Directed by
David Leitch
Made by
Columbia Pictures
Discover the intricate plot of Bullet Train (2022). From unexpected twists to emotional highs and lows, this detailed summary breaks down every moment to give you a deeper understanding of the film’s story.
In the vibrant city of Tokyo, the quest for vengeance unfolds as Yuichi Kimura (Andrew Koji) seeks retribution for the tragic incident involving his son, Wataru, who was cruelly pushed off a rooftop. His path intertwines with that of The Elder (Hiroyuki Sanada), who instructs him to board a bullet train destined for Kyoto later that same night. Meanwhile, a seasoned assassin known as Ladybug (Brad Pitt), currently grappling with anxiety and a string of recent misfortunes, receives a new assignment from his handler, Maria (Sandra Bullock). His objective? Retrieve a crucial briefcase from the same high-speed train, following the sudden illness of a fellow assassin named Carver.
As the journey progresses, tension escalates when Ladybug unexpectedly encounters a young woman identified as Prince (Joey King). Disguised as a schoolgirl, she cunningly schemes against the assassins. Moreover, he crosses paths with two English hitmen dubbed Lemon (Brian Tyree Henry) and Tangerine (Aaron Taylor-Johnson), who are entrusted with escorting the briefcase containing a staggering ransom of $10 million, linked to the formidable White Death (Michael Shannon), a notorious Russian Yakuza lord. Following a web of betrayal, trickery, and dangerous encounters on the train, Ladybug finds himself entwined in a precarious plan designed by Prince to eliminate White Death himself.
Amidst the chaos, Ladybug manages to steal the briefcase but is met with unexpected aggression from an assassin known as Wolf ([Benito A. Martínez Ocasio]), who believes Ladybug is responsible for the fatal poisoning of his wedding party. As fate would have it, after a fierce encounter, Ladybug inadvertently causes Wolf’s demise. With motives intertwining and dangers looming, he discovers that Prince orchestrated the attack on Wataru, luring Yuichi to fulfill her own agenda against the White Death.
As tensions simmer and the stakes rise, a series of fights ensue, culminating in tragedy as Miss Hornet’s actions spark a deadly chain reaction. In a remarkable climax painted with betrayal, assassination, and anguished emotions, revelations ensue that reveal Prince as the estranged daughter of White Death herself. The chaotic altercations reach a shocking resolution, leading to a climactic confrontation between the assassins and White Death, resulting in explosive outcomes and unexpected twists. Amidst all the violence, Ladybug finally escapes the inferno of chaos, while the remnants of this turbulent night in Kyoto lie scattered, with lives forever altered in the pursuit of vengeance and survival.
Maria arrives just in time to extract Ladybug, who breathes a sigh of relief, finally free from the deadly bullet train’s grasp as authorities scramble to address the aftermath of the disastrous events that have unfolded.
Track the key events of Bullet Train (2022) with a comprehensive timeline. Perfect for understanding the sequence of major plot points, this feature offers clarity on how the story unfolds.
Tragic Incident
Yuichi Kimura's life is forever altered when his son, Wataru, is tragically pushed off a rooftop. This devastating event ignites Yuichi's quest for vengeance, fueling his determination to seek justice.
The Elder's Guidance
In his search for revenge, Yuichi encounters The Elder, who plays a pivotal role in guiding him towards his goal. The Elder instructs Yuichi to board a bullet train heading to Kyoto that night, marking the beginning of his journey for justice.
Ladybug's Assignation
Meanwhile, seasoned assassin Ladybug receives a high-stakes assignment from his handler, Maria. His mission is clear: retrieve a briefcase from the bullet train, but Ladybug is uncertain about the challenges that await.
Encountering Prince
On the train, Ladybug's journey takes an unexpected turn when he meets Prince, a young woman disguised as a schoolgirl. Unbeknownst to him, Prince is cunningly scheming against the assassins for her own goals.
Hitmen on the Job
Ladybug runs into Lemon and Tangerine, two English hitmen who are also on the train. They are tasked with escorting a briefcase containing a ransom linked to the formidable Russian Yakuza lord, White Death.
The Briefcase Heist
As tensions escalate, Ladybug manages to steal the briefcase, setting off a series of chaotic events. The stakes rise when he is confronted by Wolf, an assassin who mistakenly blames Ladybug for a tragic poisoning.
