The Great Wall

The Great Wall

Year: 2017

Runtime: 103 min

Language: Chinese

Director: Yimou Zhang

ActionAdventureMysteryThrillerFantasy

A mercenary’s search for fortune takes a dramatic turn when he is captured within the legendary Great Wall of China. He soon finds himself embroiled in a desperate battle as a monstrous army threatens the ancient structure and the land beyond. Joining forces with a group of elite warriors, he must overcome his personal ambitions and embrace a heroic calling to defend against an overwhelming and terrifying force.

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Timeline & Setting – The Great Wall (2017)

Explore the full timeline and setting of The Great Wall (2017). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

Renzong Emperor Era

The story unfolds during the Renzong Emperor's reign, a time marked by military conflicts and foreign interactions in China. This was an era when the Great Wall served not just as a defense mechanism but also as a symbol of imperial power and unity against outside threats. The tumult of the time is amplified by the supernatural dangers posed by the Tao Tie.

Location

Great Wall of China, Capital City

The Great Wall of China is an iconic fortification renowned for its historical significance and impressive architecture. Originally built to protect against invasions, it serves as a backdrop for the battle against the monstrous Tao Tie in the film. The Capital City represents the political heart of the empire and is a place of strategy and conflict.

🏯 Historical 🌍 Ancient China

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 18:53

Main Characters – The Great Wall (2017)

Meet the key characters of The Great Wall (2017), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

William Garin (Matt Damon)

William Garin is a resilient and resourceful Irishman who finds himself caught in a battle against fantastical creatures. His quick thinking and combat skills earn him respect among the Nameless Order as he navigates loyalty, betrayal, and survival. Garin's character embodies the archetype of a reluctant hero who rises to the occasion despite the odds.

🗡️ Mercenary 🤔 Resourceful

Pero Tovar (Pedro Pascal)

Pero Tovar is a Spaniard and Garin's companion, characterized by his skepticism and adventurous spirit. His camaraderie with Garin showcases themes of friendship and loyalty, although they face testing moments due to betrayal. Tovar's personality highlights the internal conflict of adhering to principles while facing dire circumstances.

🧭 Adventurous 👥 Loyal

Ballard (Willem Dafoe)

Ballard is an Englishman who brings a wealth of experience and skepticism to the group. Having survived many years of captivity, his character represents a crucial link to the outside world and the diverse motivations of the characters. His decisions spark tension and intrigue as he navigates the complexities of trust and survival.

🇬🇧 Captive 🔍 Cunning

Peng Yong (Eddie Peng)

Peng Yong is a young warrior of the Nameless Order, showcasing bravery and dedication to his comrades. His character serves as a focal point for the theme of sacrifice, as he risks his life for others. Peng's journey highlights the transition from a young fighter to a pivotal hero amidst the chaos.

⚔️ Young Warrior 🌟 Sacrificial

General Shao

General Shao is the leader of the Nameless Order whose strategic prowess is tested in the face of overwhelming odds. His authoritative presence and dedication to protecting the empire underscore the weight of leadership during crises. His death serves as a catalyst for the characters' development and shifts in command.

🛡️ Leader ⚖️ Sacrificial

Commander Lin

Commander Lin steps into a leadership role following General Shao's death, showcasing resilience and quick decision-making. He embodies the spirit of the Nameless Order as he leads the charge against the Tao Tie while facing immense pressure. Lin’s character illustrates the burden of leadership during catastrophic events.

🪖 Leader 🏹 Brave

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 18:53

Major Themes – The Great Wall (2017)

Explore the central themes of The Great Wall (2017), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

⚔️ Heroism

The theme of heroism is prominent as characters like William Garin and Pero Tovar rise to meet overwhelming odds against the Tao Tie. Their bravery and skill in battle highlight the essence of courage in the face of danger. Throughout the film, the characters must make sacrifices to protect their comrades and the greater good.

🤝 Betrayal

Betrayal plays a critical role in the dynamics between characters, particularly seen in the actions of Ballard and Tovar. Their decisions lead to significant consequences, reflecting the theme of trust and the ramifications when it is broken. The fluid alliances add tension and complexity to the narrative.

🌌 Survival

Survival against formidable foes is a central theme as the characters face the relentless onslaught of the Tao Tie. The film illustrates the struggle to endure amidst chaos and the primal instinct to overcome existential threats. The characters' ingenuity and determination underscore their will to survive at all costs.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 18:53

Unlock the Full Story of The Great Wall

Don't stop at just watching — explore The Great Wall 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 The Great Wall is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

The Great Wall Summary

Read a complete plot summary of The Great Wall, 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.

The Great Wall Summary

The Great Wall Timeline

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

The Great Wall Timeline

More About The Great Wall

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More About The Great Wall

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