Heartwarming, sharp-witted, and deeply human, As Good as It Gets (1997) brought audiences a unique romantic comedy with unforgettable performances and quirky charm. Starring Jack Nicholson and Helen Hunt, the film follows the unlikely connection between a misanthropic novelist, a compassionate waitress, and a wounded artist — all learning how to navigate love, pain, and personal growth.
Do you remember the best lines, the tender moments, and the little dog that stole the show? Test your memory with this 10-question trivia quiz and see if you truly know As Good as It Gets — as well as you think you do!
As Good as It Gets Trivia Questions & Answers
Here are the correct answers and detailed explanations for each question from the As Good as It Gets trivia quiz. This romantic dramedy captivated audiences with its honest portrayal of flawed people trying to connect — and the answers below reveal just how layered the story truly is:
1) Who plays the character of Melvin Udall in As Good as It Gets?
Correct Answer: Jack Nicholson
Jack Nicholson won the Academy Award for Best Actor for his role as Melvin Udall, a cranky, obsessive-compulsive writer. His performance walks a fine line between abrasive and endearing, capturing the emotional depth of a character learning how to care.
2) What is Melvin Udall’s profession in the film?
Correct Answer: Novelist
Melvin is a successful romance novelist — ironically so, given his aversion to people and emotion. His job plays into the film’s theme of contradiction: a man who writes love stories but struggles with empathy and real human connection.
3) Which disorder does Melvin suffer from?
Correct Answer: Obsessive-compulsive disorder
Melvin’s behavior is defined by his obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), which manifests in routines like using separate bars of soap, avoiding sidewalk cracks, and bringing his own utensils to the diner. His condition isolates him but also adds depth to his character’s journey of change.
4) Which actress plays Carol Connelly, the waitress?
Correct Answer: Helen Hunt
Helen Hunt delivers a standout performance as Carol, the only waitress willing to serve Melvin. Her strength, vulnerability, and compassion earned her the Academy Award for Best Actress — making As Good as It Gets one of the few films where both leads won Oscars.
5) Why does Carol leave her job at the restaurant temporarily?
Correct Answer: To care for her sick son
Carol’s young son suffers from severe asthma, and his health crises require her full attention. This subplot not only adds emotional weight but also pushes Melvin to step outside his comfort zone and help her by arranging a new doctor.
6) What causes Melvin to gradually change his behavior?
Correct Answer: His feelings for Carol
Melvin’s awkward, genuine affection for Carol is the catalyst for his personal growth. Though resistant at first, he makes efforts to change his routine and behavior — not because he’s forced to, but because he truly wants to be worthy of her time and attention.
7) What is the name of Melvin’s neighbor, the artist who is attacked?
Correct Answer: Simon Bishop
Simon, played by Greg Kinnear, is a kind-hearted gay artist who becomes the victim of a brutal assault. His fragile recovery, emotional vulnerability, and eventual friendship with Melvin form a major arc in the film. Kinnear was nominated for Best Supporting Actor.
8) What kind of dog does Melvin reluctantly end up caring for?
Correct Answer: Brussels Griffon
The tiny Brussels Griffon named Verdell initially belongs to Simon, but Melvin ends up taking care of the dog during Simon’s recovery. At first annoyed, Melvin grows unexpectedly attached — and Verdell becomes both comic relief and a symbol of his softening nature.
9) What compliment does Melvin give Carol that deeply touches her?
Correct Answer: “You make me want to be a better man”
In one of the film’s most iconic and emotionally honest moments, Melvin awkwardly but sincerely tells Carol, “You make me want to be a better man.” It’s the kind of compliment she never expected — and it strikes at the core of the film’s theme: imperfect people trying to improve for someone they care about.
10) Where do Melvin and Carol finally walk together in the end?
Correct Answer: To a bakery
The film closes with a quiet, beautiful moment as Melvin and Carol walk to a bakery together after Melvin surprises her by adjusting his morning routine. It’s a small but powerful symbol of healing, intimacy, and their mutual willingness to grow together.
