10 Greatest Opening Lines In Movie History

Fight Club's opening line invokes the question that audiences find themselves asking long after it is uttered as Edward Norton's unnamed narrator throws the film's pivotal character into the mix; just who is Tyler Durden? The levels of intrigue certainly do not let up when Norton is revealed to have a pistol lodged in his mouth, as the voice of the unseen gunman ominously warns "three minutes."

Brad Pitt's enigmatic portrayal of a dissociated personality of Norton's narrator is one of the most significant cinematic roles of all time, despite what was widespread critical panning of the film when it was released. In a delightful piece of trivia, Pitt revealed that he and Norton were stoned at Fight Club's prestigious Venice premiere. The pair howled with laughter amongst a sea of horrified critics, many of whom walked out in abject disgust.

Considering the iconic status of what is conceivably the most widely celebrated cult classic of all time, they should have stayed for the rest. Norton's opening line invokes a litany of unanswered questions, instantly cultivating an air of mystique and securing the viewer's commitment. Who is the mysterious figure? What do people know him for? Why is there a loaded firearm in the narrator's mouth? The matter of factness of Norton's cool, disaffected monotone juxtaposed against his fear filled eyes and the enthralling backdrop makes for an unforgettable introduction to one of the greatest films ever made.