Review of 47 Ronin (2013) by Rvallet — 21 Jan 2014

This movie was nothing like what I expected. I rarely watch trailers, but I had seen the one for 47 Ronin. It felt like mostly fantasy, whereas the movie is very grounded in reality. Sure, some witchcraft and creatures are involved, but the movie tries to stick very close to cultural and historical Japan.

Actually fantasy is smartly spread out throughout the movie, keeping the storytelling alive. I was not bored one second while watching it. It is a little odd that 99% of the cast is Japanese yet they are all speaking English.

I would rather have seen the movie made in Japanese. But once I got over that, I was fine with it. Keanu Reeves sternness plays well in the Samurai world. I can see why the movie isn't getting a warm reception in the States.

Apart from the language, the direction does nothing to cater to American audiences, which are probably used to a faster pace and not as grim an atmosphere for that kind of movie.