The iconic line “Catherine Zeta-Jones, she dips beneath the lasers” from Comedy Central’s Workaholics isn’t just a random joke. It’s a direct reference to Catherine Zeta-Jones’s memorable laser-dodging scene in the 1999 heist film Entrapment. This article explores the connection between the quote, Zeta-Jones’s movie role, and how it even inspired a spin-off movie.
The Entrapment Scene That Inspired Workaholics
In Entrapment, Catherine Zeta-Jones plays Virginia “Gin” Baker, a master thief who teams up with seasoned con artist Robert “Mac” MacDougal, played by Sean Connery. One of the film’s most famous scenes involves Gin navigating a complex network of laser beams to steal a valuable mask. Her agile movements and precision as she dips and dives under the lasers became instantly iconic.
The Workaholics quote, uttered by Adam DeVine’s character in the Season 1 episode “Office Campout,” directly pays homage to this scene. The episode features the three main characters, Blake, Adam, and Anders, attempting to survive a night in their office building, imagining elaborate security systems, which triggers Adam’s “Catherine Zeta-Jones” line. The seemingly random reference is a perfect example of Workaholics’ signature humor: absurdist, yet grounded in pop culture nostalgia.
From Office Campout to Game Over, Man!
The “Office Campout” episode didn’t just deliver a memorable Catherine Zeta-Jones reference; it also served as the inspiration for the Netflix action-comedy Game Over, Man!, starring the Workaholics trio. Blake Anderson, one of the show’s creators and stars, has stated that the episode’s blend of action and comedy, with the characters facing a perceived threat in a familiar setting, sparked the idea for the movie.
Both “Office Campout” and Game Over, Man! feature the three friends facing extraordinary circumstances in a confined environment. They rely on their camaraderie and often ill-conceived plans to overcome obstacles. The “Office Campout” episode can be seen as a prototype for the film, exploring themes of friendship, resourcefulness, and the humor found in facing unexpected danger.
The Lasting Impact of a Pop Culture Reference
The “Catherine Zeta-Jones lasers” quote from Workaholics demonstrates the show’s clever use of pop culture references to create comedic moments. It’s a testament to the enduring impact of Entrapment‘s iconic laser scene and Catherine Zeta-Jones’s performance. Furthermore, the quote’s connection to the “Office Campout” episode and its influence on Game Over, Man! highlights how a single line can spark creative inspiration and lead to larger projects. The seemingly random reference has become a significant part of Workaholics’ legacy, connecting the show to a broader cultural landscape.
