Lucky Number Slevin (2006)

Last updated:
October 29, 2024

Detailed Summary

Mistaken Identity and the Kansas City Shuffle

The film begins with a narration explaining the Kansas City Shuffle, a term for a type of con. Slevin Kelevra (Josh Hartnett) arrives in New York City and is mistaken for his friend Nick Fisher. Due to a series of unfortunate events, Slevin finds himself caught between two rival crime bosses, The Boss (Morgan Freeman) and The Rabbi (Ben Kingsley).

The Boss’s Debt

The Boss’s men abduct Slevin and bring him to his penthouse. The Boss explains that Nick owes him a significant sum of money. Since he believes Slevin is Nick, he demands that Slevin repay the debt by killing The Rabbi’s son, Yitzchok (Michael Rubenfeld).

The Rabbi’s Demand

Soon after, Slevin is taken by The Rabbi’s men. The Rabbi also believes Slevin is Nick and demands repayment of a debt. Unlike The Boss, The Rabbi is more interested in getting his money back than enforcing a deadly task.

Detective Brikowski’s Investigation

Detective Brikowski (Stanley Tucci) is investigating the recent string of murders related to the gang war. He becomes suspicious of Slevin, complicating Slevin’s efforts to resolve his predicament.

Lindsey’s Assistance

Slevin teams up with his neighbor, Lindsey (Lucy Liu), who becomes intrigued by his situation. Together, they dig into Nick’s disappearance and the root of the conflict between The Boss and The Rabbi.

The Unveiling of Mr. Goodkat

Mr. Goodkat (Bruce Willis), a notorious hitman, is revealed to be pulling the strings behind the scenes. His involvement in the plot becomes clearer as the movie progresses, and his connection to both crime bosses is crucial.

The Kansas City Shuffle Explained

The film’s climax reveals that Slevin and Mr. Goodkat had been working together all along. Slevin is actually the son of a bookie who was killed years ago by The Boss and The Rabbi during a fixed horse race, a setup orchestrated by Mr. Goodkat. Slevin’s entire predicament was a long-con revenge scheme, known as the Kansas City Shuffle, to kill both crime bosses and avenge his father.

The Resolution

In the final scenes, Slevin kills The Boss and The Rabbi with Mr. Goodkat’s help. Detective Brikowski, who also took part in the original crime, meets his end. Slevin’s real name, Henry, comes to light, and he leaves the city with Lindsey after exacting his revenge.

Movie Ending

The film ends with Slevin and Mr. Goodkat discussing the successful execution of their plan. Slevin, now revealed as Henry, has avenged his father’s murder and neutralized all threats. He leaves the city with Lindsey, suggesting a hopeful new beginning.

Are There Post-Credits Scenes?

No, “Lucky Number Slevin” does not have any post-credits scenes.

Type of Movie

“Lucky Number Slevin” is a crime thriller with elements of dark comedy and neo-noir. Its intricate plot and sharp dialogue are hallmarks of the genre.

Cast

Josh Hartnett as Slevin Kelevra / Henry
Bruce Willis as Mr. Goodkat
Morgan Freeman as The Boss
Ben Kingsley as The Rabbi
Lucy Liu as Lindsey
Stanley Tucci as Detective Brikowski
Michael Rubenfeld as Yitzchok

Film Music and Composer

The film’s music is composed by J. Ralph, who provides a score that complements the film’s tone, blending suspense and dark humor.

Filming Locations

Montreal, Quebec, Canada: Many of the film’s interior scenes and urban settings were shot in Montreal.
New York City, New York, USA: Establishing shots and specific scenes were filmed in New York City to maintain the authentic setting.

These locations were essential in creating the film’s authentic urban atmosphere.

Awards and Nominations

While “Lucky Number Slevin” didn’t win major awards, critics praised its screenplay, direction, and the performances of Josh Hartnett, Morgan Freeman, and Ben Kingsley.

Behind the Scenes Insights

The script, written by Jason Smilovic, was on the Black List of the best-unproduced screenplays before being picked up for production.
The title “Lucky Number Slevin” refers to the character’s name and the concept of luck that permeates the film.
Josh Hartnett and Lucy Liu’s on-screen chemistry was a highlight, with many of their scenes featuring improvisation.

Inspirations and References

Film Noir and Crime Thrillers: The movie draws inspiration from classic noir films and crime thrillers, focusing on themes of mistaken identity and revenge.
The Kansas City Shuffle: A real con game that involves misdirection, serving as a central theme in the movie.

Alternate Endings and Deleted Scenes

No widely known alternate endings or significant deleted scenes exist for this film. The final cut tightly edits the movie to maintain its intricate plot.

Book Adaptations and Differences

“Lucky Number Slevin” is an original screenplay and is not based on a book.

Memorable Scenes and Quotes

Key Scenes

Introduction of Mr. Goodkat: The initial narration and Mr. Goodkat’s explanation of the Kansas City Shuffle.
Slevin Meeting The Boss: Slevin’s humorous and tense encounter with The Boss.
The Final Reveal: The climax where the true nature of Slevin’s plan and his real identity are revealed.

Iconic Quotes

“The first time someone calls you a horse, you punch him in the nose. The second time someone calls you a horse, you call him a jerk. But the third time someone calls you a horse, well, then perhaps it’s time to go shopping for a saddle.” – The Rabbi
“I’m just a guy who’s in the wrong place at the wrong time.” – Slevin Kelevra
“A Kansas City Shuffle is when everybody looks right, you go left.” – Mr. Goodkat

Easter Eggs and Hidden Details

The film subtly hints at the recurring theme of the Kansas City Shuffle throughout.
The names of the characters (The Boss, The Rabbi) reflect their archetypal roles in the crime world.

Trivia

The film originally titled “The Wrong Man” changed its name to “Lucky Number Slevin” to better reflect its unique plot.
Bruce Willis took a significant pay cut to be part of the film because he loved the script.
The plot of the film features clever twists and turns, reminiscent of a classic con film.

Why Watch?

“Lucky Number Slevin” is a smart, stylish crime thriller with a compelling plot, witty dialogue, and standout performances. It offers a blend of suspense, humor, and clever twists that keep the audience engaged from start to finish.

Director’s Other Movies

Paul McGuigan (Director):

Gangster No. 1 (2000)
Wicker Park (2004)
Push (2009)
Film Stars Don’t Die in Liverpool (2017)