The Jerk

The Jerk

Year: 1979

Runtime: 94 min

Language: English

Comedy

A naive and sheltered man named Navin Johnson, raised in a family he doesn't remember, embarks on a journey of self-discovery and unexpected fortune. Rising from poverty through a series of unusual and often hilarious inventions, he experiences the highs and lows of newfound prosperity. Along the way, he finds romance with a spirited motorcycle rider and encounters dangerous adversaries in a series of increasingly absurd situations. Ultimately, he must confront the question of whether his success is sustainable or a fragile illusion.

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Timeline & Setting – The Jerk (1979)

Explore the full timeline and setting of The Jerk (1979). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The movie reflects a timeless narrative focusing on the journey of self-discovery and the search for meaning in life. Though it evokes themes of the past, particularly through folk music, it resonates with the overarching human experience of love and loss, making it relatable across generations.

Location

Los Angeles, St. Louis

The film primarily takes place in Los Angeles and St. Louis. Los Angeles is depicted as a bustling urban environment where Navin starts his journey, living in vulnerability yet harboring dreams. St. Louis serves as a pivotal location symbolizing hope and the quest for identity, fostering Navin's emerging passion for music and dance.

🏙️ City 🎺 Music 🎪 Carnival

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:39

Main Characters – The Jerk (1979)

Meet the key characters of The Jerk (1979), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Navin Johnson (Steve Martin)

Navin Johnson is a quirky and naive character with a heart full of dreams. His journey from homelessness to wealth and back again showcases his innocence and resilience. Through his humorous misadventures and relationships, he illustrates the complexities of human desire and the search for belonging.

🎭 Protagonist 💔 Romantic 💡 Innovator

Patty Bernstein (Bernadette Peters)

Patty Bernstein is a daring and formidable woman who becomes the object of Navin's affections. Her confidence and strength contrast sharply with Navin's naivety. As a character, she embodies both the allure and challenges of love, pushing Navin to grow and confront his shortcomings.

❤️ Love Interest 🎪 Performer 🌟 Confident

Stan Fox (Dick Anthony Williams)

Stan Fox is an eccentric inventor who sees potential in Navin. With a blend of humor and sarcasm, he becomes a pivotal figure in Navin's journey toward success. His character illustrates the theme of entrepreneurship and the unpredictable nature of success and failure.

🧪 Inventor 😂 Eccentric 📈 Businessman

Marie Kimble (M. Emmet Walsh)

Marie Kimble is a captivating cosmetologist who briefly captures Navin's heart. Her initial attraction to Navin turns into frustration as the reality of their differences becomes apparent. Marie serves as a reflection of the fleeting nature of relationships and the desire for stability.

💕 Romantic Interest 💄 Cosmetologist 😠 Frustrated

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:39

Major Themes – The Jerk (1979)

Explore the central themes of The Jerk (1979), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🎭 Identity

A central theme of 'The Jerk' is the exploration of identity. Navin's journey reflects his quest to understand who he is beyond his humble beginnings. His experiences, challenges, and relationships become stepping stones toward self-acceptance and personal growth.

💔 Love and Heartbreak

The theme of love and heartbreak permeates the film as Navin navigates romantic relationships with Patty and Marie. Each connection offers him lessons on vulnerability, desire, and the pain of unfulfilled expectations, showcasing the complexities of love in the journey of life.

💸 Wealth and Loss

The film also critiques the notions of wealth and loss. Navin's rise to affluence through the Opti-Grab leads to a dramatic downfall, illustrating the transient nature of material success. His eventual return to a simpler life emphasizes the value of family and genuine connections over riches.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 22:39

Unlock the Full Story of The Jerk

Don't stop at just watching — explore The Jerk in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what The Jerk is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

The Jerk Summary

Read a complete plot summary of The Jerk, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

The Jerk Summary

The Jerk Timeline

Track the full timeline of The Jerk with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

The Jerk Timeline

More About The Jerk

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about The Jerk: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About The Jerk

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