Behind the line
What it means
Our interpretation.
It is a sound effect with a personality: a flash of chrome, a wink and a cocky grin in a single syllable pair. The film saves its meaning for later, because the Lightning who says it first is thinking only of himself, and the one who stops saying it has grown up. Fans use it as a cheerful boast, for kids' parties, shirts and toys, and for any victory lap.
Context reviewed
In context
Spoilers for CarsShow the scene
Lightning McQueen's catchphrase in Cars (2006). He says it as he gets set to leave the starting line in the Dinoco 400, and again when he threads the wreckage of a pile-up on a later lap while the crowd chants his name. It is the roar of a rookie who loves the cameras. In Cars 3 (2017) he never says it, as the writers wanted him to take a mentor role. The Pixar Wiki lists it as his catchphrase, and Owen Wilson voices him.
Sources (2)
- Cars (2006) script, springfieldspringfieldOpening race, two occurrencesReference checked
- Lightning McQueen, Pixar WikiTrivia and QuotesReference checked
Context reviewed
