Directed by
Jimmy Hayward
Made by
Warner Bros. Pictures
Discover the intricate plot of Jonah Hex (2010). 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.
During the tumultuous period of the American Civil War, Jonah Hex, played by Josh Brolin, fought valiantly for the Confederacy. However, his loyalty was tested when he betrayed his commanding officer, Quentin Turnbull, portrayed by John Malkovich, to save a hospital and inadvertently caused the death of Turnbull’s son. This act of treachery led to a gruesome revenge plot by Turnbull and his ruthless associate, Burke (Michael Fassbender), who torched Jonah’s home with his family trapped inside, branding Jonah’s face with the initials QT. In a desperate attempt to regain his looks, he later used a red-hot tomahawk to carve away at his disfigurement.
After being discovered by a tribe of Native Americans, Jonah is brought back to life through their mystical powers, granting him a unique ability to not only exist in this world but also communicate with spirits. Following rumors of Turnbull’s demise in a hotel fire, Jonah emerges as a feared bounty hunter, carving out a notorious reputation for himself.
As Jonah rides into the town of Stunk Crick, he presents the latest bounty, only to find himself betrayed by the local marshals who aim to kill him instead. After a bloody confrontation, Jonah emerges victorious but soon learns of an even greater threat. Meanwhile, Turnbull, believed to be dead, survives and plots an attack on the Union on the Fourth of July, as revealed to President Grant (Aidan Quinn) through Lieutenant Grass (Will Arnett).
Jonah’s journey takes an unexpected turn when he finds himself drawn to Lilah, a prostitute played by Megan Fox, who captivates him beyond mere physical attraction. When Jonah is conscripted to hunt down Turnbull, a flicker of vengeance ignites within him. As the plot unfolds, he discovers that Turnbull’s nefarious scheme involves a devastating weapon designed to cripple the Union.
Facing betrayals both old and new, Jonah resurrects the spirit of Jeb Turnbull (Jeffrey Dean Morgan) to learn about the impending threat at Fort Resurrection. Armed with this knowledge, Jonah dives headfirst into a dangerous and action-packed situation, confronting familiar foes and navigating a web of treachery that leads him to a fateful showdown with Turnbull.
As the stakes reach a boiling point, Jonah battles through perilous moments, including an intense confrontation aboard Turnbull’s warship where life hangs in the balance. The explosive climax pits Jonah against Turnbull, leading to a fierce and gritty showdown that determines the fate of countless lives.
In the aftermath of their epic clash, the following day brings an unexpected proposal from President Grant, who offers Jonah the position of U.S. Sheriff. However, Jonah, the lone wolf, declines this noble opportunity, ensuring the President that when his skills are required, he remains just a call away.
Track the key events of Jonah Hex (2010) with a comprehensive timeline. Perfect for understanding the sequence of major plot points, this feature offers clarity on how the story unfolds.
Jonah's Loyalty Tested
During the American Civil War, Jonah Hex fights for the Confederacy. His loyalty comes into question when he betrays his commanding officer, Quentin Turnbull, to save a hospital, inadvertently causing Turnbull's son's death.
Betrayal and Revenge
Turnbull seeks brutal revenge for his son's death, ultimately burning Jonah's home with his family trapped inside. This horrific act brands Jonah's face with the initials QT, marking him for life.
Desperate Measures
In a desperate bid to regain his former appearance, Jonah uses a red-hot tomahawk to carve away his disfigurement. This act showcases his pain and determination to reconcile his past mistakes.
Resurrection by Native Americans
After his near-death experience, Jonah is discovered by a tribe of Native Americans who resurrect him using their mystical powers. This grants him the unique ability to communicate with spirits, altering his fate.
Jonah's New Identity
With rumors of Turnbull's death, Jonah transforms into a feared bounty hunter. His notorious reputation grows as he navigates the treacherous landscapes of the post-war world.
Betrayal in Stunk Crick
Jonah arrives in the town of Stunk Crick to present a bounty, only to face betrayal from local marshals who target him for elimination. In a bloody confrontation, he fights back and survives.
Turnbull's Survival Revealed
It is revealed that Turnbull, believed to be dead from a hotel fire, has survived and is plotting a major assault on the Union army. This information reaches President Grant through Lieutenant Grass.
Growing Affection for Lilah
During his journey, Jonah becomes romantically involved with Lilah, a captivating prostitute. Their relationship deepens, bringing emotional complexity to Jonah's otherwise solitary existence.
