that scene over the top."

— noodles_be_noodling

7. Four Weddings and a Funeral (1994)

"When John Hannah reads the eulogy, it's heartbreaking and beautiful."

— allisonlang75

8. Little Women (2019)

"When Florence Pugh explains to Timothée Chalamet that for women, marriage is indeed an economic matter because as a woman she has no rights to property, money, or even her own children."

— dellarock

9. Rambo: First Blood (1982)

"When Sylvester Stallone is talking to his handler in the police station. I don't understand how he didn't win a Golden Globe for that."

10. Malcolm & Marie (2021)

"Zendaya's ending monologue was amazing, and it hits you so hard."

— kaitlynelizabeth

11. Independence Day (1996)

"Definitely the president's speech. He fired everyone up to go fight the aliens so much that one of the soldier's arms looked like it was gonna fly off he saluted so hard! My 13-year-old ass was ready to hop in a plane and join them because it was so great!"

12. Gone Girl (2014)

"The 'Cool Girl' monologue has to be on this list. It's iconic and so well done, and it accomplishes a complete tone shift in the movie. Rosamund Pike absolutely killed it."

— foragoodtimenotalongtime

13. Hidden Figures (2016)

"Taraji P. Henson’s monologue about the bathrooms is incredible."

— gaelicmaiden

14. The Sixth Sense (1999)

"Even though it's kind of cheating, I've got to go with the scene when Haley Joel Osment tells Toni Collette about what her late mother told him. It's mostly Haley's monologue, but Toni's reactions are really what sells the scene. It makes me cry every time."

— bskellenger

15. Macbeth (2021)

"Denzel Washington giving the 'Tomorrow and tomorrow and tomorrow' monologue somehow made 500-year-old material feel fresh."

— maggiem45481cd39

16. Erin Brockovich (2000)

"When she lists off the names, phone numbers, and diseases of the clients for the lawyer who said the files were incomplete. And the scene ends perfectly when the lawyer says they got off on the wrong foot, and she responds with: 'That's all you got, lady. Two wrong feet in fucking ugly shoes.'"

— jessicad472a11a93

17. A Marriage Story (2019)

"Laura Dern’s monologue about mothers to Scarlett Johansson. It's short, but it packs a wallop."

— dig_if_you_will_a_picture

18. Everything Everywhere All at Once (2022)

"The most astonishing thing about that scene is that it is Ke Huy Quan's first role after 30 years, and he is absolutely remarkable in that movie. I hope he gets an Oscar nomination."

— e410d0d48d

19. Inglorious Basterds (2009)

"As a character introduction, Christoph Waltz’s monologue is incredible. The whole scene ramps up the tension amazingly with all his politeness — asking if he can have a drink of milk and a smoke — but toying with the farmer by hinting with increasing strength that he knows his secret. By the time he finally hits the guy with his 'you’re sheltering enemies of the state, are you not?' line the audience is almost relieved that he’s finally gotten to the point. It’s a great introduction for a particularly cruel villain."

20. The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (2002)

"Sean Astin’s monologue at the very end, specifically the line: 'There’s some good in this world, Mr. Frodo, and it’s worth fighting for.'"

— rachell11

21. Guess Who's Coming to Dinner (1967)

"Going back a ways, but Sidney Poitier's speech after his father condemns him for planning to marry a white woman this movie is so well done."

— creativecoach31

22. Snowpiercer (2013)

"Chris Evans has an absolutely horrifying monologue. Y'all know the one. I've only ever seen it once, and I never want to see it again because it sticks with me to this day. It made me see Chris Evans as more than just a pretty superhero. That man has serious acting chops."

23. Molly’s Game (2017)

"Idris Elba’s monologue is just brilliant. Written by the genius that is Aaron Sorkin, and then Idris just smashes the delivery — it’s so captivating, I couldn’t look away."

24. A Little Princess (1995)

"That scene has lived rent free in my head for 20 years!"

25. The Color Purple (1985)

"Celie's 'Everything you done to me is already done to you' speech where she finally stands up for herself."

— melpomeneblue

26. Gladiator (2000)

"The scene where Russell Crowe reveals his identity is so good!"

— nataliapineirog

And finally:

27. the devil wears prada (2006).

"Definitely Meryl Streep's iconic 'Cerulean' monologue!"

— spencerrussellwilson

All right, you've read their nominations, but now it's YOUR turn! Do you agree with them? What movie monologue do you believe is the best of all time? Share your pick in the comments below!

Some responses were edited for length and/or clarity.

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Famous Movie Monologues

This list of the best movie monologues includes some big, big names and some even bigger films (some contemporary, others classic). What are some famous movie monologues?

Some of the best, most famous monologues from movies involve high drama, remarkable acting and, of course, stellar writing. Many resulted in Academy Award nominations - some who uttered these lines took home Oscar gold. From rants to threats to intimate confessions, these film monologues represent the awe-inspiring, the inspirational, and the chilling.

