Context

This line is from the song "I've Got No Strings," written by Leigh Harline and Ned Washington from the movie Pinocchio (1940).

"I've Got No Strings" is the perfect song for Pinocchio because he literally has no strings. While he's a puppet, the Blue Fairy has started him on his way to becoming a real boy, so he doesn't need strings or sticks to move around like most puppets. Cool, right? Unfortunately, like most kids with a newfound sense of freedom, Pinocchio has started off on the wrong path pretty much immediately. Oh, man.

Pinocchio performs this song in front of an audience at the evil Stromboli's show. See instead of listening to his conscious (i.e. Jiminy Cricket) and going to school, Pinocchio decided it would be way more fun to sing and dance in the puppet show. Naturally, Pinocchio is the star attraction because he doesn't need strings to move around. Of course, this is also the reason Stromboli can never let Pinocchio leave and decides to hold him as prisoner at the end of the night. Luckily, the Blue Fairy comes along and saves his wooden behind yet again.

Where you've heard it

This is probably one of the most memorable songs from Pinocchio, so we're guessing you've heard it anytime people are talking about the little puppet who became a real boy.

Additional Notable References:

• Barbra Streisand recorded a version of "I've Got No Strings," which means you should probably give it a listen.
• The Avengers: Age of Ultron teaser trailer used a slightly creepier version of the song. Guess Ultron is a Disney fan.

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.

Pinocchio might be gullible (like super-duper gullible) but he's definitely not pretentious. Feel free to quote him whenever you like.