This version of Shogun exceeded my expectations. Seeing something like this succeed through thoughtful crafting of the world and characters and true admiration for the source material is what you love to see. Mariko is a character for the ages finding purpose in her sacrifice and changing history. You couldn’t ask for better performances. And the best nun. Let me know what you think.
Pete…I think that Blackthornes opening scene in the final episode is a dream he is having while unconscious… you’ll notice he is holding Marikos cross, the same cross he released into the sea.
I too read the book over 40 years ago but came to a different conclusion as to why it ended so abruptly after so many intense story lines. Once you really know who Toranaga is, his story will become boorish. For instance Toranaga killed villagers for the loss of a ship that Toranaga destroyed just to hide his culpability.
The actress that plays Mariko had such a captivating and incredible performance. Her subtle eye movements and lullaby voice tone is such a stark contrast in comparison to the forgettable character she plays in Monarch. I hope she wins all the awards for this role.
This final was incredible. I think my favourite moment, though, are the smiles exchanged between Toranaga and Yabushige. Yubashige smiles because he has finally been let in on Toranaga's intrigues and knows, yes, his lord will prevail. His betrayal was all part of Toranaga's calculus as Toranaga has always known Yabushige's inner heart. Ironically, he realizes he has rendered faithful service to his lord through his unfaithfulness, and his actions have made a decisive difference. Toronaga's smile, in return, acknowledges all these thoughts and also confirms to Yabushige that, yes, in his heart-of-hearts, he desires to be Shōgun, something he has so carefully guarded from those around him. It's a brilliant moment of these two comrades' hearts communing, leaving nothing unsaid at their final goodbye. Beautifully done! 👏👏👏
I love how Fuji-sama tells Blackthorne that “let your hands be the last to hold her!” Flashback to when Mariko told Fuji-sama, “let her hands be the last to hold her son!” 🥺
You missed something crucial during Yabushige's death. Toranaga states, "Why tell a dead man the future?" which is a direct reference to episode 1 when Yabushige whispers to Omi "Why tell a dead man the future?" when Omi asks why are we not telling Lord Toranaga about the ship? The significance of this is that it tells Yabushige that he got the wrong spy and it was Omi all along which shows why Toranaga lives the way he lives, not ever letting his closest relatives know his plans unless it's crucial to completing them. This also confirms Yabushige's suspicion that Toranaga wants to be Shogun despite the many protests that he has no desire for it because it illustrates to Yabushige that he had been in control and orchestrated everything from the very start of Episode 1. Again, Crimson Sky always revolved around Mariko even before the start of Episode 1 so Crimson Sky was going to happen. Toranaga just needed to make sure Mariko would carry out her duties thus his attempt to get any romance between Anjin and Mariko severed by giving him a prostitute and consort because he couldn't risk a romance between the two jeopardizing Mariko's resolve to die. But last and probably the most wholesome is that Toranaga wants Yabushige to know that the betrayals were not his fault as Toranaga's plans revolved around Yabushige's constant disloyalty; but in particularly, Mariko's death was not his fault since Toranaga instigated Yabushige's actions knowing he would betray him. Again, we see this as the viewer but keep in mind Yabushige has very little foresight and isn't watching this happen like we are. Also, he's an idiot. This is why Toranaga imparts the last question before smiling at Yabushige. He wanted to give him closure before he went to the afterlife by stating that everything happened, good and bad, because Toranaga planned it to from the very beginning.
Man, I love your breakdowns! No spoilers from other sources till the end, profound analysis and attention to details and an honest and respectful stance about your own impressions and the possibly diverging thoughts of other viewers. Thank you so much for covering the Shogun!
Anyone who's interested in the history behind these events, I recommend visiting Nikko in Japan. Specifically Toshogu Shrine, the place where Tokugawa Ieyasu (Toranaga in the show) is enshrined. Also, there is an Anjin street in Nihombashi Tokyo, where William Adams (the real life Anjin) was given a mansion of his own by Tokugawa. There is a small monument there.
I enjoyed that it ended with Toranaga being utterly ruthless. In those times, peace wasn't necessarily achieved by clean methods, even today peace is rarely achieved by clean methods. Toranaga did care about people, but he was also ambitious and ruthless. It didn't necessarily make his character more likable but for me it made his character in this story far more interesting and fuller.
Exactly, in the show he's the "good" guy, but he's not really a good guy, but that at the same time he's not quite as ruthless as his adversary. He's complex and struggles with his own power and influence.
@@miguelrio1269 obviously . People even killed their father and brothers to become King in medieval times everywhere around the world . Toronaga had no choice . If the heir lived other warlords could use him as a rally point to rebel against his Shogunate
I'm watching all the reviews I can from E10, and I gotta say, this is one that I enjoyed the most. It touches more on the internalization of each character. Nice job.
This is my second comment for this video. SPOILERS I saw the Shogun series a second time with my family. It helped that I did not have to wait a week for each episode to be available. Watching episodes each day helped to get an even deeper understanding of the back story of the series. I mean really deep. * Through flashbacks the audience is told that there were two former rulers of Japan. * Lord Kuroda Nobuhisa (who is based on Oda Nobunaga), who in the series is the father of Lady Ochiba (the mother of the heir). Lord Kuroda Nobuhisa is killed by Akechi Jinsai, (based on Akechi Mitsuhide), who is Mariko's father. * The next ruler of Japan is the Taikō, (based on Toyotomi Hideyoshi), who is the father of Lady Ochiba’s son, the heir. * In the series the killing of Lord Kuroda Nobuhisa (Oda Nobunaga) by Mariko’s father is considered by some characters to be a great disgrace. Mariko is berated by her husband, Buntaro, asking her to confess her father’s treachery. * However, with my second viewing and discussing this with my son who studied Japanese history in college, something new was revealed. - In the series Lady Ochiba says that she believes that Lord Toranaga was behind the killing of her father, Lord Kuroda Nobuhisa (Oda Nobunaga), the former ruler of Japan. - This is a huge revelation. Later statements by Toranaga support this idea where he tells Mariko that she needs to finish the mission of her father. * What is going on? Let’s go back to Akechi Jinsai, (based on Akechi Mitsuhide), who is Mariko's father. Over time many people in Japan have developed a positive view of Mitsuhide. There is a shrine to him with a statue and there are festivals celebrating his memory. * What happened? While it is accepted that Oda Nobunaga was a unifier of Japan, it is also recognized by many that he was a brutal tyrant. In the series the viewer can see Lady Ochiba’s father, Lord Kuroda Nobuhisa (Oda Nobunaga), cutting off the heads of Buddhist monks. - It has been speculated that this is one of several reasons why Oda Nobunaga was assassinated. * This leads to a bigger role for Toranaga as not only a unifier of Japan but as a man of peace which he explains in his speech to Yabushige before his seppuku. - As I mentioned, earlier Toranaga tells Mariko that she needs to fulfill her father’s great purpose. What is that? To rid Japan of tyrants who create more war in Japan. Ishido, who controls Osaka castle, has all the leaders of the main families prisoner. Anyone who tries to leave will be killed. Mariko’s death by Ishido exposes this and it breaks Ishido’s tyrany. * The later defeat of Ishido in battle finishes Toranaga’s master plan, to remove the tyrants of Japan who have sewn division and to allow him to become Shogun which will create an era of peace (that will last for 250 years).
