La Grande Vadrouille
Don't Look Now... We're Being Shot At! - Movie Quotes
Memorable Quotes
Y a pas d'hélice hélas. - C'est là qu'est l'os !
— Peter Cunningham and Augustin Bouvet
Context:
This exchange occurs when assessing a vehicle for their escape, realizing a crucial part is missing. It's a moment of comic despair that has become one of the most famous lines from the film.
Meaning:
A classic French pun that translates to "There's no propeller, alas. - That's where the bone is!" The humor comes from the play on words, as "l'os" (the bone) sounds like "le last," playing on the idea of a final problem. It exemplifies the film's lighthearted and witty dialogue even in moments of peril.
But alors, you are French?!
— Stanislas Lefort
Context:
In the Turkish baths, Stanislas and Augustin are trying to find "Big Moustache." Thinking the other is English, they struggle to speak to each other until Augustin, in frustration, blurts out a French curse word, leading to Stanislas's shocked and hilarious realization.
Meaning:
This quote is the comedic climax of the Turkish baths scene. After a prolonged and confused attempt to communicate in broken English, both Stanislas and Augustin realize they are French. The line perfectly captures the absurdity of their situation and the initial lack of trust and communication between them.
Ils peuvent me tuer, je ne parlerai pas! - Mais moi non plus, ils peuvent vous tuer, je ne parlerai pas!
— Augustin Bouvet and Stanislas Lefort
Context:
While captured by the Germans, Augustin makes a brave declaration. Stanislas appears to second the sentiment, but cleverly twists it to ensure his own safety at Augustin's expense, much to Augustin's dawning horror and the audience's amusement.
Meaning:
Translating to "They can kill me, I won't talk! - Me neither, they can kill you, I won't talk!", this quote perfectly encapsulates Stanislas's cowardly and self-centered nature in a darkly humorous way. It highlights the stark contrast between Augustin's genuine bravery and Stanislas's comical self-preservation.
Mon vélo, mes chaussures... et puis quoi maintenant ?
— Augustin Bouvet
Context:
Augustin says this in exasperation after Stanislas has managed to appropriate both his comfortable shoes and his bicycle for his own use, leaving Augustin to suffer.
Meaning:
"My bicycle, my shoes... and now what?" This line is a recurring lament from Augustin, humorously summarizing his constant state of being put-upon by the demanding and manipulative Stanislas. It embodies the theme of class difference and the personal sacrifices he has to make.