O Brother, Where Art Thou?

O Brother, Where Art Thou?

Year: 2000

Runtime: 106 min

Language: English

Directors: Ethan Coen, Joel Coen

AdventureComedyCrimeMusic

During the Depression, three escaped convicts, Ulysses, Delmar, and Pete, find themselves on a chaotic journey through Mississippi. Driven by the hope of finding a hidden treasure, the unlikely trio faces numerous obstacles and encounters a cast of eccentric locals. Their pursuit of freedom and fortune leads to a series of misadventures and humorous situations as they navigate the challenges of the era.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline – O Brother, Where Art Thou? (2000)

Trace every key event in O Brother, Where Art Thou? (2000) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

Escape from Chain Gang

Ulysses Everett McGill, along with his companions Delmar and Pete, makes a daring escape from a chain gang in rural Mississippi. This event signifies the start of their unpredictable journey during the Great Depression.

1937 Mississippi
2

A Cryptic Prediction

The trio encounters a venerable blind man who provides a cryptic prediction about their quest for treasure, suggesting that they may find something unintended along the way. This foreshadowing sets the tone for the unpredictability of their adventure.

3

Visit to Hogwallop's Home

They receive a warm welcome at Pete's cousin Washington Hogwallop's home. Their stay is cut short when Sheriff Cooley arrives, and Hogwallop's son heroically helps them escape as the house goes up in flames.

Hogwallop's Home
4

Joining the Baptism

While wandering, Pete and Delmar impulsively join a religious baptism happening in a river, much to the dismay of Everett. This moment illustrates the contrasting beliefs and dynamics within the group.

River
5

Meeting Tommy Johnson

The group meets the young musician Tommy Johnson, who claims to have sold his soul to the devil for his musical talent. His intriguing story adds depth to their journey and leads them to an unexpected musical performance.

6

Performing as the Soggy Bottom Boys

In a stroke of luck, they perform as the 'Soggy Bottom Boys' at a local radio station. The success garners them $40, providing a temporary boost to their fortunes while keeping their identities hidden.

Local Radio Station
7

Split from Tommy

As they enjoy their brief success, Sheriff Cooley closes in on them, forcing them to part ways with Tommy. This marks the beginning of heightened dangers in their journey.

8

Encounter with George 'Babyface' Nelson

The group crosses paths with the notorious robber George 'Babyface' Nelson. This unexpected encounter propels them into another heist, further complicating their already tumultuous adventure.

9

The Sirens by the River

They encounter three alluring sirens by the river, which ultimately leads to Pete's mysterious disappearance. Delmar's belief that the sirens transformed Pete into a toad highlights the whimsical nature of their experiences.

River
10

Meeting Big Dan Teague

Big Dan Teague, a one-eyed Bible salesman, swindles Everett and Delmar, taking advantage of their naivety. This encounter underscores the dangers of trust amid their journey.

11

Reconnecting with Penny

Everett attempts to reconnect with his estranged wife Penny but finds her engaged to another man. This bittersweet moment deepens his emotional struggle and shows the costs of his adventurous life.

Everett's Hometown
12

Pete's Betrayal

The trio reunites with Pete, who reveals he was coerced into betraying them by Sheriff Cooley. This admission creates moral complexities and reflects the pressures faced under oppressive circumstances.

13

Ku Klux Klan Rally

The group disguises themselves to infiltrate a KKK rally to aid their friend Tommy. This dangerously courageous decision leads to a chaotic confrontation, further escalating their predicaments.

14

The Political Fundraiser

During a political fundraiser, the 'Soggy Bottom Boys' perform again, gaining recognition from the audience. This performance acts as a turning point, culminating in cheers and an official pardon from Governor Pappy O'Daniel.

Political Fundraiser
15

Final Reunion and Reflection

In a climatic conclusion, Penny reveals her longing for the original wedding ring, leading to a poignant reunion. As the valley floods, Everett reflects on fate, love, and the unpredictable nature of their journey.

Flooded Valley

Last Updated: November 08, 2024 at 00:59

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O Brother, Where Art Thou? Summary

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O Brother, Where Art Thou? Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in O Brother, Where Art Thou?

Discover the characters, locations, and core themes that shape O Brother, Where Art Thou?. Get insights into symbolic elements, setting significance, and deeper narrative meaning — ideal for thematic analysis and movie breakdowns.

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