I loved this ending, it was so poetic. Bitter sweet, sure, but still amazing. Like Toranaga said to his son, only a young man who hasn't seen a battle rushes to war. That was the whole point. This was a masterful chess play and he ended it with checkmate using Mariko. Amazing TV, finally
I really hope they don’t cave to the pressures that come with media success. And that is conjuring up a direct sequel/2nd season that just ends up hurting the perception of the series as a whole. This story is done. We don’t need anything more. Adapt other books by the author but leave Shogun alone.
Agreed. They have mastered the book so well as part of the reason they executed it so well. But my dream is they find a masterpiece of writing for the sequel's beautiful execution. No puns intended.
I think it's wonderful now that we're so much more receptive to watching shows in other languages. Sanada has said that he wants to provide more opportunities for these amazingly gifted actors to create many more great shows. I'd love all of these actors to become household names xxx
@@thehermitman822 I took a look on IMDb , Google etc and found shows / films that some of them are in, available on my streaming sites. For example, I've just started watching Giri / Haji with the actor who played Ishido. My point was let's look out for them in upcoming as well as available shows we've not seen before, because they're clearly very talented xxx
what do u mean "we're NOW so much more receptive to watching shows in other languages"? Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon 23 years ago made more than $128M and was best picture. Life is Beautiful in 1998. Hero in 2004.
In the 1980 version of Shogun, the largely Japanese cast was shown speaking their dialogue in Japanese with NO subtitles. On network TV. The series was a huge hit, and that was over 40 years ago now. You and your pals aren't that special...
I took Toranaga's smirk before taking Yabu's head was answering his question, Yes he did want to be Shogun. Yabu looks to his lord to see if he will answer his final question. The lord obliges and then takes his head.
He even also told him who the snitch really was. Well not exactly told the name but Yabu immediately knew who it is after Toranaga said his final words to him.
I don't get how you repeatedly pick the best shows, see what is going on and tell it in a way that I deeply understand (non native english) and admire because of your analogies and outting things in perspective. First RUclipsr I am going to donate! Don't stop doing what you obviuosly thrive on. I'd really like to discuss shows with you, but I don't have your level of reading situations.... so I keep learning from you :)
For a moment, at the end, I felt pissed that it ended where it did… and then I took a moment to consider the entirety of the series, how many things were implied without being shown, the overall storyline - and I kind of felt it was a fitting end to a damn-near-perfect series. The ending was poetic, which I quickly realized was the entire point. I _would_ be okay with some sort of spinoff about Toronaga and Blackthorne should it ever come about haha
Your review is the BEST of all! Thank you for sharing your thoughts that truly reflect my own. Producers Rachel Kondo and her husband are excellent and will earn high marks for their effort. I am biased, of course, since Rachel was my student long ago at Maui High School. She is a gifted writer and remarkable woman.
"Together forever" That scene had me shed a tear or two as I reflected on a loss of my own, the casting and cinematography of Shogun for me were perfect, Hiroyuki Sanada truly poured love into his craft as an Actor and on this occasion Producer; A truly iconic production which will last long into the future for others to see.
The final moments between John and Fuji as the gripping OST plays is one of the best moments of the entire show. they somehow made us experience so much from just 10 episodes of run time.
An exceptional series. Anna Sawai is a force. Her acting in Episode 9 was beyond words. Hiroyuki Sanada was amazing throughout and maybe it took me 10 episodes to finally appreciate him but Cosmo Jarvis was terrific in 10. They paid a great honor to the original series. Bravo!
Fun tidbits: 1. The jinbaori toranaga wears in the sekigahara battle scene is the same one he wears in the earlier flashback scene when he’s still a child. 2. Right before he cuts off yabushige’s head he stares at him for a brief second because he knows this time it won’t take him 9 tries like he did when he was young. It all comes full circle
In the 1980s version of this, i felt satisfied at Yabushigi’s sepuku… in this one, it left me hurt. My heart really went out to him. True, he deserved it for the shit that he pulled. It just speaks volumes to the Actors in that scene..
One correction Adams was not the one who was instrumental in trade negotiations for the Tokugawa Shogunate. That was actually the 2nd mate of "de liefde" Jan Joosten van Lodensteyn who was taken in by Tokugawa alongside Adams. Adams build ships for the Shogun but Lodensteyn was made the main advisor on trade and foreign relations and was gifted a far larger and more lavish estate then Adams which was located where modern day Tokyo central station is located. Lodensteyn was also never given permission to leave Japan since he was that important to the Shogunate when it came to trade and foreign relations and was instrumental in setting up the monopoly that the Dutch had on trade with Japan during Japan its time of isolation.
You keep posting this every where, but the truth is both men were highly influential - it doesn't have to be a competition. As much as you try to play down Adams' role to just a ship builder, the historical evidence contradicts that - he was very much involved in diplomacy and trade negotiations too, both on behalf of the Dutch and English. He held a close, cordial relationship with Ieyasu. As a contemporary wrote of Adams on his passing: "I cannot but be sorrowful for the loss of such a man as Capt William Adams, he having been in such favour with two Emperors* of Japan as never any Christian in these part of the world." (*Note - Europeans at the time often didn't understand the distinction between the title of Emperor and Shogun. In this instance, he is referring to Ieyasu and his successor Hitada).
What a truly beautiful and incredible show highlighting a great symbolic story. Thank you for covering this mini series, Pete 🙌🏼 Also, that shared smirk between Toronaga and Yabushige during his seppuku 😉
the series has left with with such complex emotions, even feeling teary at how beautiful the scenes were, how meaningful the script was, the source material clearly represented and how well they were performed by the cast! 10/10 from me!
Finally you were behind on this one compared to the other shogun RUclipsrs I had to watch someone else’s this morning 😢but I’m here to support now lol 😂
Thanks for all the reviews. The ending was masterful, as the rest of the series. Definitively one of the best TV shows I've ever watched. I think one of the main questions they want us to ponder is if the end justify any means. Toranaga obviously did...do we?
Thank you for an extraordinary discussion (here and previous videos), I really enjoyed it and concur with most of what you say about this awesome series and the source, Clavell's book (fan of Clavell's Asian Saga books). My only major disappointment is that about halfway through the series it realised it was a miniseries and there wasn't going to be second season!
Japanese actors that they cast and did the production in Canada, were almost all superb. "Fuji" was a family favorite. Within that great finale, Fuji and John Blackthorne had killer scenes.
@sailingadventurer Historically, Blackthorn (William adams) character remarried a japanese woman and has two children however was never allowed to leave japan and so, would send home money to help support his first wife and 2 children in England.
