In 2013, filmmaker Carl Erik Rinsch made a minor ripple with his FX-laden Keanu Reeves vehicle "47 Ronin." The actual story of the 47 Ronin comes from an incident in actual Japanese history in 1703, but has since been adapted thousands of times -- often under the name of the Chushingura -- becoming one of the most famous stories in Japanese history. Rinsch's film, however, added monsters and dragons to the story, transforming it into a typical fantasy blockbuster rather than a proper historical epic. "47 Ronin" only made $151 million worldwide on a reported $175 million budget.
It was enough, however, for Rinsch and his wife, Gabriela Rosés Bentancor, to court Netflix about their dream project, a sci-fi TV series called "Conquest." In 2018, when streaming services were booming in earnest and the Streaming Wars were getting into full swing, Rinsch felt the time was right to pitch his new idea. According to a new report in the New York Times,...
It was enough, however, for Rinsch and his wife, Gabriela Rosés Bentancor, to court Netflix about their dream project, a sci-fi TV series called "Conquest." In 2018, when streaming services were booming in earnest and the Streaming Wars were getting into full swing, Rinsch felt the time was right to pitch his new idea. According to a new report in the New York Times,...
- 12/2/2023
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
Even for Netflix, $55 million is a huge chunk of cash to drop on a series…especially if they don’t receive a single completed episode. But that’s just what happened when Netflix put 47 Ronin director Carl Rinsch in charge of a sci-fi saga, which has its own backstory involving Covid conspiracies, cryptocurrency and pandemic-era paranoia. Now this is worth a 10-part doc!
In a new feature by The New York Times chronicling Carl Rinsch and his quasi-attempts to make Conquest at Netflix, it’s claimed that the director “discovered Covid-19’s secret transmission mechanism and to be able to predict lightning strikes” as well as put a fifth of the budget into cryptocurrency and blew it on lavish items like several Rolls-Royces and designer clothes. Rinsch, for his part, is now suing Netflix for breach of contract, claiming they owe him $14 million. Yeah, good luck getting that check, Carl…...
In a new feature by The New York Times chronicling Carl Rinsch and his quasi-attempts to make Conquest at Netflix, it’s claimed that the director “discovered Covid-19’s secret transmission mechanism and to be able to predict lightning strikes” as well as put a fifth of the budget into cryptocurrency and blew it on lavish items like several Rolls-Royces and designer clothes. Rinsch, for his part, is now suing Netflix for breach of contract, claiming they owe him $14 million. Yeah, good luck getting that check, Carl…...
- 11/24/2023
- by Mathew Plale
- JoBlo.com
In 2018, Carl Erik Rinsch, known for directing “47 Ronin,” pitched a sci-fi series about artificial humans, drawing interest from various studios amid a content-hungry era. Netflix, seeking a potential hit like “Stranger Things,” outbid competitors like Amazon with over $55 million and unprecedented creative freedom for Rinsch. This decision, as detailed by The New York Times, would soon become a regrettable venture for the streaming giant.
The project, “Conquest,” became a financial sinkhole, costing Netflix millions without yielding a single episode. Rinsch’s behavior reportedly grew erratic, involving claims of discovering Covid-19 secrets and predicting natural phenomena. His personal life also spiraled, as evidenced by his lavish spending on Rolls-Royces and luxury items, along with his intense stock market and cryptocurrency gambles.
Rinsch’s background in filmmaking was promising. Having worked under Ridley Scott and achieved success with a Philips short film, his talent wasn’t in question. However, his direction...
The project, “Conquest,” became a financial sinkhole, costing Netflix millions without yielding a single episode. Rinsch’s behavior reportedly grew erratic, involving claims of discovering Covid-19 secrets and predicting natural phenomena. His personal life also spiraled, as evidenced by his lavish spending on Rolls-Royces and luxury items, along with his intense stock market and cryptocurrency gambles.
Rinsch’s background in filmmaking was promising. Having worked under Ridley Scott and achieved success with a Philips short film, his talent wasn’t in question. However, his direction...
- 11/24/2023
- by Hrvoje Milakovic
- Fiction Horizon
Around five years ago, Netflix spent a reported $55m on Conquest, a sci-fi TV series that was never finished – and may never be released at all…
After years of huge expenditure, and deals with some of the world’s best-known actors and filmmakers, streaming giants like Netflix and Disney+ have reversed course and started to reduce costs. And as subscription prices are jacked up, shows are cancelled or quietly removed from platforms, few stories sum up the late 2010s era of peak streaming than the one just broken by The New York Times.
It reports that, in 2018, Netflix signed a deal with filmmaker Carl Erik Rinsch to make an ambitious-sounding sci-fi series, initially called White Horse and later retitled Conquest. Set in a near future in which humans war with artificial beings called the Organic Intelligent, the series was snapped up by the streaming giant in a deal worth millions.
After years of huge expenditure, and deals with some of the world’s best-known actors and filmmakers, streaming giants like Netflix and Disney+ have reversed course and started to reduce costs. And as subscription prices are jacked up, shows are cancelled or quietly removed from platforms, few stories sum up the late 2010s era of peak streaming than the one just broken by The New York Times.
It reports that, in 2018, Netflix signed a deal with filmmaker Carl Erik Rinsch to make an ambitious-sounding sci-fi series, initially called White Horse and later retitled Conquest. Set in a near future in which humans war with artificial beings called the Organic Intelligent, the series was snapped up by the streaming giant in a deal worth millions.
- 11/23/2023
- by Ryan Lambie
- Film Stories
Exclusive: Lucifer actress Aimee Garcia and New York Times bestselling author Aj Mendez have been brought on to pen the upcoming untitled 47 Ronin sequel for Universal 1440 Entertainment. The action-fantasy pic, which is being directed by Mulan‘s Ron Yuan as we first told you, is the follow to the 2013 Universal Keanu Reeves movie which grossed over $151M WW.
The original film was directed by Carl Rinsch and written by Chris Morgan and Hossein Amini from a story conceived by Morgan and Walter Hamada. Also starring in that pic were Hiroyuki Sanada, Tadanobu Asano, Rinko Kikuchi and Ko Shibasaki. Based on Chūshingura, 47 Ronin tells a fictionalized account of the titular 47 rōnin, a real-life group of samurai in the 18th century who set out to avenge the death of their master who was killed by a merciless shogun.
“Aj and I are excited to write a diverse and inclusive action film,...
The original film was directed by Carl Rinsch and written by Chris Morgan and Hossein Amini from a story conceived by Morgan and Walter Hamada. Also starring in that pic were Hiroyuki Sanada, Tadanobu Asano, Rinko Kikuchi and Ko Shibasaki. Based on Chūshingura, 47 Ronin tells a fictionalized account of the titular 47 rōnin, a real-life group of samurai in the 18th century who set out to avenge the death of their master who was killed by a merciless shogun.
“Aj and I are excited to write a diverse and inclusive action film,...
- 4/20/2021
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Mulan actor Ron Yuan will sit in the director’s chair for the upcoming untitled 47 Ronin sequel. The action-fantasy pic will be produced by Universal 1440 Entertainment, a production entity of Universal Pictures Home Entertainment.
“I’m incredibly excited to be working with Universal and the producing team on this genre-blending, martial arts, action, horror and cyber-punk film,” said Yuan. “This will be a fun, intense, supercharged thrill ride for viewers globally.”
The original film was directed by Carl Rinsch and written by Chris Morgan and Hossein Amini from a story conceived by Morgan and Walter Hamada. Keanu Reeves, Hiroyuki Sanada, Tadanobu Asano, Rinko Kikuchi and Ko Shibasaki starred in 47 Ronin, which was based on Chūshingura. The pic tells a fictionalized account of the titular 47 rōnin, a real-life group of samurai in the 18th century who set out to avenge the death of their master who was killed by a merciless shogun.
“I’m incredibly excited to be working with Universal and the producing team on this genre-blending, martial arts, action, horror and cyber-punk film,” said Yuan. “This will be a fun, intense, supercharged thrill ride for viewers globally.”
