A 90s adaptation of Jane Austen's Emma, Clueless may be considered the ultimate chick-flick of all time. Cher Horowitz (Alicia Silverstone) is one of the most spirited, popular and charming young women in Beverly Hills. She's confident and charismatic and seriously knows how to rock a killer outfit. Cher is very intuitive and enjoys playing matchmaker for her friends and even though she can be self-obsessed and clueless at times, her actions are always well-intended and kind.
From wicked makeovers to ing philanthropic organizations, Cher is continually trying to help those around her. Together she and her friends navigate their way through the complexities of high school. Here are Cher's top 10 most quotable lines.
"Never Accept A First Offer"
Like father, like daughter. Cher is never one to back down from a challenge. After receiving her semester grades, which were not up to her satisfaction, Cher takes it upon herself to improve them through the powers of persuasion. "These grades are just a jumping-off point to start negotiations."
Cher is successfully able to negotiate raising her grades with her teachers. Most impressively, she argues her way from a C+ to an A- without re-sitting any exams or writing any extra credit papers. Consequently, her father is very proud of her and couldn't be happier.
"God This Women Is Screaming For A Makeover, I'm Her Only Hope"
Cher likes to bring out the best in people, so when she notices that two of her teachers are lonely and seeking love, she decides to intervene. After class one day, Cher and her BFF Dionne (Stacey Dash) surprise their teacher Miss Geist (Twink Caplan) by giving her a mini makeover. Cher doesn't mean to be superficial, but when it comes to dating, she knows that physical appearance and attraction go hand in hand, so she and Dionne give Miss Geist a little confidence boost.
Even though Cher's intentions might not be selfless, she's isn't acting maliciously and truly believes she's helping her teachers find love.
"You See How Picky I Am About My Shoes And They Only Go On My Feet"
Another endearing characteristic of Cher is her ability to stay true to herself and she doesn't let peer pressure force her into doing something she's not comfortable with. When Dionne and Tai (Brittney Murphy) playfully tease her for being a virgin, Cher replies with, "I'm just not interested in doing it until I find the right person."
Although Cher is very adamant in her views about losing her virginity, she remains open-minded and accepting of her friend's sexual explorations. Light-heartedly comparing men to shoes is the ultimate way for Cher to articulate her view on being intimate.
"May I Please Remind You That Does Not Say RSVP On The Statue Of Liberty "
In this debate between Cher and her frenemy Amber (Elisa Donovan), Cher expresses her view on how the U.S. government should make allowances for the Haitians to enter the U.S. during their time of need. Cher describes a time where she hosted a party for her father's 50th birthday, stating that people had not RSVP'd. She was forced to quickly haul ass to the kitchen and make arrangements, but in the end, everything was a great success and "the more the merrier."
Although Cher might use unusual analogies, the basis of her arguments always have meaning. Cher reminds us that no matter what the issue is, you should always be kind and make room for more people.
"Boy, Getting Off The Freeway Makes You Realize How Important Love Is"
Dionne is learning to drive and doesn't feel confident yet about driving on all roads. After accidentally turning onto the freeway with Murray (Donald Faison) and Cher, the situation quickly escalates. Both she and Cher begin to panic. Murray quickly takes control of the situation and guides them safely off the freeway.
It's at this moment that Cher sees the trust and love Dionne and Murray have for one another. This is a major turning point for Cher as she realizes that she wants to have that level of intimacy and connection with someone. It's here that Cher begins to show her more vulnerable side for the first time.
"I Was Surfing The Crimson Wave, I Had To Haul Ass To The Ladies"
One of Cher's many charms is being able to express herself eloquently. When Mr. Hall (Wallace Shawn) notes that Cher has two tardies to work off, she instantly challenges the alleged offenses.
Cher confidently explains to Mr. Hall that one of her tardies was unavoidable due to women's problems. This description of a woman's menstrual cycle is hilarious and yet very subtle at the same time. Of course, Mr. Hall doesn't question the matter any further and removes one of the tardies from her class record.
"I Decided I Needed A Complete Makeover, Except This Time, I Makeover My Soul"
After Cher realizes how self-obsessed and clueless she's been, she takes a step back and contemplates her past behavior. "What makes somebody a better person?" Cher mulls this over and comes to realize that all her friends have positive attributes and that each one of them adds something special and unique to her life.
This is a crucial moment for Cher, as her appreciation of her friends and family grows. Cher also volunteers as captain for the Pismo Beach Relief using her popularity for the greater good. Her growing maturity is highlighted in this scene and it's rewarding to see her give back to the community.
"It All Boiled Down To One Inevitable Conclusion, I Was Just Totally Clueless"
After a destressing fight with Tai, Cher goes for a walk to clear her head. Reflecting on all her unsuccessful attempts at playing matchmaker for her friends, she is left feeling low and confused. It's during this self-reflection that Cher realizes what has been bothering her -- that she has had feelings for Josh (Paul Rudd) all along.
Cher, like many others, is left feeling totally perplexed about love. Her behavior begins to change around Josh and we see her more vulnerable side come through. It just goes to show that it doesn't matter how cool you are -- when you care about someone everyone acts the same -- totally clueless!
"She's a Full-On Monet"
This is possibly one of the best insults ever: "From far away it's okay but up close, it's a big old mess." Describing someone as a Monet painting is genius. It's playful and descriptive without being too unkind.
Cher is loyal and deeply cares about her friends, so when she sees that Tai is upset she tries to cheer her up. She tells Tai that she shouldn't worry about Amber and that, unlike Amber, she is beautiful inside and out. Tai beings to relax, forgetting about Elton (Jeremy Sisto) and Amber, and dances the night away.
"Ugh, As If!"
This is such a simple yet powerful phrase. Cher perfectly executes this line time and time again throughout the movie. Whether it's describing the wishful advances of a high school boy or putting the audience in their place, this multipurpose catchphrase can be used in any situation and will still have the same powerful effect.
Thanks to Cher, this phrase has become so iconic that it can unanimously be considered one of the best movie quotes of all time. As if this list could end with anything else!
