"Mr. Madison, what you've just said is one of the most insanely idiotic things I have ever heard. At no point in your rambling, incoherent response were you even close to anything that could be considered a rational thought. Everyone in this room is now dumber for having listened to it. I award you no points, and may God have mercy on your soul." - The Principal
Let's face it, Billy Madison isn't exactly a classic by any stretch of the imagination. It's not even one of the best Adam Sandler movies, and he was never setting the bar particularly high. But it does have one perfect moment, and it takes place during the Academic Decathalon. Billy, a grown man who struggled to complete a third grade spelling bee, decides that it would be a good idea to challenge a Harvard educated business executive to a battle of wits. When it comes to the Jeopardy style questions, Billy stumbles through a meandering, totally inaccurate explanation of the Industrial Revolution, and the principal serving as moderator makes it clear that he is not impressed. His response is so well-scripted with a deadpan delivery that also features a note of concern for how genuinely stupid Billy is, that his one line is hands down the best part of the movie. Which are your favourite movie insults? Join the discussion down in the comments (but keep it friendly).
Audrey Fox is an ex-film student, which means that she prefers to spend her days in the dark, watching movies and pondering the director's use of diegetic sound. She currently works as an entertainment writer, joyfully rambling about all things film and television related. Add her on Twitter at @audonamission and check out her film blog at 1001moviesandbeyond.com.
