The film follows the story of Professor G.H. Dorr (played by Tom Hanks), an eccentric and sophisticated criminal mastermind who recruits a group of misfits to help him carry out a daring heist. The target of their scheme is a riverboat casino that houses a vault containing millions of dollars.
Dorr’s team includes a motley crew of characters: Gawain MacSam (played by Marlon Wayans), a dim-witted janitor; Garth Pancake (played by J.K. Simmons), a slow-witted demolition expert; Lump Hudson (played by Ryan Hurst), a strong but silent football player; and The General (played by Tzi Ma), an elderly Vietnamese man who communicates primarily through non-verbal gestures.
To execute their plan, Dorr and his team pose as musicians and rent a room in the home of an elderly widow named Marva Munson (played by Irma P. Hall). Unbeknownst to Marva, the group plans to tunnel from her basement into the casino vault and steal the money.
As the heist unfolds, the group encounters numerous complications and setbacks, including clashes with Marva and her suspicions about their activities. Despite their efforts to maintain their cover, their plans begin to unravel, leading to a series of comical and increasingly chaotic situations.
In the climax of the film, the heist goes awry when Marva discovers the truth about Dorr and his team. A confrontation ensues, leading to a violent showdown between the criminals and Marva, who proves to be more formidable than they anticipated.
In the end, Dorr and his team are thwarted in their attempt to steal the money, and they meet their downfall in various ways. Marva emerges victorious, having outsmarted the criminals and preserved her home and community.
The film concludes with Marva enjoying the rewards of her victory, while Dorr and his team face the consequences of their failed scheme. Despite their defeat, they depart with a newfound respect for Marva and her indomitable spirit.
Overall, “The Ladykillers” is a darkly comedic and satirical take on the heist genre, featuring quirky characters, witty dialogue, and unexpected twists and turns. With its blend of humor, suspense, and social commentary, it offers a unique and entertaining cinematic experience.