Keanu helps re-create an old Japanese saga, and the blades whoosh

Japanese legend with roots in reality, the tale of the 47 ronin has been adapted into just about every medium imaginable, from ballet to movies to graphic novels. Now Keanu Reeves stars in "47 Ronin," an Americanized, or perhaps internationalized, version of one of Japan’s most treasured tales.

‘47 RONIN’ Rated: PG-13

It’s the story of Oishi (Hiro­yuki Sanada), leader of a group of samurai living in peace under their master, Lord Asano (Min Tanaka). But when Asano is killed by Lord Kira (Tada­nobu Asano) and his nameless Witch (Rinko Kiku­chi), the samurai become masterless ronin scattered throughout the countryside. To regain their honor and avenge their master, they must kill Kira, even though it may mean their own death.

Where does that leave Reeves? He’s an add-on to the story, a man of mixed race named Kai who was raised by demons. He is mistreated, Cinderella style, by the samurai, until the now-masterless Oishi needs his help. Slowly but surely, Kai earns the soldiers’ respect.

"47 Ronin" can be a hoot, with some zippy battles staged by director Carl Rinsch, and a script by several writers that works better than expected. But it also feels like a somewhat botched attempt by Hollywood to bridge the cultural gap between the North American and overseas box offices. Nearly the entire cast is Japa­nese — and nearly all excellent — yet they speak English.

What’s most impressive about "47 Ronin" — its strict adherence to the ancient Japa­nese honor code of bushido — is also what finally drags it down. The themes of honor and death that run through the movie may not resonate with American audiences. "47 Ronin" would have been more fun if it kept swinging its sword instead of falling on it.

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Review by Rafer Guzman, Newsday