Miami Blues

Frederick J. Frenger Jr., known as Junior, is released from a California prison, ready to re-enter society. His past as a violent sociopath and thief lingers over him as he seeks new opportunities in Miami.

Upon arriving in Miami, Junior steals luggage at the airport, inadvertently causing the death of a Hare Krishna by breaking his finger. This act of violence sets off a series of events that will unravel his life further.

Junior checks into a hotel and begins a romantic relationship with Susie Waggoner, a part-time prostitute who remains unaware of his dark past. Their relationship starts off blissfully as they share hopes for a better future together.

One evening, while Susie enjoys a relaxing bath and writes a haiku, Junior decides to break into a neighboring apartment. He steals significant items like a handgun and coin collection while reflecting on his criminal life through poetry.

Detective Sgt. Hoke Moseley arrives at Junior and Susie's residence, investigating the Hare Krishna murder. During a shared meal, he subtly hints at suspecting Junior's involvement in criminal activities, putting Junior on edge.

Fearing arrest, Junior retaliates by breaking into Moseley's home the next day. He violently assaults the detective, stealing his gun, badge, and dentures, and begins impersonating a police officer to further his criminal exploits.

Junior showcases his audacity by breaking up robberies and pocketing the stolen goods while passing himself off as a police officer. He attempts to lecture criminals on their wrongdoings, but irony ensues when he gets hit by a truck in the process.

After being injured, Junior shares his frustrations with Susie, lamenting that his attempts to live a straight life have made him weak. This moment brings them closer, even as it reveals the cracks in their relationship.

Detective Moseley cleverly investigates and tracks down Susie through utility accounts in her name. He feigns a chance encounter at the grocery store, revealing unsettling truths about Junior that unsettle her.

Susie's attempt at baking a pie goes awry, and though Junior pretends to appreciate it, his true feelings show through. This moment becomes a metaphor for their relationship, highlighting the deception within.

Pressured by his violent tendencies, Junior forces Susie to drive him to a pawn shop. In a chaotic confrontation with the pawnbroker's bodyguard, he commits murder and suffers serious injuries when the bodyguard retaliates.

As Junior returns to the car severely injured, Susie's horror at his actions reaches its peak. She drives off in panic, unable to accept the reality of his violent life and the blood on his hands.

In a climactic showdown at Junior's home, Sgt. Moseley confronts him about his actions. In self-defense, Moseley fatally shoots Junior, who delivers a darkly humorous last comment referencing Susie's loyalty.

As the police investigation unfolds, Susie arrives at the scene where Junior was shot. Despite Junior's violent past, she defends him to Moseley, claiming he treated her kindly and never harmed her, showcasing her conflicted feelings.