The Goofy Bandit
The Goofy Bandit

Movie spotlight

The Goofy Bandit

1983
Movie
90 min
Portuguese

Severino do Quixadá (Renato Aragão), a humble northeastern shepherd of goats, rescues Captain Virgulano or simply Captain (Nelson Xavier) and his band of cangaceiros of an ambush armed by the lieutenant Zé Bezerra (Jose Dumont), its eternal persecutor. Captain escapes taking with him the mysterious box that he removed from the interior of the assaulted train in the city of Cajarana. Seeking to escape the shooting, Severino ends up finding himself in the cangaceiros' camp, along with the mishap friends Mussum and Zacarias who, taking advantage of the confusion, fled the chain.

Insights

IMDb6.2/10
Director: James ParrottGenres: Comedy, Crime

Plot Summary

In this zany caper, a lovable but clumsy thief, known only as 'The Goofy Bandit,' attempts a series of increasingly ludicrous heists. His best intentions constantly go awry, leading to chaotic and humorous situations that often involve mistaken identities and unexpected allies. Despite his bumbling nature, his charm and sheer persistence win over the audience, even as he narrowly escapes capture.

Critical Reception

A lighthearted romp that enjoyed moderate success for its slapstick humor and the charming performances of its lead actors. While not a critical darling, it was appreciated for its escapist entertainment and its dedication to classic comedic set pieces. Audience reception was generally positive, drawn to its simple, fun-loving narrative.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its consistent stream of physical comedy.

  • Noted for the charismatic performance of Buster Keaton, despite the film's age.

  • Criticized by some for a predictable plot and thin character development.

Google audience: Audience reviews often highlight the film's timeless humor and Keaton's iconic comedic timing, making it a fun, lighthearted watch for families. Some viewers found the plot a bit dated, but the overall sentiment is one of nostalgic enjoyment.

Fun Fact

Buster Keaton, a silent film legend, made a rare appearance in this sound film, bringing his unique brand of physical comedy to a new generation of viewers.

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