Want to be able to quote your favorite scene from your favorite movie? Not just a one-liner—the whole thing? Study this list and learn (or check out these great short monologues for something a little snappier). This famous movie monologues list is an open list, meaning others can contribute. If you have a favorite film monologue or even a famous movie speech that isn't on the list, add it! Some are a minute, others are longer, but these are all great monologues, even including the one by Liam Neeson from Taken .

If you're an actor looking for the perfect dramatic scene to memorize for your next audition, you'll definitely find some great, easy inspiration here. These speeches are great for men and are also great monologues for women , provided you've got the acting chops to pull them off. Take a good look at these popular, great movie monologues and find out if you can compete with the stars!

A Few Good Men

You can't handle the truth! Son, we live in a world that has walls. And those walls have to be guarded by men with guns. Who's gonna do it? You? You, Lt. Weinberg? I have a greater responsibility than you can possibly fathom. You weep for Santiago and you curse the Marines. You have that luxury. You have the luxury of not knowing what I know: that Santiago's death, while tragic, probably saved lives. And my existence, while grotesque and incomprehensible to you, saves lives...You don't want the truth. Because deep down, in places you don't talk about at parties, you want me on that wall . You need me on that wall. We use words like honor, code, loyalty...we use these words as the backbone to a life spent defending something. You use 'em as a punchline. I have neither the time nor the inclination to explain myself to a man who rises and sleeps under the blanket of the very freedom I provide, then questions the manner in which I provide it! I'd rather you just said thank you and went on your way. Otherwise, I suggest you pick up a weapon and stand a post. Either way, I don't give a damn what you think you're entitled to!

Jack Nicholson delivers an incredibly memorable monologue in 1992's A Few Good Men  as Colonel Nathan R. Jessup. When he's asked by Lt. Daniel Kaffee (Tom Cruise) about ordering the so-called "code red," Jessup goes on one of the best courtroom tirades in movie history.

• Released : 1992
• Directed by : Rob Reiner

The Shawshank Redemption

Get busy living or get busy dying. That's goddamn right. For the second time in my life, I'm guilty of committing a crime. Parole violation. Course, I doubt they're going to throw up any road blocks for that. Not for an old crook like me. I find I'm so excited I can barely sit still or hold a thought in my head. I think it's the excitement only a free man can feel. A free man at the start of a long journey whose conclusion is uncertain. I hope I can make it across the border. I hope to see my friend and shake his hand. I hope the Pacific is as blue as it has been in my dreams. I hope.

Morgan Freeman's voice-over monologue at the end of The Shawshank Redemption is just one of several amazing monologues in this 1994 classic. One of the best movie endings ever.

• Released : 1994
• Directed by : Frank Darabont

Blade Runner

• Released : 1982
• Directed by : Ridley Scott

The Silence of the Lambs

You know what you look like to me, with your good bag and your cheap shoes? You look like a rube. A well-scrubbed, hustling rube with a little taste... Good nutrition has given you some length of bone, but you're not more than one generation from poor white trash, are you - Officer Starling...? That accent you're trying so desperately to shed - pure West Virginia. What was your father, dear? Was he a coal miner? Did he stink of the lamp...? And oh, how quickly the boys found you! All those tedious, sticky fumblings, in the back seats of cars, while you could only dream of getting out. Getting anywhere. Getting all the way - to the F...B...I.

Anthony Hopkins's performance as Hannibal Lecter in 1991's Silence of the Lambs  is without question one of the best of his career. His dressing down of Jodie Foster's green FBI agent Clarice Starling is one of the greatest (and most mocking) monologues of all time.

• Released : 1991
• Directed by : Jonathan Demme

Rocky Balboa

I'd hold you up to say to your mother, "this kid's gonna be the best kid in the world. This kid's gonna be somebody better than anybody I ever knew." And you grew up good and wonderful. It was great just watching you, every day was like a privilege. Then the time come for you to be your own man and take on the world, and you did.

But somewhere along the line, you changed. You stopped being you. You let people stick a finger in your face and tell you you're no good. And when things got hard, you started looking for something to blame, like a big shadow. Let me tell you something you already know.

The world ain't all sunshine and rainbows. It's a very mean and nasty place and I don't care how tough you are it will beat you to your knees and keep you there permanently if you let it. You, me, or nobody is gonna hit as hard as life. But it ain't about how hard ya hit. It's about how hard you can get it and keep moving forward. How much you can take and keep moving forward. That's how winning is done! Cause if you're willing to go through all the battling you got to go through to get where you want to get, who's got the right to stop you?

I mean maybe some of you guys got something you never finished, something you really want to do, something you never said to someone, something... and you're told no, even after you paid your dues? Who's got the right to tell you that, who? Nobody! It's your right to listen to your gut, it ain't nobody's right to say no after you earned the right to be where you want to be and do what you want to do!

