The American-produced film 47 Ronin
already boasts a star-studded cast that includes Keanu Reeves,
Sanada Hiroyuki (The Last Samurai), Tadanobu Asano (Thor),
Shibasaki Kou (The Lady Shogun and Her Men),
and Kikuchi Rinko (Norwegian Wood).
Now, Johnny's Entertainment idol Akanishi Jin
will also be joining the cast in his English-language film debut.
A former member of KAT-TUN, Jin has been pursuing a musical career
in the United States since 2010,
when he went on a live concert tour around the country.
However, his fame in Japan as a pop star didn't help his entry into Hollywood,
as Jin had to go through the traditional audition
process that most actors have to go through.
Sources close to the film credited Jin's passion for the role
and his excellent command of English as major factors that led to him being cast.
In addition to acting in several television dramas,
Jin has previously starred in the music drama Bandage.
47 Ronin is only Jin's second film role.
Integrating elements from Western films,
47 Ronin is a 3D fantasy-adventure starring Reeves as a samurai
on a quest to avenge the death of his lord.
Sanada plays a fellow samurai who leads the band of avengers,
and Jin will play his son. The film, directed by Carl Rinsch,
is currently shooting in Europe, and it is set for a November 2012 release.
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