Movie Review: 47 Ronin – Based on a Japanese Bushido Legend Flavored with Fantasy

I was invited to watch the advance screening of 47 Ronin by Solar Entertainment Corporation at the SM Megamall Cinema 3 last January 6.  The movie was shown in 3D.

After receiving the invite weeks ago, I was really excited.  If the movie I was invited to watch was shown before the Philippine show date, I usually check the US reviews.  The reviews for this movie were not favorable.  Since it was an opportunity to have some time with my wife, who is a Keanu Reeves fan, I decided to go anyway.

Review

After enjoying watching the movie for 2 hours in the cinema, I realized that 47 Ronin is a movie that will make a mark in my samurai movies hall of fame.  I enjoyed every moment of it.  The action scenes, the big scale production, the drama, the fantasy and even a dose of comedy. The crowd seems to have the same sentiments when everyone reacted to the scenes accordingly.

The movie 47 Ronin which stars Keanu Reaves as Kai, a half-breed, the lead role in this action fantasy drama movie about 47 samurais turned Ronin who vow to seek vengeance to the death of their master and restore honor to their people.

Although the original 47 Ronin is actually a true story, this movie based on the legend, is also action  fantasy movie complete with witches, mysterious creatures and magic and of course action scenes.

The story of the 47 Ronin happened in the 18th Century and was popularized in Japanese culture as an emblem of the loyalty, sacrifice, and honor. You can actually visit the grave/shrine of the 47 Ronin in Japan.

It has a great storyline that maybe Asians can relate more. It was not a big hit in the US but is definitely going to be a blockbuster here in the Philippines.

I rated it 4 stars out of 5. With its great story line of the legend and the way of the samurai (Bushido), the production, and the fantasy / CG / special effects, I highly recommend that you see 47 Ronin in theaters. 

“47 RONIN” released and distributed by United International Pictures through Solar Entertainment Corp.

Showing on JANUARY 8, 2014 in 2D & 3D in Philippine theathers nationwide!

Definitely a good start for the new movies this 2014.

Movie Trailer

Credits: Movie Trailer from MovieClips youtube channel. Photos provided by Solar Entertainment Corporation