The original film was directed by Carl Rinsch and written by Chris Morgan and Hossein Amini from a story conceived by Morgan and Walter Hamada. Keanu Reeves, Hiroyuki Sanada, Tadanobu Asano, Rinko Kikuchi and Ko Shibasaki starred in 47 Ronin, which was based on Chūshingura. The pic tells a fictionalized account of the titular 47 rōnin, a real-life group of samurai in the 18th century who set out to avenge the death of their master who was killed by a merciless shogun.
- 8/12/2020
- by Dino-Ray Ramos
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Jules Daly, who spent 17 of her 28 years at Rsa Films as president of the film, TV and commercials production company started by Ridley and Tony Scott, is transitioning into an independent producing deal with sister company Scott Free Productions. Daly launches her own banner, Big Red Films, with seven feature film projects.
Rsa, which is approaching 50 years in business with tons of commercials including Scott’s famed 1984 Apple spot, will now be run by company veteran David Mitchell. Mitchell has produced high-profile commercials with Jake Scott and many other directors including Michael Mann, Jordan Scott, Terence Neale, Samuel Bayer, Chris Cunningham and Ridley and Tony Scott. He has been elevated to Rsa managing director.
While much of running Rsa consisted of managing thousands of commercials shot by emerging director clients in locales all over the world, Daly also produced films that included the Joe Carnahan-directed The Grey, The...
Rsa, which is approaching 50 years in business with tons of commercials including Scott’s famed 1984 Apple spot, will now be run by company veteran David Mitchell. Mitchell has produced high-profile commercials with Jake Scott and many other directors including Michael Mann, Jordan Scott, Terence Neale, Samuel Bayer, Chris Cunningham and Ridley and Tony Scott. He has been elevated to Rsa managing director.
While much of running Rsa consisted of managing thousands of commercials shot by emerging director clients in locales all over the world, Daly also produced films that included the Joe Carnahan-directed The Grey, The...
- 6/7/2018
- by Mike Fleming Jr
- Deadline Film + TV
The long in the works remake of pulp sci-fi classic "Logan's Run" us back on track with "Colony" showrunner Ryan Condal to pen a new script based on a treatment by "X-Men Apocalypse" co-writer Simon Kinberg.
A new adaptation of the 1967 novel by William F. Nolan and George Clayton Johnson, the story is set in a future society where citizens are euthanised when reaching their 21st birthday. Those who refuse and try to escape to a rumored refuge called Sanctuary are chased down and executed by agents called 'sandmen'.
The action follows Logan-5, a sandman who upon turning 21 decides to go out on a high note by locating and dismantling Sanctuary - until he becomes converted to that cause. Kinberg, famed film producer Joel Silver and "The Flash" TV series producer Greg Berlanti will all produce the film which has been in the works for nearly two decades and has...
A new adaptation of the 1967 novel by William F. Nolan and George Clayton Johnson, the story is set in a future society where citizens are euthanised when reaching their 21st birthday. Those who refuse and try to escape to a rumored refuge called Sanctuary are chased down and executed by agents called 'sandmen'.
The action follows Logan-5, a sandman who upon turning 21 decides to go out on a high note by locating and dismantling Sanctuary - until he becomes converted to that cause. Kinberg, famed film producer Joel Silver and "The Flash" TV series producer Greg Berlanti will all produce the film which has been in the works for nearly two decades and has...
- 6/1/2016
- by Garth Franklin
- Dark Horizons
Warner Bros. has been trying to remake Logan's Run since the mid-1990s, but for whatever reason, they just haven't been able to crack it. The remake has slipped through the hands of Bryan Singer, Ryan Gosling and Nicolas Winding Refn, Joseph Kosinski, Carl Erik Rinsch, and Bioshock's Ken Levine, but now it seems to have new life once again.
Deadline reports that Ryan Condal, the co-creator/showrunner of the USA series Colony and co-writer of the upcoming Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson movie Rampage, has been hired to write the screenplay, which will be based on a treatment written by Simon Kinberg. Kinberg will produce alongside Joel Silver (who's been attached to this project since the beginning) and Greg Berlanti, who I thought might be a little busy handling his upcoming four-show crossover on The CW.
This movie is being called a "fresh take" on the original novel instead of...
Deadline reports that Ryan Condal, the co-creator/showrunner of the USA series Colony and co-writer of the upcoming Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson movie Rampage, has been hired to write the screenplay, which will be based on a treatment written by Simon Kinberg. Kinberg will produce alongside Joel Silver (who's been attached to this project since the beginning) and Greg Berlanti, who I thought might be a little busy handling his upcoming four-show crossover on The CW.
This movie is being called a "fresh take" on the original novel instead of...
- 6/1/2016
- by Ben Pearson
- GeekTyrant
From The Craft and The Birds to The Fugitive and She's All That, the many film reboots and remakes currently in the works...
Over the years that Den Of Geek has been going, we've regularly been charting the assortment of reboots and remakes that are making their way through the Hollywood system. This, then, is the current state of play. We've removed a bunch of projects that seem utterly dead - the once mooted remakes of Videodrome and Timecrimes, for instance - but we'll keep this list up to date as and when we hear of more.
Without further ado, here's what's coming up...
Akira
One of Hollywood's most on and off projects, the current state of the live action Akira remake is that it's back in the works. Marco J Ramirez, the showrunner for season 2 of Netflix's Daredevil show, has been hired to pen a screenplay. Warner Bros is still backing the film,...
Over the years that Den Of Geek has been going, we've regularly been charting the assortment of reboots and remakes that are making their way through the Hollywood system. This, then, is the current state of play. We've removed a bunch of projects that seem utterly dead - the once mooted remakes of Videodrome and Timecrimes, for instance - but we'll keep this list up to date as and when we hear of more.
Without further ado, here's what's coming up...
Akira
One of Hollywood's most on and off projects, the current state of the live action Akira remake is that it's back in the works. Marco J Ramirez, the showrunner for season 2 of Netflix's Daredevil show, has been hired to pen a screenplay. Warner Bros is still backing the film,...
- 8/19/2015
- by simonbrew
- Den of Geek
X-Men and Star Wars writer Simon Kinberg is the latest to try and get a Logan's Run remake moving...
The planned remake of Logan's Run has been chuntered about now for over five years. At one stage, back in 2010, director Carl Rinsch was attached to the movie (he eventually made 47 Ronin instead), with producer Joel Silver wanting to make the film in 3D. Then, Drive helmer Nicolas Winding Refn was attached at one stage, with the idea being that Ryan Gosling would star. Previously, Bryan Singer and James McTeigue have been linked with the film too.
And yet the Logan's Run remake never got going. At least until now.
The project has come back to life, with the news that X-Men: Apocalypse, Star Wars Anthology: Rogue One and Fantastic Four writer Simon Kinberg has been hired to write and produce the new Logan's Run. Joel Silver remains attached to the project too.
The planned remake of Logan's Run has been chuntered about now for over five years. At one stage, back in 2010, director Carl Rinsch was attached to the movie (he eventually made 47 Ronin instead), with producer Joel Silver wanting to make the film in 3D. Then, Drive helmer Nicolas Winding Refn was attached at one stage, with the idea being that Ryan Gosling would star. Previously, Bryan Singer and James McTeigue have been linked with the film too.
And yet the Logan's Run remake never got going. At least until now.
The project has come back to life, with the news that X-Men: Apocalypse, Star Wars Anthology: Rogue One and Fantastic Four writer Simon Kinberg has been hired to write and produce the new Logan's Run. Joel Silver remains attached to the project too.
- 7/23/2015
- by simonbrew
- Den of Geek
The internet is a really effective job creator, especially if you're a filmmaker just waiting to be noticed. Already, we've seen short films turn the likes of Carl Rinsch, Neill Blomkamp, and Shane Acker into feature film directors who were given the keys to a new ride after convincing some Hollywood types that they were ready. Though, to be fair, the results of those men and their efforts range from impressive to middling, and their careers are still in need of a bit of a jump start. If he's lucky, recently noticed filmmaker Saan Kesh could be the one to break the curse, and he's got an interesting concept to possibly strike it rich with: he's re-imagining Vincenzo Natali's Canadian sci-fi cult classic, Cube. The Hollywood Reporter has scooped the knowledge that Kesh, an up-and-coming filmmaker who's already got an iron in the fire with a feature adaptation of...
