Netflix’s latest release, Golden Kamuy: The Hunt of Prisoners in Hokkaido, continues the epic journey of survival, history, and adventure that has captivated fans of Satoru Noda’s manga. Set against the harsh yet breathtaking landscapes of early 20th-century Hokkaido, the series immerses viewers in a thrilling chase where fortune, betrayal, and cultural heritage intertwine.
Picking up from the events of the previous live-action film, the show follows Saichi Sugimoto, played by Kento Yamazaki, and the resilient Ainu girl Asirpa, portrayed by Anna Yamada, as they press on in their search for a hidden cache of gold. However, this is no ordinary treasure hunt—the key to finding the fortune lies in deciphering tattoos etched onto the bodies of 24 escaped convicts. Each fugitive holds a piece of the puzzle, making the quest a perilous game of strategy, deception, and survival.
Director Shigeaki Kubo delivers a visually stunning adaptation that captures the stark beauty of Hokkaido’s wilderness while staying true to the period’s historical intricacies. The Ainu culture, a central element of the story, is depicted with meticulous detail, bringing authenticity and depth to the series. The show carefully weaves in Ainu traditions, language, and survival techniques, adding an educational dimension to the gripping narrative.
Expanding on the original story, this nine-episode series introduces fresh conflicts and new players, complicating the already dangerous quest. Gordon Maeda joins the cast as the enigmatic sniper Hyakunosuke Ogata, further intensifying the power struggles between the various factions vying for the gold. The battlefield is no longer just the unforgiving terrain of Hokkaido but also the tangled web of shifting allegiances among military defectors, treasure hunters, and indigenous warriors.
One of the series’ greatest strengths is its ability to balance high-energy action with meaningful character development. Viewers are drawn not only into the explosive combat sequences but also into the psychological and emotional turmoil faced by each character. Sugimoto’s unwavering loyalty, Asirpa’s quest to reclaim her people’s stolen heritage, and Ogata’s unpredictable motives all contribute to the show’s rich storytelling.
For longtime fans of the story, this adaptation stays remarkably faithful to the manga’s spirit, capturing its raw, gritty intensity while making full use of the live-action format to enhance realism. For newcomers, it provides a compelling introduction to a world where morality is tested, alliances are fleeting, and survival demands both cunning and strength. However, the viewers must be ready to invest in 9 episodes. Fans won't mind but new watchers who found the plot interesting won’t mind investing their time either.
Beyond being an action-packed historical drama, The Hunt of Prisoners in Hokkaido explores themes of identity, resilience, and the cost of ambition. With its cinematic landscapes, dynamic performances, and gripping narrative, the series is a must-watch for anyone eager for a story that blends history, culture, and adventure into an unforgettable journey.
Final Score- [7/10]
Reviewed by - Neerja Choudhuri
Follow @NeerjaCH on Twitter
Publisher at Midgard Times