Rooted in Japanese legend, this epic drama follows a cadre of samurais loyal to Lord Takuminokami Asano (Yoshizaburo Arashi). When the noble leader refuses a bribe from the local government, it leads to him to commit seppuku -- suicide by sword. Without their master, Asano's warriors are deemed wandering "ronin," but rather than accept their fate, the swordsmen, led by Kuranosuke Oishi (Chôjûrô Kawarasaki), unite to seek revenge on the corrupt court of the shogun.