About Bandits

"Bandits" is a lively comedy-crime movie released in 2001, directed by Barry Levinson. The movie centres around the notorious Sleepover Bandits, a couple of criminals who break into bank managers' homes and hold their families hostage before robbing the banks. The movie takes an interesting turn when both bandits fall in love with the same woman they’ve kidnapped.

Making / Production

“Bandits” is a charmingly offbeat movie produced under the banners of Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer and Empire Pictures. Its filming locations included California and Oregon. Barry Levinson, known for his knack for making engaging movies, directed this quirky comedy-drama.

Actors

• Bruce Willis played the role of Joseph (Joe) Blake, the smooth-talking seasoned criminal who is adept at bank robbery. Willis portrayed his double-sided character with a lot of flair and charisma.
• Billy Bob Thornton played Terry Lee Collins, Joe's paranoid hypochondriac partner-in-crime. Thornton's humorous interpretation of the character adds an interesting dimension to the film.
• Cate Blanchett as Kate Wheeler, a bored housewife who becomes the love interest of both Joe and Terry. Blanchett successfully brought out the emotional turmoil of her character.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The scene where Joe and Terry are arguing in the car was largely improvised by Bruce Willis and Billy Bob Thornton.
• Billy Bob Thornton is afraid of antiques - his phobia was written into the script and became a major part of his character.

Awards

The movie was nominated for a number of awards, including the Golden Globe for Best Actor in a Motion Picture Musical or Comedy (Billy Bob Thornton).

Quotes

• "You're just a girl. You don't know what it's like to really suffer."
• "I'm no criminal. I'm an outlaw."

• "Gallows Pole" - Jimmy Page & Robert Plant
• "Just Another" - Pete Yorn
• "Super Sounds" - Oglio