#166: JARMUSCH, Jim: Down By Law (1986)

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JARMUSCH, Jim (United States)
Down By Law [1986]
Spine #166
Blu-ray


Director Jim Jarmusch followed up his brilliant breakout film Stranger Than Paradise with another, equally beloved portrait of loners and misfits in the American landscape. When fate brings together three hapless men — an unemployed disc jockey (Tom Waits), a small-time pimp (John Lurie), and a strong-willed Italian tourist (Roberto Benigni) — in a Louisiana prison, a singular adventure ensues. Described by Jarmusch as a "neo-Beat noir comedy," Down by Law is part nightmare and part fairy tale, featuring sterling performances and crisp black-and-white cinematography by the esteemed Robby Müller.

107 minutes
Black & White
Monaural
1:78:1 aspect ratio
Criterion Release 2012
Director/Writer



Film Rating (0-60):

60

The Extras

The Booklet

Eight-page wraparound featuring an essay by Luc Sante.

Commentary

None.

Audio interview

With Jarmusch from 2002.
Interview

With director of photography Robby Müller from 2002.
Footage

From the 1986 Cannes Film Festival, including a press conference with Jarmusch and actors Lurie, Benigni, and Braschi, and an interview with Lurie, featuring commentary.
Sixteen outtakes

Music video

For Wait’s cover of Cole Porter’s “It’s All Right with Me,” directed by Jarmusch.
Q&A

With Jarmusch in which he responds to fans’ questions.

Recordings

Of phone conversations between Jarmusch and Waits, Benigni, and Lurie.

Production Polaroids and location stills

Trailer

Isolated music track

Optional French dub track, featuring Benigni

Extras Rating (0-40):

39

60 + 39 =

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