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The Tuxedo (2002) Plot Summary & Timeline

The Tuxedo (2002) movie poster

The Tuxedo is a 2002 action and sci-fi film directed by Kevin Donovan, running 1 hour 38 minutes. This page retells the whole story in 328 words (about 1 minute to read) and covers 12 key events in order, 3 characters, where and when it is set and 3 themes. Looking for the cast, ratings and where to stream it? See the movie page for The Tuxedo.

to read the plot summary
1 min
key events in the timeline
12
characters profiled
3
themes explained
3
The Tuxedo (2002) movie poster
Released
Runtime
1h 38m
Director
Kevin Donovan
Original language
English
No spoilers

What Is The Tuxedo About?

The premise of The Tuxedo in 259 words, with nothing given away. The full story follows below.

In the bustling streets of a city that never slows down, an unassuming taxi driver known for his lightning‑fast maneuvers finds his ordinary routine turned upside‑down when he accepts a position as personal chauffeur for the enigmatic and affluent Clark Devlin. The job promises sleek interiors and quiet rides, but the real allure lies in Devlin’s quiet confidence and the subtle hints that his world operates far beyond the ordinary, hinting at secrets hidden behind polished doors and whispered conversations.

Everything changes the night Jimmy Tong is handed an experimental security suit—a tuxedo that looks like formalwear but houses cutting‑edge surveillance and combat technology. The suit grants its wearer abilities that blur the line between gadget and superpower, thrusting him into a shadowy realm of espionage where quick thinking and reflexes become his greatest assets. Alongside him is the brilliant scientist Del Blaine, whose sharp intellect and dry wit complement Jimmy’s street‑wise instincts, creating a partnership that feels both unlikely and invigorating. Their dynamic crackles with humor and tension as they navigate a world where every hallway could conceal a camera and every conversation might be a coded message.

The film balances high‑octane action with a playful, tongue‑in‑cheek tone, inviting viewers to wonder how far a humble driver can go when equipped with a suit that dances between elegance and danger. The atmosphere hums with neon‑lit intrigue, sleek gadgets, and the constant rhythm of city traffic, setting the stage for a story that celebrates ingenuity, daring, and the unexpected heroics that emerge when ordinary people are handed extraordinary tools.

Full plot

What Happens in The Tuxedo?

The complete story of The Tuxedo, from the first scene to the last, in 328 words (about 1 minute). Spoilers throughout. Names in the text link to 2 cast member pages.

Spoilers ahead

Jimmy Tong, a taxi driver renowned for his lightning-fast driving skills and adeptness at getting passengers to their destinations in record time, often employing unconventional methods, finds his life taking a thrilling turn. His exceptional reputation earns him a position as the personal chauffeur for the enigmatic and affluent Clark Devlin. Although Jimmy is initially unaware of the true nature of his boss’s profession, the amiable demeanor and calm presence of Devlin quickly wins him over, leading to an unexpected friendship.

However, Jimmy’s world is turned upside down when an assassination attempt on Devlin leaves him in a coma. In a twist of fate, Jimmy dons an unconventional tuxedo belonging to Devlin, which is not just a formal outfit but a high-tech gadget that bestows its wearer with extraordinary abilities. These include martial arts prowess, dancing skills, active camouflage, and even the ability to walk on walls. With time running out, Jimmy must navigate the complexities of being a spy while attempting to thwart the terrorist organization responsible for Devlin’s condition.

His journey leads him to team up with the brilliant scientist Del Blaine, who initially finds Jimmy’s clumsy demeanor exasperating. As events unfold, she realizes that beneath his amateurish exterior lies a determined hero. Their partnership evolves dramatically as Jimmy undertakes daring escapades to rescue her and ultimately secure the safety of the world.

Despite his doubts and a moment of surrender, Jimmy’s fortunes turn when he discovers that Devlin had faith in him all along, preparing a tuxedo specifically tailored for him as he believed Jimmy had the potential to become an exceptional agent. Clad in his personalized tuxedo, Jimmy faces the villains head-on, transforming from a humble taxi driver into a decisive hero.

In a heartfelt conclusion, after leveraging the remarkable powers of his tuxedo to save the day, Jimmy and Del find a moment of peace as they share a coffee together, hinting at the blossoming of their camaraderie against the backdrop of adventure.

Timeline

The Tuxedo Timeline: Every Key Event in Order

12 key events in the order they happen, from “Jimmy's Taxi Skills” to “A Moment of Peace”. 12 events name a place, across 10 locations.

