TOP-15 Samurai and Ninja Movies — What to Watch Before Playing Assassin's Creed Shadows

It so happens that the theme of samurai and ninja in modern cinema and TV series is not particularly popular. The unique culture and the Japanese people’s meticulous attention to historical accuracy deter filmmakers who are used to sacrificing authenticity for the sake of an impressive shot. However, today, March 20, 2025, Assassin’s Creed Shadows is being released—a major new installment in the series about stealthy assassins, dedicated specifically to feudal Japan. This event has naturally sparked renewed public interest in the topic. Gamers and general audiences are looking for books and movies about samurai, ninja, and their cultural peculiarities. We’ve decided to compile our own list of films that we consider among the best on this subject. Since Assassin’s Creed Shadows promises to tell a serious story, we have deliberately excluded comedies like Beverly Hills Ninja. A samurai has no time for smiles — only pain, revenge, and the path.

Seven Samurai is a legendary film by Akira Kurosawa that premiered in 1954. It tells the story of a small village suffering from repeated bandit raids. Desperate, the peasants decide to hire samurai to protect their land and people. However, they have no money to offer—only food and shelter. Despite this, seven brave warriors agree to help the villagers, motivated not by wealth but by a sense of duty and justice.

Each of the samurai has a unique personality and fighting style. The leader of the group, the wise and experienced Kambei Shimada, unites the warriors and guides their actions. Among the disciplined and serious fighters, there is also a newcomer—young Kikuchiyo, who seeks his place in life and dreams of proving his worth. Over time, trust develops between the samurai and the villagers, and the warriors begin to see the village’s protection as their personal mission.

The film is not just about the battle between good and evil; it also explores themes of honor, sacrifice, and responsibility. Kurosawa masterfully shows how the samurai, despite their skills, struggle with inner doubts and ultimately fight not for glory but to protect the weak and oppressed. Their path is that of true warriors, ready to give their lives for others.

Seven Samurai became not only a classic of world cinema but also an inspiration for many future films, including The Magnificent Seven, an American adaptation with cowboys. The deep storyline, well-developed characters, and powerful atmosphere made Kurosawa’s film immortal, and its influence on cinema is still felt today.

This Japanese film tells the tragic and brutal story of a samurai who decides to commit ritual suicide in the house of a powerful lord. The main character, Tsukumo, arrives at the local ruler’s residence and requests permission for harakiri, presenting himself as a poor man who has lost everything. However, Tsukumo’s intentions are far more complex than they first appear. Soon, it becomes clear that he is trying to expose the horrifying truth about the cruelty and hypocrisy of the samurai code.

The film is known for its deep philosophical themes, which criticize bushido, showing how the rules meant to serve as moral guidelines for warriors can instead lead to brutality and hypocrisy. Seeking vengeance for his family, who suffered from this hypocrisy, Tsukumo orchestrates a carefully planned suicide. His goal is to reveal the truth about how samurai exploit their power for personal gain while disregarding moral values.

Director Masaki Kobayashi creates a dark atmosphere where every character’s action carries deep meaning, and the tension around Tsukumo builds at a rapid pace. Harakiri portrays both the strength and tragedy of samurai honor, where those who adhere too strictly to its principles are doomed to suffering. This film is a significant contribution to Japanese cinema, not only for its harsh truths but also for its profound emotional impact on the audience.

Another historical drama depicting the last major battle of the samurai era, the famous Battle of Sekigahara in 1600. The film immerses the viewer in the atmosphere of the time when Japan was divided into two opposing camps — supporters of Tokugawa Ieyasu and his opponents. The film focuses not only on battles but also on intrigues, moral dilemmas, and personal conflicts between samurai.

The main character, a samurai caught in the midst of political struggle, must choose which side to support, understanding that his decision could cost him and his family their lives. The film reveals the complex internal struggles of characters who realize the importance of the moment and the decision they must make. Moreover, the film meticulously recreates the atmosphere of Japanese feudalism, showing the audience the culture of that time.

Samurai Banners not only tells of brutal battles but also about the people behind these events. It is a film about loyalty, honor, and the desire to change one's fate despite external circumstances. Through vivid visualization and dramatic storytelling, viewers easily grasp the importance of personal choice, as well as the cost of power and devotion.

A cult Japanese film from 1973 directed by Toshiya Fujita. The film tells the story of Yuki Kashima, a woman born with the sole purpose of avenging her mother, who was brutally raped and murdered by criminals. The woman died in prison, but before her death, she vowed that her daughter would become the instrument of vengeance. Yuki, raised with a cold heart and the skills of a deadly warrior, embarks on a bloody hunt for the perpetrators of the tragedy.

The main character is an image filled with both beauty and cruelty. Her snow-white kimono, symbolizing her purity and integrity, contrasts with the crimson blood of her victims. Yuki knows no mercy and acts cold-bloodedly, destroying those who ruined her mother's life. Her path is full of pain and suffering, yet the thirst for justice and restoring her family's honor drives Yuki forward.

