The legend of the 47 Ronin is Japan’s most famous revenge story. Based off of actual events this story is has been to practically define Japan. There is an old saying to goes “to know this story is to know Japan.†One of the most recent adaptations of the story is in a comic written by Mike Richardson with art by Stan Sakai and Kazuo Koike as the consultant. An edition with all parts of the series is published by Dark Horse with some extras.
This retelling is, as to be expected, one of the best.
In 1702 Japan, Asano Takumi Naganori, Daimyo of Ako, was forced to commit Seppuku after he was insulted by Kira Yoshinaka, Kozuke-No-Suke, and attacked him with his sword. Since this took place in Edo Castle drawing one’s sword is forbidden and punishable by death. The problem here is the fact that Kira insulted Asano was never mentioned. Thus, Asano’s 47 remaining men led by his chief retainer Oishi Kuranosuke Yoshio plot to avenge his honor.
The story reads similar to a samurai drama. Only difference here is that this is more what really happened than actual drama. The old adage “truth is more interesting than fiction†is in full force here. The narration is told fluidly, keeps the reader interested and brings the historic people to life. The reader will immerse himself in 1700s Japan and in these characters.
Keeping true to and immersing in Japan, Stan Sakai’s art greatly helps. He brings his trademark “Usagi Yojimbo†style into the mix. Only except for animals there are humans. Normally his art style is more on the cartoony side; here he manages to change around his style so that it fits with the serious tone of the story. The human characters may come off as weird to some readers in that they may remind them too much of the animals in “Usagi Yojimbo.†That will change once the story gets into full gear.
The extras include covers, an interview with Sakai, an afterword by Richardson and prints by Japanese artist Ogata Gekko. All of the extras are interesting reads, especially Sakai’s interview. Gekko’s prints will make any fan of Japanese art squeal with delight.
Richardson and Sakai’s retelling of “47 Ronin†honors these ronin and then some. With brilliant writing and Sakai’s art this is an excellent comic. The extras thrown in are the cherry on the sundae.
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