The Bullet Train film is a 2022 American action-comedy directed by David Leitch, based on the Japanese novel ‘Maria Beetle’. The movie stars Brad Pitt as an unlucky assassin whose mission on a Japanese bullet train puts him on a collision course with a host of other deadly operatives.
Ever imagined a bullet train where the only thing faster than the locomotive is the chaos unfolding inside? Welcome aboard the high-speed, action-packed world of Bullet Train! The film stars the ever-charismatic Brad Pitt as Ladybug, an unlucky assassin, on a wild ride filled with slick fight choreography, laugh-out-loud humor, and an ensemble cast of colorful characters. The result is a non-stop thrill ride that became one of the most talked-about action-comedies when it hit screens.
Here at IWatchMovies Blog, we’re punching our ticket for a deep dive into this adrenaline-fueled journey. Our comprehensive guide has something for every fan, from the casual viewer to the hardcore cinephile. We cover it all: an honest Bullet Train review that dissects its pulse-pounding action, a complete Bullet Train cast list, and a breakdown of the Bullet Train rating and its box office performance. We also uncover surprising cameos and tackle the ultimate question: was the movie a hit or a flop?
So, strap in and prepare for departure! Before we jump into our full Bullet Train movie review, let’s first explore the basic premise and what makes this Bullet Train film such a unique spectacle.
What is the Bullet Train Film About?
A Spoiler-Free Plot Summary
The Bullet Train film plunges viewers into a high-stakes journey aboard Japan’s fastest train, centered on an unlucky but skilled assassin named Ladybug (played by Brad Pitt). Determined to finally complete a mission peacefully, his goal is simple: retrieve a mysterious briefcase.
However, Ladybug soon realizes the train is a rolling battlefield, swarming with a rogue’s gallery of deadly adversaries. These fellow assassins have their own secret agendas and are all connected to one another—and the same briefcase—in hilariously intertwined ways.
As a result, Ladybug’s “simple” job spirals into chaos, forcing him to evade, outsmart, and battle a colorful cast of characters to survive. The train’s confined space amplifies the tension, with every car revealing new and deadly dangers. Ultimately, the Bullet Train movie becomes a frantic and comedic fight for survival—and the briefcase.
Genre, Tone, and Style
The Bullet Train film is a masterful blend of genres, primarily functioning as an action-comedy and a thrilling crime caper. Director David Leitch (John Wick, Deadpool 2) brings his signature high-octane style to the screen [1].
The tone is darkly humorous, with witty dialogue and unexpected comedic beats punctuating the intense fight sequences. Maintaining a rapid pace, the movie keeps audiences on the edge of their seats while delivering genuine laughs. The film also boasts a unique visual style, using neon-drenched aesthetics and kinetic camera work to create a vibrant and engaging cinematic experience.
Key elements that define its style include:
- High-Octane Action: Expect expertly choreographed fight scenes that are both brutal and stylish.
- Sharp Comedy: The humor often comes from character interactions and absurd situations.
- Ensemble Cast Dynamics: The film thrives on the chemistry between its diverse characters.
- Stylized Violence: The action is graphic but presented with a distinct visual flair.
- Fast-Paced Storytelling: The plot moves quickly, mirroring the speed of the train itself.
Praised for its energetic approach, the Bullet Train movie review often highlights how it expertly balances exhilarating action with laugh-out-loud comedy, making it a fresh and entertaining entry in the action genre.
Our In-Depth Bullet Train Movie Review
The High-Octane Action & Comedy
Step aboard, movie lovers! Our Bullet Train movie review kicks off with the film’s electrifying fusion of action and comedy. Delivering on its promise of high-octane thrills, this movie straps you in for a wild ride from the very beginning.
The action sequences are frenetic and brilliantly choreographed, using the confined spaces of the train to enhance the intensity. Director David Leitch, known for his work on John Wick and Atomic Blonde, masterfully blends brutal combat with laugh-out-loud moments [source: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/david-leitch-bullet-train-john-wick-atomic-blonde-1235191242/].
