One Cut of the Dead

One Cut of the Dead

Year: 2019

Runtime: 96 min

Language: Japanese

Director: Shin'ichirô Ueda

HorrorComedy

A struggling film crew attempts to shoot a zombie movie on a shoestring budget in an abandoned WWII Japanese military base. While filming, they unexpectedly encounter actual undead creatures, leading to a chaotic and hilarious battle for survival. The film blends horror and comedy, offering a unique and unexpected cinematic experience.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – One Cut of the Dead (2019)

Explore the full timeline and setting of One Cut of the Dead (2019). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

The film's events unfold primarily in a contemporary setting, reflecting modern filmmaking challenges and the influence of horror culture. It draws on the absurdities of independent film production, highlighting the unpredictable nature of creativity while confronting themes of horror.

Location

abandoned water filtration plant

The abandoned water filtration plant serves as the haunting backdrop for the chaotic production of a low-budget zombie film. Known for its eerie history, the location heightens the tension as crew members attempt to conjure real horror amid their film's fictional setting. Its dark corners and dilapidated structures only add to the nightmarish atmosphere of the shoot.

🏭 Filmmaking 🧟 Zombie Apocalypse

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:26

Main Characters – One Cut of the Dead (2019)

Meet the key characters of One Cut of the Dead (2019), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Ayana Kurihara

Ayana is a driven actress who navigates the ups and downs of the chaotic film shoot with determination. She finds herself amidst the disarray while grappling with her desire for recognition and success. Her character showcases resilience and adaptability in the face of unexpected challenges.

🎭 Actress 💪 Resilience

Kasahara

Kasahara undergoes a tragic transformation from crew member to zombified antagonist amidst the unfolding horror. His initial comedic involvement gives way to a menacing presence, illustrating the fine line between performance and reality. The character's fate serves as a commentary on the consequences of artistic ambition.

🧟‍♂️ Zombie 🎬 Actor

Nao

Nao, the assistant director, emerges as a complex character caught between her professional duties and the gruesome reality of the film's premise. Her quick thinking and desperate actions reveal her survival instincts as she fights against the chaos encircling her. Nao's character arc illustrates the struggle for agency in a hostile environment.

🎬 Assistant Director 🛡️ Survivor

Chinatsu

Chinatsu is portrayed as a strong-willed actress who must confront both external threats and internal fears. Her journey through the film's chaos reflects her evolving character as she grapples with loyalty and the harsh realities of survival. Ultimately, her actions become pivotal in navigating the film’s horror narrative.

🎭 Actress ⚔️ Fighter

Ko

Ko is depicted as both a protector and a tragic figure throughout the chaotic film shoot. His willingness to stand up against the unfolding horror showcases his bravery, but his ultimate fate adds layers of complexity to his character. Ko’s journey encapsulates themes of sacrifice and loyalty amid the chaos.

🛡️ Protector ❤️ Loyalty

Takayuki Higurashi

Higurashi is the tumultuous director driven by debt and desperation. His obsession with creating real horror leads to disastrous choices that endanger his cast and crew. Despite his erratic behavior, his character represents the relentless spirit of filmmakers who navigate the blurred lines between fiction and reality.

🎬 Director 🌪️ Chaotic

Mao

Mao, the dedicated horror fan and daughter of Higurashi, represents the innocent connection to the world of filmmaking. Her involvement not only deepens familial ties but adds a layer of sincerity against the chaotic backdrop of the film. Mao embodies the idealistic hope amidst the tumultuous production.

👧 Daughter 🎭 Fan

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:26

Major Themes – One Cut of the Dead (2019)

Explore the central themes of One Cut of the Dead (2019), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🎥 Filmmaking Chaos

The movie explores the chaos inherent in independent filmmaking, showcasing the trials faced by the cast and crew during the production of a zombie film. It navigates through comedic errors, unexpected mishaps, and personal conflicts, offering a satirical yet heartfelt look at the artistic process. Ultimately, it celebrates the resilience and creativity required to bring a vision to life.

🧟‍♀️ Horror and Survival

Central to the narrative is the theme of horror and survival, as the characters confront not only their fears but also a literal zombie threat. The film intertwines elements of terror with personal stakes, portraying how the characters evolve when faced with life-and-death situations. It poses questions about trust and betrayal in a dire context.

👨‍👧 Father-Daughter Connection

The film poignantly delves into the relationship between Takayuki Higurashi and his daughter, Mao. Their bond is strengthened through the challenges of filmmaking, with Takayuki's desire to reconnect and create a legacy for her. This emotional core adds depth to the chaotic narrative and highlights the personal struggles against the backdrop of horror.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:26

Unlock the Full Story of One Cut of the Dead

Don't stop at just watching — explore One Cut of the Dead in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what One Cut of the Dead is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

One Cut of the Dead Summary

Read a complete plot summary of One Cut of the Dead, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

One Cut of the Dead Summary

One Cut of the Dead Timeline

Track the full timeline of One Cut of the Dead with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

One Cut of the Dead Timeline

More About One Cut of the Dead

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about One Cut of the Dead: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About One Cut of the Dead

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