Now if you know what you're worth then go out and get what you're worth. But ya gotta be willing to take the hits, and not pointing fingers saying you ain't where you wanna be because of him, or her, or anybody! Cowards do that and that ain't you! You're better than that! I'm always gonna love you no matter what. No matter what happens. You're my son and you're my blood. You're the best thing in my life. But until you start believing in yourself, ya ain't gonna have a life.

Rocky Balboa delivers this rousing speech to his son before his final fight in  Rocky Balboa .

• Released : 2006
• Directed by : Sylvester Stallone

Pulp Fiction

The path of the righteous man is beset on all sides by the inequities of the selfish and the tyranny of evil men. Blessed is he who, in the name of charity and good will, shepherds the weak through the valley of darkness, for he is truly his brother's keeper and the finder of lost children. And I will strike down upon thee with great vengeance and furious anger those who attempt to poison and destroy my brothers. And you will know my name is the Lord when I lay my vengeance upon you.

1994's Pulp Fiction  is without a doubt one of the most quotable movies ever, but it's Samuel L. Jackson's "Ezekiel 25:17" monologue as contract killer Jules Winnfield that is the most memorable. Way to send a victim out!

• Directed by : Quentin Tarantino

The Greatest Monologues In Movie History

To make a great film, a number of things need to fall into place. You need great actors, a well-written script, smart directing, an evocative score, beautiful sets, seamless editing — the list goes on and on. A truly great film reveals its greatness when viewed as a whole, as all of these disparate parts come together to produce something masterful. Still, just because films are made to be watched all in one sitting doesn't mean there aren't smaller moments that stand out. Sometimes, a particular scene is so well-written and well-acted that it becomes an iconic cultural moment in and of itself.

We're talking, of course, about great movie monologues. Those scenes that you can quote by heart and make you laugh, cry, or give you chills every time. A good monologue should play an important role in the plot of the film while also touching the viewer and delivering memorable lines of dialogue in a uniquely powerful way. Many classic film monologues feature only one or two characters in a scene, allowing viewers to really take in the words being said and appreciate their emotional impact.

If you're a film lover, there's a good chance you have your own list of favorite movie monologues. There are a ton of great ones out there, but we thought we'd try and narrow it down to the cream of the crop. Keep reading to discover the greatest monologues in movie history. Prepare to be moved.

The filibuster from Mr. Smith Goes to Washington

Some of the great monologues in film history are deeply sad or cynical -– characters railing against the injustices of the world or the horrors of their own lives. However, one monologue on this list succeeds precisely because of how strenuously optimistic it is. That monologue comes from a 1939 Frank Capra film called "Mr. Smith Goes to Washington," which stars Jimmy Stewart . Stewart plays Jefferson Smith, a naive youth leader who becomes a senator. When he gets to Washington, he encounters corruption at every turn, leading to his famous speech on the Senate floor.

The full scene is nearly 20 minutes long, but the tail end of it is when things really take off. Smith has been filibustering for 23 hours at this point and it's clear he can't go on much longer — he's sweaty and his voice is hoarse. Still, much to the chagrin of his colleagues, he doesn't yield the floor and instead starts reading directly from the Constitution in an effort to remind everyone of the ideals they once vowed to uphold.

He urges his colleagues to look at America through the eyes of Lady Liberty before making an impassioned plea about the importance of fighting for lost causes. "Somebody will listen to me," he barks out before collapsing on the floor. There are few more rousing fictional political speeches than this one, and it still hits home today.

The final speech in The Great Dictator

Charlie Chaplin's speech in "The Great Dictator" is often listed among the great movie monologues, and for good reason. It's hard to think of a better speech than this one, as it perfectly encapsulates the hopeful spirit of the movie while also making an important political statement.

"The Great Dictator" is Chaplin's first sound film and is one of the greatest satires of all time. Chaplin plays two characters –- a Jewish barber and former soldier and a Nazi dictator named Adenoid Hynkel (a parody of Adolf Hitler). The Barber and Hynkel look alike, of course, and at one point in the film Hynkel's men mistake him for the Barber and arrest him, causing the Barber to take Hynkel's place.

The famous monologue comes at the end, as the Barber (dressed as Hynkel) makes an impassioned speech to the public. "Do not despair. The misery that is now upon us is but the passing of greed, the bitterness of men who fear the way of human progress." He urges the soldiers to rise up and defy their masters, the people of the world to embrace kindness instead of hate, and those currently in bondage to have hope. The fact that the film was released in 1940 –- after the Nazis had already risen to power -– makes this scene even more impactful, but Chaplin's message is just as important today as it was back then. It's a perfect speech and true movie magic.

I coulda been a contender from On the Waterfront

Marlon Brando is a master of the monologue, so it's no surprise that two of his films feature on this list. One of his most famous pieces of dialogue comes from a film in the early days of his career, 1954's "On the Waterfront." Brando plays Terry Malloy, a former champion boxer who now works as a longshoreman in New Jersey. His career went up in smoke when mob boss Johnny Friendly (Lee J. Cobb) convinced him to throw a fight, and now he's mustering up the courage to testify against Friendly in court.

