47 Ronin (4/2/2014)

Rated PG-13 for intense sequences of violence and action, some disturbing images, and thematic elements.

Starring Keanu Reeves, Hiroyuki Sanada, Kou Shibasaki, Tadanobu Asano and Rinko Kikuchi

Directed by Carl Rinsch

Based on a true story…maybe.

From ancient Japan’s most enduring tale, the epic 3D fantasy-adventure 47 Ronin is born. Keanu Reeves leads the cast as Kai, an outcast who joins Oishi (Hiroyuki Sanada), the leader of the 47 Ronin. Together they seek vengeance upon the treacherous overlord who killed their master and banished their kind. To restore honor to their homeland, the warriors embark upon a quest that challenges them with a series of trials that would destroy ordinary warriors.

It may surprise you to see the “Theater Worthy” Score for 47 Ronin. With rewrites, delays and Keanu Reeves in the leading role, I’ll admit I wasn’t expecting a great film.

But this is one of the best films of 2013. It is a well-crafted, visually spectacular adventure film that attempts to tell this reverence story that is often referred to as Japan’s “national legend.” Having occurred in the early 1700s, the true story revolves around the efforts of 47 samurai who seek revenge on a court official who goaded their master into attacking him, an act that ultimately led him to commit suicide. Without a leader, these warriors became Ronin and spent two years plotting their revenge.

The story has been embellished many times over the centuries, and director Carl Rinsch’s version is no exception. With an evil, shape-shifting witch and half-breed thrown into the mix, it’s clear the filmmakers were targeting younger audiences from the West.

While purists will surely object to this addition, within the context of the film, they work as the supernatural element doesn’t overwhelm the story.

Keanu Reeves as the outsider Kai, who comes to align himself with the Ronin, gives a solid performance in more of a supporting role than a starring one.

What’s so refreshing about the film is its serious tone as it delivers a strong message about honor, loyalty and redemption in ways most films can’t. The Ronin are strong, compassionate and their cause is just; which means we are cheering for them right from the beginning. So with every trial they face — and there are many — we are on the edge of our seat.

Besides a strong cast and a fascinating story, Rinsch creates one impressive visual after another. From the ornate clothing and suits of armor to the beautiful (and sometimes terrifying) landscape, every scene is a perfectly crafted work of art.

I realize a film about an ancient Japanese legend is going to be a hard sell here in America, but I think it is one of the most misunderstood and undervalued films of the year. I thought it was “Theater Worthy.”

SHOULD KIDS SEE IT?
There is no sex, nudity or profanity. The film is rated PG-13 because of the violence and action are very intense.

There is also a supernatural element to the movie that may frighten children, including the sorceress.

CONVERSATION STARTER

1. What happened that lead to Oishi becoming a Ronin?


2. Was that fair?


3. Have you ever experienced and injustice? What happened?


4. How did it make you feel?


5. Read Proverbs 29:27
   
   The righteous detest the dishonest; the wicked detest the upright.
   
   
6. Why do you think the righteous detest the dishonest?


7. Any why do the wicked detest the upright?


8. What can you do this week to live a honorable and upright life?