Netflix’s New Series Takes Streaming Service by Storm, Called One of the Best Action Shows This Year
Netflix’s latest Japanese series, Last Samurai Standing is quickly becoming one of the biggest hits of 2025.
The live-action show is adapted from Shogo Imamura’s novel and stars Junichi Okada, Yumia Fujisaki, and Kaya Kiyohara. Set in the late 19th century during Japan’s Meiji period, the story unfolds at the Tenryūji monastery in Kyoto.
The first two episodes premiered at the 30th Busan International Film Festival on September 18, in the On Screen section. Soon after, the full six-episode series became available worldwide on Netflix from November 13. According to FlixPatrol, the series quickly reached number one on the platform.
The show has also earned strong reviews from critics and viewers. It holds a 100% Tomatometer rating based on eight reviews and a 96% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes from over 100 ratings.
An epic battle royale.
— Netflix (@netflix) October 26, 2025
292 samurais.
One point per life.
Last Samurai Standing premieres November 13. pic.twitter.com/T5SOppzf3m
Users on Rotten Tomatoes praised the show for its storytelling and action. One viewer wrote, “What a tremendous epic series, a tribute to the films of Kurosawa and many others! All that remains to be said is Arigato gozaimasu!” Another said, “Absolutely phenomenal. I could not stop watching it. The whole premise is just fascinating.”
Fans also highlighted the series’ action and character development: “Great Samurai action, filled with several mini stories that interweave the main tale. Many relationships develop in a natural way, along with fantastic villain building. Love how the story gets on with things and doesn’t mind finishing business. Imagine the first three seasons of GOT packed into the first season! Can’t wait for more.”
Last Samurai Standing is being celebrated for its fast-paced storytelling, strong performances, and authentic samurai atmosphere. With its instant popularity and critical acclaim, it looks set to become one of Netflix’s standout shows of the year.
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