“We really wanted to keep the flavour, the tradition and the iconography of what it looks like to be a ninja”: Dave Boyle on House of Ninjas

Pairing traditional shinobi tribes within a modern Japanese setting is the unique premise behind this eight-part new drama series created by Dave Boyle. Action-packed, steeped in emotion and with a shadowy cinematic palate that reflects these secretive tribes, this layered narrative follows a dysfunctional family who’ve put their ninja past behind them only to find themselves reasserting their skills and pulling back together when a hostile clan threaten the equilibrium of Japan.

Kento Kaku takes the lead role as Haru Tawara, who becomes the sole heir to his father’s flailing sake brewery business after the death of his older brother. With the family still reeling from his passing, the emotions of his parents and remaining siblings are brought to the forefront, challenging the rules and principles set out by the Ninja’s code of conduct.

The Upcoming had the pleasure of speaking to Boyle about the inspiration behind this series, the collaboration with Kaku on this project and the careful framing of music and cinematography to bring his intriguing story to screen.

Ezelle Alblas

House of Ninjas is released on Netflix on 15^th February 2024.

Watch the trailer for House of Ninjas here: