Welcoming you to the world of organized crime, speakeasies, and the Prohibition-era, ‘Live by Night’, a novel by Dennis Lehane and a movie directed by Ben Affleck, is an enthralling journey to explore.
The narrative is a compelling blend of historical events and fictional elements, making it an engaging ride for readers and viewers alike.
This article aims to take you through a comprehensive book summary and movie analysis of ‘Live by Night’.
It will also delve into the author and director’s profiles, character descriptions, setting details, the transition from book to movie, and many more intriguing aspects. So, buckle up for this deep dive into the thrilling world of ‘Live by Night’.
Who is Dennis Lehane? Biography and notable works
Dennis Lehane, a renowned American author, is known for his vivid storytelling that often explores complex themes of morality, identity, and the human condition. Born on August 4, 1965, in Boston, Massachusetts, Lehane’s upbringing in the city’s working-class neighborhoods profoundly influenced his writing.
Lehane’s repertoire extends to many notable works, including ‘Mystic River’, ‘Gone, Baby, Gone’, and ‘Shutter Island’, all of which have been adapted into successful movies.
His ability to create authentic characters and gripping narratives has earned him a discerning fanbase and critical acclaim worldwide.
A comprehensive book summary of ‘Live by Night’
‘Live by Night’ is a riveting story set in the Prohibition-era (1920-1933), focusing on the life of Joe Coughlin, a small-time criminal turned powerful mob boss.
Lehane’s narrative begins in Boston, where Joe, the youngest son of a prominent police captain, initiates his life of crime.
As the plot progresses, Joe’s criminal escapades lead him to Ybor City, Tampa, where he becomes a key player in the rum-running business. Amidst the thriving underworld, Joe grapples with love, loss, and the consequences of his choices.
The book captures his tumultuous journey, filled with moral complexities and brutal realities of the mob life.
Notable characters in ‘Live by Night: Who’s who?
‘Live by Night’ teems with intriguing characters, each contributing to the intricate web of the narrative. The protagonist, Joe Coughlin, is a captivating figure whose transformation from a petty thief to a mob boss forms the crux of the story.
Emma Gould, Joe’s first love, is a waitress with dreams bigger than her circumstances. Her relationship with Joe sets the stage for many dramatic events in the plot.
Other important characters include Albert White, Joe’s nemesis and rival gangster, and Graciela Corrales, a Cuban woman who becomes Joe’s partner in both love and business.
When and where ‘Live by Night’ takes place
Set in the 1920s and 1930s, ‘Live by Night’ transports readers to the Prohibition-era, a period marked by the ban on alcohol production, sales, and transportation in the United States. The story unfolds in various locations, starting in Boston and moving to Ybor City, Tampa, and Cuba.
These settings play a significant role in shaping the story’s events and characters. For instance, Boston’s gritty underworld forms the backdrop of Joe’s early life, while Ybor City’s vibrant, multicultural milieu influences his growth as a mob boss.
From page to screen: The transition of ‘Live by Night’ into a movie
Turning Lehane’s gripping novel into a movie was no small feat. Ben Affleck undertook the challenge, serving as the director, screenwriter, and lead actor. Affleck’s adaptation retained the essence of the book while adding a unique cinematic flair.
The movie, released in 2016, effectively captured the atmospheric settings, nuanced characters, and dramatic plot turns of the book.
Despite the narrative complexities, the transition from page to screen was executed adeptly, making ‘Live by Night’ a compelling watch for both book lovers and moviegoers.
Movie summary of ‘Live by Night’
The movie ‘Live by Night’ adheres closely to the book’s plot. It chronicles Joe Coughlin’s journey from being a petty thief in Boston to becoming a formidable figure in Tampa’s underworld. The film vividly portrays the era’s ambiance and the characters’ complexities.
Yet, the movie also introduces some changes. The pacing is more streamlined, and certain events and characters are modified to suit the cinematic narrative. Nevertheless, the film stays true to the book’s spirit, serving as an engaging visual interpretation of Lehane’s story.
The soundtrack of ‘Live by Night’ by Harry Gregson-Williams
Harry Gregson-Williams, a renowned composer, crafted the mesmerizing soundtrack for ‘Live by Night’. The score beautifully complements the movie’s narrative, enhancing the mood and drama of various scenes.
From the haunting melodies that underscore the tense moments to the lively tunes that accompany the bustling Ybor City scenes, the soundtrack significantly contributes to the movie’s overall impact.
Gregson-Williams’ music is indeed a vital element that enriches the cinematic experience of ‘Live by Night’.
Unraveling the ending of ‘Live by Night’: An explanation
The ending of ‘Live by Night’, both in the book and movie, is a poignant culmination of Joe Coughlin’s journey. After facing numerous trials and tribulations, Joe ultimately seeks a life away from crime. He leaves his notorious past behind, striving for redemption and peace.
In the movie, this transition is portrayed through a scene where Joe stands by a beach, looking at the horizon, symbolizing his longing for a new beginning.
The ending encapsulates the essence of ‘Live by Night’, highlighting the transformative power of choices and the possibility of redemption.
Film locations of ‘Live by Night’: A travel guide
While ‘Live by Night’ is mostly set in Boston and Tampa, the movie was filmed in various locations, adding a unique charm to the visual narrative.
These include Lawrence, Massachusetts, which doubled as Boston, and Brunswick, Georgia, which served as a stand-in for Tampa.
Moreover, scenes representing Cuba were filmed in Pasadena, California. So, if you’re a fan wishing to trace the movie’s steps, these locations are worth a visit. Each place adds a distinct flavor to the movie, making ‘Live by Night’ a visual treat.
