The epic story of forty-seven ronin (Masterless samurai) and their mission to get revenge for the unfair murder of their lord is told in the fantasy action movie “47 Ronin.” Lord Naganori Asano is a kind ruler in the 18th-century Japanese province of Ako. His samurai, who are very proud of both his lord and themselves, serve him.
However, Lord Asano commits seppuku (ritualistic suicide) when Lord Yoshiknaka Kira, the master of a rival province, becomes envious and sets his sights on Ako. The former samurai of Lord Asano, stripped of their dignity and rank, now plot retaliation against Lord Akira and his army. However, demons and witches are also obstacles on their path, in addition to mankind.
Despite the enormous odds against them, will they be able to win? The 2013 movie, which was directed by Carl Rinsch, stars Rinko Kikuchi, Ko Shibasaki, Tadanobu Asano, Hiroyuki Sanada, and Keanu Reeves.
In spite of its extensive use of magic and surrealism, “47 Ronin” is a period movie. Furthermore, a lot of our readers may question whether the movie has any real historical significance.
Is 47 Ronin Inspired By Real Events?
Yes, “47 Ronin” is based on a true story. Based on the true story of the 47 ronin who took revenge for their lord, the real-life Lord Asano, in January 1703, the movie was written by Chris Morgan and Hossein Amini. However, there are several significant differences between the real narrative and the film adaptation.
Of course, the most important factor is that things be magical. It serves a function within the plot’s parameters and was obviously designed to give the story a more “other” feel. The appearance of Kai (Keanu Reeves), a half-Japanese man who served Lord Asano after saving his life, is another significant element.
Despite the fact that Kai was raised by the Tengu and is knowledgeable about magic and witchcraft, no half-Japanese man has helped the ronin in their quest. Not to be overlooked is the incident’s actual cause. Although Lord Asano’s attack and injury to Lord Kira constitute seppuku, the motivation for the act is drastically different in the film.
The real-life Lord Kira simply continued to taunt Lord Asano because he was offended by the token gift the latter had offered him during his visit to Edo to meet with the shogun, Tokugawa Tsunayoshi, whereas the fictional Lord Kira is a jealous and vindictive man who uses deceit and witchcraft in order to gain control of Ako.
Thus, “47 Ronin” basically falls under the category of a Chūshingura, which is the Japanese word for a dramatized rendition of a story. Numerous Chūshingura have been made on the 47 Ronin, demonstrating their bravery, honor, and dedication to justice, their lord, and their province.
Director Carl Rinsch discussed his first interest in the story in an interview with Xtreme Network Entertainment. “I was aware of the history of the 47 Ronin, but this take is so different,” he said of the script, which caught my attention.
Carl Rinsch went on to say, “I wanted to bring that to life in a way you haven’t seen before because we in the West have a romanticized picture of Japan to a certain extent. I therefore intended to transform it into a fantasy and create a new planet rather than a historical epic. As an action movie, “47 Ronin” features numerous swordfight scenes, many of which include Keanu Reeves.
He received instruction from Tsuyoshi Abe, a stunt coordinator who specializes in the use of Japanese swords in movies, to prepare for these battles. However, Keanu also acknowledges the assistance he received on set from his co-star, Hiroyuki Sanada.
Working with someone with so much experience is fantastic since [Sanada] is so giving with his assistance. “Look here, check your form, balance here, and move like this.” He ensures that everything is in order and gets along well with the entire cast.
How are your swords worn? He is Oishi [Kuranosuke]. He is this person who watches out for everyone. In an interview with Collider, the actor stated, “He’s looking out for Ako, he’s looking out for the cast, he’s looking out for the production.”
Despite being a fictitious version, “47 Ronin” largely adheres to the factual account of the group of valiant fighters who defeated an army.
Even though they had committed the crime of murder, the shogun granted them all seppuku, or an honorable death, because of their devotion to and sacrifice for the real principles of Bushido, which won the hearts of the Japanese people. Despite its overtly fictional features, the movie reflects these similar principles.
Explore the legendary story of sacrifice, honor, and retaliation in 47 Ronin. The film’s foundation is nevertheless based on a real historical event, even though it incorporates fictional elements. Are you looking for more intriguing film inspirations? To learn more about the best storylines in movies, visit our website!