The Aftermath of Clash
A fierce encounter ensues between Ladybug and Wolf. In a surprising twist of fate, Ladybug’s actions inadvertently lead to Wolf's demise, further entangling him in the mess of assassins' intrigues.
Prince's True Intentions
Amid the chaotic atmosphere, Ladybug uncovers a shocking truth about Prince. She is revealed to have orchestrated the attack on Wataru, revealing her connection to Yuichi's quest for revenge.
Tragic Events Unfold
As chaos reigns on the train, Miss Hornet’s actions instigate a deadly chain reaction of violence. The situation escalates dramatically, leading to confrontations between various assassins and factions.
Revelation of Relationships
The climactic fight reveals Prince’s true identity as the estranged daughter of White Death. This shocking connection intensifies the stakes, as personal vendettas and complex relationships come to light.
Climactic Confrontation
The remaining survivors face off against White Death in an explosive climax filled with betrayal and revelations. Violence erupts in a desperate struggle for survival and power on the train.
Ladybug's Escape
As the dust settles, Ladybug narrowly escapes the chaos and carnage on the bullet train. He breathes a sigh of relief, having survived the harrowing night filled with danger and deceit.
Maria's Arrival
Maria arrives just in time to extract Ladybug from the disaster. As authorities scramble to address the night's catastrophic fallout, Ladybug is finally free from the life-threatening situations he faced.
Aftermath of Chaos
In the wake of the violent confrontations, the remnants of the turbulent events lie scattered across Kyoto. Lives have been irrevocably altered as the night concludes, leaving a haunting reminder of the quest for vengeance.
Meet the characters that bring Bullet Train (2022) to life. Dive into detailed profiles of the cast and their roles, exploring their motivations, relationships, and arcs within the story.
Ladybug (Brad Pitt)
Ladybug is a skilled assassin plagued by anxiety and misfortunes, trying to navigate his latest mission with trepidation. He embodies a blend of charisma and vulnerability, making his journey on the bullet train filled with tension and unexpected encounters. His struggle between moral dilemmas and survival defines his character arc.
Yuichi Kimura (Andrew Koji)
Yuichi Kimura is a desperate father seeking vengeance for his son's tragic death. His emotional drive fosters a relentless pursuit of justice, intertwining his fate with Ladybug and others. This character's darkness and determination provide a compelling contrast to the chaos of the assassin's world.
Prince (Joey King)
Prince is a cunning young assassin masquerading as a schoolgirl, cleverly manipulating those around her to achieve her objectives. Her strategic mind and ability to deceive highlight her role in the chaotic events aboard the train. The reveal of her true identity adds depth to her character.
The Elder (Hiroyuki Sanada)
The Elder serves as a mentor figure with a deep understanding of the assassin world. His wisdom and experience guide others through the chaos, providing layers of complexity to the narrative. He embodies honor and tradition amidst the violence.
Uncover the settings of Bullet Train (2022), from iconic locations to the time period that shapes its world. See how these elements add depth and context to the movie’s narrative.
Time period
The story unfolds in a contemporary setting, reflecting a modern world filled with high-stakes crime and the fast-paced life of urban assassins. The use of a bullet train highlights the efficiency and speed of transportation in Japan today.
Location
Tokyo, Kyoto
Tokyo is a bustling metropolis known for its vibrant culture, advanced technology, and as a major economic hub in Japan. Kyoto, the destination on the bullet train, is famous for its rich history, beautiful temples, and traditional wooden houses, making it a contrast to Tokyo's modernity.
Explore the core themes of Bullet Train (2022). From its commentary on social issues to its emotional undertones, delve into the deeper messages woven into the film’s story.
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Vengeance
Vengeance drives the plot as characters seek retribution for personal losses. Yuichi Kimura's quest for justice for his son sets the tone, entangling him with Ladybug and Prince, who all have their motives cloaked in revenge. This theme is intricately woven into the chaotic events aboard the bullet train.
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Betrayal
Betrayal emerges as a core theme, with twists revealing hidden agendas and shifting alliances. Characters, such as Prince, manipulate those around them, leading to shocking revelations and confrontations. The complexities of trust in a world filled with deception challenge each assassin's motives.
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Chaos
The film is steeped in chaos, as a series of violent confrontations and unexpected events unfold on the bullet train. Each character’s actions ripple through the narrative, culminating in a frenetic climax where everything unravels. This theme emphasizes the unpredictability of their dangerous lifestyles.
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