House of Bamboo (1955)

House of Bamboo (1955)

Year: 2011

Runtime: 102 min

Language: English

Director: Samuel Fuller

DramaCrimeFilm-Noir

In 1950s Tokyo, a U.S. Army agent infiltrates a ruthless gang led by ex-soldier Sandy Dawson, weaving a web of deception to uncover their crimes. As he gains the trust of Dawson and his cohorts, he also becomes embroiled in a forbidden romance with Mariko, wife of a murdered gang member, amidst a backdrop of corruption, betrayal, and murder.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen House of Bamboo (1955) 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!

Timeline – House of Bamboo (1955) (2011)
Trace every key event in House of Bamboo (1955) (2011) 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

Military Train Heist

In 1954, a military train loaded with armaments was audaciously robbed by a group of thieves. This bold act unfolded in front of American soldiers and Japanese police, resulting in the tragic death of a U.S. Army sergeant.

1954 Military Train Route
2

Webber's Last Breath

Five weeks after the heist, infamous thief Webber dies in a Tokyo hospital. His death was a result of a betrayal by a gang member during a failed robbery, leaving behind a cloud of smoke bombs.

Five weeks later Tokyo Hospital
3

Discovery of the Letter

As U.S. Army investigators and Japanese police delve into Webber's case, they discover a letter addressed to Eddie Spanier among his belongings. The letter hints at a secret connection between Webber and Spanier, which piques their interest.

Shortly after Webber's death Tokyo Evidence Room
4

Eddie's Arrival in Tokyo

Three weeks later, Eddie arrives in Tokyo, eager to reconnect with Mariko, Webber's widow. He finds a photograph that reminds him of happier times shared with Webber, setting the stage for their reunion.

Three weeks later Tokyo
5

Mariko's Heartfelt Revelation

Mariko shares the tragic story of Webber's death with Eddie, revealing the secrecy surrounding their marriage. She explains how Webber's life of crime was kept hidden to protect her from danger.

Shortly after Eddie's arrival Mariko's Residence
6

Eddie's Tough Encounter

Eddie's attempts to secure 'protection' services at a local pachinko parlour lead to a violent confrontation. He is brutally beaten by American thugs, notably under the leadership of Sandy Dawson.

Shortly after meeting Mariko Pachinko Parlour
7

Infiltration of Sandy's Gang

After gaining Sandy's attention through his audacity, Eddie manages to infiltrate Sandy's gang of disillusioned ex-servicemen. He juggles his undercover work while maintaining communication with law enforcement.

Subsequent weeks Tokyo Underground
8

Mariko's Role as 'Kimono Girl'

To bolster his cover, Eddie proposes that Mariko work as his 'kimono girl.' She reluctantly agrees, hoping it will help uncover the truth about her husband's death while navigating the world of crime.

Following Eddie's infiltration Tokyo Club
9

Eddie's Growing Trust with Sandy

During a failed robbery, Sandy saves Eddie's life, marking a turning point in their relationship. This act of loyalty sparks a begrudging trust between them, further complicating Eddie's dual life.

One month later Robbery Site
10

Eddie's True Identity Revealed

Eddie reveals his true identity as U.S. Army Sergeant Edward Kenner within Sandy's gang. His relationship with Mariko deepens even as they face increasing risks from rival gangs and the police.

Later stages of infiltration Sandy's Hideout
11

Charlie Stumbles Upon Their Secrets

Charlie's discovery of Mariko discussing an upcoming heist with an American officer triggers a chain reaction. Alarmed, Sandy calls off the job and reorganizes his crew to protect their interests.

During preparations for the heist Gang's Hideout
12

Sandy's Deadly Trap

Sandy crafts a cunning trap for Eddie, intending to execute him during a staged robbery. The plan backfires when Charlie inadvertently becomes a casualty amidst the chaos.

During the planned robbery Amusement Park
13

Rooftop Showdown

A pivotal confrontation ensues between Eddie and Sandy on the rooftops of an amusement park. In a climactic moment, Eddie fights for survival and ultimately triumphs, vanquishing Sandy in a flurry of gunfire.

Climactic showdown Amusement Park Rooftop
14

Reunion with Mariko

As the dust settles from the confrontation, Eddie is finally reunited with Mariko. Their reunion brings emotional closure to a harrowing chapter filled with love, betrayal, and the quest for truth.

After Sandy's defeat Amusement Park

Last Updated: November 17, 2024 at 20:13