What used to be not-so-private jokes between movie fans now seems to be public knowledge. I have drawn great humor in the past from blurting out random movie quotes in order to generate laughs from my closest and rather cinema-sophisticated friends. My ability to pull out the most obscure, yet somewhat notable movie quote earned me a diagnosis of ‘movie Tourette syndrome’ from my wife. I am proud of that.

The growing (despite what they say) economy and casual work environment has fostered a generation where wearing t-shirts has become the norm. We’re not talking typical gym-class shirts, but rather very expressive garmets featuring vibrant, eye-catching expressions. The novelty t-shirt ranges in color, fabric and lets the wearer generate a laugh by exposing a colorful, sometimes even off-color depiction to their friends and co-workers. The most abundant form of ‘expression’ on these shirts seems to center around movie quotes and references.

And so I find myself feeling a bit torn between “I’ve really got to buy one” to “our secret is out” when I see t-shirts featuring some of my favorite movie quotes.

Like this gem from Billy Madison…

Or this one from Anchorman…

And this one from Back to the Future which I actually want to get…

Lastly, another one from Back to the Future which I still can’t believe exists (seriously, how is this a shirt?)…

There are hundreds out there. If you’ve got a favorite one out there, let me know. I think I need to point out that most of these shirts sell for around $20, which is pretty pricey. I suppose if your work culture reflects it, you might as well wear something that makes others smile.