I loved the series, the cast & the ending. I completely concur that not showing the battle was a good decision. It’s not necessary, but I guess some might be disappointed.
It def wasn’t necessary how the show ended wasn’t good though. It did feel rushed. Because ep 9 was peak. Left with a lot more questions. They really used the actors to carry the show with what the writers couldn’t do, still good show just not my favorite with how it ended and that criticism doesn’t include a big battle. I genuinely disagree with how it ended didn’t even show the regents turning on ishido, saying the war was won before a sword was lifted. Based on the books it’s true but in real life it wasn’t many battles took place, and if they took the creative liberty to keep mariko alive and make her a major role to help Ochiba make a last minute choice, they could’ve had the creative liberty to appease to the mainstream which would’ve introduced many people to the Edo period.
I was disappointed not reading about Sekigahara over 20 years ago, and I am disappointed not seeing it now (somewhere in the middle I was disappointed by not seeing it in the 80s series). That said, Shogun is still one of my favorite books and I think the series will be one of my favorite series (I will give it time to digest). I have read James Clavell's other works and they didn't really stick with me, his type of story and story telling isn't the type of storytelling I enjoy, which makes the fact that Shogun is something I find masterful all the better.
After a full season with no problems this one kept giving me a copyright claim and it took hours to sort it and get it uploaded. I know I'm slower than most so I'm glad to see a lot of people are willing to wait.
@@PetePeppers1 I frequently rewatch the finale review of The Expanse. It's that good. So yes, your work is worth the wait, and in my experience, always so. A big thank you once again.
1:44 Poetry are not for everyone, but for those who try to write them, poems may embody a writer's essence in simple stanzas. For Yabushige, his death poem reveals his straightforward mindset. Like shallow Koi ponds, where Yabu literally and metaphorically stood in, he too swims near the surface for all to see, unobstructed. Hence, would be easily manipulated by deeply layered plotters whose motives are buried below surface, invisible to the eyes. "My dead body. Don't bury me. Don't burn me. Just leave it in the field. And with it, fill the belly of some hungry dog."
I liked this video and all the others on this channel about Shogun, an excellent TV series. A few more thoughts about episode 10. The video covered a lot but I’ll add some more. Yabushige (Yabu) tells Toranaga *”All this death … just to ensure some victory in our names… It’s what you’ve always wanted, isn’t it?”* Yes, but while Yabu is beginning to understand the deeper plans of Toranaga, Yabu hasn’t fully realized how deep it can go. - Because of Mariko’s friendship and death, Ochiba has told Toranaga that she has agreed to not support Ishido in the upcoming battle. Ochiba doesn’t realize it but that will be a death sentence for her and her son, the heir. - Toranaga plays on powerful people’s emotions, he makes promises to them, he gets people to back down, all of it for his advantage. - Ishido was going to marry Ochiba. Ishido, who came from a peasant lineage, was pledged to the heir which gave Ishido legitimacy. Toranaga who comes from a samurai family not only has no need for the heir but Toranaga has always seen the heir as a threat to his dream of becoming Shogun. In the future Toranaga (Tokugawa) will keep maneuvering and fighting the heir and his mother until they are forced to commit seppuku. A PS about Blackthorne; I was fine with Toranaga keeping the Anjin alive for amusement. The Anjin was no threat to Toranaga (Tokugawa) so, they could have a friendship without all the political maneuvering which dominated the ruling elite of Japan.
The series so far exceeded my expectations! It was beautifully written and wonderfully acted. Yabushige was such a source of comic relief. Thank you for bringing to light that the flash-forward was just a dream. I couldn’t quite wrap my head around that and it was rather confusing - until seeing this video! Now I can appreciate the finale and thee whole series even more.
Anjin actually married a Japanese woman according to my wife Yoko. I loved this series. I lived in Japan for over a decade and I never realized what Anjinzuka was or who it was named after.....I'm almost ashamed to admit it considering how often I used that train station in Yokosuka Japan.
Great video. Excellent insight on this wonderful series. It's been a long time since I have been emotionally invested into a tv series like this one. I have to say I have I have a lot of conflicting emotions with Toronaga. I guess I need time to absorb with what I've just seen. I don't think they need to do a season 2. Why ruin a masterpiece? Keep up the great work.
Kudos to the writers. Every episode was well done. The finale tied everything up wonderfully. Mariko got what she wanted serving her lord and she makes arrangements to give Anjin what he wanted, life. Though I think he questioned his choice towards the end.
You know? Poetry recitation has been recognized as a part of the culture of samurai and aristocrats for more than 1,000 years. Therefor there is still the Emperor poetry session in Japan every year, and even Emperor or someone of their family reads a poetry in public every year!
well said. I bet a lot of viewers were expecting an epic “Crimson Sky” battle but instead got a lot more philosophy than expected. People will overlook the idea of winning a battle without fighting one is a more difficult and noble feat than actually fighting one. It irks me reading comments comparing this to GoT or worse copying GoT.
Yabushige previously said the exact same line to Omi, ``Why tell a dead man the future?'' In the first episode, there was a scene where they discuss whether to report weapons from overseas to Toranaga. At the last moment, Yabushige realized that Toranaga knew this. Then they smile back at each other.
I think you may have missed the detail where Toranaga lets Yabu know that his nephew was a spy since it was Yabu who originally said the line about telling dead men the future which was probably why they smiled at each other. Or at least you didn't bring it up.
This was easily one of the best tv-series I've watched, maybe even the best. Attention to historical detail going as far as real death poems, age-correct footwear and hell even having cast learn time correct dialect of Japanese is not something you will ever see in fully western productions these days. Also I absolutely loved the ending, and don't think they should make more even if it saddens me that I never got to see Anijn and Toranaga on his fleet together.
The last episode was beautiful. It was perfect. Anytime i had doubts on how the the story and show was progressing the writers always bring me back in. One of the best screenplay of all time
Great breakdown Pete. I also appreciate the insight you brought having read the book. Are you planning to do a new video now that we’re getting two more seasons?
I am glad they opted to not include an epic war scene. A spectacle like that would have distracted from Toranaga's true accomplishment of arranging all the right pieces and checking without an all out battle.
