Steel Magnolias (1989) is a beloved classic that has captivated audiences for decades with its charming Southern wit, heartfelt moments, and unforgettable performances by an all-star cast. From the overprotective M’Lynn, played by Sally Field, to the sweet and sassy salon owner Truvy, portrayed by Dolly Parton, the film is a rich tapestry of love, friendship, and resilience in the face of life’s ups and downs.
In this post, we’re celebrating the essence of Steel Magnolias with 12 of our favorite quotes that showcase the film’s unique blend of humor and emotion. These lines, delivered by some of Hollywood’s finest, continue to resonate with fans old and new.
1. Truvy on Hiring:
Truvy: “I kind of like hiring somebody with a past.”
Clairee: “She can’t be more than eighteen. She hasn’t had time to have a past.”
Truvy: “Oh, get with it, Clairee. This is the eighties. If you can achieve puberty, you can achieve a past.”
Why it resonates: This quote perfectly captures Truvy’s open-minded and forward-thinking attitude, reflecting the film’s broader themes of acceptance and embracing life’s imperfections.
2. Ouiser’s Entertainment Choices:
Ouiser: “I do not see plays, because I can nap at home for free. And I don’t see movies ’cause they’re trash, and they got nothin’ but naked people in ’em! And I don’t read books, ’cause if they’re any good, they’re gonna make ’em into a miniseries.”
Why it resonates: Ouiser’s blunt, no-nonsense attitude is on full display here, embodying the film’s sharp humor and its celebration of strong, unapologetic women.
3. Shelby’s Wild Night:
Shelby: “Well, we went skinny dipping and we did things that frightened the fish.”
Why it resonates: Shelby’s playful spirit and zest for life shine through in this line, reminding us of the joy in spontaneous, carefree moments.
4. Ouiser’s Mood:
Ouiser: “I’m not crazy, M’Lynn, I’ve just been in a very bad mood for 40 years!”
Why it resonates: This quote is classic Ouiser, highlighting her gruff exterior while hinting at the deeper layers of her character that the film explores.
5. Truvy on Sammy’s Confusion:
Truvy: “Sammy’s so confused he don’t know whether to scratch his watch or wind his butt.”
Why it resonates: Truvy’s humorous take on life’s little confusions adds a light-hearted touch to the film’s more serious themes.
6. Shelby on Life’s Choices:
Shelby: “I would rather have thirty minutes of wonderful than a lifetime of nothing special.”
Why it resonates: This poignant line encapsulates Shelby’s philosophy of living life to the fullest, even in the face of uncertainty, a central theme of the film.
7. Ouiser on Wealth:
Ouiser: “The only reason people are nice to me is because I have more money than God.”
Why it resonates: Ouiser’s cynical view of social niceties adds a layer of complexity to her character, making her one of the film’s most memorable figures.
8. Clairee on Accessories:
Clairee: “The only thing that separates us from the animals is our ability to accessorize.”
Why it resonates: This quote is a playful nod to the importance of style and personal expression, which is a recurring motif throughout Steel Magnolias.
9. Ouiser’s Religious Revelation:
Ouiser: “Yes, Annelle, I pray! Well, I do! There, I said it, I hope you’re satisfied.”
Annelle: “I suspected this all along!”
Ouiser: “Oh! Well, don’t you expect me to come to one of your churches or one of those tent-revivals with all those Bible-beaters doin’ God-only-knows-what! They’d probably make me eat a live chicken!”
Annelle: “Not on your first visit!”
Clairee: “Very good, Annelle! You’ve spoken like a true smart-ass!”
Why it resonates: This exchange highlights the film’s sharp, witty dialogue and the dynamic relationships between its characters, blending humor with deeper reflections on faith and community.
10. Ouiser’s Morning Encounter:
Clairee: “You know, you would be a much more contented, pleasant person if you would find ways to occupy your time.”
Ouiser: “I’m pleasant. Damn it! I saw Drum Eatenton at the Piggly Wiggly this morning, and I smiled at the son of a bitch ‘fore I could help myself.”
Why it resonates: Ouiser’s struggle with her own gruffness is both humorous and endearing, making her a character audiences can’t help but love.
11. Ouiser on Aging:
Ouiser: “You are evil, and you must be destroyed.”
Clairee: “Mother Nature’s taking care of that faster than you could.”
Why it resonates: This exchange between Ouiser and Clairee is a testament to the enduring friendship and playful banter that define the relationships in Steel Magnolias.
12. M’Lynn on Life and Loss:
M’Lynn: “I just sat there. I just held Shelby’s hand. There was no noise, no tremble, just peace. Oh God. I realize as a woman how lucky I am. I was there when that wonderful creature drifted into my life and I was there when she drifted out. It was the most precious moment of my life.”
Why it resonates: This deeply emotional line from M’Lynn is one of the most powerful moments in the film, capturing the profound love and sorrow that define the human experience.
Steel Magnolias remains a timeless film, not only for its humor and charm but also for its portrayal of the strength and resilience of women. These quotes are just a glimpse into the heart and soul of a movie that continues to inspire and entertain audiences across generations.
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