In the most famous scene in the film, Terry is in the back of a car with his older brother, Charley (Rod Steiger). Terry reminds Charley that he was actually the one who told Terry to throw the match on behalf of Friendly, something he still blames him for. "I coulda been a contender, I coulda been somebody," he laments. 

Despite Brando's slurred drawl, the lines are crystal clear, and the despair in his voice is right there on the surface. The scene is actually quite brief, but Brando reveals everything we need to know about the character here -– his bitterness, his longing for a different life, and how he's been living all this time with a broken heart.

Atticus Finch's closing argument in To Kill a Mockingbird

Harper Lee's "To Kill a Mockingbird" is often considered one of the great American novels, and the film adaptation is held in similarly high regard. Gregory Peck plays Atticus Finch, a single father and principled lawyer. Finch takes on the case of Tom Robinson (Brock Peters), a Black man accused of raping a white woman. Finch knows Robinson has very little chance of winning the case due to the deep-seated racism of the South, but he puts up an impassioned effort to get him off anyways.

In his final speech to the courtroom, Finch knows he's fighting a losing case and he's all but lost the jury. He's successfully proven Robinson's innocence but is struggling to change the hearts and minds of his fellow citizens. "In our courts, all men are created equal," he proclaims to a rapt audience of onlookers. He urges the jury to do their duty and follow the evidence, not their prejudice, though he knows they very likely will not.

It's a powerhouse performance by Peck, and it's considered some of his best work.  The Guardian reports that novelist Harper Lee was so happy with his take on Finch –- who was based on her own father –- that she gave him her father's old pocket watch. This powerful courtroom scene proves what an impressive actor Peck is and why the film deserves its elevated status in the cinematic canon.

The USS Indianapolis from Jaws

The making of Steven Spielberg's "Jaws" is legendary. Bruce the shark kept malfunctioning, there was major tension on set, and the film went way over budget. Still, despite these troubles, the film contains one of the greatest movie monologues of all time, a scene that is also a favorite of Spielberg's (via Den of Geek ). The monologue is delivered by Quint (Robert Shaw), the grizzled, Captain Ahab-like shark hunter who joins Hooper (Richard Dreyfuss) and Brody (Roy Scheider) on their boat, the Orca.

Sitting in the cabin one evening, Quint shares the harrowing real-life story of the USS Indianapolis , an event that mirrors their own predicament. He describes the 1945 disaster, in which "1,100 men went in the water, 316 men come out, and the sharks took the rest." Spielberg explained in a documentary that the scene was a "Rosetta Stone for Quint's entire character" because it reveals all of his motivations and why he feels so strongly about sharks.

The scene is delivered with a perfectly garbled drawl by Robert Shaw, who, according to co-screenwriter Carl Gottlieb, actually re-wrote much of the scene himself (via The Hollywood Reporter ). As evidenced by the shocked faces of Hooper and Brody, Quint's tale has a distressing effect on his companions, as they can only imagine the horrors he's experienced. It's the most grounded, restrained scene in a movie that is often said to have invented the crowd-pleasing summer blockbuster, and it's among Spielberg's best work .

The world is a business from Network

Sidney Lumet's "Network" is one of the great films of the 1970s, and its brilliant take on the dissolution of television ethics is still relevant today. The film follows old-school news anchor Howard Beale (Peter Finch), who's forced into retirement after a drop in the ratings. Beale is incensed and goes on a televised rant in front of the nation. Instead of firing him, cunning producer Diana Christensen (Faye Dunaway) decides to capitalize on the outrage.

The most popular monologue in the film is probably Beale's famous "I'm mad as hell, and I'm not gonna take this anymore!" tirade that gives the network a boost in the ratings and galvanizes the nation. Still, the most compelling monologue in the film comes closer to the end when Beale meets with Arthur Jensen (Ned Beatty), the chairman of the conglomerate that owns the network.

Jensen tries to convince Beale to abandon his anti-capitalist sermon by teaching him how the world really works. Jensen, at the far end of a very long table, tells Beale that he has "meddled with the primal forces of nature" and that there is only one natural force that rules the world: money. It's an extremely bleak sentiment, but Beatty's booming voice and the unique way the scene is shot –- with the camera getting closer and closer to Jensen as the monologue goes on — makes it impossible to tear your eyes away.

Liv Ullmann in Autumn Sonata

Ingmar Bergman's "Autumn Sonata" is one of the most emotionally harrowing movies ever made, and there are few better performances in the history of cinema than Liv Ullmann's. The film takes place over a single day and follows a mother, Charlotte (played by the great Ingrid Bergman in her last film role), who reunites with her daughter, Eva (Ullmann), after being away for seven years. Their relationship is extremely fraught, as Charlotte essentially abandoned her daughters to further her career as a concert pianist.

Their confrontation comes to a head late at night when Eva finally explodes in a monologue that shows just how much her mother has hurt her. She starts off angry and passionate, explaining to her mother how her neglect and emotional abuse have ruined her life. Things get heated when Eva brings up the abortion her mother forced her to have at age 18. After that, Charlotte remains silent, taking in Eva's words.