Dressing up like characters from ‘Live by Night’: Tips for cosplay
If you’re enthusiastic about cosplaying characters from ‘Live by Night’, here are a few tips. Focus on the 1920s fashion, which includes flapper dresses, cloche hats, and tuxedos. For Joe’s look, consider a sharp three-piece suit, a trilby hat, and a vintage pocket watch.
For Emma, a sequined flapper dress, a feathered headband, and a faux fur stole would be perfect. For Graciela, opt for a floral print dress, a wide-brimmed hat, and a beaded necklace. Remember, the key to successful cosplay is attention to detail, so make sure to accessorize appropriately!
Notable quotes from ‘Live by Night’
‘Live by Night’ is replete with memorable quotes that encapsulate the story’s essence. Here are a few:
- “I realized right then that they didn’t have to be. They chose to be. It’s the choices that make us what we are.”
- “I don’t want to be a gangster. I stopped kissing rings a long time ago.”
- “What you put out into this world will always come back to you, but it never comes back how you predict.”
These quotes reflect the characters’ perspectives and the narrative’s central themes, making ‘Live by Night’ a thought-provoking read and watch.
Curiosities about ‘Live by Night’
‘Live by Night’ is a treasure trove of interesting facts and curiosities. For instance, it’s the second novel in Lehane’s Joe Coughlin trilogy, preceded by ‘The Given Day’ and followed by ‘World Gone By’.
Also, Ben Affleck started working on the movie adaptation even before the book was published, indicating his keen interest in the story.
Moreover, the movie was filmed in just 37 days, showcasing the team’s commendable efficiency. Such intriguing tidbits add another layer to the enjoyment of ‘Live by Night’, making it a fascinating exploration for fans.
Parent guide to ‘Live by Night’
As a parent, you might wonder if ‘Live by Night’ is suitable for your children. The book and movie, dealing with organized crime and adult themes, are more suitable for mature audiences. They contain scenes of violence, explicit language, and sexual content.
Therefore, it’s advisable to consider these factors before introducing ‘Live by Night’ to younger readers or viewers.
A parent guide or age rating can provide further guidance in making an informed decision.
Possible remake, sequel, and spin-off of ‘Live by Night’
While there’s no official news about a remake, sequel, or spin-off of ‘Live by Night’, the potential is certainly there. Given that it’s part of a trilogy, adaptations of the remaining books could serve as sequels.
A spin-off focusing on other characters or a remake with a fresh perspective could also be interesting.
However, these possibilities largely depend on the creators and producers’ decisions. For now, fans can only speculate and hope for more adaptations that delve into the captivating world of ‘Live by Night’.
Other media by Ben Affleck
Ben Affleck, besides his work on ‘Live by Night’, has an impressive portfolio as an actor, director, and screenwriter.
His directorial ventures include ‘Gone Baby Gone’, ‘The Town’, and ‘Argo’, the latter winning him an Academy Award for Best Picture.
As an actor, Affleck has starred in numerous successful films like ‘Good Will Hunting’, ‘Pearl Harbor’, and ‘Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice’. His diverse roles and creative endeavors have established him as a prominent figure in Hollywood.
Similar media to ‘Live by Night’
If you enjoyed ‘Live by Night’, you might be interested in similar media. Books like ‘The Godfather’ by Mario Puzo and ‘L.A. Confidential’ by James Ellroy delve into organized crime and moral complexities, much like ‘Live by Night’.
For movies, consider watching ‘The Untouchables’, ‘Once Upon a Time in America’, or ‘Gangster Squad’, as they capture the Prohibition-era ambiance and themes effectively. These recommendations can provide further exploration into the intriguing world of crime and redemption.
Other works by Dennis Lehane
Dennis Lehane’s body of work extends beyond ‘Live by Night’. His ‘Kenzie and Gennaro’ series, including ‘A Drink Before the War’ and ‘Gone, Baby, Gone’, offer gripping detective stories. ‘Shutter Island’ and ‘Mystic River’ are standalone novels that showcase his mastery in crafting psychological thrillers.
Additionally, Lehane has written for TV shows like ‘The Wire’ and ‘Boardwalk Empire’. His diverse works, marked by compelling narratives and complex characters, are worth exploring for any fan of crime fiction and thrillers.
Book club questions on ‘Live by Night’
Engaging in a book club discussion on ‘Live by Night’? Here are some questions to consider:
- How does the setting influence the characters’ actions and choices in ‘Live by Night’?
- How does Joe Coughlin’s character evolve throughout the story?
- What do you think the title ‘Live by Night’ signifies?
- Discuss the theme of redemption in ‘Live by Night’.
- How does the book portray the societal norms and values of the Prohibition-era?
These questions can stimulate a thought-provoking discussion, enhancing your understanding and appreciation of ‘Live by Night’.
‘Live by Night’ in video games
While there’s no video game adaptation of ‘Live by Night’, fans can find similar themes in games like ‘Mafia: Definitive Edition’ and ‘L.A. Noire’. These games offer immersive experiences in the world of organized crime, capturing the ambiance and narrative elements akin to ‘Live by Night’.
Conclusion
In conclusion, ‘Live by Night’, with its compelling characters, atmospheric settings, and gripping narrative, offers an engaging exploration of the Prohibition-era underworld.
Whether you’re a reader or a moviegoer, the story promises a thrilling journey, filled with crime, love, loss, and redemption.
From understanding the author’s perspective to analyzing the movie adaptation, this comprehensive guide hopes to enhance your appreciation of ‘Live by Night’. So, delve deep, explore, and enjoy this captivating world crafted by Dennis Lehane and brought to life by Ben Affleck.
