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 – The Jerk (1979)

Trace every key event in The Jerk (1979) 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

Introduction of Navin Johnson

We are introduced to Navin Johnson, a homeless man taking refuge in a stairwell in Los Angeles. Portrayed by Steve Martin, Navin shares his life story, filled with vulnerability and hope, drawing the audience into his world.

Los Angeles
2

Navin's Early Years

Navin is revealed to be the adopted son of African American sharecroppers in Mississippi. His formative years are filled with naivety, and a rich cultural background, highlighted by lively folk songs that become the backdrop for his journey.

Mississippi
3

Awakening Passion for Dance

Navin discovers a lively tune on the radio that awakens his innate dance skills. This moment serves as a catalyst for his quest to find his own rhythm in life, prompting him to leave the comforts of his childhood behind.

4

Journey to St. Louis

Fueled by his newfound passion, Navin sets off for St. Louis, the source of the music that inspired him. This journey marks a significant turning point as he leaves home and ventures into the unknown.

St. Louis
5

Adopting Shithead

During his journey, Navin adopts a dog, humorously naming it 'Shithead' after a mix-up at a motel. This bizarre incident adds a layer of humor and companionship to his adventures.

6

Employment at a Gas Station

Upon arriving in St. Louis, Navin finds work as a gas station attendant. However, his clumsiness leads to a major mishap, resulting in catastrophic damage to a local church while he attempts to thwart some thieves.

St. Louis
7

Pursued by a Deranged Individual

Navin becomes the target of a deranged individual who is randomly chosen from a phone book, intent on hunting him down. This adds a layer of tension and absurdity to his already chaotic life.

8

Working with Stan Fox

Navin meets Stan Fox, an eccentric inventor eager to market Navin's innovative eyeglass repair service. This partnership sets the stage for unexpected opportunities and challenges in Navin's life.

9

Life at the Traveling Carnival

Seeking refuge from his pursuer, Navin finds work at a traveling carnival as a weight guesser. There, he becomes infatuated with Patty Bernstein, adding a romantic twist to his adventures.

Traveling Carnival
10

Romance with Marie Kimble

Navin's romantic life becomes complicated as he becomes involved with Marie Kimble, a captivating cosmetologist. However, their passionate connection quickly fades as Marie grows frustrated with Navin's lack of stability.

11

Return to Los Angeles

Heartbroken and disillusioned, Navin, along with Shithead, makes his way back to Los Angeles. This return marks a significant shift as he faces the consequences of his past decisions.

Los Angeles
12

Meeting with the Private Investigator

Upon his return, a private investigator tracking Navin reaches out with a message from Stan Fox. This meeting sets the stage for the final act of Navin's tumultuous journey.

13

The Windfall from the Opti-Grab

Navin is presented with a staggering check for $250,000 from Stan Fox, marking the success of their partnership featuring the Opti-Grab. This moment represents a sudden shift in fortune for Navin.

14

Facing the Lawsuit

Navin's newfound wealth quickly turns sour as he faces a class-action lawsuit from dissatisfied Opti-Grab customers claiming irreversible vision damage. The court's ruling leads to a financial catastrophe, leaving him destitute.

15

Reunion with Adoptive Family

In a surprising twist, Navin's adoptive family arrives to take him in after becoming wealthy from the money he had sent them. This reunion offers Navin a chance for redemption and a return to his roots.

16

Embracing Resilience and Redemption

With his family's support, Navin rediscovers the rhythms of his youth. On the porch surrounded by familiar folk songs, he begins to dance once more, symbolizing his resilience and the harmony he has regained in his life.

Last Updated: November 21, 2024 at 10:02

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The Jerk Summary

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The Jerk Summary

Characters, Settings & Themes in The Jerk

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Characters, Settings & Themes in The Jerk

More About The Jerk

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