"Great White Buffalo" Hot Tub Time Machine Quote
The iconic "Great White Buffalo" line from the 2010 comedy film Hot Tub Time Machine has become a popular catchphrase, often used to express surprise, disbelief, or awe at an unexpected or ridiculous event.
The Scene
The quote originates from a scene where Adam (John Cusack), Lou (Rob Corddry), Nick (Craig Robinson), and Adam Jr. (Clark Duke) are in the hot tub of their time machine, accidentally transported back to 1986.
As the four men are enjoying their newfound youth, Lou notices a naked woman (played by Lizzy Caplan) getting out of the hot tub.
He says, "Whoa, that's the Great White Buffalo."
This comment is met with confusion from the other men, who have no idea what he is talking about.
Nick, assuming the woman is a virgin, asks, "Is she, uh...is she still, like, white? I mean, has she been, uh, touched?"
This scene is hilarious due to the unexpected nature of the comment, the awkwardness of the situation, and the subsequent misunderstanding.
The Meaning
While the quote seems nonsensical at first, it actually has a double meaning.
Firstly, it is a play on words, referencing a "great white buffalo" as a rare and precious animal. This is applied to the woman in the scene, implying she is someone special and potentially unobtainable.
Secondly, the quote also alludes to the concept of purity and innocence, often associated with the color white. This ties into the scene's humor, as Lou's comment suggests the woman is a virgin, a topic that is both intriguing and embarrassing in the context of the film.
The Impact
The "Great White Buffalo" line has resonated with audiences, becoming a popular catchphrase that reflects the absurdity and humor of the movie. It's often used in situations where something unexpected or shocking occurs, adding a humorous twist to the moment.
The quote perfectly encapsulates the film's comedic style, mixing raunchy humor with unexpected twists and turns. It is a testament to the enduring power of a well-placed line and the ability of a film to generate cultural catchphrases that continue to be relevant even years after its release.