I’m The Only Person Who Actually Loves Keanu Reeves’ Worst Movie

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It appears that almost everyone dislikes the film “47 Ronin” featuring Keanu Reeves. Correct me if I’m wrong, but I believe there might only be one person who finds it appealing, and that would be myself. Although it may not rank among the best action movies, some critics have referred to it as a “disaster,” I still find it entertaining, even though I wouldn’t call it a “good” movie in a traditional sense.

Not all films need to be five-star masterpieces. In fact, some movies can be silly, unremarkable, like “Batman & Robin” or “Troll 2,” yet still manage to provide immense enjoyment. I believe the movie “47 Ronin” falls into this category, which is why I’m stepping up to defend it today. Despite Keanu Reeves’ impressive history of portraying badass characters throughout his career, Kai from “47 Ronin” often gets overlooked. However, I want to bring attention to him, so here goes!

First Of All, Nobody Is Going To Tell Me That A Movie Featuring Keanu Reeves In Feudal Japan Is Anything But Awesome

2013’s “47 Ronin” isn’t the initial film adaptation of the well-known tale; that honor goes to 1941’s “The 47 Ronin”. However, it is the first (and currently the only) time Keanu Reeves has graced our screens in this story. Frankly, I can’t imagine anything cooler than that!

In simpler terms, the tale of the 47 ronin is rooted in true events from the 1700s. This narrative follows 47 dispossessed samurais seeking revenge for their deceased feudal lord, Asano Naganori, who was forced to take his own life as a mark of honor. It’s a widely recognized story in Japan and has been retold numerous times. However, it is important to note that the modern versions do not include Keanu Reeves, who portrays a half-Japanese, half-English outcast teaming up with other warriors, which is a fictional addition to the original story.

In the tale, Keanu Reeves portrays a character named Kai, who is brought up by Lord Asano, enacted by Min Tanaka. Now, given that Keanu Reeves has an undeniable charm (despite his outcast role), it’s no surprise that Lord Asano’s daughter (Ko Shibasaki) develops feelings for him. After all, who wouldn’t be captivated by such charm? Indeed, Keanu Reeves is quite charming.

However, this situation places Kai right in the heart of troubles, as the character Lord Kira (portrayed by Tadanobu Asano from the series “Shogun”), who is not historically connected to the real-life Lord Asano that this story is based upon, desires Lord Asano’s daughter for himself. Consequently, he seeks assistance from a witch to murder the Daimyo and his men. In the end, Kai steps in to save them.

In the remainder of the film, Kai manages to earn the confidence of the other fighters, followed by a series of impressive displays of power. This transition leads me neatly to my next point defending the movie’s merit.

The Action Set Pieces Are Really Cool!

Currently, Keanu Reeves has made his mark in numerous action-packed films throughout his career. He deftly dispatches multiple characters in the John Wick series, demonstrated martial arts prowess in The Matrix trilogy (which I must admit, I’d prefer if it hadn’t been extended), and showcased his exorcism skills in Constantine (a topic I plan to discuss later on).

Inquiring about other films where Keanu Reeves dons striking red armor for an epic fight against a golem samurai to the finish? Upon examining his list of movies, it appears that only one such film exists, which is none other than 47 Ronin.

Indeed, this fight sequence – let’s be honest, it’s quite impressive and even you might agree – is merely one of several thrilling battle scenes in the movie, “47 Ronin.” This film tends to disregard logical reasoning entirely, instead opting to deliver an abundance of exhilarating combat sequences.

In the arena where Kai engages in combat, the sound of clashing and ringing swords is intense and thrilling. Is it significant that Kai must face an actual giant in battle?

As a film enthusiast, let me share my perspective: In 2013, it seemed as if no one else found the fight scenes in “47 Ronin” particularly thrilling. However, I urge you to reconsider this movie, whether you’re watching it for the first time or revisiting it. If you can switch off your analytical mind and just immerse yourself in the action, these fight sequences alone make it a must-watch.

