47 RONIN / SHIJUSHICHININ NO SHIKAKU (1995)

Director Kon Ichikawa ’s ‘take’ on one of Japan’s defining national epics is more of a commentary than a narrative of the well known story. The acting is measured but effective and the technical aspects turn out an astoundingly beautiful film. But if you weren’t raised in Japan, you’ll need to see a ‘straight’ adaptation (i.e. CHUSHINGURA, see below) to know what the hell is going on. Ichikawa questions the accepted justification for the noble/selfless act of revenge at the center of the legend which is something like doubting the actions & ethics of Davy Crockett & Jim Bowie at the Alamo. A fascinating, if slow moving contemplation of a national myth, but non-initiates beware.