The humor flows seamlessly, often arising from absurd situations and witty dialogue. Because the film doesn’t take itself too seriously, the violence becomes more palatable. The contrast between deadly assassins and their quirky banter is fantastic, preparing you for a riotous good time.
Standout Performances from the Cast
A stellar cast drives the Bullet Train film forward, with each actor bringing their A-game to elevate the entire experience.
- Brad Pitt as ‘Ladybug’: As the undeniable star, Pitt portrays a seemingly unlucky assassin with pitch-perfect comedic timing. His journey as Ladybug is both hilarious and surprisingly endearing.
- Joey King as ‘The Prince’: King shines as the manipulative ‘Prince’, a cunning and ruthless character who expertly plays mind games with everyone aboard.
- Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Brian Tyree Henry as ‘Tangerine’ & ‘Lemon’: This duo is a true highlight. As hitmen with a unique brotherly bond, their infectious banter and chemistry often steal the show. Henry’s Lemon, with his Thomas the Tank Engine philosophy, is particularly memorable.
The supporting cast is equally excellent. From Hiroyuki Sanada’s ‘The Elder’ to Michael Shannon’s ‘The White Death’, every character leaves an impression. The ensemble’s dynamic makes the bullet train cast list truly impressive, and their interactions are a joy to watch.
Pacing and Storytelling
The film’s relentless pace is another highlight in this Bullet Train movie review. As a whirlwind from start to finish, it rarely slows down, and the tightly constructed narrative keeps audiences constantly engaged.
The storytelling uses a non-linear approach, gradually revealing backstories and creating a complex web of interconnected destinies. This method adds intriguing layers to the plot, making it a joy to piece the puzzle together.
Unexpected twists and turns will keep you guessing at every stop. The film masterfully balances this intense action with character development, making the journey feel both thrilling and cohesive. Ultimately, it’s a testament to sharp writing.
Is Bullet Train worth watching?
So, you’ve read our comprehensive Bullet Train review, but the burning question remains: Is Bullet Train worth watching? Our enthusiastic answer is a resounding yes!
This Bullet Train film is a wild ride from start to finish. It delivers exactly what it promises: relentless action, sharp wit, and a stylish aesthetic. If you’re seeking pure, unadulterated cinematic entertainment, look no further.
Why Bullet Train Deserves Your Attention
Several key elements make Bullet Train a standout experience and contribute to its strong appeal among moviegoers.
- Explosive Action Sequences: Director David Leitch, known for his work on films like John Wick and Atomic Blonde, orchestrates incredible fight choreography. Every encounter feels creative and visceral.
- Pitch-Perfect Comedy: The humor is dark, witty, and often laugh-out-loud funny, perfectly complementing the high-stakes action.
- Star-Studded Cast Chemistry: The ensemble, led by Brad Pitt as ‘Ladybug,’ is phenomenal. The interactions between characters are a definite highlight, especially the dynamic between ‘Tangerine’ and ‘Lemon’ (played by Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Brian Tyree Henry). Their witty banter adds immense personality to the film.
- Engaging, Twisty Plot: The narrative keeps you guessing with unexpected turns and surprising connections between its colorful assassins.
- Unique Visual Style: The movie boasts a vibrant, neon-soaked aesthetic that enhances the overall enjoyment.
Who Should Watch Bullet Train?
While this film is perfect for a specific type of moviegoer, its charm is broad enough for a wide audience. You will likely love Bullet Train if you are a fan of:
- Fast-paced action-comedies with a sharp sense of humor.
- Stylish, choreographed fight scenes.
- Ensemble casts with great chemistry.
- Movies that don’t take themselves too seriously.
- Films by directors like Guy Ritchie or Quentin Tarantino, due to the sharp dialogue and interconnected criminal underworld.
