47 Ronin Filming at Shepperton

Filming is now well under way at Shepperton Studios on Universal’s new epic 3D fantasy-adventure, 47 Ronin.


The film, inspired by ancient Japan’s most enduring tale stars Keanu Reeves as Kai, an outcast who joins Oishi (Hiroyuki Sanada), the leader of the 47 Ronin. Together they seek vengeance upon the treacherous overlord who killed their master and banished their kind. To restore honor to their homeland, the warriors embark upon a quest that challenges them with a series of trials that would destroy ordinary warriors.
The production has been working hard since the New Year, building some incredible sets on Shepperton’s stages and backlot, where they have recreated 18^th century Japan in the form of a castle, fortress, tournament arena and village.
47 Ronin is helmed by visionary director Carl Erik Rinsch (The Gift). Inspired by styles as diverse as Miyazaki and Hokusai, Rinsch will bring to life the stunning landscapes and enormous battles that will display the timeless Ronin story to global audiences in a way that’s never been seen before.

Andrew Smith, Group Corporate Affairs Director at Pinewood commented: “Pinewood and Shepperton have seen some relatively big productions come through its gates in recent years, although few rival the scale and ambition of 47 Ronin. The sets are some of the most amazing we’ve seen and it’s so pleasing to have been able to provide the production with the space, infrastructure and support they need to help them achieve their vision for this film. The team have been a pleasure to work with over the past few months and have even opened up their sets to members of the local community for a one off set visit, to satisfy the intense interest in the project.”

The film is from writers Chris Morgan (Wanted, Fast Five) and Hossein Amini (upcoming Drive, The Wings of the Dove). Scott Stuber (The Kingdom, upcoming Battleship), Pamela Abdy (Garden State, Man on the Moon) and Eric McLeod (Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest and At World’s End, Tropic Thunder) produce the epic.
Rinsch leads a behind-the-scenes crew comprised of two-time Academy Award-nominated cinematographer John Mathieson (Gladiator, Robin Hood); two-time Academy Award-nominated production designer Jan Roelfs (Alexander, Gattaca); editor Craig Wood (Pirates of the Caribbean trilogy, The Ring); costume designer Penny Rose (“Pirates of the Caribbean” trilogy, Evita); special effects producer Paul Corbould (Mamma Mia!, The Wolfman); and visual effects producer Garv Thorp (The Mummy: Tomb of the Dragon Emperor, Your Highness).



http://www.pinewoodgroup.com/2011/06/47-ronin-filming-at-shepperton/