The 47 Ronin
The 47 Ronin

Movie spotlight

The 47 Ronin

1941
Movie
223 min
Japanese

In the early 18th-century, Lord Takuminokami Asano, feuding with Lord Kira, tries to kill his opponent in the corridors of the Shogun's palace. The Shogun sentences Asano to seppuku and deprives the palace and lands from his clan, but does not punish Kira. Asano's vassals leave the land and his samurais become ronin and want to seek revenge against the Lord's dishonour. But their leader Kuranosuke Oishi seeks to restore the Asano clan with his brother Daigaku Asano. One year later, the Shogun refuses, and Oishi and 46 rōnin are out for revenge.

Insights

IMDb7.4/10
Rotten Tomatoes95%
Director: Kenji MizoguchiGenres: Drama, Action, Historical

Plot Summary

Based on the true story of the Ako incident, this film chronicles the tale of 47 samurai who were left masterless after their lord was unjustly forced to commit seppuku. Driven by honor and a thirst for vengeance, they meticulously plan and execute a daring raid on their treacherous foe, ultimately accepting their fate as outlaws.

Critical Reception

Critically acclaimed upon its release and considered a masterpiece of Japanese cinema, 'The 47 Ronin' was lauded for its epic scope, masterful direction, and profound exploration of themes like loyalty, honor, and sacrifice. It resonated deeply with audiences for its dramatic narrative and historical significance.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its epic narrative and historical accuracy.

  • Lauded for Kenji Mizoguchi's masterful direction and visual storytelling.

  • Celebrated for its profound exploration of samurai honor and loyalty.

Google audience: Audience reception data for this historical film is not widely available through Google Reviews.

Awards & Accolades

None notable for international awards, but considered a seminal work in Japanese film history.

Fun Fact

The film is one of several adaptations of the famous Chushingura legend, but is distinguished by Mizoguchi's humanist approach and focus on the internal struggles of the samurai.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

1 reviews
CinemaSerf

CinemaSerf

I remember seeing "Hamlet" performed on stage by the Royal Shakespeare Company - it was all but four hours long and I was distinctly nervous that ennui would set in at some stage... it didn't; and it doesn't with this either. At times it is...