Shōgun (2024 series)
Review by Dennis D. McDonald
I have not read James Clavell's original novel so I don’t know how "true" this recent series is to the book.
To be honest, I don't care.
Visually and dramatically this terrific series appears to pull few punches. The acting is excellent, the script is thoughtful, the costumes, sets, and special effects are world class, and most of the series’ spoken dialog is realistically in Japanese with English subtitles.
Instead of a fancy soap opera we have a dramatic clash of cultures where subtle differences can make the difference between life and death.
There is also much cruelty on display, but what we see makes contextual sense and is a crucial story element.
What was my favorite scene? That's a tough one, given that even static and formal interior meetings possess amazing dramatic tension. I was, though, especially impressed by Lady Mariko’s attempt to leave the castle despite being held hostage (Episode 9).
Add to that the theme that underlies almost every episode which is the constant spoken (and unspoken) question, “What is Toranaga planning?"
An added series bonus: the detailed “making of” documentaries especially how the spectacular costumes were designed and constructed.
My one complaint: I hate it when series episodes on streaming services are released once per week rather than all at once. The practice seems old-fashioned and has the overall effect of muting rather than growing one’s enthusiasm over time.
I am definitely adding Shōgun to my list of favorite live action series which includes (in alphabetical order) Brand New Cherry Flavor, Breaking Bad, Broadchurch, Criminal Record, Devs, The Fall of the House of Usher, Foundation, House of the Dragon, Midnight Mass, Mr. Lucky, The Peripheral, Raised by Wolves, Severance, Silo, Slow Horses, Sugar, Three Body Problem, True Detective, and Wandavision.
Review copyright (c) 2024 by Dennis D. McDonald