The “You don’t say!” meme, as you rightly pointed out, originated from an ancient and primitive form of online communication known as message boards. These message boards were popular platforms for people to discuss various topics, share opinions, and engage in debates. However, as with any online community, there were bound to be individuals who would make foolish or ignorant statements.
To counteract these individuals and dismiss their stupidity, users on these message boards began using the “You don’t say!” meme. The main purpose of this meme was to sarcastically express disbelief or mockingly point out the obvious when confronted with a particularly idiotic comment. It was a way to quickly and efficiently dismiss nonsensical or uninformed arguments.
The specific facial expression in the meme, with the head reared back, eyes wide, and the exclamation of “You don’t say!”, was taken from a scene in the 1988 film Vampire’s Kiss. In this scene, the actor Nicolas Cage, known for his eccentric performances, portrays a character who is experiencing a moment of extreme shock or disbelief. The exaggerated expression perfectly captured the sentiment that the meme sought to convey.
The meme quickly gained popularity due to its effectiveness in highlighting the absurdity of certain statements online. It became a go-to response for users who wanted to express their exasperation or amusement at the sheer idiocy they encountered on message boards. Overtime, the meme spread to other online platforms and became a part of internet culture.
The “You don’t say!” meme originated from the need to dispel stupidity on message boards. It utilized a facial expression taken from the 1988 film Vampire’s Kiss, where Nicolas Cage portrays a character experiencing disbelief. The meme’s sarcastic nature and exaggerated expression made it an effective tool for mocking and dismissing foolish comments online.