- 5/1/2015
- cinemablend.com
Go behind the scenes with Jude Law and the cast with three new featurettes from Black Sea.
In his review of the film, James Rocchi (The Wrap) says the film, “will have any thrillseekers in the theater clutching their armrest and shivering with imagined terrors.”
Black Sea is a suspenseful adventure thriller centering on a rogue submarine captain (two-time Academy Award nominee Jude Law) who pulls together a misfit crew to go after a sunken treasure rumored to be lost in the depths of the Black Sea. As greed and desperation take control onboard their claustrophobic vessel, the increasing uncertainty of the mission causes the men to turn on each other to fight for their own survival.
Back Lot Music is issuing the digital soundtrack album for Black Sea, directed by Academy Award winner Kevin Macdonald, it was announced today. The soundtrack features 25 new score cues by composer Ilan Eshkeri.
In his review of the film, James Rocchi (The Wrap) says the film, “will have any thrillseekers in the theater clutching their armrest and shivering with imagined terrors.”
Black Sea is a suspenseful adventure thriller centering on a rogue submarine captain (two-time Academy Award nominee Jude Law) who pulls together a misfit crew to go after a sunken treasure rumored to be lost in the depths of the Black Sea. As greed and desperation take control onboard their claustrophobic vessel, the increasing uncertainty of the mission causes the men to turn on each other to fight for their own survival.
Back Lot Music is issuing the digital soundtrack album for Black Sea, directed by Academy Award winner Kevin Macdonald, it was announced today. The soundtrack features 25 new score cues by composer Ilan Eshkeri.
- 1/21/2015
- by Michelle McCue
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
Stars: Keanu Reeves, Hiroyuki Sanada, Ko Shibasaki, Tadanobu Asano, Min Tanaka, Jin Akanishi, Masayoshi Haneda, Hiroshi Sogabe, Takato Yonemoto, Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa, Rinko Kikuchi | Written by Chris Morgan, Hossein Amini | Directed by Carl Rinsch
An ancient Japanese legend tells the story of 47 samurai, seeking revenge on a rival warlord who killed their master and banished them from their homeland, making them ‘Ronin’. 47 Ronin is the Hollywood take on this legend, throwing magic, giant beasts and fantasy adventure into the mix as the Ronin, lead by a ‘half breed’ known as ‘Kai’ (Keanu Reeves), seek to destroy Lord Kira (Tadanobu Asano) and his witch protector (Rinko Kikuchi) and restore their honour.
The first thing to be said about 47 Ronin is that it is very CGI heavy. Some people find that kind of thing very annoying, although in this case I felt it did add a lot to the film. The magic felt a lot more potent,...
An ancient Japanese legend tells the story of 47 samurai, seeking revenge on a rival warlord who killed their master and banished them from their homeland, making them ‘Ronin’. 47 Ronin is the Hollywood take on this legend, throwing magic, giant beasts and fantasy adventure into the mix as the Ronin, lead by a ‘half breed’ known as ‘Kai’ (Keanu Reeves), seek to destroy Lord Kira (Tadanobu Asano) and his witch protector (Rinko Kikuchi) and restore their honour.
The first thing to be said about 47 Ronin is that it is very CGI heavy. Some people find that kind of thing very annoying, although in this case I felt it did add a lot to the film. The magic felt a lot more potent,...
- 6/3/2014
- by Richard Axtell
- Nerdly
Where to start with Penny Rose? Pirates of the Caribbean? Evita? King Arthur? Most recently of course 47 Ronin (directed by Carl Rinsch). You do not hire Penny Rose for something small. This is not to say she won’t work on independent and low budget projects, just that her CV is becoming increasingly packed with huge scale period and/or fantasy studio movies – basically the kind of pictures that would make most costume designers weep. Multiples, armour, uniforms, plus Ms. Rose practically always builds from scratch. Not a fan of ‘shopping’ or even slightly interested in fashion, Penny Rose is old-school hands on, no-nonsense and no fear.
Nonetheless, there is a certain sense of irony in Ms. Rose’s position on contemporary fashion, being as she started her sartorial career working for Elio Fiorucci in Italy, although by her own admission this is mainly because she spoke fluent Italian. On...
Nonetheless, there is a certain sense of irony in Ms. Rose’s position on contemporary fashion, being as she started her sartorial career working for Elio Fiorucci in Italy, although by her own admission this is mainly because she spoke fluent Italian. On...
- 6/2/2014
- by Lord Christopher Laverty
- Clothes on Film
Japanese legend comes to life when Keanu Reeves makes an explosive return in the epic action adventure 47 Ronin (2013). A visually spectacular story of revenge, love and honour, 47 Ronin is based on the fictional story of the forty-seven ronin, a real-life group of wandering samurai who in 18th-century Japan choose to avenge the murder of their master. To celebrate the DVD and Blu-ray release of Carl Rinsch's samurai slash em up this coming Monday (12 May), we have Three Blu-ray copies of 47 Ronin to give away to our readership, courtesy of the fabulous folk at Universal Pictures UK. This is an exclusive competition for our Facebook and Twitter fans, so if you haven't already, 'Like' us at facebook.com/CineVueUK or follow us @CineVue before answering.
- 5/15/2014
- by CineVue UK
- CineVue
★★☆☆☆The scene in the first (and what should have been only) Matrix film, where Keanu Reeves - plugged into a training programme - opens his eyes wide and gasps "I know kung fu," is probably one of the most iconic and promising of his career. With Carl Rinsch's 47 Ronin (2013), and after his own directorial debut, Man of Tai Chi (2013), Reeves returns to martial arts with a blandly enjoyable family-friendly romp, which features some exciting set pieces without ever really breaking a sweat. The camera glides in from the expanses of space as a voiceover makes some lofty claims about the true story of the 47 masterless samurai - aka 'ronin' - who in their devotion and self-sacrifice epitomise the story of Japan.
- 5/12/2014
- by CineVue UK
- CineVue
For many years, Warner Bros. has tried multiple times to develop a remake to the cult classic 1976 science-fiction film, Logan's Run. The film was based on 1967 book of the same name, written by William F. Nolan and George Clayton Johnson. In the mid-90's, Joel Silver was brought in to write and direct a remake, but that didn't happen. Then in 2004, Bryan Signer was brought in to work on it, but that didn't happen. In 2007, WB hired Joseph Kosinski ("Oblivion") to work on a low-budget version, but that stalled out and Kosinki moved onto Tron: Legacy. In 2010, Carl Erik Rinsch was hired to direct, but left the project to work on 47 Ronin. In 2011, Drive director, Nicolas Winding Refn, was hired. Of course that too never materialized, but did come close as they at least had Ryan Gosling and Rose Byrne lined up to star in...
- 4/18/2014
- ComicBookMovie.com
Chicago – If you’ve ever wondered what the difference is between a director and a producer, let “47 Ronin” explain how the hierarchy of creativity hinders the evolution of even the most straightforward-sounding pitches. “47 Ronin” is the type of samurai movie set in Japan that features native actors speaking only English, while Keanu Reeves stars as an outsider clearly plunked into the picture for stateside star power.
Co-written by Chris Morgan (the writer behind the “Fast & Furious” renaissance) and Hossein Amini (who wrote “Drive”), the film is directed by first-time helmer Carl Rinsch, whose popular science-fiction short “The Gift” is available for a look on Youtube. And even with the hands of Amini, Morgan, and Rinsch, the film’s vision is lost in a desperate appeal to fit different pieces that do not work together.
Better taken in the vacant mindset of a late night viewing, if at all, “47 Ronin” is...
