should you watch 'last samurai standing'? (review & where to stream it)?

‘Last Samurai Standing’ is a Japanese series, one of Netflix’s latest non-English additions, joining the ranks of hits like Money Heist, Squid Game, and Alice in Borderland, but is it worth watching? *Spoiler alert* YES! Let me tell you why:

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What’s ‘Last Samurai Standing’' about?

Set in late-19th-century Japan, when the traditional samurai way of life is fading, a mysterious invitation is sent nationwide, calling on the last of the samurai to compete in a deadly battle royale for a small fortune in prize money.

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Beneath the bloody & beautifully choreographed swordplay, the series explores deeper themes like found family, PTSD, & tradition vs modernity.

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Where to Watch 'Last Samurai Standing' (US & UK)

As of November 13, 2025, all six episodes of The Last Samurai Standing are available to stream on Netflix in the UK and the US (Netflix subscription required). If you’re outside those regions, be sure to check your local Netflix catalogue as availability may vary!

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Is 'Last Samurai standing ' Worth Watching?

The Last Samurai Standing is visually stunning,  blending expertly choreographed action with strong performances and a rich cultural/historical aesthetic. Beyond the action and excitement, the show hooks you emotionally with its deeper themes, making it more engaging and creating a more immersive viewing experience for viewers.

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The mysterious nature of the competition and the enormous amount of prize money at stake definitely make the show feel like a historical version of 'Squid Game.' However, it's different enough to feel unique and memorable.

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With only six tightly paced episodes (47-58 minutes), it’s an easy binge. The combination of striking visuals, heartfelt character work, and a low time commitment makes it both an entertaining and time-effective watch. However, you should know going in that the season ends on somewhat of a cliffhanger, which could backfire if Netflix doesn’t renew it.

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My Rating

Overall, The Last Samurai Standing delivers exactly what you'd hope when starting a show like this: beautifully-choreographed action sequences, strong performances, and a whole bunch of badass, charismatic, and menacing characters, all set against the beautiful and historic backdrop of 19th-century Japan.

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When you factor in the minimal time commitment of a 6-episode show and compare it to the amount/quality of entertainment a show like this provides, checking it out becomes a no-brainer!

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I'm rating 'Last Samurai Standing' a 7.6/10. A respectable score designed to recognise the show for its strengths and to factor in its limitations. While it has its limitations, netflix's 'last samurai standing' is definitely worth watching!

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Whether 'Last Samurai Standing' seems like your kind of show or not, be sure to continue to scroll through the posts below to find out what's worth watching & where to stream it!