  1. 1

    Jimmy's Taxi Skills

    Jimmy Tong, a talented taxi driver, becomes known for his lightning-fast driving skills. His ability to navigate the busy streets and get passengers to their destinations quickly makes him a local legend, earning him an enthusiastic following.

    Where:City Streets

  2. 2

    Becoming Devlin's Chauffeur

    Jimmy's exceptional reputation leads him to a new job as the personal chauffeur for the wealthy and mysterious Clark Devlin. At first, he remains unaware of Devlin's secret life, but his amiable nature helps him forge a bond with his new employer.

    Where:Luxury Car

  3. 3

    The Assassination Attempt

    Everything takes a dark turn when an assassination attempt is made on Clark Devlin. This shocking event not only puts Devlin in a coma but also profoundly alters Jimmy's life, pushing him into a world of danger and intrigue.

    Where:Devlin's Residence

  4. 4

    Discovery of the Tuxedo

    In the aftermath of Devlin's attack, Jimmy discovers a high-tech tuxedo that belongs to Devlin. This unconventional outfit contains advanced gadgetry that grants him extraordinary abilities, forever changing the course of his life.

    Where:Devlin's Home

  5. 5

    Unleashing Extraordinary Powers

    Donning the tuxedo, Jimmy finds himself gifted with incredible skills, including martial arts prowess and the ability to walk on walls. These newfound abilities come in handy as he embarks on a mission to find those responsible for the assassination attempt.

    Where:Various Locations

  6. 6

    Teaming Up with Del

    In his quest to thwart the terrorists, Jimmy teams up with Del Blaine, a brilliant scientist. Initially frustrated by his clumsiness, Del soon realizes that Jimmy possesses the heart of a hero despite his amateurish exterior.

    Where:Research Lab

  7. 7

    Daring Escapades

    As their partnership grows, Jimmy and Del undertake a series of daring escapades to rescue Del and to gather intelligence about the terrorist organization. Their adventures reveal Jimmy's potential as more than just a taxi driver, showcasing his courage and resilience.

    Where:Various Locations

  8. 8

    Moment of Doubt

    Amidst the chaos, Jimmy faces a moment of doubt and contemplates surrendering to the overwhelming challenges. However, he soon realizes that he has nothing to lose and must continue his fight for justice.

    Where:Abandoned Warehouse

  9. 9

    Devlin's Belief in Jimmy

    Jimmy uncovers a shocking truth: Devlin had faith in him all along, preparing a personalized tuxedo predicting Jimmy's potential as an exceptional agent. This realization reignites Jimmy's determination to succeed in his mission.

    Where:Secret Hideout

  10. 10

    Facing the Villains

    Clad in his specially tailored tuxedo, Jimmy confronts the villains responsible for Devlin's attack. With the tuxedo's powers at his disposal, he transforms from a humble taxi driver into a decisive hero committed to saving the day.

    Where:Terrorist Hideout

  11. 11

    The Final Showdown

    In an intense showdown, Jimmy employs his tuxedo's capabilities to outsmart the enemy and thwart their plans. This climactic battle highlights his growth and evolution from a taxi driver to a true hero, dedicated to protecting the innocent.

    Where:Terrorist Hideout

  12. 12

    A Moment of Peace

    After a series of exhilarating challenges and victories, Jimmy and Del take a moment to relax over coffee. This signifies not just a victory, but the blossoming of a deep friendship forged through adversity and adventure.

    Where:Café

Characters

Who Are the Main Characters in The Tuxedo?

3 characters, among them Jimmy Tong (Jackie Chan), Clark Devlin (Jason Isaacs) and Del Blaine (Jennifer Love Hewitt): who each one is and the part they play in the story. Every profile links to the actor’s page.

  • Jackie Chan as Jimmy Tong (Jackie Chan) in The Tuxedo

    Jimmy Tong (Jackie Chan)

    Played by Jackie Chan

    Jimmy Tong is a charismatic taxi driver known for his exceptional driving skills. His transformation into a spy highlights his growth from an amateur to a capable hero. Despite initial clumsiness, he displays courage and determination as he faces dangerous adversaries.

    • 🚖 Taxi Driver
    • 🥋 Hero
    • 🤪 Clumsy
  • Jason Isaacs as Clark Devlin (Jason Isaacs) in The Tuxedo

    Clark Devlin (Jason Isaacs)

    Played by Jason Isaacs

    Clark Devlin is the mysterious and affluent employer of Jimmy, whose life takes a dramatic turn when he becomes the target of an assassination attempt. His calm demeanor plays a pivotal role in forging a friendship with Jimmy, and he acts as a mentor even in his incapacitated state.

