My Name Is Nobody (1974) Characters, Setting & Themes Explained

The film takes place primarily in New Orleans and the western frontier. New Orleans serves as the backdrop for the climactic showdown, while the broader western landscape represents the changing times for aging gunfighters. A defunct mine also plays a key role as the setting for the dark dealings of the antagonist characters.

• setting
• new orleans
• western frontier
• locations

The movie is set in the late 19th century, during the decline of the wild frontier. This was a period when the iconic gunfighter was becoming a relic of the past as towns began to modernize and the wild ways of the Old West slowly faded into history.

• time period
• late 19th century
• old west
• historical context

Legacy permeates the narrative as Jack Beauregard grapples with retiring while ensuring his reputation endures. Nobody's relentless pursuit to immortalize Jack's story showcases the lengths one might go to preserve the memory of a hero. The film questions how one's life is remembered and the impact of heroism on future generations.

• legacy
• reputation
• heroism
• remembrance

Identity is explored through Nobody's whimsical personality and Jack's struggle with his sense of self. As Jack seeks anonymity through a staged death, the film highlights the complexities of fame and the personas we create. It asks whether one can truly leave behind a legacy while maintaining personal freedoms.

• identity
• fame
• anonymity
• self discovery

Jack Beauregard is a weary aging gunfighter played by Henry Fonda, seeking peace and retirement from a life filled with violence. Despite his desire to escape his past, he finds himself embroiled in a battle orchestrated by the eccentric Nobody. His pragmatic nature leads him to confront his past and ultimately redefine his legacy.

• jack beauregard
• henry fonda
• main character
• gunfighter

Nobody is a charming and enigmatic gunman portrayed by Terence Hill whose admiration for Jack Beauregard drives him to orchestrate a dramatic showdown. He embodies a quirky, irreverent spirit and serves as the catalyst for Jack's ultimate confrontation with his legacy. His methods are unconventional, and he proves to be both clever and resourceful.

• nobody
• terence hill
• supporting character
• admirer

Nobody is driven by his admiration for Jack Beauregard and wants to orchestrate a dramatic showdown that will immortalize Jack's story. His motivation stems from preserving the legend of a hero he deeply respects, even if his methods are unconventional and create danger for both of them.

• motivation
• admiration
• legend
• assistance

The western landscape symbolizes the changing times for aging gunfighters. It represents the end of an era where the wild frontier is giving way to law and order. The setting reflects the film's themes of legacy and identity by showing a world that no longer has a place for the old-style gunfighter.

• symbolism
• western theme
• changing times
• old west

My Name Is Nobody is primarily a comedy that spoofs the spaghetti western genre. While it touches on themes of aging and legacy, these are treated with a humorous and affectionate touch rather than heavy drama. The tone is whimsical and self-aware, making light of western clichés while still delivering action and intrigue.

• comedy
• spoof
• spaghetti western
• humor
• genre

Jack Beauregard is a weary aging gunfighter who has spent his life in violence and wants peace. He seeks retirement to escape his violent past and find anonymity. However, his past catches up with him through Nobody's elaborate scheme and the threat from The Wild Bunch, forcing him to confront his legacy before he can truly leave.

• retirement
• peace
• aging
• escape