Do you know that Japan is exceptionally good at creating action-packed historical epics?
If you’ve ever doubted that, KINGDOM 4: Return of the Great General is the film to prove it.
Recently released on Netflix, KINGDOM 4: Return of the Great General continues the live-action adaptation of Yasuhisa Hara’s beloved manga Kingdom. As a longtime fan of the original manga and the previous films, I had been looking forward to this chapter in particular—it features one of the most emotionally charged story arcs, centered on the legendary General Ouki, played by Takao Osawa.
Since the first Kingdom film in 2019, which became the top-grossing Japanese live-action movie of the year, the franchise has raised the bar for live-action manga adaptations. With sequels in 2022 and 2023, it has outpaced titles like Rurouni Kenshin and Tokyo Revengers, solidifying its place not just as a manga masterpiece, but as a cinematic triumph.
Overview
Kingdom 4: Return of the Great General is the fourth film in the live-action adaptation of Yasuhisa Hara’s historical manga Kingdom. Set in the Warring States period of ancient China, the story continues the journey of young soldier Shin (Kento Yamazaki) and his comrades as they fight under the command of General Ōki (Takao Osawa) in a fierce campaign against the rival state of Zhao.
Directed by Shinsuke Sato, the film delivers on the franchise’s signature blend of large-scale action and heartfelt character drama. Familiar cast members—including Yamazaki and Osawa—bring emotional weight and commanding presence to the screen, ensuring both spectacle and depth.
Synopsis
In the aftermath of a hard-won battle at Bayō, Shin and the Fei Xin Force face a terrifying new threat—Hōken, a mysterious and powerful warrior who calls himself a “God of War.” His surprise assault devastates their forces. As Shin clings to life, his comrades risk everything to carry him to safety. Meanwhile, General Ōki senses a greater strategy at play, suspecting the involvement of the brilliant Zhao strategist, Riboku.
Highlights (Spoilers ahead)
1. Takao Osawa as General Ōki – A Performance That Transcends the Page
General Ōki is an iconic figure in Kingdom, known for his flamboyant appearance, deep voice, and commanding aura. At first, some fans were unsure about Takao Osawa’s casting, but across the four films, his performance has evolved into something extraordinary. In Return of the Great General, Osawa completely embodies Ōki—both physically and emotionally.
Osawa reportedly underwent a strict diet and intense training to build the General’s physique, and it shows—especially during the heavy weapon combat scenes. But it’s not just about muscle; his ability to express Ōki’s inner struggles, stoic leadership, and eventual rage makes this performance unforgettable. His roar in the face of Hōken, paired with the clash of their giant halberds, sends chills down your spine.
One standout moment is when Ōki shifts from tactics to raw power, demanding his soldiers achieve “10 kills each” to push through a dire moment. His mentorship of Shin in the midst of retreat—offering both tactical wisdom and the mindset of a true general—cements his role not just as a warrior, but as a leader who shapes the future of Qin.
Osawa’s work has earned him a nomination for Best Supporting Actor at the Japan Academy Film Prize, and it’s easy to see why. He steals every scene he’s in.
2. Breathtaking Action on a Massive Scale
Every Kingdom film raises the stakes in terms of action, and Return of the Great General is no exception. From sweeping battlefield shots featuring thousands of soldiers to brutally intimate duels, the scale is larger than ever. The CGI and practical effects combine beautifully to deliver intensity and realism.
The duel between Ōki and Hōken—filmed over six days—is the centerpiece of the film. Riding on horseback with giant halberds, their battle is not only visually stunning but also emotionally charged. The weight of each weapon, the tension in every strike, the clashing of armor, the rippling muscles—all contribute to a sense of realism that is rare in historical action cinema.
3. The Meaning of “Return”
The title, Return of the Great General, initially seems to reference Ōki’s return to the battlefield. But by the film’s end, we realize it has a deeper meaning: his return as a hero to the state of Qin. The final scene, featuring a solemn statement from King Ei Sei (Yin Zheng), reframes Ōki’s last battle as an eternal triumph, not just a tactical loss.
This original addition to the film (not found in the manga) delivers emotional closure and elevates the narrative, honoring Ōki’s legacy in a way that brought many audience members to tears.
4. Supporting Characters Who Shape the Story
What makes Kingdom more than just a war saga is its attention to character. Every side character has a backstory, a purpose, and an emotional connection to the main plot. In this film, three supporting characters left a powerful impression:
- Shika (played by Anne) – A merchant from Zhao who once helped the young King Ei Sei escape. Her unwavering strength and kindness play a crucial role in shaping the future monarch’s will. Anne’s portrayal is subtle and commanding.
- Kyou (Yuko Araki) – A female general who trained under Ōki and stood among the legendary Six Great Generals. Her tragic backstory and the bond she shares with Ōki provide emotional weight. Initially, some questioned Araki’s casting, but she delivers a convincing and heartfelt performance.
- Bitou (Odo) – A loyal member of the Fei Xin Force and a childhood friend of Shin. His death is one of the film’s most emotional moments. His older brother’s stoic farewell—“Smile for the ones who’ve fallen”—is a line that stuck with me long after the credits rolled.
Final Thoughts
Kingdom: Return of the Great General is not just another war epic—it’s a layered, emotionally rich story of honor, legacy, and sacrifice. It’s the culmination of everything the series has built up so far, blending grand-scale battles with personal struggles.
Whether you’re a longtime fan of the manga or a newcomer to the franchise, this film delivers an unforgettable experience. Watch it for the spectacular action, stay for the emotional depth—and witness the rise (and fall) of a true great general.