@@XXAnthonyCarmineXx a gigantic letdown…they’ll hide it under “subverting expectations”…but that’s just an excuse of falling short and not hitting the mark…
Thanks for your good review of the show, Here are a few remarks: In the book, the ship was destroyed as a gift to the Christians, but more importantly to Kiyama as a proof of his sincerity that he wasn't an enemy to the catholics and to get Kiyama to switch sides during the coming battle. The series wasn't far off that, but I think it left out the turning Kiyama reference. The other point in Marino's actual mission to Osaka was to confront Ishido and free the hostages so several Daimyos could then flip allegiance to Toranaga. This was done by Mariko both to further the cause of her lord Toranaga but also to fulfill her most inner desire which was to honor the memory of her father and fulfillment of a primary rule of Samurai culture as stated in the book, ie to not rest until the murderer of her father was avenged and her innermost desire to die due to the shame of being spared from the slaughter of her entire family at the hands of the Taiko. She and Toranaga both knew that was her secret desire and that was what was behind the bonfire remark by Toranaga in 10.. In the book I believe Toranaga thought in one act she destroyed all her enemies which were also Toranaga's. Lastly the most serious mistake to me in the show was the first episode when Blackthorne first met Toranaga. The series chopped that crucial establishing scene and thereby butchered a major theme in the book, Alvito undermines Blackthorne at that 1st meeting by explaining that his allies the Dutch were in rebellion against their lawful liege lord, Spain. This was the central political issue Toranaga was embroiled in, because he was accused of seeking to rebel against the heir of the Taiko, his liege lord. Per the book, obedience to one's liege lord was at the core of Japanese culture and disobedience was punishable by death, which is why Toranaga insisted that there were no mitigating circumstances for rebelling against your lawful liege lord. Then Blackthorne said there is one mitigating circumstance and that was "Unless you win". This scene crystallized the heart of Tornado's story, and was essential to establishing how the feudal system nominally worked in Japanese law but not always in reality, and the tension of Toranaga's quest apart from his public stance; yet the show runners trivialized this major thematic plot line into why fight the Catholics if you can't win, which missed this major plot point. To me this was an unforgivable plot change made for no good reason. Other changes didn't really bother me as much. At the end of the day, I thought episodes 9 and 10 were wonderful on their own merits. The acting in 9 when Ochiba and Mariko have their last conversation was so brilliant by both women it made the whole show better for me. Also in 10 the scene with Fuji in the boat was very poignant and using Yabu to let Toranaga explain what he was really doing was a clever idea. I thought the Oldman Blackthorne scenes were unnecessary and I really didn't see the value you did in them. Of course the production values, attention to detail and the acting throughout the series was beautiful. Thank you for your synopsis of the series, it was really good.
Yabushige later, at his end, asks "What is it like to shape the wind to your will?" shortly before we move ahead in time to watch the Dream within a Dream. Remember how Toranaga says "I don't control the wind, I only study it" , it coincides with the brothel lady who says "Fate is like a sword, only useful to those who wield it" Toranaga never controls the wind; like the wind and the sword; he simply studies its form and plan with the flow
Notice also that Mariko mistranslates virtually everything Blackthorne says so as not to offend anyone. Except for when she translates Kiku's ("brothel lady") words. Is this because she hopes Blackthorne will learn how to be a bit more Japanese in his attitudes, or because she wants a successful "pillowing" to distract him from lusting after her?
Great Video! Your VO is a little low frequency heavy. Please pull down about -6dB out at 160hz with an EQ plugin. Currently it is very difficult to understand what your're saying
Very helpful, I would say...as a missionary who has served in Japan for 40 years now, And before that, as a missionary kid in Sendai. BTW, I thought I caught a tiny misspelling which should have been Ieyasu, the Shogun. But many thanks for your labors.
Tremendous breakdown. Super encouraged me to watch Shogun again. I'm surprised there's talk of Season 2....but very pleased! Possibly the best period piece ever from a set / costume authenticity standpoint. The 'cityscapes' were a bit CGI-ish but nothing egregious.
The moment the two men share before Yabu dies was beautiful. Seemed like Yabu himself saw the irony in all the work/time he spent playing both sides to attempt to save himself from what he thought was the sinking ship Toranaga clan, only to learn that he was jumping onto Ishido's actual sinking ship. When he finally gets his just reward and stabs himself, it is as if for a brief moment his sins were completely absolved and his last moments alive he feels almost proud. He is acknowledging Toranaga's great brilliance and cunning, recognizing his victory, and feeling honor that his lord won despite the odds (and OH YEAH his own working against him)... all encapsulated within and communicated through that cheeky little Yabu smirk he gives Toranaga.
Never read the book or to be honest had any interest in watching the show. I took a chance on it when there was only 2 episodes out and I have to say I'm glad I did. I was very happy with the show I have recommended it to many people. I appreciate the back story and the break down or the final episode.
That’s really super. The spoilers ahead prove there’s a lot to unpack from this great series. My take, not that Goyer’s was that Toranaga told Ochoba No-kata that Ishido would undoubtedly kill the heir. Mariko’s death poem about the leafless tree or whatever was, to me, the prelude to that letter. This series was like the wind, and I’ll watch again to peg my theory. I’m hoping for a continuation of some kind, but I’d rather hold my tongue than breath.
I agree that the battle sequence was not needed. Tomonaga's willingness to sacrifice those dear to him for the unification of Japan is very reminiscent of many Chinese Movies such as "Hero" which have the same thought.
I can't help but wonder if his ultimate goal was unification of the country for it's sake or for his own ambition. Both? Or in reality of fate they can't be seperated.
"Why tell a dead man the future" is what Yabushige told Omi when he asked him why he hasn't told Toranaga about the foreign ship. Omi was another spy for Toranaga all along.
I appreciate how it ended at the beginning of the end, and focuses on how Toronaga check-mated his enemies in his mind before any player could realize the game was over for them and the future written for Japan. Beautiful.
Thank you for your summaries. I was angry that they showed you the ending in the first sequence. I was angry as well because he had the cross which he threw into the sea. Then you explained that it was his dream for the future. Having said that I think that it should have been more obvious that it was a dream because it lead to assumptions that were correct. I found you with Foundation and enjoy all your videos, also I never watch before, only after I have seen that episode, which included not watching the preview trailer for the last Shogun episode. I look forward to watching more of your videos in the future. ALL the best.
Good job showing the connections with historical figures and the book. It enriches the perspective for those, like me, that didn’t know the inspiration/material for the show. I like Japanese culture, so the character’s actions don’t come as a complete surprise, but I loved the show.
Most shows these days are disappointing, or they change too much etc. Shogun was the first show in a long time, as far back as I can recall that I couldn't wait for the next episode. This is how storytelling needs to be. Amazing how in the last year, the best movie that was a total surprise was Godzilla Minus One and then this adaptation of Shogun being produced and starring Hiroyuki Sanada. This show was a masterpiece.
I don’t think Torenaga really meant that Anjin just makes him laugh truthfully. His next step was to completely shut down the window into his secret heart, so I think that statement was a half-truth, a closing of the window and a direct “fuck you” to Yabu’s earlier “you have me to thank for the Anjin”. Hia final “fuck you” though was not keeping silent on whether or not he wanted to be Shogun, but citing him the quote Yabu -whispered- to Omi, with his most trusty adviser right behind them, letting Yabu know someone close to him was Torenaga’s spy all along and never letting him know who it really was.
The smile at Yabushige got me really thinking. Was Yabushige correct in thinking that this was all to get Toranaga to become shogun and was that smile just confirming it
What a detailed explanation! I liked Mariko how changed the translation especially from Anjin to Toranaga. Without her, their relationship will be destroyed by misunderstanding!
This version of Shogun exceeded my expectations. Seeing something like this succeed through thoughtful crafting of the world and characters and true admiration for the source material is what you love to see. Mariko is a character for the ages finding purpose in her sacrifice and changing history. You couldn’t ask for better performances. And the best nun. Let me know what you think.
