Being John Malkovich (1999): Directed by Spike Jonze and written by Charlie Kaufman, Being John Malkovich is a surreal and darkly comedic exploration of identity and existentialism. The story follows Craig Schwartz, a struggling puppeteer who discovers a secret portal into the mind of actor John Malkovich. Craig, his wife Lotte, and his coworker Maxine exploit the portal for personal and financial gain, leading to bizarre and hilarious consequences. As Craig manipulates Malkovich’s body to live out his own desires, the film delves into themes of control, obsession, and the nature of self. Being John Malkovich is a wildly inventive and thought-provoking film that pushes the boundaries of storytelling.

Best Dialogues and Quotes from Being John Malkovich

“Consciousness is a terrible curse. I think. I feel. I suffer.”

This quote captures the existential burden of self-awareness. The ability to introspect is both a gift and a torment, highlighting the human condition of experiencing profound emotions and existential dilemmas.

“You don’t know how lucky you are being a monkey, because consciousness is a terrible curse.”

The juxtaposition of human consciousness with the simplicity of animal existence underscores the complexity and often burdensome nature of human thought and emotion.

“I think it’s time to try being John Malkovich.”

This line reflects the human desire to escape one’s own identity and experience life from another perspective, revealing the existential curiosity and dissatisfaction that often accompany selfhood.

“Nobody’s looking for a puppeteer in today’s wintry economic climate.”

This quote humorously addresses the struggle of pursuing one’s passion in a world that often prioritizes practicality and economic stability over creative endeavors.

“You see the world through John Malkovich’s eyes, and then after about 15 minutes, you’re spit out into a ditch on the side of the New Jersey Turnpike.”

The absurdity and surreal experience of being inside another person’s mind for a brief period symbolize the transient nature of escapism and the inevitable return to reality.

“It’s my head! Schwartz is in my head!”

This line highlights the invasion of privacy and identity crisis, exploring themes of personal boundaries and the discomfort of having one’s inner self accessed by others.

“I am a vessel. I am a vessel for my creator.”

This introspective moment raises questions about autonomy, destiny, and the philosophical debate of free will versus determinism, illustrating the complex interplay between self and external influences.

“I found a portal into John Malkovich. It’s my second chance at life.”

The discovery of the portal represents the human longing for reinvention and redemption, emphasizing the notion that a new perspective can offer transformative opportunities.

“Malkovich, Malkovich, Malkovich.”

The repetitive dialogue during the scene where Malkovich enters his own portal demonstrates the absurdity and redundancy of self-obsession, reflecting the theme of identity and self-awareness.

“Don’t stand in the way of my actualization as a man.”

This plea for self-fulfillment and personal growth underscores the struggle for individual empowerment and the pursuit of one’s true potential amidst societal and relational constraints.

“You see, Maxine, it isn’t just playing with dolls.”

This statement elevates puppetry from mere play to an art form, symbolizing the deeper human desire to create, manipulate, and understand the complexities of life through artistic expression.

“I want to be John Malkovich.” – “You can’t be John Malkovich.”

The dialogue explores the limits of identity and self-transformation, questioning the feasibility and ethics of assuming another’s existence and the inherent value of one’s own life.

“I think I like it. It’s mysterious.”

The allure of the unknown and the thrill of mystery reflect the innate human curiosity and the desire to explore the unfamiliar, driving the quest for knowledge and experience.

“When you’re being somebody else, it’s a bit of a vacation from yourself.”

This observation highlights the relief and liberation found in temporarily escaping one’s identity, revealing the psychological benefits and potential dangers of such escapism.

“I have fallen in love, and this is what people who have fallen in love look like.”

This declaration captures the transformative and often irrational nature of love, emphasizing its power to alter perceptions and behaviors profoundly.

“You don’t know how lucky you are to be a monkey.”

Reiterating the earlier sentiment, this line contrasts the simplicity of animal life with the complex emotional and intellectual challenges faced by humans, pondering the value of simplicity.

“You see things through John Malkovich’s eyes.”

This statement is a literal and metaphorical exploration of empathy and perspective-taking, encouraging an understanding of others’ experiences and promoting compassion.

“It’s the idea of being inside someone else’s skin and seeing what they see.”

The concept of inhabiting another’s body delves into the philosophical inquiry of identity, empathy, and the nature of personal experience, challenging the boundaries of self and other.

“If you ever get a second chance at something, you’ve got to go all the way.”

This motivational thought emphasizes the importance of seizing opportunities and committing fully to new experiences, reflecting the philosophy of embracing change and growth.

“It’s just a fantasy. It’s not real.”

The distinction between fantasy and reality underscores the human tendency to escape into imagined worlds, highlighting the potential disconnect from real-life responsibilities and relationships.

Interesting Facts about Being John Malkovich

The Origin of the Idea

Screenwriter Charlie Kaufman conceived the idea for “Being John Malkovich” while working as a television writer, finding inspiration in the concept of identity and the unusual notion of entering someone else’s mind.

Malkovich as the First and Only Choice

John Malkovich was always the first and only choice for the title role, largely because Kaufman and director Spike Jonze found his name amusing and fitting for the film’s themes.

Rejected by Several Studios

The script for “Being John Malkovich” was initially rejected by numerous studios, who found the concept too bizarre and challenging to market.

Malkovich’s Reluctance

John Malkovich was initially hesitant to participate in the film, fearing it might be a vanity project. However, he was eventually convinced by the uniqueness of the script and its potential for comedic exploration.

Unusual Set Design

The film’s iconic “7½ floor” was inspired by the cramped and surreal workplace environments that Spike Jonze and Charlie Kaufman had experienced in their own lives.

Cameo Appearances

The film features several celebrity cameos, including Brad Pitt, Sean Penn, and Charlie Sheen. These appearances add an extra layer of meta-commentary on fame and identity.

Real Puppeteering by Phillip Huber

Renowned puppeteer Phillip Huber was responsible for the intricate puppetry scenes in the film, which are integral to the storyline and showcase the artistry involved in this craft.

Critical Acclaim Despite Initial Concerns

Despite initial concerns about its marketability, “Being John Malkovich” received critical acclaim for its originality, with many praising its innovative storytelling and performances.

Malkovich’s Own Input

John Malkovich contributed to the script by suggesting details about the fictionalized version of himself, aiming to add authenticity to his portrayal.

Cultural Impact and Legacy

The film has been widely analyzed for its philosophical themes concerning identity, consciousness, and the nature of celebrity, cementing its status as a cult classic.