Behind the line
What it means
Our interpretation.
Two words from a man who dislikes children, put to a man with three kids and a string of marriages. Malcolm's single-word reply is one of the film's best quiet jokes, and it sums up the character before the chaos theory pays off. The exchange is the soft side of Grant and Malcolm's rivalry, before the island makes them allies.
Context reviewed
In context
Spoilers for Jurassic ParkShow the scene
Jurassic Park (1993), during the park tour. In the electric Explorer on the ride back to the visitor centre, Alan Grant and mathematician Ian Malcolm talk about children. Grant is surprised to learn Malcolm has three of his own, and asks whether he is married. Malcolm answers with a one-word joke about how often. Grant, already irritated that Malcolm has been flirting with his partner Ellie Sattler, takes the measure of him, and the rivalry between the two men is set up before the Tyrannosaurus breaks out.
Sources (1)
- Jurassic Park Wiki: Alan GrantFilm appearance section, the ride back to the Visitor CenterReference checked
Context reviewed
