8 Most Iconic Pizza Movies
Pizza is more than just a delicious meal; it’s a cultural icon that has found its way into some of Hollywood’s most memorable scenes. From heartwarming moments to comedic bits, pizza has starred in numerous movies, adding flavor to the narratives. Here’s a look at some of the greatest pizza scenes in Hollywood history.
1. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (1990)
When thinking of pizza in movies, one of the first that comes to mind is the 1990 classic “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.” The crime-fighting, pizza-loving turtles — Leonardo, Michelangelo, Donatello, and Raphael — made pizza synonymous with their underground lair antics. The scene where they eagerly await their pizza delivery, arguing over toppings, is iconic. Michelangelo’s famous line, “Wise men say, ‘forgiveness is divine, but never pay full price for late pizza,’” has become a nostalgic quote for many fans.
2. Home Alone (1990)
In “Home Alone,” pizza plays a pivotal role in Kevin McCallister’s adventure. Left home alone, Kevin orders a cheese pizza just for himself. The scene where he tricks the pizza delivery boy using a movie clip from “Angels with Filthy Souls” is both hilarious and clever. The memorable line, “Keep the change, ya filthy animal,” has since become a part of pop culture lore.
3. Do the Right Thing (1989)
Spike Lee’s “Do the Right Thing” features a pizza parlor at the heart of its narrative. Sal’s Pizzeria serves as a central hub in the Brooklyn neighborhood where the story unfolds. The scene where Buggin’ Out demands that Sal puts pictures of African-Americans on his “Wall of Fame” sparks a heated debate about representation and respect. The pizzeria and its pizza become symbols of cultural pride and community tension.
4. Saturday Night Fever (1977)
“Saturday Night Fever” opens with a classic scene of John Travolta’s character, Tony Manero, strutting down the street with a slice of pizza in hand. This scene, set to the Bee Gees’ “Stayin’ Alive,” perfectly captures the essence of 1970s Brooklyn. Tony’s double-decker pizza slice is as iconic as his white suit and dance moves, making this a memorable pizza moment.
5. Mystic Pizza (1988)
“Mystic Pizza” not only has pizza in its title but also revolves around the lives of three young women working at a pizza parlor in Mystic, Connecticut. The movie highlights the importance of family, friendship, and dreams. The scenes of them working and bonding over pizza in the restaurant create a cozy, heartfelt atmosphere that resonates with viewers.
6. Eat Pray Love (2010)
In “Eat Pray Love,” Julia Roberts’ character, Elizabeth Gilbert, embarks on a journey of self-discovery that takes her to Italy, where she indulges in the country’s cuisine. The scene where she enjoys a Margherita pizza in Naples is a beautiful ode to the joy of food. Elizabeth’s sheer delight and the way she relishes every bite encapsulate the profound pleasure of savoring a well-made pizza.
7. Spider-Man 2 (2004)
In “Spider-Man 2,” Peter Parker works as a pizza delivery boy to make ends meet. The scene where he races through New York City, balancing pizza boxes while swinging between skyscrapers, is thrilling and humorous. His struggle to deliver pizzas on time adds a relatable, everyday challenge to his superhero life.
8. The Net (1995)
Sandra Bullock’s character, Angela Bennett, in “The Net,” portrays a reclusive computer programmer who orders pizza online. This scene was ahead of its time, showcasing the future of online food ordering. It’s a small but notable moment that reflects the technological shifts of the mid-90s.
A story by HOTCRUNCH.co | Makers of Pizza Love | Follow us @hotcrunch.co
