Who doesn’t love a powerful, moving, and cathartic monologue delivered by an amazing actor stretching their acting muscles and commanding the screen with impactful words? There are plenty of outstanding monologues throughout cinematic history. Then, some stand the test of time and above all others. Here are 10 of the best movie monologues, complete with scripts that you can find in our expansive screenplay library. We’ll showcase the monologue scenes, and talk a little bit about the content of the monologues and why they stood out.
Scripts from this Article
A Few Good Men
Good Will Hunting
Jaws
Glengarry Glen Ross
Barbie
Blade Runner
Dead Poets Society
Network
Hidden Figures
Inglourious Basterds
The Newsroom
A Few Good Men (1992)
Screenplay by: Aaron Sorkin
In a climactic courtroom showdown, Colonel Nathan R. Jessup, played with electrifying intensity by Jack Nicholson, responds to Lt. Daniel Kaffee’s (Tom Cruise) relentless questioning about a military code red. Jessup’s declaration “You can’t handle the truth!” defends the harsh realities and moral complexities of military operations hidden from civilian oversight.
This moment exposes the clash between military discipline and ethical accountability, leaving audiences to ponder the price of freedom and the weight of justice. It’s a showcase of Sorkin’s sharp dialogue and Nicholson’s intense performance.
Read More: The Verdict Is In: 10 Courtroom Scripts You Have to Read
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Good Will Hunting (1997)
Screenplay by: Matt Damon and Ben Affleck
In this serene and reflective scene set against the backdrop of a park, psychologist Sean Maguire (Robin Williams) shares a personal story with Will Hunting (Matt Damon) on a park bench. He speaks on love, loss, and life’s irreplaceable experiences, highlighting the difference between intellectual understanding and truly living.
This monologue is a gentle rebuke to Will’s defensive arrogance and a reminder that wisdom isn’t solely the province of books but is found in the full embrace of life’s messiness and beauty. It’s a poignant moment that speaks to the human experience beyond intellectual achievements.
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Good Will Hunting (1997)
Screenplay by: Matt Damon and Ben Affleck
We had to include another powerful monologue from this film that is full of them. Will, in a job interview, conjures a brilliant answer as to why he shouldn’t work for the NSA, weaving through hypothetical scenarios that reveal his deep-seated distrust of authority and systemic power.
This scene showcases Will’s brilliance, ethics, and underlying fear of contributing to a world he fundamentally disagrees with. It’s a humorous yet profound exploration of personal responsibility and the moral dilemmas of intellect applied to global politics. It’s also a testament to Damon and Affleck’s writing, delivering humor and depth in a single scene.
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Jaws (1975)
Screenplay by: Peter Benchley, Carl Gottlieb, Howard Sackler, John Milius, and Robert Shaw
Quint (Robert Shaw) recounts the harrowing tale of surviving the USS Indianapolis disaster during WWII. As the crew awaited rescue, they were preyed upon by sharks, a memory that haunts Quint and fuels his obsession with hunting the great white shark.
This monologue not only deepens Quint’s character but also serves as a chilling parallel to the film’s main narrative, emphasizing the unpredictable and often deadly nature of the sea. Shaw’s haunting delivery only greatens the impact of the story, as well as the impending doom of the threat they face.
Read More: Screenwriting 101: When Summer Blockbusters Make You Think
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Glengarry Glen Ross (1992)
Screenplay by: David Mamet
Alec Baldwin’s character delivers a scathing and motivational speech to a group of real estate salesmen, emphasizing the ruthless nature of sales with the mantra: “Always be closing.”
Mamet’s razor-sharp dialogue cuts to the core of the life of a salesman. This monologue is a raw depiction of the high-pressure sales environment that values success above all. Baldwin’s character uses fear, greed, and competition to motivate. It’s a brutal take on the pressures of sales and success.
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Barbie (2023)
Screenplay by: Greta Gerwig and Noah Baumbach
Gloria’s (America Ferrara) speech is a defining moment of the impactful film, resonating deeply with audiences by way of touching on themes of identity, female empowerment, and the challenges of living up to societal expectations. It offers insight into acceptance, diversity, and the importance of being true to oneself while giving a voice to not just women, but individuals struggling with these issues as a whole. The speech has become a mantra for many.
