"He prepared them for everything except the outside world."
Captain Fantastic - Movie Quotes
Memorable Quotes
If you assume that there is no hope, you guarantee that there will be no hope. If you assume that there is an instinct for freedom, there are opportunities to change things, then there's a possibility you can contribute to making a better world.
— Ben Cash (quoting Noam Chomsky)
Context:
Ben and the children are discussing their ideals. This quote is used to articulate the intellectual and moral principles that guide their unconventional life in the wilderness.
Meaning:
This quote, attributed to Noam Chomsky, encapsulates the philosophical foundation of Ben's worldview. It speaks to a belief in human agency and the importance of maintaining hope and striving for a better future, even against overwhelming odds. It is the ideological core of his educational and parenting philosophy.
We're defined by our actions, not our words.
— Kielyr Cash
Context:
This line is spoken during a moment of decision for the family, highlighting their action-oriented philosophy as they prepare to challenge their grandfather's plans for their mother's funeral.
Meaning:
This simple, powerful statement reflects a core tenet of the family's upbringing. Ben has taught his children that what they do is more important than what they say, emphasizing self-reliance, capability, and integrity. It shows the depth of the philosophical education the children have received.
I know nothing! I am a freak because of you! You made us freaks! And mom knew that! She understood! Unless it comes out of a f***ing book, I don't know anything about anything!
— Bodevan 'Bo' Cash
Context:
Bo shouts this at Ben after a clumsy and failed attempt to connect with a girl in a trailer park. The experience makes him painfully aware of how his upbringing has isolated him socially.
Meaning:
This emotional outburst from Bo is a crucial turning point. It represents the culmination of his frustration with his social ineptitude despite his vast intellectual knowledge. It is a direct and painful critique of Ben's parenting, highlighting the significant gap between theoretical knowledge and practical social skills.
Live each day like it could be your last. Drink it in. Be adventurous, be bold, but savor it. It goes fast.
— Ben Cash
Context:
Ben says this to Bo as part of a series of life lessons, just before Bo is about to embark on a personal journey, showing a supportive and loving side of his character.
Meaning:
This piece of fatherly advice reveals the more tender and humanistic side of Ben's philosophy. Beyond the rigorous training and political theory, he wants his children to experience life fully and appreciate its fleeting nature. It's a moment of pure, heartfelt guidance.