Kingdom (2019)
“Once a slave, always a slave. Only the sword will set you free.”
Based on the bestselling manga series of the same name is the live-action adaptation of a historical film about the warring states of China during 475-221 BC. The tale follows two boys orphaned by war, Shin (Kento Yamazaki; Alice in Borderland) and Hyou (Ryo Yoshizawa; Gintama) who grow up as slaves.
They’re determined to one day break free and become the greatest army generals the world has ever seen! They’re working towards their dream but the now young men are suddenly separated when Hyou caught the attention of the Chancellor who summoned him to serve the Emperor.
Turns out, Hyou serves as a double for the Emperor due to his close resemblance. When he dies protecting the Emperor who was overthrown by his brother, Shin is determined to seek revenge to hunt the Emperor and the ones who killed Hyou which brings on a journey meeting several individuals.
Individuals such as a mountain girl named Ten (Kanna Hashimoto) who survives the unforgiving world by disguising as a boy and a mountain chieftain warrior (Masami Nagasawa) who commands the formidable mountain army that could turn the tide of the war depending on which side she serves.
I cannot believe I do not know about this movie until now. It’s definitely worth watching if you’re into historical fiction action films like Rurouni Kenshin, 47 Ronin and Red Cliff.
Masami Nagasawa (Shin Ultraman) is absolute badass warrior queen in this one. There is a sequel, Kingdom 2: To Distant Lands (2022) which features two new female warriors, Seino Nana (Kyō Kara Ore Wa!!) and Chihiro Yamamoto (Alice in Borderland).
Kingdom 2 Trailer :