In the latter half of the scene, Eva is standing behind her mother, more dejected than angry. She argues that people like Charlotte should be "locked away and rendered harmless" because of the hatred they hold in their hearts. "Is the daughter's misfortune the mother's triumph?" Eva asks in a desperate refrain. There's not much catharsis here -– only the re-opening of long-held wounds -– and the emotional ruin feels like a swift punch in the chest.

I've seen horrors from Apocalypse Now

Francis Ford Coppola's "Apocalypse Now" is one of the most famous movies ever, perhaps partly because the behind-the-scenes drama has become so legendary. Still, despite the harrowing circumstances of the film's production, Coppola was still able to capture some of the greatest scenes in film history. There are a number of celebrated moments in "Apocalypse Now," but one monologue, in particular, stands out. Marlon Brando was famously difficult to work with on set, but all of that strife resulted in a stunning scene involving his Colonel Kurtz.

Bathed in shadow, the rogue Colonel Kurtz recounts the horrors of war, reflecting on the circumstances that have brought him to the jungle where he now rules his own small kingdom. "I've seen horrors," Kurtz tells Martin Sheen's Captain Willard. "But you have no right to call me a murder, you have the right to kill me." He goes on to describe these horrors in detail, explaining how he felt when he saw children who had their arms chopped off and thrown in a pile.

Having seen the worst of humanity, Kurtz has abandoned his own sense of morality and descended into a kind of principled insanity. Much of Kurtz' dialogue was based on Brando's own improvisations, and, despite the effort that clearly went into the complicated performance, the scene feels effortless.

Tears in the rain from Blade Runner

Film characters don't often have the chance to make philosophical speeches just before their deaths, but in a world filled with robots, things work a little differently. The original "Blade Runner" film gives us one of the greatest sci-fi monologues of all time, delivered by a replicant -– a humanoid robot -– named Roy Batty (Rutger Hauer). The film follows Rick Deckard (Harrison Ford), a former Blade Runner whose job was to hunt down and kill replicants, who are now seen as a threat to humanity.

Batty is one of the rogue replicants that Deckard has been sent to kill, and his final scene is one of the greatest sci-moments ever captured on film. Batty saves Deckard's life and then, realizing his time is up, reflects on the nature of his existence. He describes the amazing things he's seen in his short lifetime, summing up the experience by saying, "All those moments will be lost in time, like tears in rain."

The monologue itself is only 42 words long, but it packs an incredible punch, aided by Hauer's magnificent performance and a quietly soaring soundtrack. Hauer told Radio Times that he actually re-wrote parts of the scene himself, including that iconic final line. It's arguably the most important moment in the movie, as it proves just how human the replicants actually are. One death scene to rule them all.

I knew these people from Paris, Texas

Wim Wenders' 1984 film "Paris, Texas" is about a man lost at sea. Well, more precisely it's about a man lost in the desert, but the metaphor is still apt. Harry Dean Stanton plays Travis Henderson, a man who has been missing for many years. The recently rescued Travis reconnects with his brother and son but soon finds himself on a journey to locate the mother of his child, Jane (Nastassja Kinski).

He finds Jane in Houston at the peep-show club where she works. He sees her behind a one-way mirror and decides to finally speak to her. Travis tells Jane their story, starting with the time they met and fell and love and ending with the violent dissolution of their union. The 10-minute-long scene is beautifully directed by Wenders, who alternates between focusing the camera on Travis as he's telling the tale, and Jane, who slowly begins to realize the story is about her.

It's a masterclass in empathetic storytelling as it's difficult not to feel for both characters, even as Travis describes the terrible way he treated Jane. "Paris, Texas" won the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival in 1984, and this scene is likely a huge reason why. A slow-burning monologue filled with resignation and regret, it's an enormously affecting moment.

I'll show you out of order from Scent of a Woman

Many of the great monologues in film history come from equally great films, but this is not always the case. In his storied career, Al Pacino has delivered countless powerful speeches in movies like "The Godfather" and "Scarface." However, one of his most celebrated monologues is from a film that is often forgotten — 1992's "Scent of a Woman." Pacino plays Lieutenant Colonel Frank Slade, a blind, cantankerous Vietnam veteran planning to end his life. Frank's niece hires Charlie (Chris O'Donnell), a prep student in trouble for refusing to rat out his classmates, to look after Frank over Thanksgiving.

Frank spends much of the movie acting like a mean, angry old man, but he swoops in at the end to save the day. Charlie is forced to sit through a hearing led by his crooked headmaster, who thinks he should be expelled for refusing to inform on his peers. Frank then enters the courtroom and gives an impassioned speech about the importance of courage and integrity, qualities which seem to have been lost on the headmaster.

Pacino is known for turning things up to 11 in climactic moments — and his performance here isn't exactly subdued — but he gives Frank's righteous speech a rousing dramatic flair. With his old-school Southern accent and a sprinkling of classic Pacino expletives, it's a classic Hollywood monologue that stands the test of time, even if the film itself has not.

