Johnny Dangerously

Johnny Dangerously

Year: 1984

Runtime: 90 min

Language: English

Director: Amy Heckerling

ActionThrillerComedyCrime

In this wild ride of a thriller, Michael Keaton plays Johnny Kelly, a man torn between his wholesome domestic life and his notorious alter ego, Johnny Dangerously. As he juggles his dual identities, Johnny's criminal pursuits fund his brother's law studies, but when Tommy becomes DA, Johnny must use his underworld connections to protect him from a ruthless nemesis.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Johnny Dangerously (1984)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Johnny Dangerously (1984). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

1910, 1935

The movie unfolds primarily in the early 20th century, a time marked by significant social changes and the rise of organized crime in America. The story reflects the societal tensions of the era, offering a comedic yet insightful look at the lengths one might go to for family. By returning to 1935, the tale encapsulates a moral lesson on the consequences of crime and the redemption that comes with genuine love and loyalty.

Location

New York City

New York City serves as a bustling backdrop for Johnny Kelly's transformation from an innocent newsboy to a notorious crime lord. Known for its diverse culture and relentless ambition, NYC in the early 1900s also presented a juxtaposition of vibrant life and the underbelly of organized crime. The city's chaotic streets reflect the tumultuous journey of its characters, especially within the pet shop where the story begins.

🌆 City 🏙️ Urban Life 🐾 Pet Shop

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:08

Main Characters – Johnny Dangerously (1984)
Meet the key characters of Johnny Dangerously (1984), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Johnny Kelly / Johnny Dangerously (Michael Keaton)

Johnny Kelly begins as a scrappy newsboy with dreams to escape crime, but his dedication to family leads him down a path of infamy. Full of charm and wit, Johnny embodies the conflict of maintaining his secret life as a notorious criminal while striving for the approval of his family. His evolution captures the essence of a man torn between love and lawlessness.

👮‍♂️ Criminal ❤️ Family Man 🎭 Charismatic

Ma Kelly (Maureen Stapleton)

Ma Kelly is a resilient and caring mother, tirelessly working to provide for her family after her husband's execution. Her unyielding support for Johnny and Tommy showcases her unwavering love, often sacrificing her own well-being for their futures. She represents the emotional anchor in the midst of chaos, adding depth to Johnny's motivations.

👩‍👦 Motherly 😌 Supportive 💪 Resilient

Tommy Kelly (Griffin Dunne)

Tommy Kelly, Johnny's younger brother, is an ambitious law student who dreams of a respectable life, contrasting sharply with Johnny's criminal undertakings. His aspirations for a legal career symbolize hope and the desire for a better life, while his eventual clash with Johnny highlights the tension between familial love and individual ambition. He seeks to uphold justice while grappling with the shadow of his brother's actions.

📚 Law Student 🤔 Idealistic 👫 Brotherly

Jocko Dundee (Peter Boyle)

As a local crime boss, Jocko Dundee plays a pivotal role in Johnny's descent into the world of crime. Charismatic yet ruthless, Dundee represents the alluring yet dangerous side of organized crime, tempting Johnny with promises of power and wealth. His presence serves as a catalyst, pushing Johnny out of his comfort zone and into a life he initially intended to avoid.

🕵️‍♂️ Crime Boss 🌪️ Ruthless 🎩 Charismatic

Lil Sheridan (Marilu Henner)

Lil Sheridan is the romantic interest who brings warmth and light into Johnny's chaotic world. Her flirtation with Johnny highlights the personal stakes of his dangerous lifestyle while being both charming and supportive. Lil adds an essential layer of emotional connection and serves as a reminder of what Johnny risks losing while trying to navigate crime.

💖 Romantic Interest 😇 Supportive 🎉 Charming

Burr (Danny DeVito)

Burr is a disapproving district attorney who poses a significant threat to Johnny's criminal enterprise. His relentless pursuit of justice creates considerable tension, representing the law's moral stance against crime. His character adds an element of danger, forcing Johnny to confront the consequences of his choices.

⚖️ District Attorney 😠 Antagonist 💼 Lawful

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:08

Major Themes – Johnny Dangerously (1984)
Explore the central themes of Johnny Dangerously (1984), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

💔 Family Loyalty

At its heart, the film emphasizes the importance of family and loyalty amidst the chaos of crime. Johnny's actions are largely driven by his desire to support his mother and brother, showcasing the lengths one will go to protect loved ones. The contrast between his double life as a crime lord and his family's perception of him highlights the tension between personal ambition and familial duty.

⚖️ Justice and Morality

The film explores themes of justice with Johnny's transformation into 'Johnny Dangerously' leading him through moral dilemmas. His journey illustrates the blurred lines between right and wrong, especially as crime becomes a means to achieve noble ends. The climax raises questions about the legal system, pointing to the notion that true justice can sometimes be thrust upon the individual through unexpected turns of fate.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:08

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