Down by Law (1986)

In the throbbing heart of the city, DJ Zack and hustler Jack find their lives intertwined by the cruel hands of fate. Too cool to be cautious, their laid-back lifestyles land them behind bars, framed for crimes they didn't commit. Trapped within the iron clutches of the prison, they find an unexpected comrade in their cellmate - a quirky Italian optimist named Roberto. With his broken English, Roberto provides a constant source of amusement and frustration, breaking the monotony of their grim surroundings. Roberto, however, is more than just a comic relief. His limited grasp of the English language conceals a valuable secret - a promising escape route from their cold, steel cage. Latching onto this glimmer of hope, the unlikely trio embarks on a daring prison break, their audacious plan fueled by the shared desire for freedom. Their thrilling escape morphs into an extraordinary journey that forms the crux of the story. As they navigate the challenging path to liberty, the film unravels the unlikely camaraderie that forms among them, painting a vivid picture of a shared struggle against adversity. Down by Law explores the fascinating dance between luck, resilience, and the human spirit, in a world where innocence is not always a safeguard against the law.

Down by Law is a comedy movie featuring Tom Waits.

Down by Law is currently streaming on Criterion Channel, Max and Max Amazon Channel.

It is also possible to buy Down by Law on Amazon Video and Apple TV.