Only God Forgives

Julian, an American expatriate, operates a Muay Thai boxing club in Bangkok, Thailand. Behind this facade, he engages in illicit drug activities alongside his older brother, Billy, while navigating a troubled past.

Julian wrestles with his inner demons, often indulging in dark and deviant sexual practices. He takes pleasure in watching his favorite prostitute, Mai, while remaining bound, revealing the depths of his troubled psyche.

One night, Billy commits a heinous crime by raping and murdering an underage prostitute. This act ignites a violent chain of events as the Thai police, led by Lieutenant Chang, seek justice for the girl's father.

In a brutal act of revenge, Choi Yan Lee, the father of the dead girl, exacts his vengeance on Billy. He beat him to death in the same room where his daughter was violated, showcasing the harsh realities of retribution.

Lieutenant Chang, enforcing justice in his unique way, punishes Choi for his actions by severing his forearm. This act of brutal punishment highlights the complexities of law and morality in Bangkok’s underbelly.

Following the tragic death of his brother, Julian begins to experience unsettling visions. He envisions a confrontation with Chang, who inflicts severe punishment upon him, symbolizing his internal struggles and fears.

Julian confronts Choi at his kiosk after learning of Billy's murder. Despite the emotional turmoil and desire for revenge, Julian chooses compassion and spares Choi's life, highlighting his complex character.

When Julian's mother, Crystal, arrives in Bangkok, she demands justice for Billy’s murder. This sets off a series of events where maternal instincts clash with Julian's moral compass, deepening their familial conflict.

After Julian refuses to kill Choi, Crystal takes matters into her own hands and orchestrates Choi's murder. She discovers Chang's involvement and plots a partnership with rival drug dealer Byron to settle scores.

In a tense moment, two assassins attempt to kill Chang at a local restaurant, igniting chaos and bloodshed. Chang, showcasing his prowess, swiftly neutralizes one assassin while hunting down the other.

Driven by anger, Julian confronts Chang at his boxing venue but is easily outmatched. This clash signifies Julian's desperation and his struggle against the harsh realities shaped by his family's actions.

Encouraged by Crystal, Julian plans to assassinate Chang alongside his accomplice, Charlie Ling. However, moral dilemmas arise when Charlie aims to kill Chang's innocent daughter, forcing Julian into a critical decision.

Chang captures Crystal and swiftly punishes her for her manipulations, culminating in a brutal throat-cutting scene. This act solidifies the violent consequences of vengeance that pervades the narrative.

Returning to his hotel, Julian is confronted with his mother's lifeless body. In a haunting expression of grief, he cuts her open, seeking a visceral connection that underscores his emotional turmoil.

The film concludes with a devastating confrontation between Julian and Chang in a secluded field. In a moment of brutal finality, Chang severs both of Julian's hands, representing the ultimate loss and despair.