The most iconic quotes from The Mask (1994) come from Jim Carrey’s over-the-top performance as the manic, green-faced alter ego of mild-mannered Stanley Ipkiss. These lines have become pop culture staples—frequently memed, quoted on social media, and ranked on sites like Ranker, IMDb, and Screen Rant.Here are the top ones, based on how often they’re cited across fan lists, Wikiquote, and voting platforms (with approximate rankings from aggregated sources):

1. “S-ssss-ssss-sssss-smokin’!”
   The Mask’s signature catchphrase, exclaimed while checking himself out in the mirror after transforming. It’s the most repeated line in the film and was improvised by Carrey (originally scripted as “Snazzy!”).
2. “Ooh, somebody stop me!”
   Shouted during chaotic rampages, like the bank heist or club scenes. Often tops “best quotes” lists for capturing the character’s wild energy.
3. “It’s party time! P-A-R-T-Y? Because I gotta!”
   The Mask’s hype-up chant before hitting the town. A fan favorite for its playful spelling and infectious vibe.
4. “You were good, kid, real good. But as long as I’m around, you’ll always be second best, see?”
   Delivered to villain Dorian Tyrell after a showdown, in a gritty mobster voice. A classic taunt that’s pure Carrey flair.
5. “That’s a spicy meatball!”
   The Mask’s Italian-accented quip after swallowing a bomb and burping out the explosion. Perfect for spicy food memes.
6. “Look, Ma, I’m roadkill!”
   After getting flattened by a steamroller, popping back up like a cartoon. Iconic for its Looney Tunes absurdity.
7. “Our love is like a red, red rose… and I am a little thorny.”
   The Mask’s poetic (and cheesy) pickup line to Tina. Romantic yet hilariously off-kilter.
8. “Hold me closer, Ed, it’s getting dark… Tell Auntie Em to let Old Yeller out… Tell Tiny Tim I won’t be coming home this Christmas… Tell Scarlett I do give a damn!”
   The over-the-top “death” scene parodying classic films, complete with Oscar acceptance. Peak comedy gold.
9. “Hold onto your lug nuts—it’s tiiiiime for an overhaul!”
   Said while revving up to fight thugs, in full mechanic mode. One of the film’s most energetic one-liners.
10. “We all wear masks… metaphorically speaking.”
    Dr. Arthur Neuman’s (Ben Stein) line about the mask’s symbolism. A meta touch that’s stuck with fans.

These quotes endure because they blend Carrey’s physical comedy with sharp writing—many still get dropped in everyday convos or viral clips. If you’re rewatching, the “Coco Bongo” scenes are quote central!

It Started as a Gory Comic Book: The film is based on Dark Horse Comics’ The Mask, created by Mike Richardson, Doug Mahnke, and John Arcudi. In the comics, the mask turns wearers into homicidal maniacs who chop people up with axes—super violent and R-rated. The movie flipped it to goofy mischief to appeal to families.

It Was Almost a Horror Movie: Director Chuck Russell (known for A Nightmare on Elm Street 3) originally pitched it as a straight-up scary flick, like a Nightmare sequel with a mask-maker creating zombie teens from corpses. Jim Carrey’s casting pivoted it to comedy.