Keanu Reeves is going to going star the upcoming American fantasy action film that depicts a real-life group of samurai in 18th century Japan. Set to be released on Christmas day, "47 Ronin" is produced by Universal Studios and directed by Carl Erik Rinsch.

The film is an adaptation of how the 47 samurai tracks down the warlord responsible for murdering their master, a task so dangerous that they are willing to risk their own lives in order to complete the mission. Keanu Reeves plays as Kai, a half-breed samurai who was rejected from Japanese society and has been enslaved and forced to participate in arena battles.

Without any choice, Kai fought for his life as he battles with dangerous supernatural creatures that roam the countryside. He was then recruited to join the 47 Ronin (samurai without a master). The ronin asked Reeve's character to help them defeat a shape-shifting evil witch and avenge their master, a task Kai was destined to do.

Director Rinsch added some fantasy elements that look stunning, ut can he balance a epic film as he features giants and witches without sacrificing loyalty and sacrifice of Japan's legendary tale?

Keanu Reeves explains that the adaptation of the tale plans to honor Japanese people who have grown hearing this story.

"Japanese kids grow up with this story told to them. They hear it from family and they learn it in school, its part of the culture. It's been made into movies many times and on television. It's like our westerns, the story keeps being told. It's been reworked in some ways [for this new film] but with great care and respect", says Reeves.

When asked what intrigue him about the character, Reeves explained, "There's sadness about him and I admire the grace he shows in response to other people's feelings. He doesn't have anger about the way he is viewed, but there is sadness and I've found that an interesting thing to work with."

The film also features Japanese stars that includes Tadanobu Asano, Kô Shibasaki, Rinko Kikuchi and Hiroyuki Sanada. The film is reportedly along the lines of "300' and Reeves character was specifically created for tale's retelling.