47 Ronin (浪人47) is an 2013 film. The movie stars Keanu Reeves. The supporting cast include Hiroyuki Sanada, Kou Shibasaki, Tadanobu Asano, and Rinko Kikuchi. The movie is based on a old Japanese legend of the same name.
A "half-breed" boy, Kai, is found running through the forest and found by the local warlord. Taken in as a servant, he befriends the warlords only child and daughter, Mika. Kai is basically subjected to all sorts of mis treatment for his status. When the warlord is "killed", his samurai become masterless, thus Ronin. They seek revenge against Lord Kira. Because Kira has a witch as her assistant, Kai is brought in for his expert knowledge of witchcraft and how to combat it. They set out an elaborate plan to take out Kira and avenge their fallen lord.
Pretty simple story. Should be an easy sell. Looks of swords, action, and revenge storyline. BUT it was very hard to watch this. I've watched my fair share of samurai movie through the years out of Japan. This movie's cast was made up of mainly Japanese (from Japan), but the director was not. The screenplay, etc. was not. It was a "western" staff that hired a mostly "eastern" staff. And the movie felt that way. Over emphasizing "honor" and "duty" all the way to the climax. Over playing the half breed aspect. So, in the end, it felt awkward watching this. However, when the action takes over, the action wins. You don't care, you just watch the action. But when the story comes back into focus, its a mud field to get through.
I can't really recommend this. Even though many of the actors named above are some of my favorites. However, seeing Kou again made me want to re-watch Battle Royale again.
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