Mothers in the movies are not always portrayed in a positive light. Think Mommy Dearest. However, motherly advice is often referenced in film. Beyond the standards of not taking candy from strangers (except on Halloween) and staying out of the pool after meals, here are nine useful pieces of advice from Moms referenced on the big screen.
“My mother always told me the hardest things to do in life are to trust, to have faith, and to forgive.”
Georgia Rule (2007) – Lilly (Felicity Huffman)
“My mother said, "You don't have to like everything, but you have to try everything."”
Dying Young (1991) – Victor Geddes (Campbell Scott)
“Years ago my mother used to say to me, "In this world, you must be oh-so-smart or oh-so-pleasant." Well, for years I was smart. I recommend pleasant.”
Harvey (1950) – Elwood P. Dowd (James Stewart)
“As your mother tells you, and my mother certainly told me, it is important, she always used to say, “Always to try new things.””
Hannibal (2001) – Hannibal Lecter (Anthony Hopkins)
“My mother told me, "Gaston, there are many people in the world, and in order to get along, you have to try and make everyone happy."”
The Meaning of Life (1983) – Gaston (Eric Idle)
“My mother always says a lady's a lady wherever she goes.”
Pal Joey (1957) – Linda English (Kim Novak)
“I'm very self-reliant. My mother taught me to always be that way.”
Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm (1938) – Rebecca Winstead (Shirley Temple)
“My mother's always telling me I got to control my anger, channel my energy into something more positive - makes me want to slap her silly.”
The Ice Harvest (2005) – Sidney (Ned Bellamy)
“Like your mother said, “Life's not always black and white. Sometimes you just never know.””
Gigli (2003) – Ricki (Jennifer Lopez)
Interested in more movie quote lists?
Interested in a movie quote book?