Returner

Returner

Year: 2003

Runtime: 116 min

Language: Japanese

Director: Takashi Yamazaki

ActionAdventureSci-Fi

As Earth teeters on the brink of destruction by an otherworldly force, a fearless warrior from the year 2084 defies the odds and catapults herself back through time to prevent the impending apocalypse, embarking on a perilous quest to alter the course of history.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – Returner (2003)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Returner (2003). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

2084, 2002

The narrative spans from the future year of 2084, a time marked by desperation as humanity battles extinction from an alien race. It then shifts to 2002, a period when crime and violence are rampant, and the world is blissfully unaware of interstellar battles brewing in the background, setting the stage for a clash between the past and the future.

Location

Tibet, Tokyo Bay, National Institute of Space Science

The story begins in Tibet, the last bastion of humanity against the alien Daggra, known for its harsh, mountainous terrain and spiritual significance. Tokyo Bay serves as a backdrop to chaos, showcasing the struggle against the criminal underworld intertwined with alien threats. The National Institute of Space Science is a center of research and technology, playing a crucial role in the conflict as characters seek to uncover alien technology.

🏔️ Tibet 🌊 Tokyo 🏢 Science Facility

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:49

Main Characters – Returner (2003)
Meet the key characters of Returner (2003), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Milly

Milly is a determined soldier from the future, driven by a fierce desire to protect humanity from the alien threat. Her character evolves from a desperate warrior to someone who realizes the complexities of both humanity and alien life. Her resourcefulness and strength in navigating challenging situations showcase her resilience and leadership.

👩‍✈️ Hero 🔫 Determined 🚀 Soldier

Miyamoto (Takeshi Kaneshiro)

Miyamoto is a conflicted hitman who finds himself reluctantly allied with Milly. Initially motivated by vengeance against Mizoguchi, he demonstrates layers of depth as he grapples with his violent past. His interactions with Milly reveal his potential for growth and the desire to change his destiny.

🔫 Hitman 💔 Vengeful 🥷 Protector

Mizoguchi (Gorô Kishitani)

Mizoguchi embodies the antagonist's archetype, driven by power and cruelty. His complexities stem from personal losses which fuel his ruthless demeanor. His actions not only threaten the protagonists but also expose the darker sides of humanity when unchecked by morals.

👹 Antagonist 🔪 Ruthless 💼 Power-hungry

Shi (Anne Suzuki)

Shi is a weapon supplier who aids Miyamoto and Milly in their quest against the Triads. While primarily focused on survival and profit, her contributions showcase resourcefulness and a willingness to help others in perilous situations. Shi adds depth to the narrative by illustrating the diversity of characters involved in the conflict.

💼 Supplier 🏃‍♀️ Resourceful 🔍 Clever

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:49

Major Themes – Returner (2003)
Explore the central themes of Returner (2003), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🔄 Time Travel

The central theme of time travel is pivotal to the plot, as Milly jumps back in time to prevent a looming invasion. This aspect explores the complexities of changing the past and its consequences, highlighting how past actions can shape future events and vice versa. Milly's journey reflects the interplay between destiny and free will, emphasizing that every choice carries weight.

🤝 Allegiance

Allegiances form and shift throughout the film, as Milly and Miyamoto unite despite their differences. Their forced partnership evolves into a bond strengthened by shared goals and mutual survival. The theme explores how enemies can come together for a greater cause, illustrating the complexities of trust in dire circumstances.

💔 Betrayal

Betrayal is a recurring motif, especially concerning the character Mizoguchi, who represents the treachery that arises from greed and power. Both Milly and Miyamoto experience personal losses due to betrayal, shaping their motivations and actions. The theme underscores the internal and external conflicts that arise from broken trust and the ultimate quest for redemption.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 21:49

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