Pete…I think that Blackthornes opening scene in the final episode is a dream he is having while unconscious… you’ll notice he is holding Marikos cross, the same cross he released into the sea.
@rudolphjecroy5244 yes, I hope the video made that clear. when he drops the cross in the water it confirms it.
I too read the book over 40 years ago but came to a different conclusion as to why it ended so abruptly after so many intense story lines. Once you really know who Toranaga is, his story will become boorish. For instance Toranaga killed villagers for the loss of a ship that Toranaga destroyed just to hide his culpability.
The actress that plays Mariko had such a captivating and incredible performance. Her subtle eye movements and lullaby voice tone is such a stark contrast in comparison to the forgettable character she plays in Monarch. I hope she wins all the awards for this role.
@@ganggang3788 Anna Sawai is the actor. A brilliant performance. The entire cast and crew was stellar.
Yabu was an amazing character, literally updating his will throughout the series knowing at any point in time he will lose his head too😂😂
This final was incredible. I think my favourite moment, though, are the smiles exchanged between Toranaga and Yabushige.
Yubashige smiles because he has finally been let in on Toranaga's intrigues and knows, yes, his lord will prevail. His betrayal was all part of Toranaga's calculus as Toranaga has always known Yabushige's inner heart. Ironically, he realizes he has rendered faithful service to his lord through his unfaithfulness, and his actions have made a decisive difference.
Toronaga's smile, in return, acknowledges all these thoughts and also confirms to Yabushige that, yes, in his heart-of-hearts, he desires to be Shōgun, something he has so carefully guarded from those around him. It's a brilliant moment of these two comrades' hearts communing, leaving nothing unsaid at their final goodbye.
Beautifully done! 👏👏👏
Perfectly said.
And then he chops his head off 😂
No, Yabushige smiles because Toranaga said his words he previously spoken to Omi. Basacly Omi was a snitch
@yomama6761 there is that, too. There is just so much acknowledged in that brief exchange. Such a cool scene.
Yes! So many people missing the smirks. So important
I love how Fuji-sama tells Blackthorne that “let your hands be the last to hold her!” Flashback to when Mariko told Fuji-sama, “let her hands be the last to hold her son!” 🥺
Which unfortunately didn't happen.
so many foreshadowing and smart repetition...so..good..
🎉I guess the last to hold Mariko's body was the Japanese Mortician🎉😂❤
Yabushige eeeeeeasily the best actor in the series. Deserves an award.
Made every scene he was in better.
Asano needs to be in more of these west productions to have a global audience.
Him and Blackthorne had interesting chemistry.
100% _the_ best grunter in television. I understood those grunts!
@@PetePeppers1As did Fuji. Her character was incredible; I’m so happy they gave her the ending she got in the series.
“If I could use words, like scattering flowers and falling leaves, what a bonfire my poems would make” 😢
“What a bonfire my poems would make”.
Or; _what city destroyers my poems become_ ?
Scattering flowers, falling leaves, bonfire's glow, Nature's whispers, in twilight's gentle flow.
Huh?
Could someone explain this to me ?
@@Giggity1080haiku’s
You missed something crucial during Yabushige's death. Toranaga states, "Why tell a dead man the future?" which is a direct reference to episode 1 when Yabushige whispers to Omi "Why tell a dead man the future?" when Omi asks why are we not telling Lord Toranaga about the ship?
The significance of this is that it tells Yabushige that he got the wrong spy and it was Omi all along which shows why Toranaga lives the way he lives, not ever letting his closest relatives know his plans unless it's crucial to completing them. This also confirms Yabushige's suspicion that Toranaga wants to be Shogun despite the many protests that he has no desire for it because it illustrates to Yabushige that he had been in control and orchestrated everything from the very start of Episode 1. Again, Crimson Sky always revolved around Mariko even before the start of Episode 1 so Crimson Sky was going to happen. Toranaga just needed to make sure Mariko would carry out her duties thus his attempt to get any romance between Anjin and Mariko severed by giving him a prostitute and consort because he couldn't risk a romance between the two jeopardizing Mariko's resolve to die.
But last and probably the most wholesome is that Toranaga wants Yabushige to know that the betrayals were not his fault as Toranaga's plans revolved around Yabushige's constant disloyalty; but in particularly, Mariko's death was not his fault since Toranaga instigated Yabushige's actions knowing he would betray him. Again, we see this as the viewer but keep in mind Yabushige has very little foresight and isn't watching this happen like we are. Also, he's an idiot.
This is why Toranaga imparts the last question before smiling at Yabushige. He wanted to give him closure before he went to the afterlife by stating that everything happened, good and bad, because Toranaga planned it to from the very beginning.
Man, I love your breakdowns! No spoilers from other sources till the end, profound analysis and attention to details and an honest and respectful stance about your own impressions and the possibly diverging thoughts of other viewers. Thank you so much for covering the Shogun!
He's definitely worth the wait.
Same! I love the callout how both Mariko and Fuji wanted to die but Fuji wants to live.
I loved his shaded response of "what good is it to tell a dead man the future?"
I wonder if it also hints of his nephew spying on him for Toronaga bcus thats what he said in ep 1.
@@gudhaxer41343 Yes. That’s why Yabushige smiled like a mad man because he realized in the final second that his nephew was the snitch all along.
They are the only two that will ever hear it haha
@@nont18411 "The runt WAS worthy."
@@PetePeppers1 Thanks for taking time out to respond. I can tell you put in the time with your vids already.
My favorite philosophical part of the show - presence is felt most in absence - beautifully demonstrated in the absence of Mariko episode 10🤍
Anyone who's interested in the history behind these events, I recommend visiting Nikko in Japan. Specifically Toshogu Shrine, the place where Tokugawa Ieyasu (Toranaga in the show) is enshrined.
Also, there is an Anjin street in Nihombashi Tokyo, where William Adams (the real life Anjin) was given a mansion of his own by Tokugawa. There is a small monument there.
I couldn’t agree more!
Visited there. Such a beautiful shrine. Toshogu feels like a great pyramid for a great shogun like Ieyasu.
Yeah this was surprising filmed in Canada
If you are going to Yokohama, there is a small station called Anjinzuka Station, named after William Adams aka Anjin Miura.
And here in western Shizuoka is Hamamatsu castle, home to Tokugawa for 17 years.
The absolute best review. This series was an intellectual masterpiece that demonstrates the power of storytelling in subtle ways. Bravo FX👏🏽
I enjoyed that it ended with Toranaga being utterly ruthless. In those times, peace wasn't necessarily achieved by clean methods, even today peace is rarely achieved by clean methods. Toranaga did care about people, but he was also ambitious and ruthless. It didn't necessarily make his character more likable but for me it made his character in this story far more interesting and fuller.
One of the most realistic "good" powerful people I've seen in a story.
They reminded us that they were still warlords.
