The Iconic Movie Quotes That Rule the Merchandise World

A new study has revealed the ranking of the most profitable movie lines of all time, with ‘Bond, James Bond’ ranking top.

Each movie line was scored based on popularity according to Google searches and profitability as per Etsy marketplace data. ‘Bond, James Bond’ boasts an average of 87,381 Google searches made nationwide and has 3,960 merch listings featuring the line. An expert reveals why these movie phrases are embedded in our culture and why fans are keen to buy merchandise displaying them.

In a new study from QR Code Generator, researchers analyzed the most iconic film quotes of all time to identify which are most popular among fans and which are the most profitable when it comes to fan-made merchandise.

Each movie line was awarded a score out of 100 based on the average monthly Google searches made for each, as well as the number of items and the average price per listing on Etsy, to help inspire creators.

1. "Bond, James Bond" (James Bond)

Achieving an index score of 91.7 out of 100 and boasting an average monthly Google search volume of 87,381 across the country, merchandise bearing the line "Bond, James Bond" is among the most profitable and popular among film fans.

The allure of this line extends into its market presence, with 3,960 listings on Etsy and an average price of $82.47 per item – making it a high earner for creators. With rumors circulating over the next James Bond, it could be a good time for Etsy sellers to start making merchandise now.

2. "I see you" (Avatar)

Placing second, with an index score of 72.3 out of 100 and a total of 204,470 monthly Google searches nationwide, the phrase "I see you" from Avatar has clearly made an impression on fans, despite being a generic line.

This popularity of the quote is reflected on Etsy, where it features in 1,261 listings with an average cost of a modest $14.28 per item.

3. "This is Sparta" (300)

Having the third-highest index score of 57.9 out of 100 and attracting a monthly Google search volume of 28,675, King Leonidas' "This is Sparta" said in a battle cry is a cultural staple among many.

The phrase’s impact has affected its commercial value, with Etsy displaying 872 listings at an impressive average price of $90.58, affirming the line's strong market demand – especially given it’s not commonly featured by typical merch retailers.

4. "Rosebud" (Citizen Kane)

"Rosebud," with an index score of 55.8 out of 100 and a Google search volume of 56,193, remains one of film’s greatest motifs, with the iconic line muttered by Charles Foster Kane in Citizen Kane.

On Etsy, "Rosebud" attracts 2,333 listings at an average price of $44.58, implying an enduring interest in Citizen Kane merchandise.

5. "Avengers assemble" (The Avengers)

Rounding up the top five, "Avengers assemble", as spoken by Captain America, scored at 47.8 with a search volume of 62,264, representing a truly iconic moment for Marvel fans around the world.

Etsy sellers capitalize on its worldwide popularity, with 295 listings averaging $18.47 each – which is fairly cheap for superhero-themed collectibles.

6. "Good morning, Vietnam" (Good Morning, Vietnam)

"Good morning, Vietnam," boasts an index score of 46.8 out of 100 and attracts a total average Google monthly search volume of 70,881.

This greeting, famously delivered by Robin Williams’ character, is understandably a favorite among fans. The phrase has a modest presence on Etsy with 152 listings, priced at an average of $12.84 each.

7. "My precious" (The Lord of the Rings)

Ranking seventh, with an index score of 43.4 and a Google search volume of 49,218, "My precious" by Gollum in The Lord of the Rings perfectly captures the characters’ obsession and the central theme of power in the series.

The fascination with Gollum’s iconic quote is evident from its 380 Etsy listings, each averaging $29.85 - and is clearly a staple among The Lord of the Rings fans.

8. "Wilson" (Cast Away)

"Wilson”, scoring 41.4 with a monthly Google search volume of 7,848, represents the loneliness and comfort Tom Hanks' character finds in his iconic volleyball companion in Cast Away.

Interestingly, "Wilson" has a robust Etsy presence with 2,900 listings at an average cost of $60.52. This high listing price and volume signify a unique niche market, highlighting its desirability among movie connoisseurs.

9. "Here's Johnny" (The Shining)

"Here's Johnny," from The Shining, boasts an index score of 40.2 and a search volume of 39,761. This unsettling line, delivered by Jack Nicholson as he breaks through a door, has become iconic in the horror genre.

This quote translates into marketable merchandise with 200 Etsy listings, each priced at an average of $20.05.

10. "Snap out of it" (Moonstruck)

Lastly, "Snap out of it," with an index score of 38.9 and a Google search volume of 8,240, is Cher’s spirited command in Moonstruck. This line captures the film's blend of humor, romance, and drama.

On Etsy, the line appears in 308 listings, with an average price tag of $70.42, making it one of the highest-earning (and nichiest) lines analyzed in the study.

Marc Porcar, CEO of QR Code Generator, commented on the findings: "Iconic movie lines do more than entertain; they become part of our culture, find their way into our everyday language, and help us find common ground among fellow film fans.

"On one hand, they offer a touchstone for cultural connection; on the other, they represent an earning opportunity for Etsy sellers. The way these lines resonate with the public demonstrates their continuing popularity.

"The prevalence of these movie lines on platforms like Etsy is a testament to their enduring appeal and the impact they have on our society. It's a fascinating testament to the nostalgia that remains with each generation of film fans."