Year: 2011
Runtime: 118 min
Language: English
Director: Guy Moshe
In a future where firearms are obsolete, a traveler arrives in a town controlled by the brutal Nicola and his gang. He finds himself aligning with a samurai seeking vengeance and a cryptic bartender. Together, they challenge Nicola’s oppressive rule in a visually striking action film blending comic book aesthetics, Western influences, and samurai traditions, aiming to reclaim a sense of justice and honor.
Warning: spoilers below!
Haven’t seen Bunraku yet? This summary contains major spoilers. Bookmark the page, watch the movie, and come back for the full breakdown. If you're ready, scroll on and relive the story!
Read the complete plot breakdown of Bunraku (2011), including all key story events, major twists, and the ending explained in detail. Discover what really happened—and what it all means.
In a vivid and intense dystopian world, where firearms are strictly forbidden and punishable by death, the sword reigns supreme. We are introduced to Nicola the Woodcutter, a notorious crime lord with unyielding power east of the Atlantic, who navigates his dark underworld with the assistance of his enigmatic partner, Alexandra, a seductive femme fatale harboring a mysterious history. Together, they command an army of nine diverse assassins and the formidable Red Gang, instilling fear among the populace. The citizens cower under the oppressive control of this ruthless group, anxiously anticipating the emergence of a hero brave enough to challenge Nicola’s tyrannical rule.
On an unexpected evening, a mysterious drifter stumbles into the Horseless Horseman Saloon, owned by a local insurgent bartender. This enigmatic figure craves two things: a shot of whisky and the chance to eliminate Nicola. Shortly thereafter, another stranger arrives—a skilled samurai named Yoshi, who seeks to restore honor to his clan by reclaiming a stolen talisman that belonged to his father. With their fates intertwined, Yoshi and the drifter, each possessing remarkable fighting prowess, receive guidance from the wise bartender. Thus, they reluctantly form an alliance to dismantle the corrupt regime of Nicola, embarking on a perilous journey that includes bone-breaking skirmishes and thrilling confrontations in pursuit of their formidable foe.
The film artfully merges elements of samurai cinema, spaghetti westerns, and chop socky genres, crafting a vibrant tableau that is both spectacular and surreal. The atmosphere of Bunraku draws on influences from neo-noir, German expressionism, and Russian futurism, creating a whimsical visual spectacle reminiscent of an ever-changing pop-up book made from origami. This dynamic universe is propelled by raw physicality, showcasing exhilarating combat sequences delivered in an audacious and flamboyant style that leaves viewers captivated.
Last Updated: May 12, 2025 at 07:04
Don't stop at just watching — explore Bunraku 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 Bunraku is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.
Track the full timeline of Bunraku with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.
Discover movies like Bunraku that share similar genres, themes, and storytelling elements. Whether you’re drawn to the atmosphere, character arcs, or plot structure, these curated recommendations will help you explore more films you’ll love.
Bunraku (2011) Scene-by-Scene Movie Timeline
Bunraku (2011) Movie Characters, Themes & Settings
Movies Like Bunraku – Similar Titles You’ll Enjoy
47 Ronin (2013) Full Summary & Key Details
13 Assassins (2011) Film Overview & Timeline
Bright: Samurai Soul (2021) Full Movie Breakdown
Raging Fire (2021) Movie Recap & Themes
Broken Rage (2025) Complete Plot Breakdown
Sukiyaki Western Django (2008) Movie Recap & Themes
Fistful of Vengeance (2022) Plot Summary & Ending Explained
Yakuza Apocalypse (2015) Spoiler-Packed Plot Recap
Ninja Assassin (2009) Spoiler-Packed Plot Recap
Bounty Killer (2013) Story Summary & Characters
Rampant (2018) Ending Explained & Film Insights
Revenge of the Ninja (1983) Complete Plot Breakdown
Hara-Kiri: Death of a Samurai (2012) Story Summary & Characters
Harakiri (1964) Spoiler-Packed Plot Recap
Ran (1985) Spoiler-Packed Plot Recap