DJ, pimp and tourist escape from New Orleans jail. Criterion Collection Year 1986 Video Release 2002 10 22 Studio Image International Genre Comedy MPAA Rating R Color Black and White Runtime 107 Animated Live Action Full Synopsis Director Jim Jarmusch followed up his brilliant breakout Stranger Than Paradise with another, equally beloved portrait of loners and misfits in America. When fate lands three hapless men an unemployed disc jockey Short Cuts' Tom Waits , a small time pimp Fishing with John's John Lurie , and a strong willed Italian tourist Life Is Beautiful's Roberto Benigni in a Louisiana prison, a singular adventure begins. 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 photography by esteemed cinematographer Robby Muller Paris, Texas . Director Jim Jarmusch Cast Jim Jarmusch; Tom Waits; John Lurie; Roberto Benigni; Ellen Barkin; Billie Neal; Rockets Redglare; Vernel Bagneris; Nicoletta Braschi