The visual style of the film is mesmerizing: vibrant color accents, slow-motion fight scenes, and the aesthetics of traditional Japan create an atmosphere reminiscent of picturesque engravings. The soundtrack, filled with tragic notes, enhances emotions and immerses the viewer in a dark yet beautiful world of revenge and blood. Interestingly, the film inspired many Western directors, including Quentin Tarantino, who used elements from Lady Snowblood in Kill Bill: Vol. 1.

Fujita's creation is not just an action film but also a profound drama about fate, honor, and relentless karma. Yuki is a symbol of an unbroken spirit who, despite the brutality of her path, remains true to her mission. This film is forever etched in the history of Japanese cinema as one of the most stylish and emotional pictures.

A historical action film based on the manga of the same name, telling the story of the wandering ronin Itto Ogami, the former chief executioner of the shogun. After his family is destroyed by the Yagyu clan and Itto is unjustly accused of treason, the ronin sets out for revenge. Together with his young son Daigoro, he becomes a mercenary known as the Lone Wolf with Child and begins hunting those who ruined his life.

The film's strong point is the character of Itto Ogami, a ruthless and skilled warrior who, despite his grim profession, remains a devoted father. His cold calculation, incredible swordsmanship, and unwavering determination make Itto an almost invincible opponent. Meanwhile, Daigoro, despite his young age, shows extraordinary courage and resilience, accompanying his father in this brutal samurai world.

The film impresses with its atmosphere and visual style, conveying the spirit of feudal Japan. Brutal and bloody battles, philosophical reflections on honor and duty, and the tragic fate of the main character create a deep and emotional story that remains a cult classic among fans of samurai cinema.

Another film directed by Akira Kurosawa, which is an adaptation of William Shakespeare's tragedy King Lear, set in the context of medieval Japan. The film tells the story of the aging feudal lord Hidetora, who decides to divide his kingdom among his three sons to pass on his power. However, his decision leads to the destruction of the family, as two of the sons begin to feud, inevitably resulting in tragic consequences.

The plot focuses on the dark sides of human nature—greed, betrayal, and ambition. These traits destroy not only the characters' destinies but also social order. Hidetora, despite his wisdom, fails to understand that his decision to divide the inheritance could lead to disaster. It is a tragedy not only for him but for an entire nation.

Ran is a masterpiece filled with vibrant colors, representing various aspects of the characters' inner worlds. For example, on the battlefield where Hidetora's sons' clash leads to a bloody massacre, red colors contrast with white symbols of power, creating a vivid picture of destruction. The musical accompaniment, as always in Kurosawa's films, perfectly complements the visuals, enhancing the effect.

This is not only an epic story but also a reflection by the creators on how the personal decisions of leaders can affect the destinies of entire nations. Kurosawa, known for his mastery in creating historical films, here appears as a director who goes beyond a simple retelling of a tragedy, transforming it into a philosophically and visually captivating film.

Ronin 1/47 is a historical film based on the legend of the 47 ronin. The film tells the story of a group of samurai who lost their master, who was forced to commit seppuku due to the machinations of the treacherous Lord Kira. Despite the shogun’s ban on revenge and virtually no chance of victory, the ronin decide to avenge the villain.

The main character of the film is Kai, a half-blood who was despised by the samurai since childhood, but he becomes a key element in their plan. Kai is a character added to the plot to enhance the fantasy element, as the plot includes magic, demons, and mystical creatures. This distinguishes Ronin 1/47 from the classic version of the legend, making the story more spectacular and rich.

The film raises important themes of honor, loyalty, and self-sacrifice. Even though the ronin understand that their revenge will lead to their own deaths, they go to the end, guided by the Bushido code. This act of self-sacrifice makes the heroes not just avengers, but a symbol of devotion and honor that is still revered in Japanese culture.

Ronin 1/47 received mixed reviews due to its departure from historical accuracy in favor of fantasy elements, but it impressed with spectacular battles and bright visual components. The film shows how the legend of the 47 ronin continues to inspire people even after centuries. Meanwhile, the more modern adaptation 47 Ronin with Keanu Reeves in the main role did not gain such popularity. The film strayed too far from the samurai theme, delving into fantasy, which not everyone liked.

Zatoichi is a Japanese film, an original blend of historical drama and action with elements of black comedy. The main character, Zatoichi, is a blind master swordsman who, despite his physical weakness, is an unrivaled fighter. His lightning-fast reaction and skills are hidden behind his infirmity, making Zatoichi an even more mysterious and dangerous character. The plot unfolds around the moment when the blind master visits a Japanese village, where he finds himself at the center of a brutal struggle between local bandits and peaceful residents.

