ANN/THE STRAITS TIMES – Shogun, a grand saga unfolding in 17th Century Japan, emerges as Hollywood’s most daring historical spectacle in recent memory. Delving into themes of power, obligation, and romance, it tracks a captivating ensemble through the intricate labyrinths of social hierarchy, where even the slightest misjudgment can spell doom.
With stellar performances by Hiroyuki Sanada (Bullet Train, 2022), Cosmo Jarvis (Persuasion, 2022), and Anna Sawai (Monarch: Legacy of Monsters, 2023 to 2024), here are several compelling reasons why this series deserves a prominent spot on your must-watch list.
DEADLY GAMES IN FEUDAL JAPAN
The series is an adaptation of James Clavell’s 1975 novel Shogun, a historical fiction piece centred around characters from Japan’s feudal era, marked by the country’s initial encounters with European traders and missionaries.
Set in the year 1600, the story begins with John Blackthorne (portrayed by Jarvis), an English sailor, finding himself stranded in Japan after a series of events.
Both he and his vessel fall into the hands of Lord Toranaga (played by Sanada), a politically astute figure who views the Englishman as a strategic pawn in his manoeuvres against the ruling council of lords, who govern the nation until its prince reaches maturity.
AN ENGLISH SAMURAI
Blackthorne is both baffled and impressed by this strange land, especially the culture of its samurai warrior class and the overall fatalism regarding death.
But he quickly finds his footing and Toranaga makes him a highranking samurai, entwining their fates. He also forms a bond with Lady Mariko (Sawai) – the conflicted noblewoman who serves as his translator and Yabushige (Tadanobu Asano), a low-level warlord trying to play both sides.
RICH WRITING AND A DEVASTATING FINALE
Blackthorne’s outsider perspective is vital, but the story is told from multiple points of view.
Even supporting characters, such as Mariko’s surly husband Buntaro (Shinnosuke Abe) and the beguiling courtesan Kiku (Yuka Kouri), are given their due.
Toranaga and Blackthorne are somewhat watered down compared with the book, but the dialogue and performances here are wonderfully frugal. – Alison de Souza