Co-written by Chris Morgan (the writer behind the “Fast & Furious” renaissance) and Hossein Amini (who wrote “Drive”), the film is directed by first-time helmer Carl Rinsch, whose popular science-fiction short “The Gift” is available for a look on Youtube. And even with the hands of Amini, Morgan, and Rinsch, the film’s vision is lost in a desperate appeal to fit different pieces that do not work together.
Better taken in the vacant mindset of a late night viewing, if at all, “47 Ronin” is...
- 4/9/2014
- by adam@hollywoodchicago.com (Adam Fendelman)
- HollywoodChicago.com
Jim Henson has been dead for almost 25 years. Hayao Miyazaki is retiring. And Carl Rinsch may have single-handedly killed all hope for anyone getting a lot of money from Hollywood for an original live-action fantasy film for a while. His 47 Ronin was only partly original, too, since it was based on a historical legend. Still, it was a fresh take on the true story with additions of magical and mythical creatures. The movie wasn’t just a flop; it broke the record for biggest box office bomb of all time (maybe even when accounting for inflation). So don’t expect to see any more epic entries into the genre unless they’re sure things with a built-in audience. Do we need original fantasy films, though? On TV, we have Game of Thrones, which has plenty of imagination in spite of being adapted from the novels of George R.R. Martin, and which is now back on HBO for...
- 4/8/2014
- by Christopher Campbell
- FilmSchoolRejects.com
Keanu Reeves makes an explosive return to action-adventure in 47 Ronin. After a treacherous warlord kills their master and banishes their kind, 47 leaderless samurai vow to seek vengeance and restore honor to their people. Driven from their homes and dispersed across the land, this band of Ronin must seek the help of Kai (Reeves)—a half-breed they once rejected—as they fight their way across a savage world of mythic beasts, shape-shifting witchcraft and wondrous terrors. As this exiled, enslaved outcast becomes their most deadly weapon, he will transform into the hero who inspires this band of outnumbered rebels to seize eternity. 47 Ronin was directed by Carl Rinsch, from a screenplay written by Chris Morgan and Hossein Amini. The cast includes: Keanu Reeves, Hiroyuki Sanada, Tadanobu Asano, Rinko Kikuchi and Ko Shibasaki. The film will be released on December 25, 2013. Merry Christmas, dude!
- 4/5/2014
- ComicBookMovie.com
I debated whether I should watch 47 Ronin or not. It seemed to me the page view alternative was embarrassing myself by posting fan altered pictures from the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles teaser trailer so I opted for Ronin. Suffice to say, the result wasn't going to be pretty either way. Originally scheduled to hit theaters November 2012 before finally hitting theaters December 2013, the final reported budget for this retelling of the classic Japanese tale was $175 million. Throughout the course of production there was talk of just how bad things had gotten and, at the time, the budget was said to have ballooned to over $225 million. After watching all 118 minutes of this film (ten of which are the closing credits) it would appear the money was spent on crummy visual effects, but mostly production design as several massive sets, aided by CGI, were created only to eventually present a picture that never feels authentic,...
- 4/3/2014
- by Brad Brevet
- Rope of Silicon
A handsome movie in many ways, but it feels like an unpolished first draft, one that can’t quite decide how fantastical it wants to be. I’m “biast” (pro): like Keanu Reeves more than most
I’m “biast” (con): nothing
(what is this about? see my critic’s minifesto)
This umpteenth iteration of the Japanese legend of the 47 ronin, or masterless samurai warriors, has its fair share of problems, but not as many as you’ve heard, and not as many as the presence of poor Keanu Reeves — who has unfairly become a cinematic punchline — may have led you to believe. Stolid, stoic Reeves (The Day the Earth Stood Still, Street Kings) is well-cast as the half-Japanese, half-British Kai, whose status as an outcast in xenophobic 18th-century Japan means he has to keep his eyes down and his mouth shut, and the actor maintains a modest presence throughout,...
I’m “biast” (con): nothing
(what is this about? see my critic’s minifesto)
This umpteenth iteration of the Japanese legend of the 47 ronin, or masterless samurai warriors, has its fair share of problems, but not as many as you’ve heard, and not as many as the presence of poor Keanu Reeves — who has unfairly become a cinematic punchline — may have led you to believe. Stolid, stoic Reeves (The Day the Earth Stood Still, Street Kings) is well-cast as the half-Japanese, half-British Kai, whose status as an outcast in xenophobic 18th-century Japan means he has to keep his eyes down and his mouth shut, and the actor maintains a modest presence throughout,...
- 4/1/2014
- by MaryAnn Johanson
- www.flickfilosopher.com
Chicago – In the latest HollywoodChicago.com Hookup: Combo Pack with our unique social giveaway technology, we have 5 free Blu-ray and DVD combo packs up for grabs for the home entertainment release of the new visually stunning 3D film “47 Ronin” starring Keanu Reeves!
“47 Ronin,” which is rated “PG-13” and will be released on Blu-ray and DVD on April 1, 2014, also stars Hiroyuki Sanada, Ko Shibasaki, Tadanobu Asano, Min Tanaka, Jin Akanishi, Masayoshi Haneda and Hiroshi Sogabe from director Carl Rinsch and writers Chris Morgan and Hossein Amini.
To win your free “47 Ronin” combo pack courtesy of HollywoodChicago.com, get interactive with our unique Hookup technology directly below. That’s it! The more social actions you complete below, the higher yours odds of winning! Completing these social actions only increases your odds of winning; this doesn’t intensify your competition or lower your odds!
Preferably, use your computer to enter rather than your smartphone.
“47 Ronin,” which is rated “PG-13” and will be released on Blu-ray and DVD on April 1, 2014, also stars Hiroyuki Sanada, Ko Shibasaki, Tadanobu Asano, Min Tanaka, Jin Akanishi, Masayoshi Haneda and Hiroshi Sogabe from director Carl Rinsch and writers Chris Morgan and Hossein Amini.
To win your free “47 Ronin” combo pack courtesy of HollywoodChicago.com, get interactive with our unique Hookup technology directly below. That’s it! The more social actions you complete below, the higher yours odds of winning! Completing these social actions only increases your odds of winning; this doesn’t intensify your competition or lower your odds!
Preferably, use your computer to enter rather than your smartphone.
- 3/30/2014
- by adam@hollywoodchicago.com (Adam Fendelman)
- HollywoodChicago.com
Touchstone Pictures
Although the likes of Michael Bay and Roland Emmerich aren’t exactly critical darlings, they make movies that audiences generally can’t get enough of, which has seen their combined filmographies take over $8bn at the box office. But on the other side of the coin, there are many directors who are consistently rewarded with expensive projects despite the vast majority of their big-budget output being nothing short of terrible.
In recent years, a number of untested directors have been given the reins of blockbuster movies with decidedly mixed results: Joseph Kosinski, Rupert Sanders and Noam Murro have all successfully made their feature debuts armed with budgets of $100m and above, while Carl Rinsch fared much, much worse with 47 Ronin. The temptation is always to reward a young, upcoming director with a massive budget after an initial success: Gareth Edwards and Colin Trevorrow both made their first movies...
Although the likes of Michael Bay and Roland Emmerich aren’t exactly critical darlings, they make movies that audiences generally can’t get enough of, which has seen their combined filmographies take over $8bn at the box office. But on the other side of the coin, there are many directors who are consistently rewarded with expensive projects despite the vast majority of their big-budget output being nothing short of terrible.
In recent years, a number of untested directors have been given the reins of blockbuster movies with decidedly mixed results: Joseph Kosinski, Rupert Sanders and Noam Murro have all successfully made their feature debuts armed with budgets of $100m and above, while Carl Rinsch fared much, much worse with 47 Ronin. The temptation is always to reward a young, upcoming director with a massive budget after an initial success: Gareth Edwards and Colin Trevorrow both made their first movies...
- 3/28/2014
- by Scott Campbell
- Obsessed with Film
Here’s all the information you need to secure your copy of Keanu Reeves latest action adventure, 47 Ronin. If you need a refresher on the amazing warrior tale, here’s the trailer, followed by the official press release.
