Netflix’s ‘Last Samurai Standing’ Set to Challenge Genre Norms

Netflix is poised to capture global attention with its upcoming series, Last Samurai Standing, premiering on November 13, 2024. Set in 1878 Japan, this ambitious project transforms the traditional samurai narrative into a survival game featuring 292 fallen samurais, all vying for a staggering cash prize of 100 billion yen (approximately $656 million).

The series stars Junichi Okada, a former member of the boy band V6, who takes on multiple roles as the lead actor, producer, and action choreographer. He collaborates closely with Michihito Fujii, the writer-director known for his previous work on films like The Journalist and Faceless. Their partnership builds on their successful collaboration in the 2023 film Hard Days.

Okada was initially approached by Netflix to produce a series that would modernize the period piece for a contemporary audience. He accepted under the condition that he could select some of his collaborators, including Fujii. The duo aims to pay homage to the legendary filmmaker Akira Kurosawa, known for classics such as Rashomon and Seven Samurai, while also tapping into the growing global interest in samurai culture, further highlighted by the 2024 series Shogun.

Fujii expressed excitement about the series, noting the relevance of its themes in today’s context. He stated, “I wanted to have the young audience watching this to not see it as something that’s old.” He aims to make the story resonate with current societal changes, drawing parallels between the samurai’s decline and the impact of modern phenomena like the pandemic and artificial intelligence.

Reimagining Historical Narratives

The adaptation of the series comes from Shogo Imamura‘s novel, Ikusagami, which explores the samurai’s fading status during Japan’s Meiji period. Once revered as the ruling military class, samurai faced restrictions under new modernization laws, including a ban on carrying swords. The plot centers around the mysterious invitation that brings 292 samurais to the Tenryu-ji temple for a deadly tournament, driven by the promise of a life-changing reward.

Okada, reflecting on his past as a pop idol, expressed pride in showcasing Japanese culture and history through this project. He recalls a song from his youth titled “Made in Japan” and aims to create something that represents and elevates Japanese heritage on the global stage.

Fujii highlighted the importance of streaming platforms as spaces for creative experimentation. He remarked, “What’s most interesting about streaming media is that this is the place to experiment.” This perspective aligns with Last Samurai Standing’s innovative approach to a well-trodden genre.

Action and Authenticity

As both producer and star, Okada’s extensive background in martial arts—including jiu-jitsu and jeet kune do—has allowed him to take the lead in action choreography. Initially hesitant about balancing these roles, he embraced the challenge, stating, “I decided to just jump in and try.”

Okada portrays Shujiro Saga, a once-feared assassin, who enters the deadly competition to secure funds for his ailing family. The cast also features notable actors such as Hideaki Ito, Kazunari Ninomiya, Kaya Kiyohara, and Yumia Fujisaki.

One significant advantage of Okada’s multi-faceted role is his ability to greenlight daring stunts that might typically be deemed too risky. He explained, “If you are the producer, I said, ‘well, Okada wants to do it, so let’s do it,’ and we managed to realize many situations.” This hands-on approach has enabled the production to focus on authentic action, minimizing reliance on visual effects.

Fujii described the intricate planning required for one of the series’ most complex sequences, featuring the assembly of 292 samurais. The meticulous coordination took approximately three weeks and involved an action team to synchronize the movements of the actors, ensuring a cohesive and impactful visual experience.

Drawing inspiration from both Kurosawa and contemporary figures like Hiroyuki Sanada, Okada reflects on his growth as an artist. He recalls his challenging upbringing and the role models who shaped his path, emphasizing the importance of mentorship in his career.

Fujii commended Okada’s creative spirit, noting, “Creators need to have a child-like way of thinking and humor.” The camaraderie developed during production has deepened their friendship, culminating in a project both men are proud to present to audiences worldwide.

As Last Samurai Standing prepares for its release, it stands not only as a testament to historical storytelling but also as a modern exploration of themes that resonate with current societal dynamics.