Review of 47 Ronin (1994) by Rick R — 29 Dec 2014
47 Ronin (2014).
I originally heard about the legend of the 47 Ronin when I was practicing Kendo. I've since, seen part one of the Japanese movie from 1941 (which was really slow-paced), and then there was Ronin (1998) where they talked about the legend of the 47 Ronin.
Samurai are raised to die for their master; if not in battle, then in ritualistic suicide. Once that is done, they aren't dying in shame and their families are taken care of. The real 47 Ronin wasn't about them taking revenge for the death of their master (although that's what they did), but having the freedom to commit Sepiku.
This movie is a Westernized version of this legend that adds mysticism and romance to the original legend, but, it makes it more palatable to American audiences and yet tells the story.
Keanu Reeves is the McGuffin in this story, Kai, who is part English, part run-away demon from the forest. As the outsider, he's able to show us a part of this Samurai life that westerners don't usually see. The movie has some great special effects and is a decent actioner. Well worth checking out.
This review of 47 Ronin (1994) was written by Rick R on 29 Dec 2014.
47 Ronin has generally received mixed reviews.
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