Trailer: 47 Ronin
Keanu Reeves Stars In The 3D Epic Action-Adventure 47 Ronin Be The First To Own It On Digital HD March 18, 2014 And Bring Home The Blu-ray™ Combo Pack Including Blu-ray, DVD & Digital HD With Ultraviolet™ On April 1, 2014 Now Movie Fans Can Watch 47 Ronin Anywhere On Their Favorite Devices
Universal City, California, February 4, 2014— Keanu Reeves (The Matrix trilogy, The Day The Earth Stood Still) stars in a reimagining of one of Japan’s timeless tales, 47 Ronin, available on Blu-ray™ 3D and Blu-ray™ Combo Packs, DVD, Digital HD including UltraViolet™ and On Demand on April 1, 2014, from Universal Studios Home Entertainment.
Based on an epic story, this extraordinary tale of inspiring courage has its...
Trailer: 47 Ronin
Keanu Reeves Stars In The 3D Epic Action-Adventure 47 Ronin Be The First To Own It On Digital HD March 18, 2014 And Bring Home The Blu-ray™ Combo Pack Including Blu-ray, DVD & Digital HD With Ultraviolet™ On April 1, 2014 Now Movie Fans Can Watch 47 Ronin Anywhere On Their Favorite Devices
Universal City, California, February 4, 2014— Keanu Reeves (The Matrix trilogy, The Day The Earth Stood Still) stars in a reimagining of one of Japan’s timeless tales, 47 Ronin, available on Blu-ray™ 3D and Blu-ray™ Combo Packs, DVD, Digital HD including UltraViolet™ and On Demand on April 1, 2014, from Universal Studios Home Entertainment.
Based on an epic story, this extraordinary tale of inspiring courage has its...
- 2/19/2014
- by Jess Orso
- ScifiMafia
Blu-ray & DVD Release Date: April 1, 2014
Price: DVD $29.98, Blu-ray/DVD Combo $34.98, Blu-ray 3D Combo $49.98
Studio: Universal Studios Home Entertainment
47 Ronin retells ancient Japan’s most enduring legend.
The action adventure movie stars Keanu Reeves (The Matrix) as Kai, who joins Oishi (Hiroyuki Sanada, The Wolverine), the leader of 47 outcast samurai whose master was killed and dishonored by a treacherous overlord. Together they seek revenge and try to restore honor to their homeland.
ThePG-13 film is the first by director Carl Rinsch and was written by Chris Morgan (Fast & Furious 6) and Hossein Amini (Snow White and the Huntsman).
Critics panned 47 Ronin, giving it only 12% approval, according to Rotten Tomatoes. Los Angeles Times‘ Mark Olsen called the movie “overlong” and “underwhelming.”
Moviegoers liked it better, but were still mixed, giving it 55%. 47 Ronin grossed an underwhelming $38 million in wide release in theaters.
The DVD contains one bonus: the featurette “Re-forging the Legend.”
Both...
Price: DVD $29.98, Blu-ray/DVD Combo $34.98, Blu-ray 3D Combo $49.98
Studio: Universal Studios Home Entertainment
47 Ronin retells ancient Japan’s most enduring legend.
The action adventure movie stars Keanu Reeves (The Matrix) as Kai, who joins Oishi (Hiroyuki Sanada, The Wolverine), the leader of 47 outcast samurai whose master was killed and dishonored by a treacherous overlord. Together they seek revenge and try to restore honor to their homeland.
ThePG-13 film is the first by director Carl Rinsch and was written by Chris Morgan (Fast & Furious 6) and Hossein Amini (Snow White and the Huntsman).
Critics panned 47 Ronin, giving it only 12% approval, according to Rotten Tomatoes. Los Angeles Times‘ Mark Olsen called the movie “overlong” and “underwhelming.”
Moviegoers liked it better, but were still mixed, giving it 55%. 47 Ronin grossed an underwhelming $38 million in wide release in theaters.
The DVD contains one bonus: the featurette “Re-forging the Legend.”
Both...
- 2/13/2014
- by Sam
- Disc Dish
Concept Art by Daren Horley Keanu Reeves makes an explosive return to action-adventure in 47 Ronin. After a treacherous warlord kills their master and banishes their kind, 47 leaderless samurai vow to seek vengeance and restore honor to their people. Driven from their homes and dispersed across the land, this band of Ronin must seek the help of Kai (Reeves)—a half-breed they once rejected—as they fight their way across a savage world of mythic beasts, shape-shifting witchcraft and wondrous terrors. As this exiled, enslaved outcast becomes their most deadly weapon, he will transform into the hero who inspires this band of outnumbered rebels to seize eternity. 47 Ronin was directed by Carl Rinsch, from a screenplay written by Chris Morgan and Hossein Amini. The cast includes: Keanu Reeves, Hiroyuki Sanada, Tadanobu Asano, Rinko Kikuchi and Ko Shibasaki. The film will be released on December 25, 2013. Merry Christmas, dude!
- 1/21/2014
- ComicBookMovie.com
Occasionally the Australian box-office produces results that the trade doesn.t expect: the latest examples are last weekend.s debuts by 47 Ronin and Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit.
A 3D action-adventure set in mythical Japan about a half-breed slave (Keanu Reeves) who joins a band of samurai in a quest for vengeance, 47 Ronin collared $1.77 million, the highest per-location average ($9,700) of any wide release.
.
That.s rather better than most executives- apart from distributor Universal- had expected, particularly in view of the lousy Us figure of $US37.6 million. The budget reportedly was $175 million- a rash amount to entrust to first-time feature director Carl Rinsch- so the studio will probably take a sizable hit. Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit, which has Chris Pine taking over the role played by Alec Baldwin, Harrison Ford and Ben Affleck, nabbed $2.1 million in four days plus $46,000 on Wednesday night previews at five screens.
Pro-rata that.s a...
A 3D action-adventure set in mythical Japan about a half-breed slave (Keanu Reeves) who joins a band of samurai in a quest for vengeance, 47 Ronin collared $1.77 million, the highest per-location average ($9,700) of any wide release.
.
That.s rather better than most executives- apart from distributor Universal- had expected, particularly in view of the lousy Us figure of $US37.6 million. The budget reportedly was $175 million- a rash amount to entrust to first-time feature director Carl Rinsch- so the studio will probably take a sizable hit. Jack Ryan: Shadow Recruit, which has Chris Pine taking over the role played by Alec Baldwin, Harrison Ford and Ben Affleck, nabbed $2.1 million in four days plus $46,000 on Wednesday night previews at five screens.
Pro-rata that.s a...
- 1/20/2014
- by Don Groves
- IF.com.au
Concept Art by framestoreart.com Keanu Reeves makes an explosive return to action-adventure in 47 Ronin. After a treacherous warlord kills their master and banishes their kind, 47 leaderless samurai vow to seek vengeance and restore honor to their people. Driven from their homes and dispersed across the land, this band of Ronin must seek the help of Kai (Reeves)—a half-breed they once rejected—as they fight their way across a savage world of mythic beasts, shape-shifting witchcraft and wondrous terrors. As this exiled, enslaved outcast becomes their most deadly weapon, he will transform into the hero who inspires this band of outnumbered rebels to seize eternity. 47 Ronin was directed by Carl Rinsch, from a screenplay written by Chris Morgan and Hossein Amini. The cast includes: Keanu Reeves, Hiroyuki Sanada, Tadanobu Asano, Rinko Kikuchi and Ko Shibasaki. The film will be released on December 25, 2013. Merry Christmas, dude!
- 1/9/2014
- ComicBookMovie.com
Plot60% Acting63% Visuals75% Directing60%Beautiful, colorful visualsExciting and fun action moments here and thereSome of great Japanese cast perform less because of language problemReeves' character seems a bit lost 64%Overall Score Reader Rating: (2 Votes)32%
Christmas 2013: the long wait was finally over and 47 Ronin was released in theatres. Originally prepared for release a year earlier, it was quite a bummer at the time to hear that the release was postponed for a year. This delay was brought forth by countless rewrites of the script and problems in post-production. Reports of first time director Carl Rinsch having difficulty making a well-balanced story of Eastern and Western elements surfaced. Clashes with the studio, pulling the story back and forth; the film certainly had its share of production hell.
