Best Dialogues and Quotes from Argo (2012)

“Argo fuck yourself.”

This catchphrase, used humorously throughout the movie, represents the absurdity and audacity of the mission. It teaches us that sometimes, a bold and unconventional approach is necessary to achieve what seems impossible.

“If IÕm doing a fake movie, itÕs going to be a fake hit.”

This quote highlights the importance of commitment and excellence, even in deception. It suggests that whatever you do, even if itÕs not real, do it with conviction and aim for success.

“This is the best bad idea we have, sir, by far.”

This line illustrates the concept of choosing the best among limited options. It teaches that in life, decisions are often about selecting the least flawed path rather than a perfect one.

“YouÕre worried about the Ayatollah? Try the WGA.”

This humorous line underscores the challenges of dealing with bureaucracies and gatekeepers in any field. It suggests that navigating complex systems is often as daunting as facing obvious adversities.

“You can teach a rhesus monkey to be a director in a day.”

Here, the movie pokes fun at the perceived simplicity of filmmaking. The deeper lesson is that we often underestimate the complexities of tasks until we face them ourselves.

“Is it too late to change the name of the movie? This is the worst title since ‘Shoah.'”

This quote reflects the importance of perception and branding in any venture. It serves as a reminder to always consider how names and titles can impact the reception of your work.

“You really know Warren Beatty?”

This line speaks to the power of connections and credibility. It emphasizes the role of networking and association in gaining trust and opening doors in professional and personal arenas.

“WeÕre responsible for these people.”

This statement underscores the weight of responsibility and duty towards others. It teaches that in leadership and teamwork, accountability for the welfare of others is paramount.

“This is what I do. I get people out.”

This quote exemplifies dedication to one’s mission and the importance of expertise. It highlights the value of knowing your strengths and using them to help others in critical situations.

“You canÕt build cover stories around a movie that doesnÕt exist.”

This illustrates the necessity of a solid foundation when creating narratives or plans. In life, building anything on false premises without substance is bound to fail.

“The whole country is watching you. They just donÕt know it.”

This line reflects the unseen pressures and responsibilities faced by individuals in critical roles. It teaches about the silent impact of one’s actions on the larger community.

“TheyÕre a Canadian film crew on a location scout for a science fiction movie.”

This line highlights the power of storytelling and creativity in solving real-world problems. It suggests that innovative thinking can craft realities that aid in overcoming challenges.

“YouÕre worried about the Ayatollah? Try the WGA.”

This humorous line underscores the challenges of dealing with bureaucracies and gatekeepers in any field. It suggests that navigating complex systems is often as daunting as facing obvious adversities.

“I fly into space. I donÕt fly into Tehran.”

This quote humorously contrasts the perceived danger of different scenarios. It reflects how different experiences shape our perception of risk and comfort zones.

“No, but itÕs got horses in it. ItÕs a Western.”

This line emphasizes the importance of authenticity and understanding context. It teaches that superficial elements donÕt define true essence, whether in stories or life situations.

“This is the best bad idea we have, sir, by far.”

This line illustrates the concept of choosing the best among limited options. It teaches that in life, decisions are often about selecting the least flawed path rather than a perfect one.

“YouÕre going to walk the Canadians out the front door.”

This line symbolizes courage and straightforward action in the face of adversity. It suggests that sometimes the most direct path is the bravest and most effective.

“If IÕm doing a fake movie, itÕs going to be a fake hit.”

This quote highlights the importance of commitment and excellence, even in deception. It suggests that whatever you do, even if itÕs not real, do it with conviction and aim for success.

“ItÕs not enough to want to be a director, you have to have the eye.”

This quote emphasizes the importance of skill and innate talent in achieving success. It serves as a reminder that passion must be paired with capability and vision.

“YouÕre worried about the Ayatollah? Try the WGA.”

This humorous line underscores the challenges of dealing with bureaucracies and gatekeepers in any field. It suggests that navigating complex systems is often as daunting as facing obvious adversities.

Interesting Facts about Argo (2012)

Title Change Consideration

The film was initially considered to be titled “Escape from Tehran,” but the filmmakers ultimately decided on “Argo” to align with the historical operation’s code name and the fictional sci-fi film within the movie.

Real-Life CIA Agent Cameo

The real Tony Mendez, the CIA operative portrayed by Ben Affleck, makes a brief cameo appearance in the film at the airport scene, adding authenticity to the portrayal of events.

Historical Accuracy in Set Design

Production designer Sharon Seymour meticulously recreated the 1970s era by using actual photographs from the Canadian Embassy and Iranian locales to construct authentic sets that mirrored the period accurately.

Authentic 1970s Film Techniques

To maintain authenticity, director Ben Affleck chose to shoot the film using techniques and equipment from the 1970s, including older lenses and film stock, which helped replicate the feel of the era.

Actor Training for Iranian Roles

Many of the actors playing Iranian roles were given extensive language and cultural training to ensure accurate representations and to handle Farsi lines convincingly during filming.

Ben Affleck’s Dual Role

In addition to directing the film, Ben Affleck also played the lead role of Tony Mendez. Affleck has said that juggling both responsibilities was a challenging yet rewarding experience.

Academy Award Winning Film

“Argo” won the Academy Award for Best Picture in 2013, despite Ben Affleck not receiving a nomination for Best Director, a rare occurrence in the Oscars history.

Inspiration from a Declassified Article

The plot of “Argo” was inspired by an article titled “The Great Escape” by Joshuah Bearman, published in Wired magazine in 2007, which detailed the true story of the CIA mission.

Unique Promotional Strategy

To promote the movie, Warner Bros. created a faux website for the fictional movie “Argo,” complete with a detailed plot synopsis and concept art, mimicking the fake production within the film.

Extensive Research on Iranian Culture

The filmmakers conducted extensive research into Iranian culture and history to portray the setting and political climate of the 1979 Iranian Revolution as accurately as possible.