Blade of the Immortal

Blade of the Immortal

Year: 2017

Runtime: 140 min

Language: Japanese

Director: Takashi Miike

ActionDrama

In feudal Japan, immortal samurai Manji wanders as an outcast, haunted by his countless victims. When a young girl seeks refuge and vengeance for her slaughtered family, Manji finds a new purpose. Together, they embark on a perilous quest to vanquish the ruthless swordsmen who left destruction in their wake.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Blade of the Immortal (2017)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Blade of the Immortal (2017). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

17th century

The film is set during the tumultuous 17th century in Japan, a period marked by the rise of powerful clans and samurai. This era is characterized by conflict, betrayal, and the quest for vengeance, reflecting the societal struggles and personal vendettas that drive the characters' motivations in the movie.

Location

Fukagawa, Mt. Takao

Fukagawa is a bustling district known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrancy. It serves as a significant backdrop for the encounters between Manji and his adversaries. Mt. Takao, revered in Japanese culture, is known for its scenic beauty and historical significance, providing a dramatic setting for pivotal confrontations in the film.

🏞️ Nature 🏯 Historical

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:51

Main Characters – Blade of the Immortal (2017)
Meet the key characters of Blade of the Immortal (2017), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Manji (Takuya Kimura)

Manji is a deeply troubled anti-hero burdened by guilt from his past actions. Uniquely gifted with immortality, his journey is one filled with vengeance and self-discovery as he seeks redemption for his failures. His fierce loyalty and protective nature drive him to assist Rin, yet his violent past continuously weighs heavily on him.

🔪 Vengeance 💔 Guilt

Rin Asano (Hana Sugisaki)

Rin is a determined young woman fueled by a burning desire for revenge against those who murdered her father. Her character evolves throughout the story as she grapples with the harsh realities of vengeance and its consequences. Her resilient spirit and emotional depth make her a key catalyst in Manji's journey.

💪 Determination ⚔️ Avenge

Kagehisa Anotsu (Sôta Fukushi)

Kagehisa is the formidable leader of the Ittō-ryū, whose ambition and ruthlessness drive the conflict in the film. His character is portrayed with complex motives rooted in familial rivalry, making him both a formidable foe and a tragic figure. His actions are pivotal in shaping the narrative dynamics and interpersonal struggles faced by the other characters.

👑 Ambition ⚔️ Adversary

Machi (Hana Sugisaki)

Machi, Manji's sister, is a tragic figure whose madness stems from the anguish of loss. Her fate serves as a catalyst for Manji’s unyielding pursuit of vengeance and highlights the emotional stakes surrounding his character. Despite her brief appearance, her impact resonates throughout the narrative.

😢 Tragedy 💔 Family

Makie Otono-Tachibana (Erika Toda)

Makie is a devoted disciple caught in the moral conflicts of loyalty and personal convictions. Her internal struggle reflects the themes of the film as she navigates the complexities of her relationships with members of the Ittō-ryū and her eventual choice to protect Kagehisa. Her journey adds depth to the exploration of loyalty and sacrifice.

⏳ Loyalty ❤️ Protection

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:51

Major Themes – Blade of the Immortal (2017)
Explore the central themes of Blade of the Immortal (2017), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

⚔️ Revenge

Revenge is a central theme in 'Blade of the Immortal,' exploring the psychological toll it takes on individuals. Manji's quest for vengeance against those who wronged him intertwines with Rin's desire to avenge her father, highlighting how such desires can consume one's life and morality. The film examines the fine line between justice and vengeance, showcasing the devastating consequences of bloodshed.

💔 Loss

The theme of loss resonates deeply throughout the film, driving characters to their breaking points. Manji grapples with the guilt of losing his sister to madness and later witnessing the death of allies. Rin's journey is similarly marked by the anguish of losing her parents, shaping her motivations and relationships as she seeks closure and a sense of purpose in her life.

⚖️ Morality

Morality plays a pivotal role in the film, especially depicted through characters like Makie, who struggles with her allegiance to the Ittō-ryū. The narrative challenges the characters' beliefs on right and wrong, as they navigate a world filled with treachery and violence. These moral dilemmas force the characters to confront the consequences of their choices, ultimately shaping their destinies.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:51

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