It can’t be avoided that the above-named troubles have indeed somewhat affected the final film, with Keanu Reeves in the middle of many...
Christmas 2013: the long wait was finally over and 47 Ronin was released in theatres. Originally prepared for release a year earlier, it was quite a bummer at the time to hear that the release was postponed for a year. This delay was brought forth by countless rewrites of the script and problems in post-production. Reports of first time director Carl Rinsch having difficulty making a well-balanced story of Eastern and Western elements surfaced. Clashes with the studio, pulling the story back and forth; the film certainly had its share of production hell.
It can’t be avoided that the above-named troubles have indeed somewhat affected the final film, with Keanu Reeves in the middle of many...
- 1/7/2014
- by Thor
- AsianMoviePulse
News Ryan Lambie 6 Jan 2014 - 06:24
Despite competition from several new releases, Disney's Frozen continues to dominate at the Us box office...
The success of Disney's latest animated film Frozen continues to exceed expectations, with its gross now standing at more than $640m worldwide.
In America, Frozen's even managed to fend off opposition from this week's new release, the horror spin-off Paranormal Activity: The Marked Ones, and head back to the top of the charts, adding a further $20m to its gross - some $2m more than its spooky rival.
It shouldn't be forgotten that Frozen had some intense competition over the festive season, too, with the likes of The Hobbit: The Desolation Of Smaug remaining at the number one spot for three weekends in a row (its global total now stands at just over $756m) while Anchorman 2, Martin Scorsese's The Wolf Of Wall Street and The Secret Life Of Walter Mitty...
Despite competition from several new releases, Disney's Frozen continues to dominate at the Us box office...
The success of Disney's latest animated film Frozen continues to exceed expectations, with its gross now standing at more than $640m worldwide.
In America, Frozen's even managed to fend off opposition from this week's new release, the horror spin-off Paranormal Activity: The Marked Ones, and head back to the top of the charts, adding a further $20m to its gross - some $2m more than its spooky rival.
It shouldn't be forgotten that Frozen had some intense competition over the festive season, too, with the likes of The Hobbit: The Desolation Of Smaug remaining at the number one spot for three weekends in a row (its global total now stands at just over $756m) while Anchorman 2, Martin Scorsese's The Wolf Of Wall Street and The Secret Life Of Walter Mitty...
- 1/6/2014
- by ryanlambie
- Den of Geek
Film: "47 Ronin"; Cast: Keanu Reeves, Hiroyuki Sanada, Kou Shibasaki, Tadanobu Asano, Rinko Kikuchi, Min Tanaka and Jin Akanishi; Director: Carl Rinsch; Rating: *** - an impressive drama.
What starts off as an action-packed Samurai adventure thriller, slowly fizzles into a tragic Japanese period drama sprinkled with ounces of fantasy in the guise of witchcraft and sorcery.
The film pays homage to the legendary 47 Ronin, who according to folklore, in the 17th century wreaked a terrible vengeance on the official who had unjustly condemned their Lord Asano Naganori to death. They then placed the severed head of their.
What starts off as an action-packed Samurai adventure thriller, slowly fizzles into a tragic Japanese period drama sprinkled with ounces of fantasy in the guise of witchcraft and sorcery.
The film pays homage to the legendary 47 Ronin, who according to folklore, in the 17th century wreaked a terrible vengeance on the official who had unjustly condemned their Lord Asano Naganori to death. They then placed the severed head of their.
- 1/3/2014
- by Meeta Kabra
- RealBollywood.com
Odd List Ryan Lambie Simon Brew 3 Jan 2014 - 07:52
They made us boo and hiss, and maybe made us like them a little bit, too. Here's our rundown of our favourite 2013 movie villains...
Nb: The following contains spoilers. If you stumble on an entry for a film you haven't seen yet, you're advised to skip to the next one.
We love them, we hate them, and sometimes, we love to hate them. Villains are the driving force of just about every story, and there was no shortage of great ones in 2013's movies. Whether they were violent and weapon waving, or quiet and slyly insinuating, last year's films were full of great antagonists of every sort.
You're sure to have some of your own ideas over who deserved to be listed among 2013's best baddies (so feel free to add yours in the comments, as ever), and honourable mentions should...
They made us boo and hiss, and maybe made us like them a little bit, too. Here's our rundown of our favourite 2013 movie villains...
Nb: The following contains spoilers. If you stumble on an entry for a film you haven't seen yet, you're advised to skip to the next one.
We love them, we hate them, and sometimes, we love to hate them. Villains are the driving force of just about every story, and there was no shortage of great ones in 2013's movies. Whether they were violent and weapon waving, or quiet and slyly insinuating, last year's films were full of great antagonists of every sort.
You're sure to have some of your own ideas over who deserved to be listed among 2013's best baddies (so feel free to add yours in the comments, as ever), and honourable mentions should...
- 1/2/2014
- by ryanlambie
- Den of Geek
Selena’s turn as a gun-toting, car-almost-jacking thrill-seeker on the big screen has earned her a major nomination!
“I stood up and cheered!” raved absolutely no one who saw Selena Gomez and Ethan Hawke‘s 2013 film Getaway, so it’s no surprise the action-thriller is nominated for three Razzie Awards, presented to the year’s less-than-stellar cinematic works. But hey, a nomination’s a nomination — even if the category is “Worst Actress” — so we’d like to take this time to congratulate our girl Selena on her prestigious recognition.
Selena Gomez’s Razzie Nomination: Why We’re Proud Of Her
Films are designed to move us, one way or another, and Getaway did just that. Selena’s film stirred enough emotion within the hearts and minds of the Razzies’ nominating committee that it chose to bestow this nomination upon her, and for that, we salute her.
As is tradition, the...
“I stood up and cheered!” raved absolutely no one who saw Selena Gomez and Ethan Hawke‘s 2013 film Getaway, so it’s no surprise the action-thriller is nominated for three Razzie Awards, presented to the year’s less-than-stellar cinematic works. But hey, a nomination’s a nomination — even if the category is “Worst Actress” — so we’d like to take this time to congratulate our girl Selena on her prestigious recognition.
Selena Gomez’s Razzie Nomination: Why We’re Proud Of Her
Films are designed to move us, one way or another, and Getaway did just that. Selena’s film stirred enough emotion within the hearts and minds of the Razzies’ nominating committee that it chose to bestow this nomination upon her, and for that, we salute her.
As is tradition, the...
- 12/30/2013
- by Andy Swift
- HollywoodLife
Based upon the entries on the Razzie short list, it looks like these pics are good bets to score nominations: "After Earth," Grown Ups 2," "Inappropriate Comedy," "A Madea Christmas," "Movie 43" and "The Lone Ranger," "Scary Movie 5." Below is the full rundown. Vote in our poll of the worst of the batch here and, at the bottom of this post, give us your Razzie predictions. Worst Picture "47 Ronin" "A Madea Christmas" "After Earth" "Getaway" "Grown Ups 2" "Grudge Match" "Inappropriate Comedy" "Movie 43" "Paranoia" "R.I.P.D." "Runner Runner" "Scary Movie 5" "The Big Wedding" "The Host" "The Lone Ranger" -Break- Worst Director Carl Rinsch, "47 Ronin" John Moore, "A Good Day to Die Hard" M. Night Shyamal...
- 12/30/2013
- Gold Derby
Keanu Reeves sleepwalks through this leaden samurai epic
If ever a film was in need of an honourable death and a respectful burial it would be 47 Ronin, a cursed samurai epic that features a somnambulistic performance from a shell-shocked Keanu Reeves. Carl Rinsch's $175m drama was shot back in 2011 then found itself sat on the shelf for over a year, beset by bad omens and the stench of decay. It limps into cinemas and falls on its sword with a sigh.