The general audience seems to agree. The film’s reception has been largely positive, holding an impressive 76% Audience Score on Rotten Tomatoes [2]. This score indicates strong approval from viewers and reflects the movie’s wide appeal.
Final Verdict: A Ticket Worth Punching
In conclusion, our Bullet Train rating is overwhelmingly positive. It’s a fantastic choice for a movie night, delivering a perfect mix of thrilling action, genuine laughs, and memorable characters. Don’t overthink it—just hop aboard for one of the most entertaining cinematic rides of recent years. It’s a high-energy spectacle you won’t regret.
The Complete Bullet Train Cast List
Brad Pitt as ‘Ladybug’
Stepping into the chaos as Ladybug, Brad Pitt delivers a stellar performance as an unlucky assassin who wants to lead a peaceful life. Ladybug’s mission is supposed to be a simple snatch-and-grab, but fate has other plans for him.
Pitt masterfully blends action with comedic timing, anchoring the film’s frenetic energy. Despite his desire to avoid trouble, Ladybug finds himself in constant, absurd predicaments as trouble seems to find him at every turn. This role showcases Pitt’s versatility as a seasoned veteran in Hollywood [source: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0000093/].
Joey King as ‘The Prince’
Don’t let her innocent demeanor fool you, as Joey King utterly shines as The Prince. She portrays a manipulative and ruthless young woman who expertly plays psychological games, pitting the other assassins against each other with a hidden, dark agenda.
King’s portrayal is chillingly effective, bringing a cunning intelligence to the role. Far from a damsel in distress, The Prince is a master schemer whose performance adds unexpected depth and a sinister edge to the high-speed narrative. Critics praised her unexpected villainous turn [source: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-reviews/bullet-train-review-brad-pitt-joey-king-1235188846/].
Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Brian Tyree Henry as ‘Tangerine’ & ‘Lemon’
Played by Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Brian Tyree Henry respectively, the dynamic duo of Tangerine and Lemon steal many scenes. These unforgettable “twin” assassins are tasked with protecting a valuable briefcase while escorting the son of the White Death.
Their banter is sharp and hilarious, with the philosophical hitman Lemon using Thomas the Tank Engine analogies while Tangerine plays the more serious, yet equally deadly, partner. Their electric chemistry creates some of the film’s best comedic moments, and audiences loved their brotherly bond and witty exchanges [source: https://variety.com/2022/film/reviews/bullet-train-review-brad-pitt-1235330364/].
Other Key Assassins and Characters
The Bullet Train is packed with an incredible ensemble cast, and each character adds a unique flavor to the ride. Here’s a look at some other crucial players:
- Hiroyuki Sanada as ‘The Elder’: A wise and mysterious figure with deep knowledge of the criminal underworld, whose presence brings gravitas to the story.
- Michael Shannon as ‘The White Death’: The legendary and feared head of a vast criminal empire, his reputation as the ultimate antagonist precedes him.
- Bad Bunny as ‘The Wolf’: A charismatic hitman seeking revenge on Ladybug, his brief but impactful appearance is memorable.
- Andrew Koji as ‘Kimura’: A Japanese assassin seeking vengeance for his son who becomes entangled in the train’s deadly events.
- Zazie Beetz as ‘The Hornet’: A deadly assassin and master of disguise who uses poison with chilling precision.
- Logan Lerman as ‘The Son’: The spoiled and hapless son of The White Death, whose safety is Tangerine and Lemon’s primary concern.
- Karen Fukuhara as ‘The Conductor’: In the seemingly ordinary role of the woman who keeps the train running, she must deftly navigate the surrounding chaos.
This stellar lineup truly makes the Bullet Train film a wild ride. The diverse cast ensures there’s never a dull moment!
Did Ryan Reynolds cameo in Bullet Train?
Unpacking the Surprise Appearances
Fans of the Bullet Train film might have spotted a familiar face hiding in plain sight. That’s right: Ryan Reynolds makes a surprise cameo in the high-octane action-comedy [source: Collider]. His appearance is brief and uncredited—a delightful wink to the audience.
