March 15, 2024/Midnight
Erie Pa., — Based on the eponymous James Clavell’s best-selling novel, ‘Shogun’ brings audiences back to the last days of feudal Japan. The series delves into the intricate intertwining of power, pride, and love, rendered through an exquisite production.
Created by the husband-and-wife team of Justin Marks and Rachel Kondo, the series features the story of John Blackthorne (Cosmo Jarvis), an English navigator who arrives in 17th-century Japan. At the dawn of a century-defining civil war, “Lord Yoshii Toranaga” (Hiroyuki Sanada) is fighting for his life as his enemies on the Council of Regents unite against him.
From a foreigner in an unfamiliar country, Blackthorne finds himself entrapped in the complex circle of political power and romantic life of feudal Japanese society.
Despite clinging to Blackthorne’s narrative, Marks and Kondo have not only focused on Blackthorne but dissolved him in the rich cultural mixture while elevating the significance of many of the Japanese characters.
Particularly, the series’ highlights are Toda Mariko (Anna Sawai), a Japanese noblewoman who becomes Blackthorne’s translator and then his love interest, and Yoshii Toranaga, the lord who protects but also takes advantage of Blackthorne to achieve his political ambitions.
While telling a narrative rich in characters with diverse motivations, the storyline remains balanced and does not feel overwhelming. The vibrant culture of Japan is exquisitely portrayed through an extravagant production, demonstrating a certain level of tastefulness and technical expertise.
Visually, the series draws heavy inspiration from classical Samurai films, displaying meticulous craftsmanship through set and costume design. Despite being set in a multicultural context, ‘Shogun’ comfortably bridges the gap between East and West on certain levels.
However, some moments have pushed “Shogun” into the pit of Japanism. This includes the fetishization of death (‘seppuku,’ a form of Japanese ritualistic suicide) or the heavy contrast of Blackthorne’s Western individualism with the Japanese characters’ devotion to duty and sacrifice.
Sexual intercourse is aestheticized, as well as the not-so-ground-breaking fantasy towards the ‘mysterious’ Asian (a maid is a member of a secret assassin’s association). Dialogues tend to blossom into poetry throughout the show, which does not deliver any cultural significance except awkwardness.
‘Shogun’ may captivate audiences with its sumptuous set design and compelling storyline. Nevertheless, there are evident signs of romanticized portrayals of Japan scattered throughout the series. Despite these flaws, ‘Shogun’ stands as an epic soap opera with breathtaking scenes and a gripping narrative, all brought to life through expressive and convincing performances.
The 10-episode mini-series is now available on Hulu and FX.
