When you think of Japanese legends, you think of samurai, katanas, imposing palaces and the lush green landscape of a feudal era. Maybe even Keanu Reeves flashes briefly in your mind when you hear the title of the 47 Ronin But there is another version of this famous story that practically no one has seen.
The Last Knights, released in 2015, even features two Hollywood greats on: Clive Owen and Morgan Freeman. The two are at the center of a medieval-inspired remake of the 47 Ronin story in a completely new guise. You can stream it from today on Amazon Prime.
In Last Knights, Clive Owen must fight for his revenge on a cruel ruler
After the great wars, there are not many knights left who still really believe in a Code of Honor believe. The capable and loyal Commander Raiden (Clive Owen), however, represents these ideals with heart and soul, just like his followers. He would do anything for his honor, but also for his master Bartok (Morgan Freeman).
The conflict he finds himself in is all the more cruel when Bartok is sadistic ruler Geza Mott (Aksel Hennie) is discredited and accused. His death sentence is to be carried out by Raiden, of all people, and Raiden cannot defend himself against this due to the Emperor’s laws.
Lionsgate
Morgan Freeman and Clive Owen in Last Knights
His actions break his heart – and ignite a new flame within him. Together with his subordinates, Raiden begins to forge plans for revenge in order to prove once and for all that true knights do not allow themselves to be used by corrupt rulers. But an attack on Mott comes Suicide Squad even.
Last Knights on Amazon Prime transforms the legend of the 47 Ronin into a dark revenge tale
Instead of wearing samurai armor, Clive Owen and his heroic companions don the leather armor of a fictional medieval empire. It is dirty, merciless, cold – and yet looks so fantastic like the setting of a vicious fairy tale. The perfect backdrop for a tyrannicide.
Owen shines as unbreakable, honourable knight – both as an emotional anchor and as an action hero. When the swords clash and arrows fly, Owen is in his element and proves what he can still do even in his older years.
Lionsgate
Clive Owen and his comrades in Last Knights
This is how we top-class cast and an atmospheric setting into a ronin fantasy. It moves far away from the familiar Japanese motifs and yet remains true to the core of the legend, the message of unconditional honor over corruption and tyranny. No wonder, because the film was made by Kazuaki Kiriya, himself a Japanese with a new vision.
You can stream the adventure epic he directed on Amazon Prime starting today.
*. If you make a purchase via this link, we receive a commission.