47-Ronin-Poster-Keanu-ReevesLoosely based* on the classic real-life story of the forty-seven Ronin, Keanu Reeves will be returning to the action/genre for which we love him in the long-awaited 47 Ronin.

The film has been pushed back a number of times in recent months, and was originally to head into theatres towards the end of last year. Universal seem to have finally settled on a Christmas Day release in the States this year. And now they’ve launched a very impressive first trailer, via Apple, along with some great new posters.

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.

Helmed by director Carl Rinsch (The Gift), 47 Ronin is produced by Scott Stuber (Ted, Identity Thief), Pamela Abdy (Identity Thief, upcoming Kill the Messenger) and Eric McLeod (Mr. & Mrs. Smith, Austin Powers series).

Reeves is joined by one of the best casts we’ve got to look forward to this year, led by Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa, Hiroyuki Sanada, Rinko Kikuchi, Tadanobu Asano, K? Shibasaki, and Jin Akanishi.

Carl Rinsch is making his feature directorial debut with the action/adventure film, directing from a script co-written by Chris Morgan (the Fast and Furious franchise) and Hossein Amini (Drive).

47 Ronin will be released in 3D on Christmas Day this year in the US, with its UK release date landing a day later on Boxing Day, December 26th. Judging by this first trailer, we’re in for an adrenaline-fuelled ride at the multiplex this Christmas. And, to sweeten the deal, there even appears to be a big ol’ nod to The Matrix in the trailer below. Give us a shout in the comments below if you spot it.

[yframe url=’www.youtube.com/watch?v=j8cKdDkkIYY’]

 

*As you can see, there are plenty of fantasy elements added to the basic premise of the real-life events.