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Annie Hall
A bittersweet, neurotic symphony of urban romance and existential dread. Like a relationship that's like a shark—it must move forward or die—this film captures the beautiful, absurd fragmentation of love through a lens of intellectual wit and melancholy nostalgia.
Annie Hall
Annie Hall

"A nervous romance."

19 April 1977 United States of America 93 min 7.7 (4,143)

Director: Woody Allen

Cast: Woody Allen, Diane Keaton, Tony Roberts, Carol Kane, Paul Simon

Drama Comedy Romance The Absurdity and Necessity of Love Memory and Subjectivity New York vs. Los Angeles Jewish Identity and Outsider Status
Budget: $4,000,000
Box Office: $43,989,445

Annie Hall — Movie Quotes

Memorable Quotes

I thought of that old joke, you know, this... this guy goes to a psychiatrist and says, 'Doc, uh, my brother's crazy. He thinks he's a chicken.' And the doctor says, 'Well, why don't you turn him in?' And the guy says, 'I would, but I need the eggs.'
— Alvy Singer

Context

Alvy's final voiceover monologue as he watches Annie walk away after their last friendly meeting.

Meaning

This closing line encapsulates the film's thesis: relationships are irrational, absurd, and crazy, but we endure them because we need the emotional payoff (the eggs).

Don't knock masturbation. It's sex with someone I love.
— Alvy Singer

Context

Alvy defends his habits during a conversation about their diminishing sex life.

Meaning

Highlights Alvy's narcissism and his difficulty in connecting deeply with others, preferring the safety of the self.

La-dee-da, la-dee-da.
— Annie Hall

Context

Used by Annie throughout the film, particularly in moments of awkward silence or when she is unsure what to say.

Meaning

Annie's catchphrase, initially a nervous tic that represents her flustered, awkward charm. Later, it becomes a nostalgic reminder of her unique personality.

I don't want to move to a city where the only cultural advantage is being able to make a right turn on a red light.
— Alvy Singer

Context

Alvy arguing with Annie about the prospect of moving to California.

Meaning

A sharp critique of Los Angeles culture (or lack thereof) compared to New York, showcasing Alvy's intellectual elitism.

Boy, if life were only like this!
— Alvy Singer

Context

After pulling Marshall McLuhan out from behind a movie poster to shut up a pretentious man in a cinema line.

Meaning

Expresses the desire to control reality and win arguments perfectly, contrasting the messiness of real life with the perfection of art/fantasy.

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