The Matador

Tired businessman Danny Wright finds himself in a bar in Mexico City, hoping to land a crucial contract that could save his career. His desperation for success puts him in a vulnerable state as he navigates the pressures of his job.

During his visit to the bar, Danny encounters Julian Noble, a disillusioned assassin dealing with a mid-life crisis. Their awkward conversation reveals the deep divide between Danny's ambitions and Julian's moral dilemmas.

After an uneasy discussion, Julian invites Danny to a bullfight to further his understanding and possibly lighten the mood. Despite feeling skeptical, Danny reluctantly accepts the invitation, unsure of what lies ahead.

At the bullfight, Julian candidly reveals his profession as an assassin. He leads Danny through a chilling lesson on how to commit murder, which horrifies Danny and illustrates the stark contrast between their lives.

Later at an outdoor café, Julian spurts out a shocking request for Danny to help him with a hit. Danny flatly refuses, leading to a brief confrontation where Julian seems to realize their friendship may not last.

That same evening, Julian knocks on Danny's hotel room door, seeking forgiveness after earlier tensions. The scene ends ambiguously without disclosing the outcome of their interaction, leaving the audience to ponder their fate.

Six months later, during Christmas, Danny and his wife, Bean, receive an unexpected visitor. Julian arrives at their home, finding sanctuary and showing emotional gratitude, which stirs memories of their earlier connection.

Julian discloses his intention for coming back, requesting Danny's help on what he claims to be his last job. Danny is hesitant but ultimately gets persuaded by Julian's insistence that he owes him for past support.

Danny travels with Julian to Arizona, where they plan to eliminate Julian's target. The dynamic shifts from a friendly reunion to a tense operation, showcasing the moral conflict brewing within Julian.

As the operation unfolds, Danny plays a crucial role in setting the stage for the kill. However, Julian falters at the moment of truth, leading to an emotional breakdown filled with guilt and hesitation.

Finally, after a heartfelt conversation with Danny that rekindles his resolve, Julian takes the shot, completing the job. This moment signifies a turning point, allowing Julian to consider his retirement and life beyond assassination.

On the flight back, Julian reveals that the target was his long-time employer, prompting a surreal mix of surprise and amusement from Danny. Their camaraderie grows deeper as they reflect on their unusual bond forged through chaos.

A split flashback occurs, revealing the night Danny almost asked Julian to eliminate his business rivals. Julian intuitively rejects the idea, showcasing his understanding of Danny's character and the deep connection that has developed.

Later, Danny and Bean visit their son's grave, showing a poignant reminder of their past grief. Julian watches from a distance, placing a brochure for Greece as a gesture of goodwill, highlighting the bond that formed despite their different paths.