The Outfit Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A recently released convict decides to take on the mafia because they killed his brother over a bank robbery gone wrong, but instead of just getting revenge, he demands they pay him a quarter of a million dollars… because why not?

🍿 The Outfit: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Release and Revenge

Earl Macklin is released from prison, only to discover his brother Eddie has been murdered. He learns that the Outfit, a powerful criminal organization, was responsible. The reason? Eddie and Earl had unknowingly robbed a bank that was a front for the Outfit’s operations. Now, Earl finds himself a target and sets out for revenge.

Hitting Back at the Outfit

With the help of his friend Cody, Earl begins targeting the Outfit’s various businesses. He demands $250,000 as compensation for his brother’s death and the trouble they’ve caused him. Their methods are direct and ruthless, disrupting the Outfit’s operations and sending a clear message.

Double-Cross and Escalation

Mailer, the head of the Outfit, initially agrees to the demands, but he plans to double-cross Earl. This betrayal leads to a series of escalating confrontations and daring heists. Earl and Cody continue their attacks, becoming a major threat to the Outfit’s stability.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Earl Macklin (Robert Duvall): A recently released convict who seeks revenge on the mob for his brother’s murder and demands financial compensation.
• Mailer (Robert Ryan): The head of ‘The Outfit’ who refuses to meet Macklin’s demands, leading to a bloody conflict.
• Jack Cody (Joe Don Baker): Macklin’s loyal friend and accomplice who assists him in his revenge against the mob.
• Bett Harrow (Karen Black): Macklin’s girlfriend who becomes entangled in the conflict with the Outfit.
• Jake Menner (Timothy Carey): A member of The Outfit who becomes a target of Macklin’s revenge.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Earl Macklin: “Whatever I earn by ripping off the Outfit’s operations in the meantime is just gravy.” – Macklin explains that he is after 250 000 dollars from the Outfit for having killed his brother.
• Mailer: “You think you’re John Dillinger!” – Mailer says this to Macklin when they meet at the horse auction.
• Mailer: “We take in $250 grand by noon on a good day.” – Mailer tries to intimidate Macklin by talking about the Outfit’s wealth.
• Jack Cody: “Getting out’s gonna be a bitch.” – Cody is talking to Macklin, as they are planning an assault on Mailer’s well-guarded home.
• Jack Cody: “Nah! Think I’ll stick around. See how this thing turns out!” – Cody is asked by Macklin to leave the operation, as it is too dangerous. He refuses and stays for the thrill.

💰Box Office

• Budget: N/A
• Domestic Gross: N/A
• Worldwide Gross: N/A

💥 The Outfit Reviews

Personal Review

I remember watching this late one night, and it totally blew me away! Robert Duvall is just so cool as this tough guy, and the way he takes on the mob is awesome. The scene where they rob the poker game is classic, and the ending is pretty sweet too. The film keeps you on edge and I felt like I was there with the character as he navigated those dangerous streets.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of 1970s crime thrillers”
  • “Robert Duvall and Joe Don Baker fans”
  • “Those who appreciate gritty, realistic action films”
  • “Viewers interested in neo-noir films”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Violence”
  • “Strong language”
  • “Brief depictions of violence against women”

Professional Reviews

• The Wrap: “A taut and gripping crime thriller that eschews flashy style for a grounded, realistic portrayal of violence and betrayal. Duvall’s performance is a masterclass in understated intensity, making you believe every punch and every decision.
• TV Shows Ace: “Robert Duvall excels in this gritty, action-packed crime thriller. Its vintage style blends crime and action. The film is fast-paced and intense, following an ex-con’s quest for revenge against a ruthless mob. A must-see for fans of classic crime films.
• Original: ““The Outfit” is a prime example of 70’s neo-noir. It features cool action without the heavy handedness of modern films. Duvall and Baker shine, while the script keeps you engaged.

Audience Reactions

Robert Duvall’s intense performance made the movie gripping and believable.: Viewers praised the film’s gritty realism and hard-boiled action.

Fans loved the film’s simple, direct storytelling.: Most viewers agreed that the no-frills approach added to the film’s impact.

Overall Consensus: A solid, gritty crime thriller with great performances and hard-hitting action, well-regarded for its realistic portrayal of crime and revenge.

Awards

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “Director John Flynn originally wrote the novel, on which the film is based, as a period piece set in the 1940s, hence the film noir veterans in the cast (Elisha Cook Jr., Richard Jaeckel, Marie Windsor, and Jane Greer).”
• “The studio deemed a period piece too expensive and superficially updated the script, making World War II vets into Vietnam vets, and adding Robert Ryan, Karen Black, and Sheree North to the cast.”

🖥️ How to Watch The Outfit?

As of October 2024, “The Outfit” (1973) is available for rent or purchase on various digital platforms. You can find it on Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, and Vudu. Check your local listings for potential streaming availability through subscription services. Physical copies on DVD and Blu-ray are also available from major retailers and online marketplaces such as Amazon.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed The Outfit, you might like these similar films:

• Point Blank (1967): Features a protagonist seeking revenge against a criminal organization that wronged him, with a similar hard-boiled and relentless tone.
• Charley Varrick (1973): Similar plot element of unintentionally robbing a bank with mob ties, leading to conflict with a powerful criminal organization.
• The Getaway (1972): Features a protagonist seeking revenge against a criminal organization that wronged him, with a similar hard-boiled and relentless tone.
• Payback (1999): A modern neo-noir revenge film with a similar storyline of a criminal seeking retribution against a larger organization.

🛒 The Outfit Related Products

• The Outfit [Blu-ray]: High-definition Blu-ray transfer of this classic neo-noir crime film. Great for collectors and fans of the genre.
• Donald Westlake’s Parker Series: The Outfit (Kindle Edition): Read the original novel by Donald E. Westlake (writing as Richard Stark) that inspired the film. Experience the raw, hard-boiled story in its purest form.
• Classic Crime Movie Poster: The Outfit (Robert Duvall): A high-quality reproduction of the original movie poster, perfect for decorating your home theater or office. Showcase your love for classic crime films.
• The Outfit T-Shirt – Robert Duvall Classic: Show your appreciation for this awesome flick with a high quality, comfortable tee shirt

🎧 Soundtrack

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

• “Your Guess Is Just As Good As Mine” – performed by Steve Gillette and Jeremy Joe Kronsberg
• “Jerry Fielding’s Original Score” – performed by Jerry Fielding

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

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Robert Duvall’s Favorite Role Of All Time

Did you know Robert Duvall has a favorite role of all time? It’s super interesting to hear him talk about it; it really makes you appreciate his performances even more!

✨ Rate