I admit, I’m a huge movie fanatic. I adore films ranging from chick flicks and romantic comedies to action and suspense. Despite the magnitude of my mental movie library which documents every movie I’ve watched, only one has particularly stood out to me in recent years. From a charmingly fitting cast and well executed action scenes, to a compelling plot and entrancing special effects, this movie is cleverly crafted to garner adoration. What ultimately set it apart from the multitude of films I’ve indulged in recently, however, are quotes that lacked superficiality and instead evoked thought and consideration. This movie is none other than Kingsman: The Secret Service. It was released in 2014 and has been categorized under action, adventure and comedy. The script was certainly conscientiously and scrupulously composed, but the three most distinct quotes in my perspective as are follows.
1. “The lack of a silver spoon has set you on a certain path but you needn’t stay on it. If you’re prepared to adapt and learn, you can transform.”
The film is centered around the protagonist’s, Eggsy’s, development as a person and his transition in obtaining the self-worth he felt he never deserved due to his lower standing on the social hierarchy. This quote was articulated by Harry Hart, otherwise known as Galahad or Eggsy’s mentor. It was powerful in that it not only conveyed the foundational idea of the entire film but it rings with truth applicable to our world as well. Galahad was the only aristocrat willing to stray from tradition and extend opportunities to those who were born “lacking the silver spoon” because he truly believed in individualistic potential, regardless of one’s pedigree. It’s captivating to follow the protagonist’s positive development into respecting himself but it’s equally pleasant to see the movie convey a strong message to the audience: that adaptation can lead to transformation and the only thing stopping anyone is the lack of will to do so.
2. “There is nothing noble in being superior to your fellow man. True nobility is being superior to your former self.”
This quote resonated with a degree of depth I simply couldn’t overlook. It stuck me as an embellished version of what I was taught during my adolescence: to not juxtapose myself to others, but instead to my former self. While it wasn’t worded as eloquently, the two versions converge to convey the idea that we shouldn’t compete with others. It’s much more gratifying (and less frustrating) to simply strive to be better than who you once were. There exists another saying that claims an individual’s greatest enemy lies within themselves, so what greater gratification is there than transcending your greatest rival?
3. “Manners maketh man.”
I’ve always been rather fond of displays of good mannerisms. To me sophisticated, polite and courteous behavior never fails to make one appear more attractive. This quote was recited twice in the movie and both times put a smile on my face. I found that this quote paired wonderfully with another I’ve familiarized with: “being a gentleman never goes out of style.” As opposed to simply feigning gallantry, little traits exist that prove to be as timeless as a posh demeanor, especially when executed with genuine intentions. Of course I don’t believe this applies only to men - manners and general behaviorisms that demonstrate proficiency in eluding a polished, refined and cultured aura can make anyone, regardless of their gender, more alluring.
Kingsman has earned a spot in my heart as a distinguished and favorite film. Comprised with some seriously badass action scenes, seamlessly clever comebacks, characters designed to elicit fond attachment and timelessly classy quotes, this is one movie I believe deserves a high degree of reverence and appreciation.
