Context

This famous quote is spoken by Cher, played by Alicia Silverstone, in the movie Clueless (directed by Amy Heckerling, 1995).

In Clueless, Tai (played by the late, great Brittany Murphy) is feeling a little jealous of Amber, so she asks Cher if Amber is pretty.

Cher—who is pretty much like "as if"—tells her, "She's a full-on Monet," and Tai is all, like, definition please, so Cher elaborates, saying "It's like a painting, see. From far away it's okay, but up close it's a big ol' mess." 

It's true, too. Send that girl to art school. 

Where you've heard it

This quotable line (of many) from Clueless can be used any time you're critiquing the appearance of someone who tries way too hard.

Pretentious Factor

If you were to drop this quote at a dinner party, would you get an in-unison "awww" or would everyone roll their eyes and never invite you back? Here it is, on a scale of 1-10.

It's a little rude, but Amber deserves it. Use your Clueless quotes wisely, Shmoopers. With great wit comes great responsibility.