Netflix Unveils Epic Meiji-Era Samurai Survival Series

Netflix is set to premiere "Last Samurai Standing," a high-stakes Japanese historical drama series on November 13, 2025, centered on a brutal survival contest involving 292 former samurai during Japan's Meiji era. The warriors gather at Kyoto's Tenryu-ji Temple, each with a wooden tag, and must eliminate rivals to reach Tokyo and claim a ¥100 billion prize, with the lead character Shujiro Saga, played by Junichi Okada, fighting to save his family. The series, adapted from Shogo Imamura's novel "Ikusagami," features large-scale, realistic action scenes filmed with practical effects and minimal digital enhancement, aiming to blend historical authenticity with cinematic intensity. Junichi Okada also serves as producer and action choreographer, working with director Michihito Fujii, and the show includes a notable ensemble cast including Hiroshi Abe as the formidable swordsman Gentosai Okabe. The production involved over 1,000 cast and crew members, emphasizing a visceral and dynamic portrayal of the melee battles. "Last Samurai Standing" promises a compelling battle royale narrative with deep cultural roots, available exclusively on Netflix worldwide.