Finding Dory (2016): Iconic Dialogues, Powerful Quotes, and Unforgettable Facts

Finding Dory In Pixar’s heartfelt sequel Finding Dory (2016), the forgetful yet lovable blue tang fish, Dory, embarks on a journey to reunite with her long-lost parents. Despite her short-term memory loss, she begins recalling fragmented childhood memories, leading her, Marlin, and Nemo to the Marine Life Institute in California. Along the way, Dory befriends a grumpy but resourceful octopus named Hank, who reluctantly helps her navigate the facility. As she follows the trail to her past, Dory’s resilience and unwavering optimism prove that disabilities do not define one’s capabilities. The film beautifully balances humor, adventure, and emotion, delivering an inspiring message about self-acceptance and perseverance. With stunning animation, a strong supporting cast of quirky sea creatures, and a touching reunion, Finding Dory captures the same magic as its predecessor while offering a fresh and emotionally resonant story about family, belonging, and the power of determination.

"Just keep swimming."

This mantra serves as a reminder to persist through life's challenges. It symbolizes resilience and the importance of continuing forward even when the path is unclear.

"What if I forget you? Would you ever forget me?"

This quote speaks to the fear of losing memories and connections with loved ones, emphasizing the importance of cherishing relationships and moments.

"I don't know why I thought I could do this."

Reflects self-doubt and the common human experience of questioning one's capabilities, encouraging self-reflection and perseverance.

"When something's too hard, there are always other ways to solve it."

This highlights the power of creativity and problem-solving, reminding us that there are multiple paths to achieving goals and overcoming obstacles.

"There's always another way."

Encourages flexibility and adaptability, promoting an open-minded approach to life's unpredictable nature.

"I've lost everything. But it’s okay, because I found everything else."

Illustrates the idea of finding new beginnings and opportunities in the face of loss, emphasizing gratitude and optimism.

"You can't let fear stop you from doing the thing you love the most."

A powerful message about overcoming fear to pursue passions and dreams, advocating for courage and self-belief.

"Sometimes you have to dig deep inside yourself to solve your problems."

Encourages introspection and self-discovery as tools for personal growth and problem-solving.

"You know, something really bad was about to happen, but then there was a clam and it was over."

Highlights the unpredictable nature of life, suggesting that unexpected solutions can arise when least expected.

"I remembered something! That’s not possible, is it? Okay, is it like a picture in your head and then you think, I’ve seen this before? I just used the word ‘before’ which means I’m remembering something."

This captures the excitement and wonder of memory recovery, symbolizing hope and the power of the mind.

"Your family is out there somewhere, Dory. You have to be brave."

Speaks to the courage required in searching for one's roots and identity, motivating us to face fears for the sake of personal discovery.

"What is so great about plans? I never had a plan. Did I plan to lose my family? No!"

Questions the rigidity of planning, suggesting that life’s spontaneity can lead to unexpected joys and experiences.

"I can do this. I can do this! I’m okay. I’m okay."

Reflects self-encouragement and the importance of positive affirmations in building confidence and overcoming anxiety.

"You don't have to remember everything, you just have to remember you can do it."

Focuses on self-belief and the importance of trusting one's abilities over retaining every detail, promoting confidence.

"The best things happen by chance because that’s life."

Emphasizes the beauty of serendipity and the idea that some of life's most meaningful moments are unplanned.

"I suffer from short-term memory loss. It runs in my family... at least, I think it does."

Touches on the theme of self-acceptance and humor in dealing with personal challenges, encouraging a positive outlook.

"I know you can do it. I know you can."

Shows the power of encouragement and belief in others, highlighting the importance of support systems.

"I can't see! I can't see! I think I'm going blind! (pause) Oh! Hey, look... an oyster!"

Illustrates how fear can cloud perception, reminding us to stay calm and look for opportunities in moments of panic.

"You might let someone down if you don't do what they say, but you'll let yourself down if you don't do what you know is right."

Encourages integrity and following one's conscience, even when faced with external pressures to conform.

"We swim, we swim, we swim."

Reiterates the theme of persistence and resilience, encouraging continuous effort and movement forward in life.

Ellen DeGeneres' Long Wait

Ellen DeGeneres, who voices Dory, had been advocating for a sequel to "Finding Nemo" for over a decade before "Finding Dory" was officially announced.

Animators' Field Trip

To accurately depict the ocean and marine life, the animators took a field trip to the Monterey Bay Aquarium to study fish and sea creatures in their natural habitat.

New Technology for Water Animation

The Pixar team developed a new technology for rendering water, leading to more realistic and visually stunning ocean scenes compared to "Finding Nemo."

Record-Breaking Opening

"Finding Dory" set the record for the highest-grossing opening weekend for an animated film in North America at the time of its release.

Sigourney Weaver's Cameo

Sigourney Weaver makes a humorous cameo as the voice of the Marine Life Institute’s public address system, which becomes a running joke throughout the film.

Hank's Complexity

The character Hank, the septopus (a seven-tentacled octopus), was one of the most complex characters ever created by Pixar, requiring a redesigned animation system for his flexible movement.

Dory's Short-Term Memory Loss

To portray Dory's short-term memory loss accurately, the filmmakers consulted with experts and people who have experienced similar memory challenges.

Sequel's Environmental Message

The film subtly addresses environmental issues, such as pollution and the treatment of marine life in captivity, encouraging audiences to consider the impact of human actions on the ocean.

Hidden Pizza Planet Truck

The famous Pizza Planet truck, a recurring Easter egg in Pixar films, can be spotted in the background of the Marine Life Institute's quarantine area.

Original "Nemo" Voice Actor Returns

Albert Brooks reprised his role as Marlin, Nemo's father, bringing consistency and familiarity to the sequel despite the time gap between the two films.