Reeves is Kai, a disreputable mixed-race killing machine who rides to the aid of a band of exiled ronin in a mystical feudal Japan. Before long, our hero is slicing ogres, wrestling witches and romancing his lordship's daughter with the selfsame air of irritated bemusement. Meanwhile, ranked alongside him, the ronin (represented by a group of estimable Japanese actors) have their work cut out tackling reams of expository English-language dialogue.
If ever a film was in need of an honourable death and a respectful burial it would be 47 Ronin, a cursed samurai epic that features a somnambulistic performance from a shell-shocked Keanu Reeves. Carl Rinsch's $175m drama was shot back in 2011 then found itself sat on the shelf for over a year, beset by bad omens and the stench of decay. It limps into cinemas and falls on its sword with a sigh.
Reeves is Kai, a disreputable mixed-race killing machine who rides to the aid of a band of exiled ronin in a mystical feudal Japan. Before long, our hero is slicing ogres, wrestling witches and romancing his lordship's daughter with the selfsame air of irritated bemusement. Meanwhile, ranked alongside him, the ronin (represented by a group of estimable Japanese actors) have their work cut out tackling reams of expository English-language dialogue.
- 12/29/2013
- by Xan Brooks
- The Guardian - Film News
Samurai film based on Japanese national myth cost $175m to make, but takes just $13m globally over Christmas period
Keanu Reeves' samurai flick 47 Ronin looks set to emerge as one of the biggest box-office bombs of 2013 after the $175m (£106m) film took just $7m in its Us debut over the Christmas period.
Variety reports that Hollywood studio Universal is poised to write off huge losses on Carl Rinsch's film, which had already opened poorly in Japan ahead of its Christmas Day North American bow. With a total global haul of only $13m so far, 47 Ronin is the worst performing film with a budget of more than $150m in 2013, according to the trade bible.
The movie is based on Japan's national myth, the story of a group of early 18th-century samurai who became leaderless warriors – ronin – after their master was forced to kill himself by court official Kira Yoshinaka.
Keanu Reeves' samurai flick 47 Ronin looks set to emerge as one of the biggest box-office bombs of 2013 after the $175m (£106m) film took just $7m in its Us debut over the Christmas period.
Variety reports that Hollywood studio Universal is poised to write off huge losses on Carl Rinsch's film, which had already opened poorly in Japan ahead of its Christmas Day North American bow. With a total global haul of only $13m so far, 47 Ronin is the worst performing film with a budget of more than $150m in 2013, according to the trade bible.
The movie is based on Japan's national myth, the story of a group of early 18th-century samurai who became leaderless warriors – ronin – after their master was forced to kill himself by court official Kira Yoshinaka.
- 12/28/2013
- by Ben Child
- The Guardian - Film News
First-time feature director Carl Rinsch's long-delayed 47 Ronin could result in a $175 million loss for Universal Pictures and co-financing partner Elliot, based on a poor showing so far at the Christmas box office and an equally troubling start in Japan earlier this month. Photos: From 'After Earth' to 'The Lone Ranger': The Box Office Bombs of 2013 At this pace, Universal may only recoup its marketing spend, leaving Ronin's pricey $175 million budget exposed. It could well prove the year's second-biggest miss financially after The Lone Ranger, which prompted Disney to write down at least $190
read more...
read more...
- 12/27/2013
- by Pamela McClintock
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
I was never invited to a screening of 47 Ronin prior to its Christmas Day release and, to my knowledge, the majority of critics around the Us were similarly ignored. This is, and isn't, a surprise considering the majority of the press surrounding the feature has focused on its troubled production and ballooning budget, which is being reported as $175 million while everything suggests it was nothing short of at least $225 million or so. No matter, a film isn't defined by the amount of money spent to make it, but instead the end product. However, when a studio is unwilling to even screen a film for critics it says something about its quality and Universal isn't exactly a studio known for hiding its films, no matter how bad they may be. I have no personal interest in seeing 47 Ronin in theaters, but I am interested in hearing some thoughts on the film.
- 12/27/2013
- by Brad Brevet
- Rope of Silicon
This VFX-heavy take on the Japanese legend of self-sacrifice goes all in for a bit of eastern mystery, but just feels bland and plodding
Hollywood's latest play for the growing Asian market revisits the ancient Japanese legend of self-sacrifice, hoping to offset its garbled narrative and grinding humourlessness with 3D and Keanu Reeves as a samurai Jesus. The VFX team have some fun with Rinko Kikuchi's shapeshifting witch, but otherwise this is a terrible plod, hamstrung by rookie director Carl Rinsch's inability to clearly describe four ronin, let alone 47. The kind of globalised blandout initiated by suits who understand algorithms and spreadsheets rather better than they do they do specific cultures: for all the authentic eastern flavour it imparts, it might have been shot around the Goole branch of Yo! Sushi.
Rating: 2/5
Action and adventureThrillerKeanu ReevesMike McCahill
theguardian.com © 2013 Guardian News and Media Limited or its affiliated companies.
Hollywood's latest play for the growing Asian market revisits the ancient Japanese legend of self-sacrifice, hoping to offset its garbled narrative and grinding humourlessness with 3D and Keanu Reeves as a samurai Jesus. The VFX team have some fun with Rinko Kikuchi's shapeshifting witch, but otherwise this is a terrible plod, hamstrung by rookie director Carl Rinsch's inability to clearly describe four ronin, let alone 47. The kind of globalised blandout initiated by suits who understand algorithms and spreadsheets rather better than they do they do specific cultures: for all the authentic eastern flavour it imparts, it might have been shot around the Goole branch of Yo! Sushi.
Rating: 2/5
Action and adventureThrillerKeanu ReevesMike McCahill
theguardian.com © 2013 Guardian News and Media Limited or its affiliated companies.
- 12/27/2013
- by Mike McCahill
- The Guardian - Film News
With an incredible cast and a budget to match Carl Rinsch’s 47 Ronin boasts a unique take on a traditional Japanese folk tale. Attempting to merge history and fantasy, and loosely based upon the historical event, it opens with a prologue introducing the story and outlining its significance.
The story begins with Kai, a half-Japanese half-English boy running away from something in the forest. Exhausted, he is found with strange claw marks on him by a band of samurai. One young samurai believes the boy to be a demon and attempts to kill him, only to be stopped by Lord Asano who contests that he is human and takes him into his care. Kai is looked after by the Lord’s daughter, Mika, with whom a forbidden relationship begins to blossom. However, as a ‘half-breed’ he is treated as an outcast and shunned despite his courage and honour, with Mika...
The story begins with Kai, a half-Japanese half-English boy running away from something in the forest. Exhausted, he is found with strange claw marks on him by a band of samurai. One young samurai believes the boy to be a demon and attempts to kill him, only to be stopped by Lord Asano who contests that he is human and takes him into his care. Kai is looked after by the Lord’s daughter, Mika, with whom a forbidden relationship begins to blossom. However, as a ‘half-breed’ he is treated as an outcast and shunned despite his courage and honour, with Mika...
- 12/25/2013
- by Claire Milne-Smith
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
Rawhide Chew: Rinsch’s CGI Laden Retelling a Cardboard Snooze
The story of the 47 Ronin, a Japanese tale based in historical fact that has become a timeless standard, as well as an epic that has been molded into cinematic form by some of the country’s greatest auteurs, perhaps most notably by Kenji Mizoguchi with his 1941 version. Tastsuyasu Osone, Kunio Watanabe, and Hirsohi Inagaki all have versions floating around out there, while Kon Ichikawa’s rather tedious 1994 version was the most recent rendering. Until now. Director Carl Rinsch curiously makes his feature debut with a version of the tale that feels like it was yanked out of some bargain bin Brothers Grimm fairy tale, aiding the noble samurai with witches, dragons, a ‘half breed’ American movie star, and the English language.
While there are differing variations of the story, for the purposes at hand here it’s simplified to the...
