Loosely based on Federico Fellini's film La Strada,[1] the film tells the story of jazz guitarist Emmet Ray (played by Sean Penn) who falls in love with mute laundress Hattie (Samantha Morton).

Emmet Ray is a jazz guitarist who achieved some acclaim in the 1930s with a handful of recordings for RCA Victor, but faded from public view under mysterious circumstances.

Although he is a talented musician, Ray's personal life fell into shambles after his disappearance from public view.

When he's not playing music or pursuing women, he shoots rats at garbage dumps and watches passing trains.

After overcoming initial frustration due to communication difficulties, Ray and Hattie form an affectionate and close relationship.

But Williams sees Ray as a colorful example of lower-class life and a source of inspiration for her literary writing.

Lepselter succeeded Susan E. Morse, who edited Allen's films for the previous twenty years.

Allen had first noticed Zhao with his award-winning work on Raise the Red Lantern, some years earlier.

The site's consensus is: "Critics praise Woody Allen's Sweet and Lowdown for its charming, light-hearted comedy and quality acting.

[9] The pair were also nominated for Golden Globe Awards in the acting categories for Motion Picture - Comedy or Musical.

[14] At the London Film Critics Circle Awards, Morton won British Supporting Actress of the Year.