Safety Last!
A vertigo-inducing thrill comedy where the perilous ascent of a skyscraper becomes a literal and visual metaphor for the American Dream, balancing high-altitude anxiety with the desperate romantic ambition of the Jazz Age.
Safety Last!
Safety Last!

"You're Going to Explode With "Safety Laughs" when You see This Fun Bomb."

01 April 1923 United States of America 73 min ⭐ 7.7 (558)
Director: Sam Taylor Fred C. Newmeyer
Cast: Harold Lloyd, Mildred Davis, Bill Strother, Noah Young, Westcott Clarke
Comedy Romance
The Facade of Success Vertical Social Mobility Love as Motivation
Budget: $121,000
Box Office: $1,500,000

Safety Last! - Movie Quotes

Memorable Quotes

I've always wanted a boy who could do something to become famous.

— Mildred (The Girl)

Context:

Spoken in the early scenes before Harold leaves for the city, setting his motivation.

Meaning:

Establishes the stakes: Mildred values fame and success, unwittingly pressuring Harold to risk his life to please her.

Money talk? Why, he makes it shout!

— Townsperson

Context:

Intertitle shown when Harold's expensive gifts arrive in Great Bend, impressing the locals.

Meaning:

Ironic commentary on Harold's perceived success versus his actual poverty. Highlights the theme of public perception.

You'll do time for this! The first time I lay eyes on you again, I'll pinch you!

— The Law (Policeman)

Context:

After Bill knocks the policeman down, the cop vows revenge, setting up the conflict during the climb.

Meaning:

The plot device that prevents the professional climber (Bill) from doing the stunt, forcing the amateur Harold to do it.