Ninja Wars (1982) Blu-ray with New Extras from Toy Robot Video
By Lio Renwick
Toy Robot Video is releasing Ninja Wars (1982) on Blu-ray in September. The disc gathers three new featurettes, including an audio commentary by Jonathan Clements and a pair of ninja-history pieces from authors Matt Alt and Daisuke Miyao. It arrives as part of Toy Robot Video's September 2026 lineup.
Originally released as Iga Ninpocho, Ninja Wars is a dark supernatural action film set in feudal Japan. Director Kosei Saito blends ninja lore with horror and fantasy, and the result is known for its stylized violence and eerie atmosphere. Its imaginative and often shocking supernatural elements mark it as a standout of early-1980s Japanese genre cinema.
The story follows Jotaro, a wandering ninja drawn into a deadly conflict between rival clans after a massacre wipes out his comrades. As he investigates, he learns that the violence ties back to a sinister conspiracy. A demonic sect is seeking power through forbidden rituals, and its members wield grotesque, otherworldly abilities that blur the line between human and monster.
Jotaro joins forces with a mysterious female survivor whose past is steeped in tragedy and vengeance. Together they confront increasingly bizarre and terrifying foes, each armed with unnatural powers. To resist corruption and defeat the dark forces threatening the land, Jotaro must rely on physical skill and inner resolve alike.
The Blu-ray carries a new audio commentary by Jonathan Clements. It also includes two new featurettes on the film's subject: A Japanese Ninja, in which author Matt Alt discusses Ninja Wars, and The Way of the Ninja, in which author and academic Daisuke Miyao examines the ninja in Japanese cinema. Rounding out the disc are theatrical trailers and the VHS version of the film in standard definition.
Ninja Wars reunites a trio from G.I. Samurai: director Kosei Saito, star Sonny Chiba, and co-star Hiroyuki Sanada. The full cast also features Jun Miho, Akira Nakao, Noriko Watanabe, Hiroshi Tanaka, Mikio Narita, and Yuki Kazamatsuri.
Ninja Wars (1982) releases September 28, 2026 in the UK and September 29, 2026 in the US and Canada.
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