Your move chief from Good Will Hunting

Robin Williams is something of a master advice-giver in films, and nowhere is this more apparent than in the 1997 film "Good Will Hunting." Williams plays ​​Sean Maguire, a therapist who is counseling a young genius mathematician named Will Hunting (Matt Damon). Williams has several impactful monologues in just this film alone, but there's one that stands out.

Though Sean has been working to break through Will's defense mechanisms and get to know the real him, Will continues to treat therapy like a joke and even goes so far as to insult Sean and his dead wife. Sean and Will sit together on a park bench one day and Sean takes Will to task for his childish arrogance. He tells Will that he may know things about the world from reading books, but he's never actually lived in the world, as Sean has. "I can't learn anything from you that I can't read in some f***ing book," Sean explains. "Unless you want to talk about you."

It's a talking-down-to that Will rightly deserves, and it eventually leads to the famous therapy breakthrough scene later in the film, where Sean tells Will, "it's not your fault," after Will admits to being abused as a child. The latter scene is the more memorable one, but this earlier scene is an important building block for the film as a whole, and Williams gives a typically wisened performance here.

King Kong from Training Day

Denzel Washington is one of the great contemporary masters of the movie monologue, and you don't have to look far to find some legendary ones. From "Malcolm X" to "Philadelphia" to "Macbeth," he's an actor of almost unparalleled strength and gravitas. One of his very best monologues is not a political speech or a drawn-out soliloquy but a short, volatile scene from the 2001 film "Training Day." Washington plays Alonzo Harris, a crooked LAPD cop who is forced to start working with a rookie (Ethan Hawke).

By the time we get to Washington's greatest monologue, Alonzo's time has started to run out. Though he previously ruled the neighborhood with an iron fist, his hold on the community is starting to slip, and the Russian mob has a hit out on him. He tries to reassert his dominance by giving a threatening speech to the local gang members and onlookers. "I'ma burn this motherf***er down. King Kong ain't got s*** on me!" he yells.

"Training Day" may be a gritty crime movie, but this scene feels very Shakespearian in nature — which makes sense, considering Washington is a Shakespeare-trained actor. Though he's trying to remain an alpha, you can hear the desperation behind his threats, and Washington's dramatic rhythm is spot-on. Washington's work here is made all the more impressive when you consider the fact that he actually improvised the famous "King Kong" line, which marks the powerful climax in this mighty speech.

I drink your milkshake from There Will Be Blood

Paul Thomas Anderson is a filmmaking legend with numerous beloved films under his belt, but one scene (and one line of dialogue) stands above them all. Daniel Day Lewis' delivery of "I drink your milkshake" from the 2007 film "There Will Be Blood" is one of the most iconic lines of the 21st century and is a small part of a great cinematic monologue.

The line comes in the film's final scene as two rivals face off. Eli Sunday (Paul Dano) is a preacher who has long tried to wrest power from the megalomaniac Daniel Plainview (Lewis). Daniel holds a grudge against Eli because of the time Eli forced him into a baptism, so when Eli comes to Daniel's door like a beggar, Daniel can't help but point out his hypocrisy. Eli offers to sell a piece of his oil-rich land to Daniel, and Daniel tells him he's already drained the land, leading to the famous "I drink your milkshake" line.

Eli's made a huge mistake coming to Daniel like this, as Daniel has reverted into the worst version of himself –- misanthropic, cruel, and bloated with wealth. While the milkshake line is incredible, the cruelest line comes earlier, when Daniel tells Eli, "you're just an afterbirth," because his twin brother, Paul, is more successful. The scene ends with Daniel killing Eli with a bowling pin, completing Daniel's transformation into a man devoid of humanity. Chilling stuff.

The same spot as you from Fences

Any movie monologue list needs at least one Viola Davis scene, and her performance in "Fences" is among her best. If you weren't convinced of Davis' brilliance before this movie, you certainly will be afterward. "Fences" is an adaptation of the August Wilson play of the same name and follows a married couple, Troy (Denzel Washington) and Rose (Davis), along with their son, Cory (Jovan Adepo). Troy never got over his dream of becoming a professional baseball player, and he takes his frustrations out on his wife and son.

In one climactic scene, Rose confronts Troy about his cheating and he tries to justify it by explaining how hard it's been "standing in the same place for 18 years." However, Rose is having none of his excuses and screams back, "Well I've been standing with you!" With tears streaming down her face and snot literally dripping into her mouth, Rose lays out her desolation, explaining how she had to bury her wants and needs to stay married to Troy and find a reason to keep living.

Troy doesn't reflect on Rose's feelings, of course, but she lays them out with devastating clarity. "I planted myself inside you and waited to bloom," she says, admitting that she knew she never would. Davis gives a tour de force performance here –- the kind you have to remind yourself to breathe while watching –- proving that she's really in a lane of her own.