Zatoichi is not just a cold-blooded killer; he is a man with moral principles who tries to follow a code of honor despite the surrounding circumstances. Encountering bandits who terrorize the village confronts him with a choice that requires sacrifices and difficult decisions.

The film’s features lie in its successful combination of elements of a classic samurai action movie and black comedy. The use of musical and visual solutions, as well as interesting battle scenes involving the main character, add color to the plot. The film touches on themes of loneliness, redemption, and the search for inner peace in the face of harsh external reality.

Zatoichi is a story about a man who, despite physical blindness, finds his way in a world of violence. The film explores how the hero uses his unique abilities to fight for justice and protect the weak. It is not only an action movie or comedy but also a deeply philosophical picture about what is truly more important—the external world or the inner light.

A historical drama that tells the story of Captain Nathan Algren, played by Tom Cruise. As a veteran of the American Civil War, Algren travels to Japan to train the emperor's army in modern combat methods. However, during a clash with the uprising samurai, the captain is captured. Spending time among his enemies, he begins to better understand their culture, philosophy, and code of honor, which completely changes Nathan's views on life and war.

The central figure of the samurai resistance is Katsumoto, a respected warrior and leader who seeks to protect Japan's traditional values from Western influence and rapid modernization. Through his teachings and personal experience, Algren finds a new meaning in life and begins to respect the principles of bushido—the samurai code of honor. Gradually, the veteran realizes that true strength lies not in weapons but in loyalty to ideals and devotion to one's people.

The Last Samurai is largely in tune with Shogun. The film touches on important themes of the clash between old traditions and the progressive world, the loss of identity, and the search for personal redemption. Algren, tormented by his military past, seeks solace and spiritual renewal in the samurai culture. His journey is not just a struggle for survival but a deep inner transformation, in which the former soldier finally finds respect for himself and those he once considered enemies.

The film impresses not only with strong acting and epic battle scenes but also with stunning visuals that convey the beauty of Japanese nature and traditional culture. The film can leave a strong impression and makes one think about issues of honor, duty, and true values that cannot be destroyed even in a world rapidly changing under the pressure of technology and politics.

Afro Samurai is a stylish and dark anime that tells the story of a samurai named Afro, who lives in a world where power and cruelty rule everything. As a child, he witnessed the death of his father, who was killed by a ruthless warrior named Justice, who possessed the Number 1 Headband—a symbol of absolute power. Now Afro himself wears the Number 2 Headband, which gives him the right to challenge Justice and avenge his parent. However, the wearer of the headband automatically becomes a target for all who crave power, and Afro is forced to fight an endless stream of enemies.

The story is filled with vivid aesthetics and an atmosphere of dark fantasy with elements of cyberpunk. The animation impresses with spectacular and bloody battles, as well as a unique visual style that combines traditional Japanese motifs with hip-hop culture. The soundtrack, created by legendary producer RZA from Wu-Tang Clan, perfectly complements the dark atmosphere and gives the series a special energy.

Afro is a silent and stern character consumed by a thirst for revenge. His path is strewn with pain, loss, and betrayal, but he is willing to sacrifice everything to achieve his goal. Despite his external coldness, inside the hero hides a deeply traumatized personality that struggles with the ghosts of the past and loneliness.

Afro Samurai is not just a story of revenge, but a dark parable about how hatred can consume a person and turn them into a ruthless killer. The anime touches on themes of honor, betrayal, and inevitable retribution, leaving the viewer with a powerful emotional impact and an unforgettable visual experience.

We added this top animated series for obvious reasons. Of course, technologies in Assassin's Creed Shadows are not expected, but there is an Afro Samurai.

Ninja Assassin is an action film with elements of a thriller that immerses viewers in the world of ancient Japanese ninjas hidden in the shadows. The main character, Raizo, escapes from his clan after the brutal death of a friend, but it is not easy to hide or leave the ninjas. This film depicts a dark atmosphere of brutal battles and tense moments where each step could be the last.

The film's spectacular fight scenes are seamlessly combined with elements of Japanese culture and mythology. The characters, having undergone brutal training, possess deadly techniques, making the battles in the film exceptionally impressive. Raizo is not just a warrior, but a person trying to find his path in a world full of violence and secrets. This makes his story more personal and relatable.

Ninja Assassin differs from many other action films with its style. Complex choreography using blades, fists, and acrobatic movements emphasizes the skill and art of the ninja. Despite the simplicity inherent in the genre, the film has room for philosophical aspects and reflections on honesty and duty.

An action film directed by Takashi Miike in 2010, and a remake of the 1963 film of the same name. The film tells the story of a group of samurai who unite to eliminate the cruel and insane heir to the shogun, Lord Naritsugu Matsudaira. The villain kills, rapes, and tortures ordinary people with impunity, knowing that his status grants him near-total immunity. Realizing that if Naritsugu comes to power, the country will face years of fear and chaos, the experienced samurai Shinzaemon Shimada gathers a team of 13 warriors to stop the tyrant at any cost.

