Samuel L. Jackson’s iconic line from the 2006 action thriller Snakes on a Plane has become a pop culture phenomenon, but it almost didn’t make it into the final cut of the film. In a recent interview, Jackson revealed that the filmmakers initially intended to keep the movie PG-13, which meant that his signature profanity-laden line was not included in the initial script.
How Samuel L. Jackson’s Most Memorable Snakes on a Plane Line Nearly Got Cut from the Film
Samuel L. Jackson in Snakes on a Plane. Image Credit: New Line Cinema
Snakes on a Plane, released in 2006 and directed by David R. Ellis, has since earned a place in pop culture, largely due to Samuel L. Jackson’s unforgettable line: “I have had it with these motherf—ing snakes on this motherf—ing plane.” However, what many may not know is that this iconic line almost never made it into the film. Jackson, who starred as an FBI agent transporting a crucial witness from Hawaii to Los Angeles, recently revealed in an interview how close audiences came to missing out on this moment, which eventually became a cornerstone of the film’s legacy.
During his conversation with GQ, Jackson reflected on the initial production phase, where the filmmakers aimed for a PG-13 rating. This meant that certain language, including Jackson’s now-famous expletive-filled line, was initially excluded from the script. Despite Jackson’s insistence on including the line, it was not shot during the primary filming. It was only after test screenings and a subsequent change in direction that the decision was made to add the now-famous line, requiring an expensive reshoot.
According to Jackson, “They were trying to make a PG-13 movie and you can only have like one f–k or some sh-t like that in it. And I told them, I’m like, ‘Look, I gotta say motherf—er in this movie. It’s motherf—ing snakes all over this plane.’ And they’re like, ‘Ah, Sam, we just… come on. No.’ I said, ‘Okay fine.’ We wrapped. They test the movie, test the movie, and then all of a sudden it’s like, you gotta do a reshoot. Cost them a bunch of money to get that ‘motherf—er.’”
The Impact of Samuel L. Jackson’s Line on the Film
Samuel L. Jackson in Snakes on a Plane. Image Credit: New Line Cinema
Although Snakes on a Plane did not break box office records, grossing $62 million worldwide on a $33 million budget, the inclusion of Jackson’s line contributed significantly to its cult status. The movie, which also featured Julianna Margulies, Rachel Blanchard, and Kenan Thompson, initially received lukewarm reviews. Yet, it was Jackson’s outburst that resonated with audiences, transforming a film with a seemingly absurd premise into a cultural phenomenon.
The R-rating, which was ultimately granted due to the reshoots, further enhanced the film’s cult appeal. Initially, the studio’s goal of a PG-13 rating was likely driven by financial considerations, as a lower rating typically broadens a movie’s potential audience. However, the more restrained version didn’t resonate with test audiences. The film’s appeal lies in its over-the-top violence, language, and absurdity, elements that were only possible with an R-rating. Memorable scenes, such as a snake attack during an intimate moment in a bathroom, contributed to its charm and defined its unique style.
Jackson’s line, therefore, was not just an afterthought but a key component that helped the movie gain traction. As a result, Snakes on a Plane grew beyond its theatrical run, finding success on DVD and digital platforms. It is now regarded as a cult classic, with Jackson’s line often cited as one of the primary reasons for its lasting popularity.
