Your Guide to Actually Using Pick-Up Lines
“Are you a camera? Because every time I look at you I smile.” Some people may find this flattering while others will find it more cringe-worthy. Pick-up lines are generally used to show interest in another person, but they can range from being extremely corny, funny and even sweet to overly sexual and degrading. Here is a look at a wide range of pick-up lines used in well-known films and by famous people as well as a few tips on how to actually use a pick-up line.
Pick-Up Lines in Film
Pickup lines have been around for decades and have even made it into mainstream media. Michael Curtiz’s film, Casablanca (1942), is a classic romantic film that has stood the test of time. While the orchestra is playing in the background over an unfolding romantic scene, Ilsa, played by Ingrid Bergman, looks into her old flame’s eyes, Rick Blaine, played by Humphrey Bogart, and says, “Was that cannon fire, or is my heart pounding?” Classy.
Another Rom/Com, Hitch (2005), is full of pick-up lines. One of the most memorable being, “I couldn’t help but notice that you look a lot like my next girlfriend.” Thelma and Louise (1991), has a scene where cowboy JD, played by Brad Pitt, says to Thelma (Geena Davis), “I may be an outlaw, darlin’ but you’re the one stealin’ my heart.” And what about this classy line in Couples Retreat (2009). “Do you have a cell phone I could use? Why? Someone has to call God and tell him that one of his angels is missing.”
Famous People Use Them Too
Pick up lines aren’t just used by the average Joe either. Ray Kroc is said to have used this line once or twice: “Watching you on the dance floor has made me think that maybe you could use some fries with that shake. I turned McDonald’s into a nationwide restaurant chain, so I’ve got plenty of fries and shakes.”
Reggae musician, Bob Marley was known for his flirtatious personality with women and is reported to have used the line, “Are you Jamaican? Because Jamaican me crazy.” Even Neil Armstrong had a few lines kept in his back pocket. “Do you come here often? I was the first one here. If by here you mean the moon.”
It All Depends on Personality
The success or failure of a good pick-up line lies heavily on the personalities of the deliverer and receiver. For example, say someone goes up to a person and says, “Do you have sunburn, or are you always this hot?” A person that is extremely outgoing and energetic may respond completely different to this compared to someone who is shy and more introverted. Some say that extroverts and more energetic personalities are attracted to people who tend to use humor or direct pick-up lines.
General Tips
While everyone will respond to pick-up lines differently, there are a few general tips that will get you started in the right direction.
First, be original. There are lines that people have heard over and over, and there is no use using it as it will only show that you can’t even come up with your own pick-up line.
Second, be funny and sometimes self-deprecating to make the person laugh and make you not come off as cocky.
Third, be observational; include something that is relevant or current in pop-culture. Not only will it be a line, but also a little insight into your interest and personality.
Lastly, make sure you deliver it well. First impressions are crucial and it is important to maintain eye contact, smile, be sincere and make a connection that will hopefully help you keep the conversation going.
Remember
Before blurting out a line to anyone, consider how you would feel if someone approached you and said it to you. If you think it’s a good line and you choose to use it, pay attention to the receivers’ body language. If there doesn’t seem to be any interest, know when to walk away. Most importantly, if you do want to use a pick-up line, be true to yourself. Make sure that the line you’ve come up with is something that represents your personality. If you like corny pickup lines and you want to date someone who enjoys corny pickup lines, then that’s the way to go.