Conscription to Hunt Turnbull
Jonah is conscripted to hunt down Turnbull, igniting a flicker of vengeance within him. This mission intertwines his personal vendetta with significant historical implications.
Spirit of Jeb Turnbull
Jonah resurrects the spirit of Jeb Turnbull to gain insight into the imminent threat at Fort Resurrection. This encounter provides crucial information and amplifies the stakes of his mission.
Climactic Confrontation
Jonah engages in an intense confrontation aboard Turnbull's warship. As the battle escalates, Jonah fights for survival against adversaries and challenges his previous choices.
Final Showdown with Turnbull
The climax pits Jonah against Turnbull in a fierce showdown that will determine the fate of many lives. This confrontation tests Jonah's resolve and brings closure to their tumultuous history.
A Proposal from the President
In the aftermath of their epic battle, President Grant offers Jonah the position of U.S. Sheriff as a reward for his bravery. Nevertheless, Jonah declines, preferring to remain a lone wolf but promises to be available when needed.
Meet the characters that bring Jonah Hex (2010) to life. Dive into detailed profiles of the cast and their roles, exploring their motivations, relationships, and arcs within the story.
Jonah Hex (Josh Brolin)
A complex character, Jonah Hex is a bounty hunter haunted by his past betrayals and scars, both physical and emotional. His transformation from a Confederate soldier to a feared bounty hunter illustrates his resilience and quest for redemption. Jonah is driven by a code of honor, grappling with loyalty, revenge, and the pains of his choices as he confronts his enemies.
Quentin Turnbull (John Malkovich)
Turnbull is the film's primary antagonist, whose ruthless pursuit of vengeance against Jonah Hex defines much of the conflict. Following a tragic loss, he becomes consumed by a desire for retribution, showcasing his cunning and manipulative nature. His character embodies the darker aspects of loyalty's betrayal and the relentless drive for power.
Lilah (Megan Fox)
Lilah is a captivating prostitute who becomes a significant figure in Jonah's life, representing both temptation and compassion. Her relationship with Jonah adds depth to his character, illustrating his vulnerabilities and desires. She serves as a grounding force, inspiring Jonah to pursue a path beyond violence and revenge.
Uncover the settings of Jonah Hex (2010), 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
American Civil War Era
The events unfold amidst the dynamic backdrop of the American Civil War, which lasted from 1861 to 1865. This era was rife with battles and moral dilemmas that shaped the nation. The war's effects are evident in the personal struggles of the characters, especially in Jonah Hex, who grapples with loyalty and betrayal in his tumultuous journey.
Location
American Civil War, Stunk Crick, Fort Resurrection
The movie takes place during the American Civil War, a period marked by intense conflict between the Northern states and the Southern states over issues such as slavery and state rights. Stunk Crick is a town where Jonah Hex faces betrayal from local marshals, indicating a gritty and lawless atmosphere. Fort Resurrection serves as a pivotal location, where the impending threat of a devastating weapon looms, emphasizing the high stakes surrounding Jonah's mission.
Explore the core themes of Jonah Hex (2010). From its commentary on social issues to its emotional undertones, delve into the deeper messages woven into the film’s story.
💔
Betrayal
Betrayal is a central theme in Jonah Hex's story as his initial actions against his commanding officer set off a chain reaction of revenge and violence. The conflict highlights the moral complexities and consequences of choices made during war. Jonah's struggles with trust further illustrate the theme as he faces betrayals that challenge his mission and personal beliefs.
🕊️
Redemption
The quest for redemption drives Jonah Hex as he seeks to atone for his past mistakes and the betrayal of those he once served. His resurrection through mystical means symbolizes a second chance to confront his demons. Jonah's transformation into a bounty hunter allows him to carve out a new identity, striving to protect others while battling his inner turmoil.
🗡️
Vengeance
Vengeance plays a critical role in motivating Jonah throughout the film, particularly in his pursuit of Quentin Turnbull. Fueled by a desire to rectify his past errors and avenge the loss of his family, Jonah becomes entangled in a conflict of epic proportions. The intoxicating lure of revenge ultimately shapes Jonah's character, pushing him into a lethal confrontation with his nemesis.
What's After the Movie?
Not sure whether to stay after the credits? Find out!
Check out our other apps:
Actors
Companies
Latest Movies
© 2025 What's After the Movie?. All rights reserved.