Sword of the Stranger, a Japanese animated samurai film, is released in Japan.
Sword of the Stranger DVD is released in North America, making the film accessible to a wider audience outside Japan.
Kotarou, a young orphan, meets Nanashi, a nameless swordsman who initially wishes to avoid conflict.
Kotarou and Nanashi's group are ambushed by Ming dynasty warriors searching for Kotarou due to his unique bloodline.
Nanashi agrees to protect Kotarou from the pursuing Ming warriors, deciding to fight to keep him safe.
Nanashi confronts and defeats multiple Ming warriors in a decisive fight, showcasing his swordsmanship and resolve.
A skilled assassin with a straw hat betrays Nanashi and Kotarou, escalating the danger and leading to a tense chase.
Nanashi faces the Ming general in a climactic duel near a waterfall to secure Kotarou's safety and end the pursuit.
After the battle, Kotarou is safe, and Nanashi departs silently, leaving Kotarou to face his future.