In the film, Reynolds plays Carver, the assassin originally hired to retrieve the briefcase. When Carver calls in sick, Brad Pitt’s character, Ladybug, is sent as his last-minute replacement. This seemingly minor plot point is the catalyst for the entire wild train ride. While you only see Reynolds’ face for a moment, it’s enough to spark recognition.
However, this cameo is more than just a random celebrity appearance—it’s part of a fun, reciprocal history. Bullet Train director David Leitch also helmed Deadpool 2, which famously featured an uncredited cameo by Brad Pitt [source: Hollywood Reporter]. In that film, Pitt played Vanisher, an invisible mutant visible only for a split second. Reynolds’ appearance as Carver in Bullet Train serves as a playful return of the favor, cementing the camaraderie within this filmmaking circle.
Beyond Reynolds’ cameo, the film features other memorable appearances. Both Channing Tatum and Sandra Bullock pop up in key supporting roles, adding even more star power to the impressive Bullet Train cast list. These fun additions enhance the movie’s meta-humor and make the viewing experience even more enjoyable, positively impacting any bullet train movie review.
Why is the Bullet Train rated R?
A Breakdown of the Movie Rating
Ever wondered why the Bullet Train film earned an R-rating? The Motion Picture Association (MPA) assigns this rating to movies with adult material, and it wasn’t just for shock value. An “R” rating signifies that a film may contain strong violence, pervasive language, or brief nudity, and advises that viewers under 17 be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
For those reading a Bullet Train movie review, understanding this rating is essential. The bullet train rating is more than a warning; it’s a promise of the film’s commitment to a specific brand of over-the-top action-comedy. It allows the filmmakers to push boundaries without compromise, resulting in the uninhibited experience that many fans praise.
So, what specific content tipped the scales for the R-rating? Here’s a breakdown of the primary reasons:
- Intense and Stylized Violence: The Bullet Train film is packed with non-stop action, including numerous fight sequences and creative combat. While often comedic, the violence is explicit and sometimes bloody, with characters sustaining serious injuries that contribute heavily to the bullet train movie rating.
- Strong and Pervasive Language: The script is filled with frequent and strong profanity. This unfiltered dialogue is a key factor in the rating and a common element in R-rated action films.
- Bloody Images: While not a gore-fest, the film contains moments of visible blood and gory imagery. Though often played for dark humor, these visuals are impactful enough to help warrant the rating.
Ultimately, the R-rating is integral to Bullet Train‘s charm, allowing it to fully embrace its chaotic, violent, and darkly humorous identity. It guarantees a no-holds-barred experience for adult audiences, which is a key reason why Bullet Train film reviews are so positive and the movie resonated with so many viewers.
Is Bullet Train hit or flop?
Box Office Performance and Budget
Did the high-speed chaos of the Bullet Train film translate into box office success? While many enjoyed the movie, the ultimate measure of success for a studio is profitability. Let’s break down the numbers to see if this action-comedy was a financial hit or a flop.
Producing the Bullet Train film was a significant investment, with a reported production budget of approximately $90 million [3]. This figure accounted for filming, special effects, and a star-studded cast led by Brad Pitt.
On the global stage, the Bullet Train movie grossed an impressive $239.3 million [4]. The film’s unique premise resonated well with international audiences, contributing significantly to this total.
Domestically, in North America, the film pulled in $103.4 million [4]. This was a respectable showing, but gross revenue doesn’t tell the whole story. To determine if the film was truly successful, we must compare its earnings to its total costs.
A film typically needs to gross 2 to 2.5 times its production budget to cover additional marketing and distribution expenses and begin turning a profit. Given its $90 million budget and a worldwide gross of nearly $240 million, the Bullet Train film comfortably surpassed this benchmark.
