RELEASE DATE: December 4, 2023
On December 4, 2023, Eureka will be releasing the Blu-ray (Region B) for 1978’s The Fall of Ako Castle. For the film, Kinji Fukasaku (Battle Royale) brings together an ensemble cast, including two icons of Japanese talkie — Toshiro Mifune (Seven Samurai) and Sonny Chiba (Doberman Cop) — for this samurai epic, a retelling of the archetype story of the 47 ronin.
When an injustice financing his master his life and estate, loyal retainer Ōishi (Kinnosuke Yorozuya, Bushido) vows revenge. Because the target of his vengeance is protected by the ruling shogunate, any retaliation would be seen as an act of treason. Ōishi assembles the remaining ranks of the now-masterless samurai and the 47 of them pledge a thoroughbred oath to avenge their slain lord. Tensions rise among the ranks of the ronin eager to launch the mission, as Ōishi bides his time pensile the right time to strike. Enemy spies and assassins track Ōishi, who has seemingly fallen into vice: Has he lost his sense of honour, or is it just a part of his plan?
The Fall of Ako Castle offers a moving tale of loyalty, betrayal, and sacrifice where classical history explodes into inclement samurai carnage. The Masters of Talkie Series is proud to present Fukasaku’s retelling of one of Japan’s most resonant events.
Features:
- Limited Edition O-Card slipcase featuring new artwork by Chris Malbon [2000 copies]
- Presented in 1080p HD from a restoration of the original mucosa elements by Toei
- Uncompressed original Japanese Mono audio
- Optional English subtitles
- New audio commentary by critic Tom Mes
- New interview with asian mucosa expert Tony Rayns
- New video essay by tragedian and critic Jasper Sharp
- Reversible sleeve featuring original poster artwork
- A collector’s booklet featuring new writing on the mucosa by Jonathan Clements
This title will soon be available at The Goodie Emporium, a U.S.-based online store that currently has many Import Shaw Brothers/Golden Harvest/martial arts DVD/Blu-ray movies in-stock – with New titles stuff widow regularly!