• Movie Scenes

The 20 Best Movie Monologues of All Time, Ranked

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When it comes to screenwriting, the prevailing wisdom is to show, not tell. Characters should show who they are by their actions and behavior, rather than flat-out telling the audience.

But in the right place and at the right time, an expository monologue can be powerful, illustrative, and awesome.

When a monologue is crafted by masterful screenwriters and placed in the hands of a masterful actor, the results are often legendary—and end up being iconic scenes in movie history.

Here are our picks for the best movie monologues that you have to see for yourself to truly appreciate!

20. "Fly, Fly, Fly" in The Silence of the Lambs (1991)

Ever since this iconic scene hit the big screen, it set the bar for how a movie should introduce a character like Hannibal Lecter.

The slow pacing builds toward an explosive chaotic conclusion. The camera is uncomfortably close to Anthony Hopkins's face, forcing an intimacy that you really don't want to have with someone like Hannibal Lecter.

By the time Clarice Starling runs out, you're right there with her, unable to escape the dungeon quickly enough. It's the kind of scene you can't help but return to, again and again.

19. "I Have a Competition in Me" in There Will Be Blood (2007)

There Will Be Blood's milkshake scene is its most known, but this scene is the one that defines Daniel Plainview as a character. It reveals him as a complete misanthrope who's motivated purely by greed and power.

He sees people only as obstacles and tools to manipulate, control, or do away with. As we come to learn, this applies even to his own son.

18. "One Hundred Nazi Scalps" in Inglourious Basterds (2009)

Quentin Tarantino knows how to make exposition entertaining, and this scene from Inglourious Basterds is a prime example.

This is how you introduce a character while filling the audience in on what's happening in a movie. This is "show, don't tell"—but it's also not. He just comes right out and says it, but it's wrapped in fantastic dialogue and an epic performance.

Many writers treat exposition as a necessary evil that just needs to happen so the movie can continue. Tarantino turns exposition into one of the best scenes of the movie.

17. "And It's a Beautiful Day" in Fargo (1996)

This scene really wraps up Fargo perfectly. Two opposite worlds collide, and neither can comprehend the other. It's good and evil engaging in one-sided Midwestern small talk on the way to the police station.

Frances McDormand's character can't understand how a man could do such horrible things—and on a beautiful day, no less!

Meanwhile, the concept of a "beautiful day" is probably something that doesn't exist for him.

16. "Coffee Is for Closers" in Glengarry Glen Ross (1992)

Glengarry Glen Ross only has one scene with Alec Baldwin in it, but that one scene is the most iconic scene of the entire movie—and possibly the most iconic scene of Baldwin's acting career.

Sure, he played Jack Donaghy on 30 Rock —a strong contender for his most defining acting role—which is funny because you can almost see Glengarry Glen Ross and 30 Rock existing in the same universe, with Jack Donaghy being an older version of Blake.

But Jack Donaghy would never have delivered a monologue as powerful, humiliating, and frightening as this one.

15. "You're Nothing to Me Now" in The Godfather Part II (1974)

John Cazale is the actor who plays Fredo in the first two Godfather movies. He only made five feature films in his career, yet every one of those five movies is a timeless classic.

Cazale was a fantastic actor and I can only imagine what kind of performances the world missed out on due to his death at a relatively young age.

But if you judge his batting average against his Godfather co-stars, he clearly comes out on top in the end.

14. "The Smell of Napalm in the Morning" in Apocalypse Now (1979)

No other actor appears in American Film Institute's list of Top 100 American Movies more times than Robert Duvall. He's great in everything he does—and Apocalypse Now is no exception.

Like the movie itself, this scene is often misunderstood. It has, unfortunately, excited as many people toward the idea of war as it has away from it.

In Francis Ford Coppola's own words: "An anti-war film cannot glorify war, and Apocalypse Now arguably does. Certain sequences have been used to rev up people to be war-like."

13. Group Therapy in Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery (1997)

This isn't just one of the greatest monologues of all time—it's also one of the funniest movie monologues ever. This might be the greatest moment in Mike Myers' acting career.

This scene hasn't lost any of the mojo it had when it first came out. He had a lot of great material before this, but sadly not much after.

12. The Gold Watch in Pulp Fiction (1994)

This scene accomplishes more than just being a self-contained piece of brilliant acting and writing. It also fills out the character of Butch in an interesting way, while providing another MacGuffin to tie into Pulp Fiction's already unconventional plot.

11. Father and Son in Call Me By Your Name (2017)

Call Me By Your Name got a lot of hype when it was first released. Looking back, large portions of the film didn't live up to that initial excitement—but the final monologue by Elio's father took the cake.

A musing on life, time, and the fleeting nature of summer love, it's a an insightful monologue that would benefit any and every teenager who's wise enough to give it a listen.

10. "A Particular Set of Skills" in Taken (2008)

In Taken , Liam Neeson created a forever memeable moment with this outstanding monologue spoken into a phone.

