The Great Wall

The Great Wall Analysis

​🤝 An Unlikely Alliance: The Relationship Between Garin and Lin Mae (Part 7/20)

​A Clash of Cultures and Combat Styles
​At the heart of The Great Wall's personal drama is the evolving relationship between the two main protagonists: William Garin (the mercenary, Matt Damon) and Commander Lin Mae (the principled warrior, Jing Tian).
​Initially, their dynamic is defined by mutual suspicion and a stark contrast in their worldviews. Garin is driven by personal gain—the quest for "Black Powder" and survival—reflecting a pragmatic, individualistic Western sensibility. Lin Mae, conversely, embodies duty, discipline, and selfless sacrifice, representing the core values of The Nameless Order and the civilization they protect.
​The Bridge of Respect
​As the battle against the Tao Tei intensifies, their forced partnership begins to bridge the cultural gap. Garin, witnessing the extraordinary organization, skill, and sheer courage of the Chinese soldiers, starts to question his mercenary motives. Lin Mae, in turn, recognizes Garin's unparalleled combat prowess, particularly his mastery of archery, which proves invaluable in the face of the overwhelming enemy.
​Key to their bond is the exchange of skills and knowledge:
​Garin learns discipline and purpose from Lin Mae and the Order.
​Lin Mae learns adaptability and unconventional tactics from Garin's battlefield experience outside the Wall's established protocols.
​This mutual respect ultimately transforms their relationship from one of captor/captive to dedicated allies. This character arc is crucial, serving as the film's attempt to justify Garin’s presence and demonstrate that the "savior" narrative is, instead, one of two equals finding common ground against a common enemy.
​