The film immerses the viewer in the dark and ruthless atmosphere of feudal Japan, where honor and duty are valued above life. Each of the 13 samurai is a unique personality with their own motives and fighting style. They understand that the chances of surviving the battle are almost nonexistent, but for the sake of justice and the future of the country, they are willing to do anything. The film's climax is the final battle, where a small group of samurai faces Naritsugu's army.

13 Assassins impresses with its harshness and realism, while raising important themes of honor, loyalty, and the fight for justice. It is not just a bloody action film, but a deep story about people who, despite fear and the inevitability of death, decide to challenge tyranny and protect the innocent. The film has been recognized both in Japan and abroad, becoming one of the best samurai films of modern times.

Rurouni Kenshin is a cult anime based on the manga by Nobuhiro Watsuki, which aired from 1996 to 1998. In 2023, a new version was released with more modern visuals and some minor plot changes. Fortunately, the scriptwriter and manga author also participated. The new creators aimed to make the animated series a serious and thoughtful work covering a range of adult themes. And they succeeded.

The plot tells the story of the former assassin Kenshin Himura, who was once known as the Battosai the Killer. After the end of the civil war in Japan, he vows never to kill again and begins to wander the country, seeking to atone for his sins and protect the weak.

The story touches on important themes of redemption, honor, and the search for inner peace. Despite Kenshin's attempts to live a peaceful life, his past constantly catches up with him in the form of old enemies and new threats. In his battles, the warrior uses a unique reverse blade that does not kill the opponent, symbolizing Kenshin's renunciation of violence and his pursuit of justice.

The anime Rurouni Kenshin impresses with its atmosphere, vibrant characters, and dynamic battle scenes. In addition to its captivating plot, it reveals the cultural and historical aspects of the Meiji era when Japan was experiencing a period of change and the clash of traditions with new ideas. It is a story about how a man, once engulfed in darkness, finds his way to the light and learns to protect others without losing himself.

Blue Eye Samurai is an animated series from Netflix set in feudal Japan. The main character, Midori, is a girl with an unusual appearance and blue eyes, making her an outcast in society. To avenge her family and find her place in the world, she embarks on the path of a samurai, disguising her true identity and masquerading as a man.

The plot combines elements of a classic revenge story with deep reflections on self-discovery and the struggle for the right to be oneself. Midori is forced to constantly fight not only enemies but also the prejudices of a society that rejects anything different from the norm. Her journey is filled with drama, bloodshed, and the search for inner strength, making the story captivating and emotional.

The visual style of Blue Eye Samurai stands out with vibrant colors and atmospheric animation, highlighting the brutal and beautiful world of Japan in those days. The show impresses with its well-crafted battle scenes and deep characters, each with their own tragedy and motivation. It is a story about fighting against a predetermined fate and the importance of staying true to oneself despite the cruelty of the surrounding world.

The newest addition to our top is, of course, the series Shogun. The project is a historical drama based on the novel of the same name by James Clavell. Interestingly, a mini-series with the same name was released in 1980, making the new version a kind of remake. However, this has not affected the quality, so there’s little reason to watch the original if you haven’t seen it yet.

The events unfold in 17th-century feudal Japan and tell the story of the British sailor John Blackthorne, who is captured after a shipwreck. Finding himself in an unfamiliar world, he encounters the brutal traditions of the samurai and political intrigues, trying to survive and find his place in a country where honor and loyalty mean more than life.

One of the key figures in the series is Lord Yoshi Toranaga, whose prototype is the real historical figure Tokugawa Ieyasu. He uses Blackthorne in his political games to strengthen his influence and achieve the highest power—the title of shogun. The show masterfully portrays the clash of Western mentality and Japanese philosophy, addressing themes of honor, betrayal, and finding one's place in the world. It seems that Assassin's Creed Shadows will have many similar parallels in Yasuke's subplot.

Shogun stands out not only for its gripping story but also for its visual aesthetics, which convey the atmosphere of medieval Japan. Magnificent costumes, authentic sets, and deep characters make the series a true work of art. It is a grand tale of power, strategy, and human dignity, capable of leaving a deep impression on the viewer.

By the way, the plot in the series is complete and covered the entire novel in one season. However, due to its success and numerous awards, the creators decided to continue. What to expect from the second season is still unclear, but we hope that without a strong literary source, the writers of Shogun will do better than the authors of Game of Thrones.

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This is how our top turned out. Japanese culture is full of features and nuances that can be difficult to understand. However, this does not prevent the creation of interesting and dramatic stories within its framework that can touch absolutely anyone. We sincerely hope that Assassin's Creed Shadows will not disappoint us and will offer its own story, pleasantly complementing the impressions after watching all these works.