Sunday, January 19, 2014

Movie Review ... 47 Ronin

 

ronin01poster’47 Ronin’ is based on real events depicting 47 samurais (Ronin) from 18th century Japan.  These have formed several adaptations capturing the imaginations of many.  Whilst providing a fantastical coating to this oft-told tale, ’47 Ronin’ maintains an essence of the warrior’s bravery.  It mirrors the ‘Lord of the Rings’ series in its depiction of Japan over-run by similar beasties.  The result is a familiar but enjoyable ride along with soldiers resolutely doing their duty.

After being banished from his tribe, Kai (Keanu Reeves) joins a group of Ronin.  Overseen by Kuranosuke (Hiroyuki Sanada), they aim to seek vengeance for the death of their master.  Their target is Lord Kira (Tadanobu Asano), an evil Shogun lieutenant.  Banding together to fight a deadly enemy, the Ronin encounter all sorts of mystical beings on their path of revenge.

Already gaining infamy as one of cinema’s biggest financial disasters ’47 Ronin’ isn’t as bad as its recent reputation suggests.  Although having problems, it’s a generally entertaining action story. It revels in its authenticity in depicting the ways of the Ronin and their strict code of honour.  Adhering to the code and use to their advantage provides much of its depth.  The costumes and scenery aid in establishing the foreboding atmosphere during their quest for vengeance.

Where it falters is in the harsh editing and massive plot holes.  Certain sequences make little sense with an easily-flowing narrative missing.  The addition of monsters negates from the realism for which ’47 Ronin’ initially strives and it becomes a better film when concentrating on group dynamics.  The cast are uniformly strong with Reeves making for a sombre but likeable hero.  He equips himself well in the action scenes which are amazingly shot with a suitably epic and balletic quality.

’47 Ronin’ is an engaging escapade in the realms of Japanese folklore.  Nowhere near as bad as some naysayers have decreed, its mega-budget is clearly seen with its well of ideas more welcome than the barrenness of other so-called ‘worthier movies’.

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Movie Review Rating out of 10:  6

Movie Review by Patrick Moore

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Patrick Moore's Movie Review is an alternative look at movie releases in Australia.

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