Killing Gunther (2017) Characters, Setting & Themes Explained

Killing Gunther takes place primarily in two locations: Miami, Florida, and Austria. Miami serves as the vibrant backdrop for most of the action, featuring bustling streets and nightlife that contrast with the darker criminal underworld. Austria provides a majestic yet ominous landscape for the film's climactic showdown, blending beauty with treachery.

• miami
• austria
• setting
• locations

The film is set in contemporary times, reflecting modern themes of betrayal, ambition, and the complexities of personal relationships in today's digital age where technology and crime intersect.

• contemporary
• modern
• time period
• setting

Betrayal is a central theme running deep throughout the film, significantly impacting character relationships and moral choices. Blake's conflict with Gunther is complicated by his ex-girlfriend Lisa's entanglement with the antagonist, illustrating the personal cost of vengeance. This theme ultimately leads to tragic consequences, emphasizing the pervasive nature of trust issues.

• betrayal
• trust
• relationships
• motivation

Conflict is at the heart of the film, manifesting in both physical confrontations and ideological strife. The rivalry between Blake and Gunther escalates through intense action sequences, underscoring the high stakes of their deadly cat-and-mouse game. Each character faces life-or-death decisions influenced by their pasts.

• conflict
• rivalry
• blake
• gunther
• confrontation

The impact of loss is poignantly felt as characters grieve the deaths of their companions and the repercussions of their violent pursuits. Ashley's heart attack and Gabe's tragic end highlight the fragility of life amid chaos. The film concludes on a somber note, showcasing the irreversible consequences of their dangerous lifestyle.

• loss
• death
• tragedy
• consequences

Blake (played by Taran Killam) is a cunning assassin determined to eliminate Gunther, driven by a mix of personal vendetta and ambition. He is a complex character navigating betrayal and trauma, particularly in his relationships with his ex-girlfriend Lisa and his team. His journey highlights both resilience and vulnerability.

• blake
• assassin
• protagonist
• vendetta

Sanaa (played by Hannah Simone) is the daughter of the legendary hitman Rahmat, bringing emotional depth to her role in the mission. Her determination and combat skills are evident, especially when confronting Gunther. Her relationship with Donnie adds complexity to her character's motivations and personal growth throughout the film.

• sanaa
• rahmat
• daughter
• combat

Donnie (played by Bobby Moynihan) serves as the team's explosives expert, providing comic relief while also showing moments of intense bravery. His interactions with Sanaa reveal a romantic subplot, balancing the chaos of their mission with personal growth. Donnie faces trials that force him to confront his own capabilities and risks.

• donnie
• explosives
• comic relief
• romance

Ashley (played by Allison Tolman) serves as a mentor figure for Blake, though her declining health from a heart condition casts a shadow over her contributions. Her past as a veteran assassin adds weight to her guidance, intertwining themes of sacrifice and loss. Her health issues poignantly showcase the risks faced by those living in the perilous world of assassins.

• ashley
• mentor
• veteran
• health

Gunther (Arnold Schwarzenegger) is portrayed as the world's most dangerous hitman, making him the primary target of the assassination plot. He is depicted as a formidable adversary who discovers the team's plan and turns the tables on the hunters, making them the hunted in a dangerous game of cat and mouse.

• gunther
• schwarzenegger
• antagonist
• hitman