Exactly, in the show he's the "good" guy, but he's not really a good guy, but that at the same time he's not quite as ruthless as his adversary. He's complex and struggles with his own power and influence.
In real life, Toronaga killed the heir he vowed to protect as he considered him a threat to his leadership.
@@miguelrio1269 obviously . People even killed their father and brothers to become King in medieval times everywhere around the world . Toronaga had no choice . If the heir lived other warlords could use him as a rally point to rebel against his Shogunate
I'm watching all the reviews I can from E10, and I gotta say, this is one that I enjoyed the most. It touches more on the internalization of each character. Nice job.
This is my second comment for this video. SPOILERS
I saw the Shogun series a second time with my family. It helped that I did not have to wait a week for each episode to be available. Watching episodes each day helped to get an even deeper understanding of the back story of the series. I mean really deep.
* Through flashbacks the audience is told that there were two former rulers of Japan.
* Lord Kuroda Nobuhisa (who is based on Oda Nobunaga), who in the series is the father of Lady Ochiba (the mother of the heir).
Lord Kuroda Nobuhisa is killed by Akechi Jinsai, (based on Akechi Mitsuhide), who is Mariko's father.
* The next ruler of Japan is the Taikō, (based on Toyotomi Hideyoshi), who is the father of Lady Ochiba’s son, the heir.
* In the series the killing of Lord Kuroda Nobuhisa (Oda Nobunaga) by Mariko’s father is considered by some characters to be a great disgrace. Mariko is berated by her husband, Buntaro, asking her to confess her father’s treachery.
* However, with my second viewing and discussing this with my son who studied Japanese history in college, something new was revealed.
- In the series Lady Ochiba says that she believes that Lord Toranaga was behind the killing of her father, Lord Kuroda Nobuhisa (Oda Nobunaga), the former ruler of Japan.
- This is a huge revelation. Later statements by Toranaga support this idea where he tells Mariko that she needs to finish the mission of her father.
* What is going on? Let’s go back to Akechi Jinsai, (based on Akechi Mitsuhide), who is Mariko's father.
Over time many people in Japan have developed a positive view of Mitsuhide. There is a shrine to him with a statue and there are festivals celebrating his memory.
* What happened? While it is accepted that Oda Nobunaga was a unifier of Japan, it is also recognized by many that he was a brutal tyrant. In the series the viewer can see Lady Ochiba’s father, Lord Kuroda Nobuhisa (Oda Nobunaga), cutting off the heads of Buddhist monks.
- It has been speculated that this is one of several reasons why Oda Nobunaga was assassinated.
* This leads to a bigger role for Toranaga as not only a unifier of Japan but as a man of peace which he explains in his speech to Yabushige before his seppuku.
- As I mentioned, earlier Toranaga tells Mariko that she needs to fulfill her father’s great purpose. What is that? To rid Japan of tyrants who create more war in Japan.
Ishido, who controls Osaka castle, has all the leaders of the main families prisoner. Anyone who tries to leave will be killed.
Mariko’s death by Ishido exposes this and it breaks Ishido’s tyrany.
* The later defeat of Ishido in battle finishes Toranaga’s master plan, to remove the tyrants of Japan who have sewn division and to allow him to become Shogun which will create an era of peace (that will last for 250 years).
I loved this ending, it was so poetic. Bitter sweet, sure, but still amazing. Like Toranaga said to his son, only a young man who hasn't seen a battle rushes to war. That was the whole point. This was a masterful chess play and he ended it with checkmate using Mariko. Amazing TV, finally
I really hope they don’t cave to the pressures that come with media success. And that is conjuring up a direct sequel/2nd season that just ends up hurting the perception of the series as a whole. This story is done. We don’t need anything more. Adapt other books by the author but leave Shogun alone.
No.
I wouldn’t mind a prequel. E.g. how the Portuguese established themselves there, the fall of the Taiko
Agreed. It's perfect and it doesn't need anything more, although I wouldn't mind a prequel.
Regardless of whether they do anything else, we already have this complete season. Nothing will ever change that.
Agreed. They have mastered the book so well as part of the reason they executed it so well. But my dream is they find a masterpiece of writing for the sequel's beautiful execution. No puns intended.
I think it's wonderful now that we're so much more receptive to watching shows in other languages. Sanada has said that he wants to provide more opportunities for these amazingly gifted actors to create many more great shows. I'd love all of these actors to become household names xxx
"xxx"
Any of them do other types of films I should research?😁
@@thehermitman822 I took a look on IMDb , Google etc and found
shows / films that some of them are in, available on my streaming sites. For example, I've just started watching Giri / Haji with the actor who played Ishido.
My point was let's look out for them in upcoming as well as available shows we've not seen before, because they're clearly very talented xxx
...
What is wrong with you??
what do u mean "we're NOW so much more receptive to watching shows in other languages"? Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon 23 years ago made more than $128M and was best picture. Life is Beautiful in 1998. Hero in 2004.
In the 1980 version of Shogun, the largely Japanese cast was shown speaking their dialogue in Japanese with NO subtitles. On network TV. The series was a huge hit, and that was over 40 years ago now. You and your pals aren't that special...
I took Toranaga's smirk before taking Yabu's head was answering his question, Yes he did want to be Shogun. Yabu looks to his lord to see if he will answer his final question. The lord obliges and then takes his head.
Agreed
He even also told him who the snitch really was. Well not exactly told the name but Yabu immediately knew who it is after Toranaga said his final words to him.
@@zedzedzzzzzz3d it was omi.
The definitive “Ending Explained” video. You went even beyond the show and the book!!! 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
I don't get how you repeatedly pick the best shows, see what is going on and tell it in a way that I deeply understand (non native english) and admire because of your analogies and outting things in perspective. First RUclipsr I am going to donate! Don't stop doing what you obviuosly thrive on. I'd really like to discuss shows with you, but I don't have your level of reading situations.... so I keep learning from you :)
For a moment, at the end, I felt pissed that it ended where it did… and then I took a moment to consider the entirety of the series, how many things were implied without being shown, the overall storyline - and I kind of felt it was a fitting end to a damn-near-perfect series. The ending was poetic, which I quickly realized was the entire point.
I _would_ be okay with some sort of spinoff about Toronaga and Blackthorne should it ever come about haha
Your review is the BEST of all! Thank you for sharing your thoughts that truly reflect my own. Producers Rachel Kondo and her husband are excellent and will earn high marks for their effort. I am biased, of course, since Rachel was my student long ago at Maui High School. She is a gifted writer and remarkable woman.
"Together forever" That scene had me shed a tear or two as I reflected on a loss of my own, the casting and cinematography of Shogun for me were perfect, Hiroyuki Sanada truly poured love into his craft as an Actor and on this occasion Producer; A truly iconic production which will last long into the future for others to see.
The final moments between John and Fuji as the gripping OST plays is one of the best moments of the entire show. they somehow made us experience so much from just 10 episodes of run time.