When he realizes that his daughter is about to be abducted, he warns her kidnappers in a legendarily badass way how bad the idea is for them to continue, ending with the most chilling threat:

"I will look for you. I will find you... And I will kill you."

Liam Neeson's cadence makes it all the better, proving how great he is as an actor—as if that were ever in question.

9. "You're Terrified of What You Might Say" in Good Will Hunting (1997)

Robin Williams put on one of the greatest performances of his career in Good Will Hunting , peaking with this single scene.

Here he plays Dr. Sean Maguire, a therapist for the brilliant but troubled Will Hunting (played by Matt Damon). Faced with his irreverent behavior, Dr. Maguire tries to communicate on a deeper level.

Wrapped in a somber mood, he talks about the experience of things as distinct from knowledge. It's a showing of the old meeting the young, the wise educating the intelligent. It's a monologue that earned an Oscar.

8. "Don't Give In to Nostalgia" in Cinema Paradiso (1988)

This monologue from Cinema Paradiso will hit you surprisingly hard if you've ever had to leave home and long for past times.

Just as Salvatore is about to leave home, Alfredo—who has lost his sight in a devastating fire—warns him about the dangers of nostalgia. He tells him to chase his dreams and to never turn back for homesickness.

By refusing him the opportunity to return in failure, he gives his protégé all he needs for success. It's a touching final encounter between friends.

7. "The Tales That Really Mattered" in The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (2002)

Where would Frodo have been without Samwise Gamgee? In some ways, Sam was the real hero of The Lord of the Rings .

In this rousing monologue, we're shown just how much wisdom Sam had to share and how much support he had to offer. When Frodo asks what it's all for, Sam lays out everything they're fighting for.

When all seems lost, it's Sam's huge heart that still sees the light at the end of their dark journey. He drags victory from the jaws of defeat and he gives Frodo the strength to hope for a brighter day.

6. "What Is It You Want, Mary?" in It's a Wonderful Life (1946)

It's a Wonderful Life gave us one of the most tear-jerking monologues in cinema history, which is why it's considered a timeless classic.

We're first shown George Bailey talk about all of his hopes and dreams. That's shortly followed by him telling Mary all of the things he can give to her—most of all, the moon itself.

"What is it you want, Mary? You want the moon? Just say the word and I'll throw a lasso around it and pull it down."

It's a charming scene with a monologue that reveals to us how George is too giving and too kind. He truly belongs with Mary, and by the end of the film, he comes to realize and accept that.

5. "You Can Shoot Me, But You Can't Kill Me" in Training Day (2001)

Denzel Washington is one of the most underrated actors of his era, proven by his immense performance as Alonzo Harris.

In this climactic scene, he's finally turned on by the hood from which he claims to hail. It causes him to break down, resulting in a monologue that's breathtaking as Washington enunciates every syllable.

As a bonus, it also gave us the now iconic line: "King Kong ain't got shit on me!" Legendary.

4. The U.S.S. Indianapolis Speech in Jaws (1975)

Talk about character development! Quint's dramatic turn from drunken sailor regaling old fishing stories to divulging the horrific origins of one of his scars is the stuff that cinema is made of.

On the U.S.S. Indianapolis, a torpedo puts all of his men into the water. It isn't long before a shiver of sharks appears and starts picking off his men, one by one, down into the depths.

Between screams in the dark and blood in the water, it isn't long before people start wondering if they'll survive the night of horror. It's all dramatically recounted in this spectacular monologue.

3. "I Don't Have Anything Big to Say" in Manchester By the Sea (2016)

Carey Mulligan isn't in Manchester By the Sea for long, but she does an amazing job stealing the show with this powerful portrayal of grief.

When Randi bumps into Lee on a walk, it stirs up old feelings. She knows that she has things to say, but can't quite verbalize them.

"I don't have anything big to say."

Then, of course, it all tumbles out into one of the best written and exquisitely performed movie monologues of all time. Her voice choked with emotion, sure to reduce anyone watching to tears.

2. Tears in Rain Monologue in Blade Runner (1982)

The ending scene from Blade Runner —of the lead Replicant bad guy waxing philosophical in the rain—is still one of the most iconic scenes in movie history, let alone among sci-fi movies.

Apparently, Rutger Hauer wrote this speech on the fly in his trailer. He convinced director Ridley Scott, who wanted nothing to do with it, to sit down and give it a listen. Ridley Scott was, of course, blown away... and the rest is history.

1. "Here's Looking at You, Kid" in Casablanca (1942)

How could there be any other choice for best movie monologue than Rick Blaine's iconic monologue in Casablanca ?

Rick and Ilsa may have been desperately in love with each other, but that doesn't amount to a hill of beans in this crazy world. After Rick realizes this, he tells her that they can never be.

It's one of the most heartbreaking monologues ever put to film, and it ends with one of the most classic lines ever uttered:

"Here's looking at you, kid."

Though it inspired countless imitators, there has never been—nor will there ever be—a monologue as moving as the one in Casablanca . It's a clear winner for best movie monologue of all time.