Therefore, it’s clear that Bullet Train was a definitive financial success, not a flop. It secured a solid profit for Sony Pictures. While not a colossal blockbuster on the scale of a superhero movie, its performance was strong enough to be deemed a commercial hit. Furthermore, ongoing revenue from home video, streaming deals, and television rights will only add to its overall profitability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bullet Train on Netflix?
Yes, as of late 2023 and early 2024, Bullet Train is available on Netflix in many regions. This action-packed film often moves between streaming platforms, and it landed on Netflix as part of a licensing deal Sony Pictures has for its theatrical releases [source: https://about.netflix.com/en/news/sony-pictures-entertainment-and-netflix-announce-new-multi-year-film-licensing]. Since availability can vary by country, it’s always best to check your local Netflix library.
If you can’t find it on Netflix, here are other ways to watch the Bullet Train movie:
- Premium Video-on-Demand (PVOD): You can rent or buy the film on platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, and Vudu.
- Other Streaming Services: Depending on regional licensing, it may appear on services such as Hulu (with a Starz add-on) or other cable-affiliated streamers.
- Physical Media: The film is also available on 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, and DVD for those who prefer physical copies.
Because streaming rights change, keep an eye on your preferred service!
Is there a Bullet Train 2 movie?
While many fans are eager for a sequel, there has been no official announcement or green light for a Bullet Train 2 movie as of early 2024.
However, the idea isn’t entirely off the rails. Here’s why a sequel is possible:
- Open Ending: The first movie’s conclusion leaves several character arcs unresolved, creating a perfect setup for a follow-up story.
- Director’s Interest: Director David Leitch has expressed interest in revisiting the world and its characters [source: https://screenrant.com/bullet-train-2-sequel-updates-release-date-story/].
- Cast Enthusiasm: Key cast members, including Brad Pitt, have indicated they would be willing to return for another film.
Despite these positive signs, a sequel still depends on studio interest and the right creative vision. Stay tuned to the IWatchMovies Blog for any breaking news on a potential Bullet Train 2!
How much did Brad Pitt get paid for Bullet Train?
As a leading Hollywood star, Brad Pitt commanded a substantial salary for his role as ‘Ladybug’ in the Bullet Train film. It is widely reported that Pitt earned $20 million for his work on the movie [source: https://variety.com/2021/film/news/daniel-craig-top-paid-actors-netflix-james-bond-sequels-1235043815/]. This figure confirms his status as one of the highest-paid actors in the industry.
For context, a $20 million salary is a benchmark for A-list actors in major studio projects. This is typically an upfront fee, which can be supplemented by back-end deals tied to the film’s box office performance.
What did critics say about Bullet Train?
The critical reception for the Bullet Train film was decidedly mixed. While some praised its high-energy style and sharp humor, others found it to be a case of style over substance.
Here’s a breakdown of the common points from reviews:
- The Good:
- Action & Humor: Many critics applauded the film’s relentless, stylish action sequences and its dark, witty humor.
- Cast Chemistry: The ensemble cast, especially the dynamic between Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Brian Tyree Henry as Tangerine and Lemon, was frequently cited as a major strength.
- Pacing: Some enjoyed the frenetic, fast-paced story that never slowed down.
- The Not-So-Good:
- Thin Plot: Reviewers often felt the plot was convoluted or too thin, relying heavily on style rather than narrative depth.
- Overwhelming Style: For some, the hyper-stylized approach became distracting or detracted from emotional engagement.
- Tonal Inconsistency: A few critics noted that the balance between brutal violence and lighthearted comedy felt uneven.
On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a 54% approval rating from critics, with an average rating of 5.8/10 [source: https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/bullet_train]. On Metacritic, it has a weighted average score of 49 out of 100, indicating “mixed or average reviews” [source: https://www.metacritic.com/movie/bullet-train/].
Ultimately, while not a universal critical darling, the Bullet Train film proved to be an entertaining ride for many viewers, especially fans of stylized action-comedy.
