The Matador

The Matador

Year: 2008

Runtime: 74 min

Language: English

Directors: Nina Gilden Seavey, Stephen Higgins

Documentary

Danny Wright, a man grappling with a troubled marriage and the loss of his child, finds an unexpected connection with Julian Noble, a disillusioned man he meets in a Mexican bar. To Danny’s surprise, Julian confesses to being a contract killer, a revelation that doesn’t deter their growing bond. As their friendship deepens, Julian finds himself in a desperate situation and seeks a significant favor from Danny, ultimately challenging the limits of their unusual relationship and forcing them both to confront difficult choices.

Warning: spoilers below!

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Timeline & Setting – The Matador (2008)

Explore the full timeline and setting of The Matador (2008). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

Christmas season, modern day

The story primarily unfolds during the Christmas season, a time often associated with reflection and renewal. This time period is characterized by a contrast between the pressures of personal life and the darker aspects of Julian's profession, especially as the characters confront their life choices amidst holiday festivities.

Location

Mexico City, Denver, Arizona

The movie takes place in Mexico City, known for its rich culture and bustling streets, where Danny and Julian's unlikely friendship begins in a hotel bar. It also transitions to Denver, symbolizing suburban life and introspection, and finally to Arizona, a place associated with horse racing and more dramatic undertones, serving as the backdrop for their pivotal moment.

🏙️ Urban 🌄 Scenic

Last Updated: December 31, 2024 at 17:39

Main Characters – The Matador (2008)

Meet the key characters of The Matador (2008), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Danny Wright

Danny Wright is a businessman burdened by the pressure to secure a vital deal in Mexico. His character is depicted as cautious yet open to new experiences, often finding himself in over his head. As the story unfolds, Danny grapples with the ethics of Julian's world while searching for his own identity, ultimately revealing a complex, empathetic side.

💼 Business 😰 Anxiety 🤔 Self-discovery

Julian Noble

Julian Noble is a jaded assassin facing a mid-life crisis, grappling with the moral implications of his violent career. His character embodies a mix of dark humor and vulnerability, showcasing an individual deeply conflicted about his past choices. As he navigates his relationship with Danny, Julian reveals layers of regret and the desire for redemption.

🔫 Assassin 😔 Crisis ✈️ Adventure

Last Updated: December 31, 2024 at 17:39

Major Themes – The Matador (2008)

Explore the central themes of The Matador (2008), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

🤝 Friendship

The evolving friendship between Danny and Julian is at the heart of the narrative. It showcases how two vastly different men find common ground in their struggles and vulnerabilities. Their bond is tested by moral dilemmas and personal crises, ultimately revealing the capacity for understanding and support amidst chaos.

💼 Morality

The theme of morality runs throughout the film, primarily through Julian's internal conflict regarding his profession as an assassin. This moral quandary is mirrored in Danny's own fears about career choices and consequences. Their conversations challenge notions of right and wrong, posing questions about the lengths one would go to for survival and success.

Last Updated: December 31, 2024 at 17:39

Unlock the Full Story of The Matador

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

The Matador Summary

Read a complete plot summary of The Matador, 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 Matador Summary

The Matador Timeline

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

The Matador Timeline

More About The Matador

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about The Matador: 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 The Matador

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