"The Fabulous Baker Boys" feels like a wandering exploration of the imperfections within Jack and Frank’s lives, prompted by their attempt to revitalize their tired performance routine with the addition of a captivating vocalist. The movie portrays the subdued hopelessness inherent in the Bakers' consistently modest careers as they travel through an endless string of obscure and unremarkable locations. They find them…

Jack and Frank Bridges, portrayed by Jeff and Beau Bridges respectively, struggle to make ends meet performing for unenthusiastic crowds in unremarkable jazz venues, delivering tired jokes and generally appearing average. The older brother, Frank, is married with children and seems to possess a semblance of business sense, while Jack is more unpredictable, seemingly tethered only to his sibling and his dog. Their pro…