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Is the movie 47 Ronin (2013) based on a true story?

Matthew Brown Matthew Brown Apr 10, 2023 · 2 mins read
Is the movie 47 Ronin (2013) based on a true story?
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Yes and no. The movie 47 Ronin (2013) is loosely based on a true story known as the Ako incident or the revenge of the 47 ronin, which happened in 1701 in Japan. However, the movie also incorporates elements of fantasy, magic, and mythical creatures that are not part of the original story. Additionally, the movie’s plot places a greater emphasis on the fictional character Kai, played by Keanu Reeves, than on the actual samurai characters.

What is the true story behind the movie 47 Ronin (2013)?

The movie 47 Ronin (2013) is a fictionalized version of a true story from 18th century Japan. The story revolves around a group of samurai warriors, known as ronin, who seek revenge for their master’s death.

In 1701, Lord Asano Naganori, a daimyo (feudal lord) in Ako province, was provoked and insulted by a court official named Kira Yoshinaka. Asano drew his sword and wounded Kira, leading to his own subsequent order to commit ritual suicide, or seppuku. His samurai retainers were left without a leader and became ronin, samurai without a master.

The ronin spent almost two years planning their revenge against Kira. On December 14, 1702, they launched a surprise attack on Kira’s mansion in Edo (present-day Tokyo), killed him, and then turned themselves in to the authorities. While some were sentenced to death, others were allowed to commit seppuku as an honorable way to die.

The story of the 47 ronin, also known as the Ako incident or the revenge of the 47 ronin, became a popular legend in Japan and is often referred to as one of the ultimate displays of loyalty and honor in Japanese samurai culture. The story has been adapted countless times in various forms of media, including the 2013 Hollywood movie starring Keanu Reeves.

Are there any books about the true story behind the movie 47 Ronin (2013)?

Yes, there are several books about the true story behind the movie 47 Ronin (2013), including:

  1. The 47 Ronin Story by John Allyn
  2. The Revenge of the 47 Ronin: Edo 1703 by Stephen Turnbull
  3. 47 Ronin: The Classic Tale of Samurai Loyalty, Bravery and Retribution by John Allyn
  4. Lord Asano and the 47 Ronin by Setsuo Kashiwagi

These books provide historical context and detail the real events that inspired the popular Japanese legend.

You can try an audible free trial and search for audiobook versions of those

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Matthew Brown
Written by Matthew Brown
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