10 Iconic Sci-Fi Movie Moments That Were Totally Improvised

6. “Hey Malkovich! Think Fast!” - Being John Malkovich

Will Smith Independence Day
Gramercy Pictures

This entry is a tricky one because, believe it or not, there are two contradicting stories of how this hilarious moment in Being John Malkovich came to be. Lucky for us, both instances are entertaining as well as spontaneous, so it's up to you to decide which you would like to believe.

According to the film's director Spike Jonze, an extra on set grew disgruntled with all the waiting around and decided to spice things up by downing several beers, hopping in their car, and launching a can at John Malkovich's head.

In this context, the "Hey Malkovich! Think fast" line that comes directly before the actor is pelted in the back of the head with a beer can brings a whole new layer of comedy to the scene.

Unfortunately, many people contradict Jonze's memory of this moment, citing the true beer-thrower as being a crewmember who spontaneously volunteered and luckily managed to land their shot first try. Though this version lacks the shock-value of the first, it still contextualizes Malkovich's genuine surprise at actually being hit in a humorous light.

Whatever really happened on set that day, we the viewers can always take solace in the fact that... it looked like it hurt.

Contributor
Contributor

Dan is a writer and actor originally from South Australia who now lives in a constant state of anxiety... and Los Angeles. Whether writing about movies, watching movies, or binging the Great British Bake-off, Dan approaches any endeavour with a steely resolve which is rivalled only by his ability to lie about his strengths. For professional inquiries, call Melissa Cropley - Dan's mum; she wishes he would call more often and you'd really be doing him a favour.