    • 🕴️ Mentor
    • 🕵️‍♂️ Spy
    • ⚖️ Integrity
  • Jennifer Love Hewitt as Del Blaine (Jennifer Love Hewitt) in The Tuxedo

    Del Blaine (Jennifer Love Hewitt)

    Played by Jennifer Love Hewitt

    Del Blaine is a brilliant scientist whose expertise is crucial in the fight against a terrorist organization. Initially frustrated with Jimmy's clumsiness, she soon recognizes his potential and becomes an essential partner in their mission.

    • 🔬 Scientist
    • 🌟 Partner
    • 💪 Determined
Setting

Where and When Is The Tuxedo Set?

The Tuxedo is set in City Streets and High-Tech Headquarters. Here is why the place matters to the story.

When

The story unfolds in a contemporary setting, where modern technology and espionage intertwine. The atmosphere reflects a blend of action and adventure that mirrors the excitement of the modern age.

Where

City Streets, High-Tech Headquarters

The movie takes place in bustling city streets where Jimmy Tong showcases his legendary driving skills. It also features high-tech headquarters, which symbolize the advanced technology that drives the espionage elements of the story.

  • 🏙️ City
  • 🏢 Technology
Themes

What Are the Themes of The Tuxedo?

3 ideas the story keeps returning to, among them Transformation, Friendship and Identity.

  1. 01

    Transformation

    The theme of transformation is central to the narrative, as Jimmy evolves from a mere taxi driver into a skilled agent. This transformation is highlighted through his unexpected skills gained from wearing the tuxedo, which symbolizes the potential within everyone waiting to be unleashed.

  2. 02

    Friendship

    The bond formed between Jimmy and Del underscores the importance of friendship in overcoming challenges. Their relationship develops from one of annoyance to deep respect, illustrating how teamwork can lead to extraordinary achievements.

  3. 03

    Identity

    The theme of identity is explored through Jimmy's journey as he learns to embrace his potential. Wearing the tuxedo allows him to step into a new role, questioning who he really is beyond his profession.

Tone & mood

What Kind of Film Is The Tuxedo?

Light in tone, with fast pacing and a straightforward story, going by the plot summary.

Tone
Light
Pacing
Fast
Story
Straightforward
Intensity
Medium
Ending
Happy

A fast-paced and comedic action-adventure that delivers a lighthearted, thrilling ride as an ordinary man becomes an unlikely super-spy, filled with energetic stunts and an uplifting conclusion.

  • action-packed
  • fast-paced
  • lighthearted
  • thrilling
  • uplifting
  • adventurous
  • undercover spy
  • high-tech gadget
  • unlikely hero
  • buddy comedy

Content notes: assassination attempt, stylized violence.

Quiz

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Where to watch

Where to Watch The Tuxedo

Stream it on Hoopla, or rent or buy it from Amazon Video and Apple TV Store. US availability and prices from JustWatch.

Streaming availability in the US, powered by JustWatch logo

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FAQ

The Tuxedo Plot Questions

5 quick answers about The Tuxedo, taken from the plot summary, character guide and setting on this page and the film’s credits.

What is The Tuxedo about?

In the bustling streets of a city that never slows down, an unassuming taxi driver known for his lightning‑fast maneuvers finds his ordinary routine turned upside‑down when he accepts a position as personal chauffeur for the enigmatic and affluent Clark Devlin.

Read the full plot summary

When and where does The Tuxedo take place?

The Tuxedo is set in City Streets and High-Tech Headquarters. The story unfolds in a contemporary setting, where modern technology and espionage intertwine. The atmosphere reflects a blend of action and adventure that mirrors the excitement of the modern age.

The setting explained

Who are the main characters in The Tuxedo?

The story follows Jimmy Tong (Jackie Chan) (played by Jackie Chan), Clark Devlin (Jason Isaacs) (played by Jason Isaacs) and Del Blaine (Jennifer Love Hewitt) (played by Jennifer Love Hewitt).

All the characters

What are the main themes of The Tuxedo?

The summary picks out 3 themes: Transformation, Friendship and Identity.

The themes explained

Who directed The Tuxedo?

The Tuxedo (2002) was directed by Kevin Donovan and runs 1 hour 38 minutes.

Kevin Donovan’s films

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