"Family is who you make it."
Palmer - Movie Quotes
Memorable Quotes
You know you're a boy, right? ... Boys don't play with dolls.
— Eddie Palmer
Context:
This is said early in the film when Palmer first observes Sam playing with his dolls. It's a moment of gentle confrontation that sets up the central conflict and theme of the movie: Palmer's journey to move past societal expectations and embrace Sam for who he is.
Meaning:
This quote encapsulates Palmer's initial struggle to understand Sam and his adherence to traditional gender norms. It highlights his starting point, from which he will undergo a significant transformation in his perspective on masculinity and acceptance.
Well, I'm a boy. And I do.
— Sam Burdette
Context:
Sam says this directly to Palmer after being told that boys don't play with dolls. His innocent confidence leaves Palmer without a response and marks the beginning of Palmer's education in acceptance, taught to him by a seven-year-old.
Meaning:
Sam's simple yet profound response is a powerful assertion of his identity. It challenges the rigid categories Palmer presents and demonstrates Sam's unwavering self-acceptance. This line is a cornerstone of the film's message about authenticity.
Truth is, I haven't felt like I was good at anything for a long time. Until Sam.
— Eddie Palmer
Context:
Palmer says this during his plea to a judge for custody of Sam. It's a moment of raw vulnerability where he lays bare how much Sam has come to mean to him, framing their relationship not as a burden, but as his own salvation.
Meaning:
This quote is the emotional climax of Palmer's character arc. He openly admits that his relationship with Sam has given him a sense of purpose and self-worth that he had lost long ago. It signifies his complete transformation and his deep love for the boy.
Kids are mean. Especially when they see something that they ain't used to seeing.
— Eddie Palmer
Context:
Palmer says this to Sam when Sam chooses a princess costume for Halloween. He is trying to prepare Sam for the negative reactions he might face, showing that his concern comes from a place of love and a desire to protect him from harm.
Meaning:
This line shows Palmer's growing understanding and protectiveness over Sam. While trying to warn Sam about the potential for bullying, he also acknowledges the root of the prejudice: fear of the unfamiliar. It's a moment of gentle parenting from an unlikely father figure.
That is the entire point of Halloween or any other day of the year. You can just be whoever you want to be.
— Maggie Hayes
Context:
Maggie says this to Palmer and Sam during a conversation about Sam's Halloween costume. It's a moment of support that not only encourages Sam but also helps to solidify Palmer's evolving perspective.
Meaning:
Maggie's words serve as the film's moral compass. She articulates the central theme of self-expression and acceptance, extending the idea beyond the fantasy of Halloween to everyday life. She validates Sam's choices and reinforces the film's message.