The 47 Masterless Samurai (1959): cast, story & where to watch

1959 · Film · ★ 7.2

The 47 Masterless Samurai poster

Released in 1959, The 47 Masterless Samurai is a drama and history film directed by Sadatsugu Matsuda, running about 183 minutes.

What it’s about. While the story of the Ako Clan's vendetta has been told countless times, never before has there been an array of major motion picture stars to bring new life to this timeless tale. Starting with the corrup practices of Lord Kira and Yanagi-sawa, the Shogun's Secretary, which in essence led to the incident of Lord Asano's attacking Kira in the Pine Corridor of the Shogun's Palace, this is the definitive version. Asano Takumi no kami was a young lord with high scruples, who refused to join in the general corruption and bribery which ran rampant in the capital at that time. By not giving bribes, he angered Kira Kozuke no suke the elder lord in charge of protocol at the Palace. Refusing to teach the younger man, and giving him false instructions was only the beginning. Insults followed, and a man of honor had no choice but to draw his sword in anger. Forty seven masterless samurai are willing to give their lives to avenge their lord.

Who’s in it. The 47 Masterless Samurai stars Utaemon Ichikawa, Chiezō Kataoka, Michiyo Kogure and Hibari Misora, among others.

How it landed. With an audience score of 7.2/10, The 47 Masterless Samurai has been warmly received by audiences.

Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch The 47 Masterless Samurai page.

If you liked it. Fans of The 47 Masterless Samurai tend to enjoy The Shawshank Redemption, The Godfather, Schindler's List and The Godfather Part II.

Frequently asked

Where can I watch The 47 Masterless Samurai (1959)?
Streaming, rental and purchase options for The 47 Masterless Samurai change frequently. Check our where-to-watch page for the latest availability in your country.
Is The 47 Masterless Samurai worth watching?
The 47 Masterless Samurai holds an audience score of 7.2 out of 10, and is a strong pick if you enjoy drama and history. Most viewers rate it highly.
Who stars in The 47 Masterless Samurai?
The 47 Masterless Samurai stars Utaemon Ichikawa, Chiezō Kataoka, Michiyo Kogure, Hibari Misora and Sō Yamamura.
When was The 47 Masterless Samurai released?
The 47 Masterless Samurai was released in 1959, with a runtime of about 183 minutes.