Year: 1986
Runtime: 107 min
Language: English
Director: Jim Jarmusch
In the heart of New Orleans, a DJ, a pimp, and an Italian tourist are unexpectedly united after escaping from prison. They must rely on each other as they evade the authorities and explore the city’s hidden corners. Along the way, they encounter colorful characters and face unexpected challenges, forging an unlikely bond amidst the vibrant and sometimes dangerous streets.
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Read the complete plot breakdown of Down by Law (1986), including all key story events, major twists, and the ending explained in detail. Discover what really happened—and what it all means.
The film opens with Zack, an unemployed radio DJ who is perpetually dissatisfied, having just been thrown out of his girlfriend’s apartment. Frustrated and despondent, he drowns his sorrows at a local bar, where he encounters a mob boss who hands him $2000 to drive a “clean car” from Point A (the bar) to Point B (the next city). Unbeknownst to Zack, the trunk contains a dead body. After hitting the road in a drunken haze, he is pulled over by the police, who conduct a search that leads to his immediate arrest.
Meanwhile, we catch a glimpse of Jack, a local pimp, as he attempts to broker a deal with a high-profile client known for his numerous enemies. The tension escalates when Jack receives a call from one of his adversaries, warning him about a girl interested in “working for him.” When Jack arrives at the hotel, he is shocked to discover that the girl is merely a child, revealing that it’s all part of a police sting operation aimed at taking him down.
As the narrative unfolds, we see Zack behind bars, where he meets Jack the pimp. Furthermore, they encounter Roberto, an Italian man serving time for manslaughter. After spending several months in prison, Roberto devises a plan for the trio to escape.
The bulk of the movie follows their thrilling attempts to evade the law, highlighting the dynamics between these three men as they navigate through chaos and desperation, ultimately revealing their fates and the choices they must confront amidst their run from justice.
Last Updated: November 15, 2024 at 17:19
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Track the full timeline of Down by Law with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.
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