Bunraku

Bunraku

Year: 2011

Runtime: 118 min

Language: English

Director: Guy Moshe

ActionDramaFantasy

In a world where bullets are a relic of the past, a lone wanderer stumbles into a lawless town plagued by the iron-fisted Nicola and his ruthless entourage. As he forges an unlikely alliance with a vengeful samurai and a mysterious barkeep, they join forces to overthrow the tyrant and restore honor in this visually stunning fusion of comic-book grit, spaghetti western swagger, and samurai honor.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Bunraku (2011)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Bunraku (2011). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

Dystopian Future

The movie is set in a dystopian future where the use of guns is punishable by death, highlighting a society dominated by blade-fighting and martial prowess. This era witnesses the rise of crime bosses like Nicola the Woodcutter, showcasing themes of oppression and struggle for power. It encapsulates a time of fear, building anticipation for a hero to rise against tyranny.

Location

Horseless Horseman Saloon

The Horseless Horseman Saloon serves as a pivotal meeting place for the film's characters, especially for the mysterious drifter and samurai Yoshi. Known for its gritty atmosphere, the saloon reflects the dystopian setting where guns are banned and violence is fermented through swords. It symbolizes a safe haven for insurgents and a hub for plotting against the tyrannical rule of Nicola.

🍻 Bar 🏙️ Dystopia

Last Updated: May 04, 2025 at 18:49

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

Nicola the Woodcutter

Nicola is the formidable crime boss whose iron rule instills fear in the dystopian society. He wields power through terror and has a deep network of assassins at his command. His complex character reflects both the allure and corruption of unchecked authority.

👑 Villain 🗡️ Power

Yoshi

Yoshi is a determined samurai hell-bent on avenging his father's death by reclaiming a stolen talisman. His stoic demeanor and incredible fighting skills make him a formidable ally in the fight against Nicola. Yoshi embodies the spirit of honor and justice in a world rife with treachery.

🥋 Warrior ⚖️ Justice

Killer #2

Killer #2 is Nicola's right-hand man, known for his cold-hearted demeanor and exceptional combat skills. He is a smooth-talking, confident assassin who embodies the brutal edge of Nicola's regime, willing to do whatever it takes to keep his boss's power intact.

🔪 Assassin 😈 Antagonist

Alexandra

Alexandra is a femme fatale with a mysterious past who assists Nicola in maintaining his grip on power. Her character introduces layers of complexity, blending allure and cunning as she navigates the dangerous political landscape of the film.

👩‍🎤 Femme Fatale 🔍 Mystery

Last Updated: May 04, 2025 at 18:49

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

⚔️ Rebellion

Rebellion is a central theme in 'Bunraku,' as characters unite against the oppressive rule of crime lord Nicola. The interplay of disparate characters—such as the drifter and Yoshi—demonstrates a collective desire for freedom and justice. The narrative illustrates how courage and solidarity can confront and dismantle corrupt power.

💔 Betrayal

Betrayal lingers in the relationships and power dynamics among characters. Nicola's iron-fisted control breeds treachery and serves as a backdrop for the motivations of characters like Alexandra and Killer #2. The theme showcases how trust can be manipulated in the pursuit of power, leading to tragic consequences.

Last Updated: May 04, 2025 at 18:49

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