About The 47 Ronin Part 2

The 47 Ronin Part 2, released in 1941, is a historical drama film set in the feudal period of Japan. Here, 47 samurai plot and execute an elaborate revenge against the merciless warlord who is responsible for the death of their master. Set in a tumultuous era when betrayal and loyalty clashed, the film is a screen adaptation of the popular Japanese folklore tale which recounts the story of these 47 ronin (masterless samurai). They operate in the shadow, displaying unwavering loyalty to avenge their fallen master. The film is rated TV-14 for its intense thematic content.

Making / Production

This historical movie was produced by the Japanese studio Shochiku and directed by Kenji Mizoguchi, one of Japan's acclaimed directors. The production faced various challenges due to the contemporary conditions of World War II, yet the film stood out showing off Japan's traditional values of honor and loyalty through high production values.

Actors

• Chojuro Kawarasaki - As the leader of the 47 ronin, Kawarasaki portrays the character with a deep sense of honor, loyalty, and strategic cunning.
• Kanemon Nakamura - He played Kira Yoshinaka, the evil warlord with great charisma, adding a layer of complexity to his villainous character.
• Kunitaro Kawarazaki - He depicted the tormented ronin who is torn between duty to his friends and his loyalty to their revenge plan.

Trivia / Interesting Facts about it

• The 47 Ronin, Part 2 is a part of a two-part film; the first part was also released in the same year.
• Despite being filmed during World War II, there were no references to the contemporary events happening at that time in the film.
• It has continued to inspire many adaptations both within Japan and internationally.

Quotes

• "To know patience is to know peace."
• "In the face of betrayal, honor is the only path."
• "The only responsible one for your master's death is you, Yoshinaka."

Music, Soundtrack

• The ethereal score was composed by Hisato Osawa, who effectively collaborates traditional Japanese music to match the movie's setting and tone.
• The soundtrack includes the haunting "The Ronin's March," a piece that symbolizes the underlying tension in the film.