20 best movies about ninjas: part 1

In the 80s, black-masked assassins and spies from oriental action movies sparked a real ninja craze among men. Metal stars with spikes replaced assault rifles, and battle fans and claws became new symbols. Graceful dance-like fights were intertwined with ancient martial arts. Let’s recall the best ninja movies for nostalgic viewing and let’s get acquainted with some fresh new releases in this genre.

The Ninja War of Torakage (2014)

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The most impressive ninja films are made in Japan, the birthplace of the mysterious warriors. Miyuki Torakage lives the life of a simple peasant in his village, although he used to be a martial arts instructor. When he learned that his students were misusing their knowledge for criminal purposes, he stopped his lessons. However, his former students do not forget about him and insist that he steal the Golden Scroll. They kidnap Torakage’s son, but the father develops an intricate plan that is unexpected for all the bandits.

Laundry Warrior (2010)

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Yang is a living legend and an unrivaled killer who can survive a battle with an entire army unscathed. The master receives an order to destroy an enemy clan, but despite the order, the fighter does not complete the mission. The warrior, unable to feel pity, is unable to end the life of the baby, and as a result, Young becomes an outcast in his own clan. He is sentenced to death, and the mercenary is forced to flee with his young child to the United States. In a foreign land, the Japanese face new challenges, and the past haunts the fugitives.

Goemon (2009)

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At the end of the 16th century, the greedy and ruthless Toyotomi Hideyoshi seizes power in the country. The monarch focuses his efforts on improving the situation of the samurai, his loyal guards, leaving the peasants unattended. A noble and lonely warrior named Goemon turns into a Japanese Robin Hood, using unusual methods to restore justice. This folk hero confiscates wealth from wealthy people and distributes it among the needy, which incurs the emperor’s wrath.

Ninja Assassin (2009)

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The list of great ninja movies continues with a bloody saga of personal revenge. Since childhood, Reizo has been under the tutelage of the secret Ozunu clan, whose actions are shrouded in darkness. His mentors shaped him into a real killer capable of performing the most difficult tasks. Reizo’s opinion of the clan changes when his best friend falls victim to the Ozunu. The growing fighter leaves the organization, but the masters are not going to let their former ward go just like that.

Ninja (2009, 2013)

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Casey Bowman learns the intricacies of martial arts with the support of an experienced teacher who entrusts him with an important task. A foreigner must travel to New York to guard the contents of an ancient chest. The legendary weapon, which belonged to the last warrior of the clan, cannot fall into the hands of the enemy, and Casey embarks on the mission. It never occurs to him that his name is already on a wanted list in the United States. Not only his own life, but also the well-being of his beloved Namiko is at risk.

Kamui Gaiden (2009)

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Old ninja movies are in no way inferior to new films in terms of plot and choreography of fight scenes. The brave Kamui decides to start a completely new life, striving to gain his long-awaited freedom. But leaving his clan is not so easy. The secrets of the training cannot be taken outside the organization, and disobedience is punishable by death. Nevertheless, Kamui manages to escape from persecution, finding refuge in a secluded village. But even here, his past finds a way to remind him of himself.

The Machine Girl (2008)

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The brother of schoolgirl Ami falls victim to local hooligans who extort money from students. These young bandits are led by the son of a yakuza leader, who is used to being listened to and punishes those who disobey. The tragic death of her brother prompts the girl to seek justice, but she cannot achieve it peacefully. Armed almost to the teeth, Ami chooses the path of bloody revenge – and the offenders had better run for their lives.

Shinobi: Heart Under Blade (2005)

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The list of the best ninja movies includes a romantic movie that takes viewers back to the Middle Ages, when Japan was first united under the shogun. An irreconcilable battle is waged between the Iga and Kogo clans, and both sides fiercely defend their interests. A light romance between Oboro and Gennosuke, who find themselves on opposite sides of the barricades, provides an opportunity to end the centuries-old enmity. Love is able to unite enemies and put an end to a long confrontation, but unfortunately, peaceful plans are not destined to come true.

Legend of Nin Nin Ninja Hattori (2004)

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The Japanese film is an original addition to the usual repertoire of films about warriors in black, as it is embodied in the genre of comedy. The lonely hero, Kanzo Hattori, embarks on a journey to pass the final test and complete his training with a mentor. According to the plan, he must reach the city and become a loyal servant of the first person he meets on the way. Ironically, Kanzo’s master is a humble teenager who has the typical difficulties of youth.

The Princess Blade (2001)

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The top ninja movies continue with a fantastic action movie set in the near future. Japan is once again under the rule of the emperor, but the monarchy is facing resistance. A group of conspirators turns to hired saboteurs to help them overthrow the government, so that representatives of the influential Takemikazuchi clan can help them. The protagonist Yuki strikes up an unusual friendship with one of the rebels, and it becomes clear to both that they have much in common.

Read more:

• 20 best movies about ninjas: part 2