Hara-Kiri: Death of a Samurai

Hara-Kiri: Death of a Samurai

Year: 2012

Runtime: 126 min

Language: Japanese

Director: Takashi Miike

Drama

A desperate samurai requests permission to perform seppuku, a ritual suicide, within the grounds of a wealthy lord’s estate. The request prompts the lord to investigate the circumstances surrounding a similar request made months earlier by another samurai, uncovering a tragic story of hardship, debt, and a desperate attempt to find redemption and provide for loved ones. The lord must then grapple with questions of honor, duty, and the harsh realities faced by those living under the feudal system.

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Timeline – Hara-Kiri: Death of a Samurai (2012)

Trace every key event in Hara-Kiri: Death of a Samurai (2012) with our detailed, chronological timeline. Perfect for unpacking nonlinear stories, spotting hidden connections, and understanding how each scene builds toward the film’s climax. Whether you're revisiting or decoding for the first time, this timeline gives you the full picture.

1

The Fall of Hanshiro's Clan

In 1635, Hanshiro Tsugumo experiences a profound sense of loss as his clan has fallen from grace. This sets the stage for his quest to regain honor through the ritual of seppuku.

1635 Lord Ii's Castle
2

A Request for Seppuku

Hanshiro arrives at Lord Ii's castle and formally requests to perform seppuku in the courtyard. This traditional ritual is meant to restore his honor in the eyes of his peers.

Lord Ii's Castle
3

The Tale of Motome

Kageyu Saitō, a senior retainer, intervenes and begins to narrate the tragic story of Squire Motome Chijiiwa from the previous year. This tale reveals the circumstances leading to Motome’s ill-fated ritual.

1634 Lord Ii's Castle
4

Motome's Desperate Plea

During Motome's seppuku ceremony, he pleads for one more day to secure money for his sick family, specifically asking for 3 ryō. His desperate request is ignored, leading to a tragic outcome.

Lord Ii's Castle
5

The Tragic Attempt

In a moment of despair, Motome attempts to take his life with a bamboo sword. The sword breaks ineffectively, and he suffers further humiliation until Saitō mercifully ends his pain.

Lord Ii's Castle
6

Hanshiro's Resolution

Despite Saitō's offer to dismiss his seppuku request, Hanshiro remains firm in his decision. He chooses Omodaka as his second, but is soon met with obstacles when Omodaka and others are missing.

Lord Ii's Castle
7

The History of Motome's Family

Hanshiro mournfully recalls the plight of Motome's father, Jinnai Chijiiwa, who was banished and died. This background gives context to Motome's struggles and the burdens he carried.

8

Motome's Family Tragedy

Years later, with financial struggles due to their sick child, Motome sells his sword to pay for medical expenses. This act highlights the desperation faced by the family, eventually leading to further misfortune.

9

The Heartbreaking Outcomes

After Motome's death, the tragic consequences continue as his son dies and his wife Miho, overwhelmed with despair, commits suicide using the broken bamboo sword. This deepens the tragedy surrounding Motome's life.

10

Hanshiro's Vengeance

Infuriated by the injustices faced by Motome, Hanshiro sets out to find Omodaka, Matsuzaki, and Kawabe. He takes humiliating actions against them, cutting off their chonmage topknots.

11

The Challenge

In a bold act of defiance, Hanshiro returns the 3 ryō to Saitō and challenges the other samurai to a duel wielding a bamboo sword. This is a declaration of his belief that a warrior's honor is not just a superficial mark.

Lord Ii's Castle
12

The Final Act of Shame

Faced with the repercussions of their actions, Omodaka, Matsuzaki, and Kawabe choose to commit seppuku. This decision underscores the samurai's code of honor while reflecting their deep shame.

Lord Ii's Castle
13

Restoration and Reflection

As tensions ease in the courtyard, the remaining retainers work to restore the decorative suit of armor. This symbolizes the continuous cycle of honor and pride within the samurai culture.

Lord Ii's Castle
14

Lord Ii's Inquiry

When Lord Ii reenters the castle, he inquires about the polishing of the suit of armor. This moment signifies the enduring values of honor and pride that govern their samurai society.

Lord Ii's Castle

Last Updated: November 15, 2024 at 19:51

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Characters, Settings & Themes in Hara-Kiri: Death of a Samurai

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