An exceptional series. Anna Sawai is a force. Her acting in Episode 9 was beyond words. Hiroyuki Sanada was amazing throughout and maybe it took me 10 episodes to finally appreciate him but Cosmo Jarvis was terrific in 10. They paid a great honor to the original series. Bravo!
Fun tidbits: 1. The jinbaori toranaga wears in the sekigahara battle scene is the same one he wears in the earlier flashback scene when he’s still a child.
2. Right before he cuts off yabushige’s head he stares at him for a brief second because he knows this time it won’t take him 9 tries like he did when he was young. It all comes full circle
I interpreted the Yabu scene as him letting Yabu suffer a bit
@@itim777 yabu doesnt make a sound because he is actually fascinated by death.
@@itim777 Same here. For Markio.
Plus to reassure him that hes indeed the same as the rest of them, he just a little better at their stupid little game🙃
In the 1980s version of this, i felt satisfied at Yabushigi’s sepuku… in this one, it left me hurt. My heart really went out to him. True, he deserved it for the shit that he pulled. It just speaks volumes to the Actors in that scene..
He's a shitface...but, he's an entertaining shitface.
Mariko was my fav.....I really loved her and Blackthorne's eye contact communication❤
One correction Adams was not the one who was instrumental in trade negotiations for the Tokugawa Shogunate.
That was actually the 2nd mate of "de liefde" Jan Joosten van Lodensteyn who was taken in by Tokugawa alongside Adams.
Adams build ships for the Shogun but Lodensteyn was made the main advisor on trade and foreign relations and was gifted a far larger and more lavish estate then Adams which was located where modern day Tokyo central station is located.
Lodensteyn was also never given permission to leave Japan since he was that important to the Shogunate when it came to trade and foreign relations and was instrumental in setting up the monopoly that the Dutch had on trade with Japan during Japan its time of isolation.
you must be dutch 🤣🤣🤣
You keep posting this every where, but the truth is both men were highly influential - it doesn't have to be a competition. As much as you try to play down Adams' role to just a ship builder, the historical evidence contradicts that - he was very much involved in diplomacy and trade negotiations too, both on behalf of the Dutch and English. He held a close, cordial relationship with Ieyasu. As a contemporary wrote of Adams on his passing:
"I cannot but be sorrowful for the loss of such a man as Capt William Adams, he having been in such favour with two Emperors* of Japan as never any Christian in these part of the world."
(*Note - Europeans at the time often didn't understand the distinction between the title of Emperor and Shogun. In this instance, he is referring to Ieyasu and his successor Hitada).
What a truly beautiful and incredible show highlighting a great symbolic story. Thank you for covering this mini series, Pete 🙌🏼
Also, that shared smirk between Toronaga and Yabushige during his seppuku 😉
This has been an incredible show, and following along with your series has made it all the better. Thank you for everything you've done.
The look that Yabushige gave Toranaga before he cut his head off was incredible. So much in that look.
the series has left with with such complex emotions, even feeling teary at how beautiful the scenes were, how meaningful the script was, the source material clearly represented and how well they were performed by the cast! 10/10 from me!
A dream of a dream applies both to Blackthorne’s dream of returning to England & Toranaga’s dream of being Shogun
But only one dream was made into reality.
Which one was real??? I thought the cross was in the lake or ocean
@@ADivaForLife toranagas dream is real
Finally you were behind on this one compared to the other shogun RUclipsrs I had to watch someone else’s this morning 😢but I’m here to support now lol 😂
Thanks for all the reviews. The ending was masterful, as the rest of the series. Definitively one of the best TV shows I've ever watched. I think one of the main questions they want us to ponder is if the end justify any means. Toranaga obviously did...do we?
Thank you for an extraordinary discussion (here and previous videos), I really enjoyed it and concur with most of what you say about this awesome series and the source, Clavell's book (fan of Clavell's Asian Saga books). My only major disappointment is that about halfway through the series it realised it was a miniseries and there wasn't going to be second season!
Japanese actors that they cast and did the production in Canada, were almost all superb. "Fuji" was a family favorite. Within that great finale, Fuji and John Blackthorne had killer scenes.
Well, Fuji and blackthorn end up together in the books.
@sailingadventurer Historically, Blackthorn (William adams) character remarried a japanese woman and has two children however was never allowed to leave japan and so, would send home money to help support his first wife and 2 children in England.
That scene with Fuji and Blackthorn sitting alone without Mariko is deep. Then he says, "No translator" is truly heart wrenching.
Not often that I completely agree with a reviewer, but you nailed this one, as did the showrunners.
Pete rocks. Always brings excellent analysis
thanks for the thorough review
Thank you, Pete, for this incredibly deep and thoughtful synopsis of the final episode and the series. Excellent work.
I loved the series, the cast & the ending. I completely concur that not showing the battle was a good decision. It’s not necessary, but I guess some might be disappointed.
It def wasn’t necessary how the show ended wasn’t good though. It did feel rushed. Because ep 9 was peak. Left with a lot more questions. They really used the actors to carry the show with what the writers couldn’t do, still good show just not my favorite with how it ended and that criticism doesn’t include a big battle. I genuinely disagree with how it ended didn’t even show the regents turning on ishido, saying the war was won before a sword was lifted. Based on the books it’s true but in real life it wasn’t many battles took place, and if they took the creative liberty to keep mariko alive and make her a major role to help Ochiba make a last minute choice, they could’ve had the creative liberty to appease to the mainstream which would’ve introduced many people to the Edo period.
Love your thoughtful, perceptive and comprehensive breakdown. A worthy companion piece to a masterful show.
I was disappointed not reading about Sekigahara over 20 years ago, and I am disappointed not seeing it now (somewhere in the middle I was disappointed by not seeing it in the 80s series). That said, Shogun is still one of my favorite books and I think the series will be one of my favorite series (I will give it time to digest). I have read James Clavell's other works and they didn't really stick with me, his type of story and story telling isn't the type of storytelling I enjoy, which makes the fact that Shogun is something I find masterful all the better.
Gotta give the show credit for being different and good.
Really looked forward to your review. You didn’t disappoint.
Yeah he was late compared to the other shogun RUclips’s I had to watch someone else’s this morning 😂
After a full season with no problems this one kept giving me a copyright claim and it took hours to sort it and get it uploaded. I know I'm slower than most so I'm glad to see a lot of people are willing to wait.
@@PetePeppers1 I frequently rewatch the finale review of The Expanse. It's that good. So yes, your work is worth the wait, and in my experience, always so. A big thank you once again.
Awesome review throughout, the breakdown of each episode was great
I didn't understand the whole coma dream/ crucifix thing watching the other day. Makes a lot more sense now, thanks.
1:44 Poetry are not for everyone, but for those who try to write them, poems may embody a writer's essence in simple stanzas. For Yabushige, his death poem reveals his straightforward mindset. Like shallow Koi ponds, where Yabu literally and metaphorically stood in, he too swims near the surface for all to see, unobstructed. Hence, would be easily manipulated by deeply layered plotters whose motives are buried below surface, invisible to the eyes.
"My dead body.
Don't bury me. Don't burn me. Just leave it in the field.
