Down by Law Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A DJ, a pimp, and an Italian tourist walk into a prison, and then they just… leave, and one finds love while the others awkwardly part ways.

🍿 Down by Law: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Accidental Incarceration

The film introduces Zack, a down-on-his-luck DJ, and Jack, a small-time pimp. Both are framed for crimes they didn’t commit due to unfortunate circumstances and poor decisions. Zack is offered money to drive a car but is arrested when a body is found in the trunk. Jack is set up during a meeting with a potential ‘worker’ who turns out to be underage.

Cellmates and Escape

Zack and Jack, initially hostile, find themselves sharing a jail cell. Their dynamic shifts with the arrival of Roberto, an optimistic Italian tourist with limited English. Roberto, convicted of manslaughter, becomes a source of both annoyance and unexpected camaraderie. He devises a plan for escape.

The Bayou and Beyond

The trio successfully escapes, though the details of the escape itself are not explicitly shown. They navigate the Louisiana bayou, evading authorities. Their journey tests their bond, marked by bickering and resourcefulness. They eventually encounter a woman named Nicoletta, also Italian, who provides refuge.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Zack (Tom Waits): A down-on-his-luck DJ who gets framed for a crime he didn’t commit.
• Jack (John Lurie): A pimp who is framed by an acquaintance and ends up in jail.
• Roberto (Roberto Benigni): An optimistic Italian tourist imprisoned for manslaughter who befriends Zack and Jack and helps them escape.
• Nicoletta (Nicoletta Braschi): An Italian woman living in Louisiana who offers Roberto refuge and love.
• Laurette (Ellen Barkin): Zack’s girlfriend who kicks him out before his life takes a turn.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Roberto: “It’s a sad and beautiful world.” – Roberto says this upon entering the jail cell, encapsulating his optimistic yet melancholic view of life.
• Roberto: “I scream, you scream, we all scream for ice cream!” – Roberto cheerfully chants this while in prison, demonstrating his naivete and turning a dark situation into a lighthearted moment.
• Jack: “I don’t want no more of your linguini, okay?” – Jack expresses his frustration and cultural differences with Roberto while on the run.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $1.1M
• Domestic Gross: $1.4M
• Worldwide Gross: $1.5M

💥 Down by Law Reviews

Personal Review

I watched this movie late one night, not really knowing what to expect. It completely blew me away! The black and white photography is stunning, and the performances are so raw and real. Roberto Benigni is a comedic genius, and the ending… it’s bittersweet and perfect. It’s a film that stays with you long after the credits roll. I found myself thinking about it for days, and each time I did, I appreciated it more. It’s not an action-packed thriller, but a beautiful, character-driven story that I highly recommend.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of Jim Jarmusch’s films”
  • “Viewers interested in independent cinema”
  • “Those who appreciate black comedy and neo-noir aesthetics”
  • “People who enjoy character-driven stories”
  • “Tom Waits and Roberto Benigni fans”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Mild language”
  • “Suggestive themes”
  • “Brief violence”
  • “Adult situations”

Professional Reviews

• IndieWire: “Jarmusch’s signature minimalist style shines in this black and white gem. The film captures the essence of New Orleans through its characters and atmosphere, creating a unique cinematic experience. Tom Waits, John Lurie, and Roberto Benigni deliver memorable performances.
• The AV Club: “Down by Law excels in its deliberate pacing and quirky humor. The film showcases the unlikely friendship between three very different individuals and celebrates the mundane moments of life. Jarmusch’s unconventional storytelling makes this a true indie classic.
• Slant Magazine: “The black-and-white cinematography adds to the film’s noirish charm, while the soundtrack contributes to its distinct mood. Down by Law is a testament to Jarmusch’s ability to create compelling narratives from seemingly simple premises.

Audience Reactions

Roberto Benigni’s performance is hilarious and heartwarming.: Viewers universally praise the chemistry between the three leads and the film’s quirky humor.

The black and white cinematography is visually striking and adds to the film’s atmosphere.: Many appreciate the artistic and stylistic choices made by Jarmusch, noting the film’s unique visual appeal.

Overall Consensus: Down by Law is a critically acclaimed film praised for its unique style, memorable characters, and quirky humor. It’s a must-see for fans of indie cinema and those who appreciate unconventional storytelling.

Awards

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “The film was shot in stark black and white by cinematographer Robby Müller to emphasize the bleakness and isolation of the characters’ situation.”
• “Roberto Benigni’s dialogue was largely improvised, drawing on his own experiences and observations of American culture.”
• “Tom Waits contributed to the film’s atmosphere not only as an actor but also with his song ‘Jockey Full of Bourbon’ featured on the soundtrack.”

🖥️ How to Watch Down by Law?

Down by Law is available for streaming and purchase on various platforms. Check services like Prime Video, Apple TV, and Google Play Movies for rental or purchase options. Availability may vary depending on your region.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Down by Law, you might like these similar films:

• Stranger Than Paradise (1984): Another Jim Jarmusch film with a similar minimalist style, black and white cinematography, and focus on eccentric characters in mundane situations.
• O Brother, Where Art Thou? (2000): A comedic adventure about escaped convicts on a journey through the American South, sharing a similar theme of unlikely companions finding camaraderie.
• The Killing of a Chinese Bookie (1976): Features a similar blend of crime and character study with a seedy, noir atmosphere.
• Prisoners (2013): Explores the themes of desperation and survival in a bleak, atmospheric setting, although with a more suspenseful, dramatic tone.

🛒 Down by Law Related Products

• Down by Law (The Criterion Collection) [Blu-ray]: A high-quality release with restored footage and bonus features, showcasing the film’s stunning cinematography and Jarmusch’s vision.
• Tom Waits – Rain Dogs (Album): Featuring ‘Jockey Full of Bourbon,’ this album embodies the film’s gritty atmosphere and Waits’s signature sound.
• Poster: Down by Law – Jim Jarmusch: An evocative black-and-white print capturing the film’s iconic imagery and its minimalist aesthetic.
• Roberto Benigni: Life Is Beautiful [DVD]: Explore Benigni’s other critically acclaimed work as director and actor.

🎧 Soundtrack

Down by Law features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Jockey Full of Bourbon” – performed by Tom Waits
• “Main Theme” – performed by John Lurie

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Classic Dave – Roberto Benigni, 9/16/86

Check out this awesome vintage clip of Roberto Benigni talking about ‘Down by Law’! It’s fascinating to see his early thoughts on the movie before he became a huge star. I think it’s a must-see for any fan of his!

✨ Rate