The story of the 47 Ronin, a Japanese tale based in historical fact that has become a timeless standard, as well as an epic that has been molded into cinematic form by some of the country’s greatest auteurs, perhaps most notably by Kenji Mizoguchi with his 1941 version. Tastsuyasu Osone, Kunio Watanabe, and Hirsohi Inagaki all have versions floating around out there, while Kon Ichikawa’s rather tedious 1994 version was the most recent rendering. Until now. Director Carl Rinsch curiously makes his feature debut with a version of the tale that feels like it was yanked out of some bargain bin Brothers Grimm fairy tale, aiding the noble samurai with witches, dragons, a ‘half breed’ American movie star, and the English language.
While there are differing variations of the story, for the purposes at hand here it’s simplified to the...
- 12/24/2013
- by Nicholas Bell
- IONCINEMA.com
Apparently, a five-year production schedule, cycles of reshoots and a yearlong theatrical delay couldn't save the 3-D martial arts action film "47 Ronin" starring Keanu Reeves, a virtual absentee from the big screen in recent years. With eight assailing reviews and counting -- but why bother? -- the Reeves Samurai epic currently sits at 14% on the Tomatometer. Trailer below. Warning signs were clear. After announcing the project in 2008 and finding their director in 2009, Universal gave first-time feature filmmaker Carl Rinsch $175 million for the project, a stylized -- and allegedly bastardized -- fantasy version of a time-honored Japanese revenge myth. In 2012, the studio put principal photography on pause so Reeves could pursue his directorial debut, "Man of Tai Chi." Would more time in the oven have saved "47 Ronin"? Judging from early reviews, the beleaguered CG-laden film, which costars Rinko Kikuchi and opens wide on December 25, is too far gone. Here's what the.
- 12/23/2013
- by Ryan Lattanzio
- Thompson on Hollywood
Strange – I’m having a bit of déjà vu sitting here trying my hardest not to make the obvious joke of Keanu Reeves knowing kung fu. Weren’t we just exposed to a movie where Keavu tries to display his ancient fighting knowledge? Oh yes, that was Man Of Tai Chi, a more modern film compared to his most recent effort, 47 Ronin. First time director Carl Rinsch certainly is starting on an incredibly ambitious note, tasked with helming a 3D movie heavy with mystical witchcraft, choreographed battle sequences, and fantastical creatures conjured using CGI technology. Opening against heavy hitters like DiCaprio, Stallone, and De Niro, will Keanu’s moves be enough to score a Christmas box office miracle? Honestly, I don’t know, but when I think Christmas, I think Keanu Reeves fighting dragons with enchanted swords – don’t you?
47 Ronin is based on a true story that dates back to 18th century Japan,...
47 Ronin is based on a true story that dates back to 18th century Japan,...
- 12/23/2013
- by Matt Donato
- We Got This Covered
A ballooning budget, reshoots, editing room wrangles and more have long marked "47 Ronin" as a cinematic poison apple. And certainly, with a weak opening earlier this month in Japan, where the story is common and has been retold numerous times, it seemed the writing on the wall. But was the negative buzz fair? After all, "World War Z" went through its own turmoil and emerged victorious, with a sequel on the way, so perhaps the same could happen for Keanu Reeves' samurai blockbuster, right? Well, probably not. The first reviews are here, and they are for the most part, pretty brutal on the movie, though some note that at the very least, it looks good and the action stuff works. Carl Rinsch's feature film debut may boast handsome visuals, but it appears it lacks anything resembling excitement, even with CGI monsters and more. And given that Universal is half-dumping this movie,...
- 12/23/2013
- by Kevin Jagernauth
- The Playlist
There’s so much wrong with “47 Ronin” that I’ll start with what Keanu Reeves’ samurai tale does have going for it: Kinetic action scenes with swords blazing and colorful mythical beasts. Alas, those scenes are too few and far between to make up for a flat and often confusing movie. There will be no “Avatar”-style happy ending for “47 Ronin,” a much-delayed 3D production that has already opened to underwhelming box office in Japan. In retrospect, Universal was unwise to entrust such an ambitious undertaking to unproven movie director Carl Rinsch, whose background includes commercials but not big spectacles.
- 12/23/2013
- by Diane Garrett
- The Wrap
It’s pretty easy to paraphrase famed film critic Roger Ebert when talking about a movie, especially one you absolutely cannot stand. His review for Rob Reiner’s 1994 film North has become more recognizable than the movie it was lambasting because it annihilates a film that is pure and utter garbage in such a perfectly eloquent manner. It should be framed on any director or studio’s wall that attempts to make a half-assed movie. Universal Studios, Carl Rinsch, Keanu Reeves, and everyone involved in 47 Ronin should take heed of this review, because it also perfectly illustrates my opinion about their movie. Now, please allow me to quote Mr. Ebert’s consummately persuasive words in regards to how I feel about 47 Ronin: “I hated this movie. Hated hated hated hated hated this movie. Hated it. Hated every simpering stupid vacant audience-insulting moment of it. Hated the sensibility that thought anyone would like it.
- 12/23/2013
- by Sean Hutchinson
- LRMonline.com
Director: Carl Rinsch; Screenwriter: Chris Morgan, Hossein Amini; Starring: Keanu Reeves, Hiroyuki Sanada, Kô Shibasaki, Rinko Kickuchi; Running time: 119 mins; Certificate: 12A
As the old adage goes, you can't polish a turd. But you can sprinkle plenty of CGI and countless close-ups of Keanu Reeves looking morose onto it. Not that it matters in the case of 47 Ronin, an unfathomably botched attempt to translate the classic Japanese folktale into a Hollywood blockbuster.
Carl Rinsch's directorial debut finally limps onto screens almost three years after filming began, amidst stories of a turbulent production, a spiralling budget and editing room lockouts. Similar issues didn't prevent World War Z from impressing audiences, as the central story was conveyed in a fairly engaging manner, despite occasional unevenness.
Contrastingly, 47 Ronin is a model of consistency. It's unfailingly atrocious from start to finish. A turgid backstory is vomited onto the screen in a chaotic and cluttered opening,...
As the old adage goes, you can't polish a turd. But you can sprinkle plenty of CGI and countless close-ups of Keanu Reeves looking morose onto it. Not that it matters in the case of 47 Ronin, an unfathomably botched attempt to translate the classic Japanese folktale into a Hollywood blockbuster.
Carl Rinsch's directorial debut finally limps onto screens almost three years after filming began, amidst stories of a turbulent production, a spiralling budget and editing room lockouts. Similar issues didn't prevent World War Z from impressing audiences, as the central story was conveyed in a fairly engaging manner, despite occasional unevenness.
Contrastingly, 47 Ronin is a model of consistency. It's unfailingly atrocious from start to finish. A turgid backstory is vomited onto the screen in a chaotic and cluttered opening,...
- 12/23/2013
- Digital Spy
Title: 47 Ronin Director: Carl Rinsch Starring: Keanu Reeves, Rinko Kikuchi, Tadanobu Asano, Hiroyuki Sanada. ‘47 Ronin’ is Universal’s fictional account of the forty-seven real-life samurai, that in 18th century Japan avenged the murder of their master. Carl Rinsch’s fantasy action film takes artistic license in portraying the story of the outcast Kai (Reeves), who joins a group of ronin, led by Kuranosuke Oishi (Sanada), to seek vengeance on Lord Kira (Asano) for killing their master and banishing the group. Despite some colourful 3D monsters, the flick doesn’t meet the expected wacky chimera. The digital effects are brilliant, just as all the ones the audience has grown accustomed to in [ Read More ]
The post 47 Ronin Movie Review appeared first on Shockya.com.
The post 47 Ronin Movie Review appeared first on Shockya.com.
- 12/21/2013
- by Chiara Spagnoli Gabardi
- ShockYa
IMDb.com, Inc. takes no responsibility for the content or accuracy of the above news articles, Tweets, or blog posts. This content is published for the entertainment of our users only. The news articles, Tweets, and blog posts do not represent IMDb's opinions nor can we guarantee that the reporting therein is completely factual. Please visit the source responsible for the item in question to report any concerns you may have regarding content or accuracy.