Original artwork, not a still
Shall we shag now or shall we shag later?
Behind the line
What it means
Our interpretation.
Austin is a 1960s swinger dropped into the 1990s who still believes every line is smooth. The question is bold, polite and ridiculous at once, put to a woman who has just said they are only pretending. Fans quote it as the model of the over-eager chat-up, and the word "shag" became the franchise's calling card, down to the title of the second film.
Context reviewed
In context
Spoilers for Austin Powers: International Man of MysteryShow the scene
In Las Vegas, Austin and Vanessa Kensington have followed the trail to Alotta Fagina and are posing as a married couple on holiday. In their hotel suite, Austin asks which side of the bed she wants; she tells him he is sleeping on the sofa and reminds him that they share a room only to keep up the cover story. Austin tries the charm instead: "Shall we shag now, or shall we shag later?" He then lists how he likes to get ready, before admitting he is only trying to get a rise out of her, and suggests they unpack.
Sources (2)
- Springfield! Springfield!: Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery scriptLas Vegas hotel suite sceneReference checked
- Wikiquote: Austin Powers: International Man of MysteryAustin Powers sectionReference checked
Context reviewed
