In the manga adaptation of the novel "Ikusagami," 292 samurai clash in a deadly battle for a prize of 100 billion yen.
The Japanese series "Ikusagami: Last Samurai Standing" has premiered on Netflix. This historical drama with thriller elements tells the story of 292 warriors who enter a deadly competition for a colossal cash prize.
The project is based on the manga of the same name by Shogo Imamura and Katsumi Tatsuza, created from Imamura's novel. The action takes place in the Meiji era — a time of turbulent reforms when Japan was balancing between ancient traditions and Western modernization. The main character, Shujiro Saga (Junichi Okada), participates in the tournament to save his wife and child.
For the author of the original novel, the series became almost a personal triumph. Imamura admitted that he wrote "Ikusagami" with an eye to an international audience and dreamed of seeing Okada in the lead role. Netflix fulfilled both desires at once: the actor not only embodied Shujiro on the screen but also became a co-producer of the project. Michihito Fuji, Kento Yamaguchi, and Toru Yamamoto were in charge of the production.
After its release, the series received the maximum rating — 100% on Rotten Tomatoes (based on six reviews). Critics praised the production, attention to historical details, and spectacular scenes of violence, noting that "Ikusagami" combines the atmosphere of "Shogun" with the dynamics of "Squid Game." ScreenRant journalist Lewis Glazebrook called the series "one of the best action films of recent years," although he noted the simplicity of the characters and some outdated themes.
Netflix has not yet announced the renewal of the project, but the original manga continues to be released, which leaves a chance for a second season. All six episodes of "Ikusagami: Last Samurai" are already available on Netflix.
The trailer is available at the following link.
