The Loyal 47 Ronin is based on one of Japan's great historical legends. Retold in countless theatrical versions and in dozens of films, it tells the story of a band of masterless samurai (ronin) who exact revenge for the death of their beloved master, and then commit hara-kiri. This two-part historical drama opens in 1701, with Lord Asano of Ako Castle attending formal ceremonies at Edo Castle. Unaware of certain proprieties, he responds to insults by Lord Kira by drawing his sword and slightly wounding him, an act that brings a death sentence on him. After he is forced to kill himself, his lands and buildings are taken, his family ousted, and his samurai forced into the lowly status of ronin. The remainder of this complex tale explores the decline and spiritual redemption of these men as they plot to take revenge on Lord Kira and reinstate their honour. There is surprisingly little action in Mizoguchi's version of a story noted for its violence, betrayal, suicide, and social upheaval. The project was more or less forced on the director and his studios by a government that was taking increasing control of film production and mandating a cinema that would inspire loyalty among the people as the country sank deeper into World War II. The film was an ideal project for this purpose, with its powerful images of loyalty at any cost and the heroic pleasures of self-sacrifice to a greater good, and Mizoguchi responded by making it one of his most intriguing films.