Keanu Reeves images by randy avery

[filmtrailers] Rinko Kikuchi and Others Cast in Carl Rinsch's 3D Epic '47 Ronin'

Universal has announced an official greenlight for 47 Ronin, a new epic 3D martial arts fantasy-adventure starring Keanu Reeves. Directing this is Carl Rinsch, a protege of Ridley Scott and commercials director making his feature debut, but he's already got some exciting ideas for this movie. Also starring are Japanese Superstars Hiroyuki Sanada (The Last Samurai), Kou Shibasaki (One Missed Call), Tadanobu Asano (Ichi the Killer, Thor) and Rinko Kikuchi (Babel, The Brothers Bloom), most of whom you can see above. That was the photo they official released with this, and you can kind of see the 47 Ronin logo behind them.

Shooting begins March 14th in London on the 3D adventure inspired by Japan's most enduring tale. Keanu Reeves leads the cast as Kai, an outcast who joins Oishi (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. 47 Ronin is helmed by Carl Rinsch (also of the short 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.

This already sounds like it could be pretty badass from the description, but I've heard from folks who have seen more, that it apparently kicks some serious ass. Rinsch has been waiting to make his big feature debut and he's already got some tricks up his sleeve to pull off an awesome samurai action flick, in 3D nonetheless. I'm not sure if they're planning to shoot on greenscreen all the time or use locations in Japan or Europe, but I'm hoping for the best with this, as Rinsch has pulled together a badass cast with Reeves finally getting back into some martial arts again. Other than that, the story sounds cool, I just wish I could see some concept art.