Netflix’s programming for 2025 has had its ups and downs, but recent international offerings have significantly improved, highlighted by the Taiwanese thriller “The Resurrected” and the newly released Japanese action series “Last Samurai Standing.” After watching “Last Samurai Standing,” it’s clear this series stands out as one of the best streaming originals of the year. Drawing comparisons to popular hits like “Squid Game” and “Shogun,” the show combines a gripping narrative with intense action and emotional stakes, making it an effortless binge-watch.
Set in 1878 Japan, “Last Samurai Standing” follows the journey of Shujiro Saga, portrayed by Junichi Okada, a disgraced former samurai drawn into a lethal competition. As 292 warriors gather at Kyoto’s Tenryū-ji Temple, they are challenged to eliminate one another to claim an enormous cash prize of 100 billion yen. Driven by the desperation to save his ailing family, Saga navigates a brutal world rife with betrayal and violence, showcasing the last vestiges of samurai culture in a rapidly modernizing society.
While it’s true that “Last Samurai Standing” borrows familiar conventions from previous titles—particularly its game-like framework reminiscent of “Squid Game”—this is also what makes it compelling. The stakes are personal for Saga, whose family’s struggle with cholera and poverty serves as a poignant backdrop for his participation in the deadly contest. Each contestant is equipped with a wooden tag that can lead to their instant elimination if removed for more than ten seconds, heightening the tension as they traverse from Kyoto to Tokyo.
The series cleverly weaves in the dynamics of power and greed, as unseen organizers monitor the chaos, betting on the competitors while maintaining their anonymity. However, it is Saga’s relationship with a young contestant named Futaba (Yumia Fujisaki) that truly draws viewers in, highlighting themes of companionship and protection amidst the chaos.
Flashbacks to Saga’s traumatic experiences during the Boshin War deepen the narrative, although they can sometimes disrupt the pacing, particularly during intense emotional moments. The creators aim to immerse viewers in Saga’s torment, but this can occasionally undermine the impact of the storyline. Nevertheless, the series excels in its meticulously choreographed fight scenes, showcasing various combat styles and settings that keep the visuals fresh and exciting. Characters like Iroha (Kaya Kiyohara), with her extraordinary blade skills, and the enigmatic ninja Kyojin (Masahiro Higashide), add depth to the narrative.
With just six episodes, “Last Samurai Standing” offers a visually stunning and action-packed experience for fans of the genre. Its compelling narrative arcs, intense confrontations, and cliffhanger endings make it a standout addition to Netflix’s lineup. For those searching for a thrilling show filled with stylish samurai combat and rich storytelling, “Last Samurai Standing” is a must-add to your watchlist on Netflix.