13 Assassins

13 Assassins

Year: 2011

Runtime: 141 min

Language: Japanese

Director: Takashi Miike

Action

During feudal Japan, a skilled samurai is tasked with assembling a group of twelve assassins to eliminate a ruthless lord. This young nobleman, brother to the Shogun, has been terrorizing the populace with impunity. The film follows their meticulous planning and preparation as they confront the lord and his formidable protectors, culminating in an intense and prolonged battle sequence that pushes the boundaries of action cinema.

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Timeline & Setting – 13 Assassins (2011)

Explore the full timeline and setting of 13 Assassins (2011). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

1840s

The 1840s in Japan witnessed the END of the Tokugawa shogunate, a feudal regime characterized by rigid social structures and military rule. This period is significant due to the rise of dissatisfaction and the eventual push towards modernization, which would lead to the Meiji Restoration. The increasing corruption and cruelty exemplified by figures like Lord Matsudaira Naritsugu indicate the necessity for social change and rebellion.

Location

Japan, Akashi

The movie takes place in 1840s Japan, a period marked by the declining power of the Tokugawa shogunate. Akashi is a prominent city known for its political significance during this era. The backdrop includes mountainous terrains that serve as a tactical route for the protagonists, adding an element of natural beauty amidst the intense conflict.

🏯 Historical 🌄 Mountains 🏙️ Town

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:27

Main Characters – 13 Assassins (2011)

Meet the key characters of 13 Assassins (2011), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Shinzaemon

Shinzaemon is a seasoned and principled samurai, loyal to the former Shogun, who embodies honor and duty. He is driven by a profound sense of justice and the desire to protect those oppressed by Naritsugu's vicious rule. His leadership in assembling a skilled team of assassins illustrates his commitment to rectifying the wrongs inflicted by the sadistic lord.

🥋 Samurai 🛡️ Honor ⚔️ Leader

Lord Matsudaira Naritsugu

Lord Naritsugu is a sadistic and ruthless character whose penchant for violence knows no bounds. He revels in the suffering of others and aims to consolidate power, displaying a complete disregard for human life. His arrogance and brutality portray him as the ultimate antagonist, compelling the samurai to rise against his tyranny.

👑 Villain 🔪 Sadism 💣 Tyrant

Sir Doi Toshitsura

Sir Doi Toshitsura serves as the Shogun's Justice, deeply concerned about the potential rise of Naritsugu's power. His decision to orchestrate the assassination reflects his desperation to protect the realm from impending doom. Doi represents the moral dilemma of navigating the harsh realities of a corrupt regime, where justice must be sought through unconventional means.

⚖️ Justice 🕵️‍♂️ Strategist 🤔 Morality

Shinroukuro

Shinroukuro is portrayed as a young and brave samurai, closely related to Shinzaemon. His character emphasizes the themes of loyalty and courage, fighting alongside experienced warriors against overwhelming odds. Shinroukuro's journey from a fearful youth to a committed fighter symbolizes the passing of values and responsibilities to the next generation.

🗡️ Young Samurai 👪 Loyalty 😨 Growth

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:27

Major Themes – 13 Assassins (2011)

Explore the central themes of 13 Assassins (2011), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

⚔️ Rebellion

The film explores the theme of rebellion against tyrannical power, as a group of samurai band together to confront Lord Naritsugu, whose sadistic behavior epitomizes authoritarian cruelty. The characters' willingness to risk their lives for justice highlights the struggle against oppression. The ultimate confrontation serves as a catalyst for change, reflecting the broader historical context of Japan's transition away from feudalism.

⚖️ Justice

Justice is a central theme, with the samurai seeking to address the injustices inflicted by Naritsugu. Their mission represents a moral obligation to protect the innocent, symbolized through the brutal aftermath of Naritsugu's actions against the Mimiya family. The film underscores the harsh realities of seeking justice in a world governed by power dynamics and violence.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 19:27

Unlock the Full Story of 13 Assassins

Don't stop at just watching — explore 13 Assassins in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what 13 Assassins is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

13 Assassins Summary

Read a complete plot summary of 13 Assassins, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

13 Assassins Summary

13 Assassins Timeline

Track the full timeline of 13 Assassins with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

13 Assassins Timeline

More About 13 Assassins

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about 13 Assassins: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About 13 Assassins

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