Is Buffalo 66 Based on a True Story? Buffalo 66 Plot, Cast, and Where to Watch
by Sangamithra | Updated Nov 20, 2023
Is Buffalo 66 Based on a True Story?
No, Buffalo '66 is not based on a true story. Vincent Gallo, the director of "Buffalo '66," clarified that the film isn't truly autobiographical. While the characters of Billy Brown's parents are inspired by Gallo's own mother and father, he emphasized that it's more of a conceptual idea than a direct reflection of his life. Gallo expressed that labeling the movie as autobiographical might oversimplify its complexity.
He explained that he doesn't personally relate to the character Billy Brown, highlighting that he doesn't endure similar mistreatment in his own life. Gallo debunked the notion that the film is a straightforward reflection of his experiences, emphasizing the creative and conceptual aspects that make Buffalo '66 a unique and multifaceted cinematic work.
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Buffalo 66
Buffalo '66 is a 1998 American crime comedy-drama film written and directed by Vincent Gallo. The story revolves around Billy Brown (played by Gallo), a man recently released from prison, who kidnaps a young tap dancer named Layla (played by Christina Ricci). Billy forces Layla to pose as his wife to impress his parents, played by Ben Gazzara and Anjelica Huston.
Set in Buffalo, New York, the film was well-received and is considered one of the greatest independent films. It was shot in and around Gallo's hometown during winter. The soundtrack features British progressive rock music from bands like King Crimson and Yes.
The title, "Buffalo '66," refers to the Buffalo Bills American football team, highlighting their championship drought since 1965. The plot indirectly touches on the Bills' loss to the New York Giants in Super Bowl XXV, marked by a missed field goal.
With a budget of $1.5 million, the film earned $2.4 million at the box office. Vincent Gallo and Christina Ricci lead a cast that includes Ben Gazzara, Anjelica Huston, Mickey Rourke, Rosanna Arquette, and Jan-Michael Vincent. The film's unique blend of crime, comedy, and drama, along with its use of Buffalo as a backdrop, contributes to its lasting appeal in independent cinema.
Buffalo 66 Cast
Vincent Gallo
Billy Brown
John Sansone
Young Billy Brown
Christina Ricci
Layla
Anjelica Huston
Jan Brown
Ben Gazzara
Jimmy Brown
Kevin Corrigan
Goon/Rocky
Mickey Rourke
The Bookie
Rosanna Arquette
Wendy Balsam
Jan-Michael Vincent
Sonny
Kevin Pollak
TV Sportscaster
Alex Karras
TV Sportscaster
John Rummel
Don Shanks
Bob Wahl
Scott Wood
Penny Wolfgang
The Judge
Carl Marchi
Cafe Owner
Michael Maciejewski
Guy in Bathroom
Actor
Character
Buffalo 66 Plot
Buffalo '66 follows the story of Billy Brown, who just completed a five-year prison term. Returning to Buffalo, New York, he plans to introduce Layla, a tap dancer he kidnaps and renames Wendy Balsam (played by Christina Ricci), as his wife to his dysfunctional parents (Ben Gazzara and Anjelica Huston).
During the visit, Layla witnesses the troubled relationship between Billy and his parents. She discovers that Billy's mother, despite being a devoted Buffalo Bills fan, missed the game in 1966, the day Billy was born. Flashbacks reveal that Billy's prison time resulted from a lost bet on the Bills in Super Bowl XXV, manipulated by a bookie (Mickey Rourke). Seeking revenge on the kicker, Scott Wood, Billy and Layla embark on a journey.
After an eventful day, including bowling and a diner visit where Billy encounters his middle school crush (Rosanna Arquette), Billy and Layla confess their love for each other. However, Billy, driven by revenge, leaves Layla at the motel in the middle of the night.
Approaching Scott Wood's topless bar, Billy contemplates violence but ultimately decides against it, realizing Layla's genuine love. He reconciles with a friend and joyfully returns to Layla with hot chocolate, symbolizing a newfound connection and a hopeful future. The film concludes with a heartwarming gesture, emphasizing the transformative power of love and redemption in Billy's tumultuous life.
Buffalo 66 Where to Watch?
You can watch Buffalo '66 by renting or buying it on Google Play, Vudu, iTunes, and Amazon. If you're looking for a free option, you can stream it on Pluto or Tubi. The movie, released in 1998 and directed by Vincent Gallo, follows Billy Brown's story, played by Gallo himself, as he kidnaps a tap dancer (Christina Ricci) to pose as his wife.
Set in Buffalo, New York, the film explores themes of redemption and love against the backdrop of Billy's troubled past. With its unique blend of crime, comedy, and drama, Buffalo '66 has gained recognition as an independent film classic.
Is Buffalo 66 Based on a True Story - FAQs
No, it's not. While inspired by elements of Vincent Gallo's life, the film is a work of fiction.
You can rent or purchase it on Google Play, Vudu, iTunes, and Amazon. It's also available for free on Pluto and Tubi.
Vincent Gallo plays Billy Brown, and Christina Ricci plays Layla.
It refers to the Buffalo Bills football team's championship drought since 1966, with indirect references to Super Bowl XXV.
Yes, it was generally well-received, considered one of the greatest independent films.