Variety reports that The Day the Earth Stood Still star Keanu Reeves will star in epic period film 47 Ronin for Universal Pictures.

The film is based on the true story of a band of samurai swordsmen who avenged the death of their master in 18^th century Japan. The movie will tell a stylized version of the story that will mix fantasy elements and gritty battle scenes.

Reeves is attached to play one of the swordsmen. The script is being written by Chris Morgan (Wanted) and a director is yet to be hired for the project.