Read More: A Chronological Timeline of Greta Gerwig’s Writing
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Blade Runner (1982)
Screenplay by: Philip K. Dick, Hampton Fancher, and David Webb Peoples
In the “Tears in Rain” scene, replicant Roy Batty (Rutger Hauer) reflects on his fleeting memories as his life ends. It’s a soliloquy that poignantly addresses the value of life and the experiences that define us, regardless of our origins. Its poetic grace underlines the replicant’s humanity in a fleeting moment of realization and acceptance.
The monologue was largely improvised by Hauer, and underscores the film’s exploration of what it means to be human. We finally understand the replicants’ humanity in their quest for meaning and survival and look less upon them as villains and more as misunderstood.
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Dead Poets Society (1989)
Screenplay by: Tom Schulman
We’ve got another Robin Williams one to share. John Keating (Williams) introduces his students to the Latin phrase “Carpe Diem,” urging them to seize the day. This scene is a rallying cry for individuality and passion against the backdrop of a conservative and conformist educational system.
Keating’s monologue inspires both his students and the audience to appreciate the fleeting nature of life and the importance of pursuing one’s dreams and convictions.
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Network (1976)
Screenplay by: Paddy Chayefsky
Howard Beale (Peter Finch) delivers a fervent speech exhorting viewers to reclaim their autonomy from the manipulative media and corporate interests. His rallying cry, “I’m as mad as hell, and I’m not going to take this anymore!” becomes a cathartic expression of collective frustration and a call to action.
This scene taps into the pervasive disillusionment with media sensationalism and the loss of genuine human connection. The monologue is inspiring, and thought-provoking, amid one of the most powerful performances of its time.
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Hidden Figures (2016)
Screenplay by: Allison Schroeder and Theodore Melfi
Katherine Johnson (Taraji P. Henson) confronts the absurdity of racial segregation at NASA, highlighting the additional hurdles she faces each and every day in her vital role. This powerful monologue sheds light on the systemic racism of the time, juxtaposing Katherine’s mathematical genius against the backdrop of an institution struggling to recognize her humanity and contributions. It’s a moment of personal and professional vindication, and a powerful testament to dignity, resilience, and the absurdity of institutional racism.
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Inglourious Basterds (2009)
Screenplay by: Quentin Tarantino
The opening scene sets a tense and foreboding tone as Colonel Hans Landa (Christoph Waltz) interrogates a French farmer suspected of hiding Jews. Sure, there is some back and forth between him and the farmer. However, make no mistake, Landa is saying everything. He’s owning the conversation. It’s a chillingly polite interrogation, that masterfully builds tension and showcases Tarantino’s knack for dialogue that’s both captivating and terrifying. Landa’s courteous yet menacing demeanor, coupled with his intellectual gamesmanship, draws the audience in.
The monologue masterfully establishes Landa as a formidable antagonist, blending charm with cruelty. It’s truly one of the best villain monologues of all time.
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The Newsroom Series Pilot (2012)
Screenplay by: Aaron Sorkin
In the pilot episode of the Aaron Sorkin seriesThe Newsroom, Will McAvoy (Jeff Daniels) delivers a compelling monologue at a university panel after being asked, “What makes America the greatest country in the world?” Initially reluctant, McAvoy’s response evolves into a candid critique of American complacency, highlighting statistical shortcomings and challenging the notion of inherent national superiority. He concludes with a nostalgic and passionate reminder of America’s past achievements and potential for greatness, calling for a return to truth, integrity, and democracy.
This monologue sets the tone for the series, showcasing Sorkin’s signature blend of idealism, wit, and critique of modern media and politics. It’s a powerful monologue delivered with intensity by Daniels.
The full monologue isn’t in the below pilot script. It was delivered to Daniels by Sorkin two weeks before shooting. You will, however, find remnants of it in the pilot script.
Read More: 3 Types of TV Pilots Writers Need to Choose From
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Ken Miyamoto has worked in the film industry for nearly two decades, most notably as a studio liaison for Sony Studios and then as a script reader and story analyst for Sony Pictures.
He has many studio meetings under his belt as a produced screenwriter, meeting with the likes of Sony, Dreamworks, Universal, Disney, Warner Brothers, as well as many production and management companies. He has had a previous development deal with Lionsgate, as well as multiple writing assignments, including the produced miniseries Blackout, starring Anne Heche, Sean Patrick Flanery, Billy Zane, James Brolin, Haylie Duff, Brian Bloom, Eric La Salle, and Bruce Boxleitner, the feature thriller Hunter’s Creed, and many Lifetime thrillers. Follow Ken on Twitter @KenMovies and Instagram @KenMovies76