Now, let me clarify that “47 Ronin” isn’t on par with cinematic martial arts masterpieces like “John Wick” or “The Matrix.” Yet, unlike those films, it does introduce a fascinating character: a shapeshifting witch. So, if you’re looking for something unique and action-packed, give this movie a chance! And, as for me, I find myself appreciating “47 Ronin” far more than the final installment of “The Matrix,” “The Matrix Revolutions.

I Also Like The Magical Elements

Earlier, I brought up Constantine, and honestly, despite Keanu Reeves having a fantastic filmography filled with action-packed movies, there aren’t too many films that delve into the realm of fantasy or supernatural tales. Sure, we do have some like Bram Stoker’s Dracula, The Devil’s Advocate, and The Gift, but they are few and far between when it comes to full-blown fantasy films. Besides Constantine, one other notable exception is 47 Ronin.

Are we perhaps watching different movies?

Absolutely, the visual effects could’ve been better, even as far back as 2013, but what really captivates me about this film is its enigmatic and ethereal quality.

In the movie, Rinko Kikuchi brilliantly portrays Mizuki the Witch, devouring the scenery with her performance. Her magical abilities transform this historical film into a captivating blend of fact and fantasy, which I absolutely love!

Additionally, let me remind you, is there any other movie in Keanu Reeve’s career where he battles a dragon? As far as I am aware, this is the sole instance, making it quite exceptional! Don’t you think, fans of Keanu Reeves, that you could at least acknowledge this unique point?

After Seeing Him In The Wolverine In The Same Year, This Was The Movie That Really Made Me Take Notice Of Hiroyuki Sanada

It’s well-known now that Hiroyuki Sanada has garnered acclaim, particularly for his portrayal of Yoshii Toranaga in the FX miniseries, “Shogun.” However, I had come across him in various films earlier than 2013. Nevertheless, it was only after the simultaneous releases of “The Wolverine” and “47 Ronin,” where he starred as Oishi, the leader of the Ronin, that my attention was fully captured by his performances.

Ever since I first caught wind of it, I’ve been tracking his professional journey. What makes “47 Ronin” stand out to me is the substantial part he plays. Certainly, Keanu Reeves takes center stage in this movie, but Hiroyuki Sanada commands a significant presence as well.

In the movie, it’s Oishi who is the one found with Kira’s head at the end (It’s interesting to note that Sanada is the one who beheads Asano in the film “Shogun”).

As a cinema enthusiast, I’d argue that while Kai is the primary character we follow throughout the film, it’s Oishi’s tale I find myself reflecting on. This is because as the leader of the Ronin, Oishi stands to lose and gain the most, making his journey the heart of the story.

Indeed, this film excels in portraying Sanada as an exceptionally valiant character. As a result, one might even argue that the film has its merits and isn’t entirely unsatisfactory, wouldn’t you agree?

Lastly, I Just Really Love Samurai Movies

In the end, my fondness for the film “47 Ronin” stems from my affection for samurai movies! Although it may not rank among the greatest samurai films (it’s certainly no “Harakiri“) in my opinion, I would still say that for a largely American-made samurai film, it’s quite decent.

Surely, given that this film features Keanu Reeves, it shares more in common with The Last Samurai starring Tom Cruise as far as samurai movies go. However, let’s not forget that it stars none other than Keanu Reeves himself, portraying a samurai-like character! Add to that, elements of magic and a romantic tale, and I can’t help but wonder – what more could one ask for?

Personally, I don’t require anything more from this movie. To put it clearly, when I first watched this film in the past, and again recently, I chose to not think too much about it, which made me appreciate it even more on both occasions. While I wouldn’t rank this as Keanu Reeves’ finest performance of all time, I must admit that it isn’t his worst either – definitely not by a wide margin.

This film isn’t overly pretentious, offers thrilling battle sequences, and stars the legendary Keanu Reeves. Why not give it another chance (or even experience it fresh if you haven’t seen it before)!

I’m curious about your opinion. Do you have reservations about watching it, or are you secretly fond of it, much like myself? I’d be interested in hearing your views on the matter!

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2025-07-02 16:11