The 47 Ronin 1941 Blu-ray: Revisiting a Japanese Classic

Overview

The 47 Ronin is a legendary tale of samurai honor and revenge, adapted countless times for film and television. One of the most acclaimed versions is the 1941 film directed by Kenji Mizoguchi, now available on Blu-ray for the first time.

Historical Context

The story of the 47 Ronin is based on a real event that occurred in 18th-century Japan. In 1701, a group of samurai led by Oishi Yoshio (a minor daimyo who is not referred to by name in the film) avenged the death of their master, Asano Naganori, by killing his rival, Kira Yoshinaka (referred to as Kuranosuke Oishi and Kotsuke Kira, respectively, in the film). The samurai then committed seppuku (ritual suicide) to honor their duty and preserve their family's name.

Mizoguchi's Version

Mizoguchi's film remains one of the most critically lauded adaptations of the 47 Ronin tale. The director's signature style, characterized by long takes, fluid camera movements, and a focus on female characters, is evident throughout the film.

The film stars Kazuo Hasegawa as Oishi Kuranosuke, Yukiko Todoroki as his wife, Yaso, and Toshiro Mifune as Oishi's loyal follower, Terasaka Kangen. Mizoguchi's film differs from other adaptations in its emphasis on the human drama behind the vendetta, exploring the complex relationships between the ronin and their families.

Blu-ray Release

The 1941 Blu-ray release of The 47 Ronin includes a number of bonus features, including:

• Audio commentary by Japanese cinema expert Donald Richie
• Featurette on the making of the film
• Trailer

Critical Reception

The 47 Ronin has received widespread critical acclaim since its release in 1941. The film has been praised for its stunning visuals, powerful performances, and thought-provoking themes.

Box Office Performance

The 47 Ronin was a commercial success in Japan, grossing ¥10 million at the box office. The film also performed well internationally, grossing $1.5 million in the United States.

Impact on Japanese Culture

The 47 Ronin has had a profound impact on Japanese culture. The story is still widely known and celebrated in Japan, and the ronin are considered heroes who embodied the samurai code of honor. The film has also been influential in the development of Japanese cinema, and is considered one of the greatest films ever made in Japan.

Table 1: Box Office Figures

Table 2: Critical Reception

Table 3: Bonus Features

Table 4: Influence on Japanese Culture

Tips and Tricks

• If you are a fan of Japanese cinema, samurai films, or historical dramas, then you will definitely want to check out The 47 Ronin.
• The Blu-ray release includes a number of bonus features that provide valuable insights into the film's production, themes, and historical context.
• The story of the 47 Ronin is a timeless tale of honor, loyalty, and revenge that will stay with you long after you finish watching the film.

How It Matters

The 47 Ronin is not just a great film, it is also a valuable historical document that provides insights into Japanese culture and history. The film is a reminder of the importance of honor, loyalty, and duty, and it continues to inspire and fascinate audiences around the world.

Why It Benefits

Watching The 47 Ronin can benefit you in a number of ways:

• You will learn about a fascinating piece of Japanese history.
• You will gain a deeper understanding of Japanese culture and values.
• You will be inspired by the story of the 47 Ronin and their unwavering commitment to honor and loyalty.