Review of 47 Ronin (1994) by Roxanne R — 05 May 2014

The story of the 47 Ronin, known as Chushingura ('tale of the loyal retainers') in Japanese, is one of the most popular Samurai tales in Japan. The fact that it is a true story, plays a major role in its long lasting appeal.

Described by Japanese historians as a 'National Legend', the revenge of the 47 Ronin took place in Japan and is the ultimate expression of the samurai code of honor, Bushido. Keanu Reeves plays Kai, an outcast that joins Oishi (Hiroyuki Sanada), the leader of 47 outcast samurai in seeking revenge for the death of their master.

I will say that the landscapes and special effects were superb in Blu-ray; so were the fighting sequences. I like movies where the leads are tested and placed in challenging situations and this film delivers that.

Ironically I wanted to rent a love story but guess what? 47 Ronin turned out to be not only an epic Samurai fighting story but also a memorable and incredible love story that remains with you long after you have watched the film.

I disliked the ending- the only minus and the reason I only awarded three stars. Overall I do recommend this visually striking story in Blu-ray and so glad I saw the movie costumes at the FIDM Los Angeles!