The Matador 2008

In a striking encounter within the dimly lit bar of the Mexico City branch of the Camino Real Hotels, tired businessman Danny Wright finds himself face-to-face with the jaded and disheveled assassin Julian Noble. Danny is desperately hoping to secure a career-saving contract in Mexico, but his outlook is clouded with anxiety. On the other hand, Julian, weary from his profession, is battling a profound mid-life crisis that has left him frozen in the midst of a job gone wrong. It’s this unexpected meeting that sparks an awkward yet intriguing friendship between two men from entirely different walks of life.

As their curious conversation unfolds, they delve into topics that oscillate between the mundane and the grotesque. Danny, sensing the uncomfortable atmosphere, ultimately decides to excuse himself and leaves the bar. However, Julian, eager for connection and perhaps a bit remorseful, reaches out with an invitation to witness a bullfight—a cultural spectacle he seems to value. During the event, the conversation takes a darker turn when Julian reveals his line of work. Danny, still grappling with disbelief, is led through a chilling step-by-step tutorial of how to assassinate a seemingly oblivious target—a portly man lurking in the bathroom of the arena. Danny’s shock is palpable, as he witnesses Julian’s disturbing ease in nearly executing the act, albeit stopping short of completing the grim task.

The night grows heavier and more tense as they find themselves at an outdoor café. Julian boldly requests Danny’s assistance in completing a job, to which Danny resolutely declines, prompting Julian’s abrupt departure. Yet, later that evening, Julian, adorned in vulnerability, knocks on Danny’s hotel room door, seeking forgiveness for having dragged him into his morally murky world. The scene cuts to black, leaving viewers to ponder the tension as the ominous sound of glass shattering fills the air, shrouding the fate of their reunion in uncertainty.

Fast forward six months into the bustling Christmas season, where Danny and his wife, Bean, are enjoying a quiet evening in their Denver home. Suddenly, Julian reappears, seeking refuge under their roof. Although Danny and Bean exhibit hesitation, they ultimately relent and welcome him. Julian’s gratitude is evident, especially when he notices that Danny has framed the bullfight ticket—a small gesture that deeply touches him. That same night, Julian divulges the purpose of his visit—he desperately requires assistance with one last job. Convincing Danny that he owes him, they embark on a flight to Arizona with Julian’s target lined up at the racecourse.

As they navigate the mission, Julian instructs Danny to set off an alarm, while he takes his position with a sniper rifle. With nerves running high, Julian’s hesitation becomes evident when the moment comes to eliminate the target. Overcome with internal conflict, it is Danny’s encouragement that ultimately helps Julian gather his resolve and complete the grim task.

On their return flight from Tucson, things take a surprising turn as Julian reveals that the man he just killed was none other than his long-time employer, Mr. Stick. With this revelation, Julian looks forward to his retirement in Greece. Danny, both bemused and impressed by Julian’s cunning maneuvering, lightly taps him on the shoulder in camaraderie, only to be met with a stern warning: “Don’t ever hit me again.” Humbly, Danny retracts his gesture, underscoring the strange dynamics of their newfound friendship.

A poignant flashback depicted through seamless cuts brings viewers back to the previous year when Danny, in a moment of desperation, had invited Julian into his hotel room with a chilling request—to eliminate his business adversaries. Julian’s response at that time reflects his belief in Danny’s inherent goodness, reminding him of the ethical lines he should not cross.

As the plane descends and reality resumes, Danny expresses gratitude, acknowledging that Julian became his friend the night they met. To which Julian, with surprising introspection, confesses that he too was astonished by the unexpected bond they formed. The story comes full circle when Danny and Bean are seen at their son’s grave, a haunting reminder of their past. Julian, watching from a distance, places a brochure for Greece on their windshield—a silent farewell signifying new beginnings as he discreetly escapes into the night.