And with it, fill the belly of some hungry dog."
I liked this video and all the others on this channel about Shogun, an excellent TV series.
A few more thoughts about episode 10. The video covered a lot but I’ll add some more. Yabushige (Yabu) tells Toranaga *”All this death … just to ensure some victory in our names… It’s what you’ve always wanted, isn’t it?”*
Yes, but while Yabu is beginning to understand the deeper plans of Toranaga, Yabu hasn’t fully realized how deep it can go.
- Because of Mariko’s friendship and death, Ochiba has told Toranaga that she has agreed to not support Ishido in the upcoming battle. Ochiba doesn’t realize it but that will be a death sentence for her and her son, the heir.
- Toranaga plays on powerful people’s emotions, he makes promises to them, he gets people to back down, all of it for his advantage.
- Ishido was going to marry Ochiba. Ishido, who came from a peasant lineage, was pledged to the heir which gave Ishido legitimacy. Toranaga who comes from a samurai family not only has no need for the heir but Toranaga has always seen the heir as a threat to his dream of becoming Shogun.
In the future Toranaga (Tokugawa) will keep maneuvering and fighting the heir and his mother until they are forced to commit seppuku.
A PS about Blackthorne; I was fine with Toranaga keeping the Anjin alive for amusement. The Anjin was no threat to Toranaga (Tokugawa) so, they could have a friendship without all the political maneuvering which dominated the ruling elite of Japan.
The series so far exceeded my expectations! It was beautifully written and wonderfully acted. Yabushige was such a source of comic relief.
Thank you for bringing to light that the flash-forward was just a dream. I couldn’t quite wrap my head around that and it was rather confusing - until seeing this video! Now I can appreciate the finale and thee whole series even more.
Anjin actually married a Japanese woman according to my wife Yoko. I loved this series. I lived in Japan for over a decade and I never realized what Anjinzuka was or who it was named after.....I'm almost ashamed to admit it considering how often I used that train station in Yokosuka Japan.
The real life John Blackthorne (William Adams) did settle in japan and had a japanese wife and kids
@@Xynic48
In Clavell's novel "Noble House" Blackthorne's female descendant gave the Taipan of Noble House vital trade info
Great video. Excellent insight on this wonderful series. It's been a long time since I have been emotionally invested into a tv series like this one.
I have to say I have I have a lot of conflicting emotions with Toronaga. I guess I need time to absorb with what I've just seen. I don't think they need to do a season 2. Why ruin a masterpiece?
Keep up the great work.
Kudos to the writers. Every episode was well done. The finale tied everything up wonderfully. Mariko got what she wanted serving her lord and she makes arrangements to give Anjin what he wanted, life. Though I think he questioned his choice towards the end.
You know? Poetry recitation has been recognized as a part of the culture of samurai and aristocrats for more than 1,000 years. Therefor there is still the Emperor poetry session in Japan every year, and even Emperor or someone of their family reads a poetry in public every year!
Thank you so much for these videos that helped me understand the meaning behind each episode. Phenomenal series.
Pete, you are amazing dude! Such great analysis. You made an already amazing show 10 times better. Thanks!
Extraordinary show. And thanks for the fantastic summary reviews.
Wunderbar - Your episode recaps we’re fantastic. They really helped me understand and gave me a greater appreciation of the series.
My favorite part was when Yabushige was like "You know, Toranaga-sama, you really are the Shogun."
I liked his character alot even though I hoped he would die much earlier
Yes! I waited for your video on this! I love your summaries.
well said. I bet a lot of viewers were expecting an epic “Crimson Sky” battle but instead got a lot more philosophy than expected. People will overlook the idea of winning a battle without fighting one is a more difficult and noble feat than actually fighting one. It irks me reading comments comparing this to GoT or worse copying GoT.
Well, it's GoT's if one of the key players actually makes everyone else their pawn for the good of the realm.
Yeah was a letdown I think everyone was expecting some sort of action
@@XXAnthonyCarmineXx I'll take good story over pointless action.
The final was boring.
George RR Martin has said he loved the book Shogun and I think it's influence on Game of Thrones is pretty easy to see.
Your analyses were outstanding
Yabushige previously said the exact same line to Omi, ``Why tell a dead man the future?'' In the first episode, there was a scene where they discuss whether to report weapons from overseas to Toranaga.
At the last moment, Yabushige realized that Toranaga knew this.
Then they smile back at each other.
I think you may have missed the detail where Toranaga lets Yabu know that his nephew was a spy since it was Yabu who originally said the line about telling dead men the future which was probably why they smiled at each other. Or at least you didn't bring it up.
Oooh good spot!!
I didn’t catch that, good catch
Great catch! I wondered how he knew about that line. Of course it was the nephew! Smart kid.
This was easily one of the best tv-series I've watched, maybe even the best. Attention to historical detail going as far as real death poems, age-correct footwear and hell even having cast learn time correct dialect of Japanese is not something you will ever see in fully western productions these days. Also I absolutely loved the ending, and don't think they should make more even if it saddens me that I never got to see Anijn and Toranaga on his fleet together.
Thoroughly enjoyed your expositions, well done, sir. 👏
Thankyou.
The last episode was beautiful. It was perfect.
Anytime i had doubts on how the the story and show was progressing the writers always bring me back in. One of the best screenplay of all time
Tokyo Vice n Shogun ... best tv shows so far ... perfect endings.
Japanese actors r in a totally different league.
Great breakdown Pete. I also appreciate the insight you brought having read the book. Are you planning to do a new video now that we’re getting two more seasons?
I am glad they opted to not include an epic war scene. A spectacle like that would have distracted from Toranaga's true accomplishment of arranging all the right pieces and checking without an all out battle.
Very questionable decisions from him
Then don’t put the show on the FX channel (the literal home of action movies) this show should of been on The Women’s Entertainment Network…
@@AirborneAntgo and watch some Transformers movies if you can't cope with drama.
Yeah but it was a letdown
@@XXAnthonyCarmineXx a gigantic letdown…they’ll hide it under “subverting expectations”…but that’s just an excuse of falling short and not hitting the mark…
Thank you for these videos. Makes watching a great series even better.
Good explanation.I particularly like the historical background included in the explanation. Thank you.
Thanks for your good review of the show, Here are a few remarks:
In the book, the ship was destroyed as a gift to the Christians, but more importantly to Kiyama as a proof of his sincerity that he wasn't an enemy to the
catholics and to get Kiyama to switch sides during the coming battle. The series wasn't far off that, but I think it left out the turning Kiyama reference.
The other point in Marino's actual mission to Osaka was to confront Ishido and free the hostages so several Daimyos could then flip allegiance to Toranaga. This was done by Mariko both to further the cause of her lord Toranaga but also to fulfill her most inner desire which was to honor the memory of her father and fulfillment of a primary rule of Samurai culture as stated in the book, ie to not rest until the murderer of her father was avenged and her innermost desire to die due to the shame of being spared from the slaughter of her entire family at the hands of the Taiko. She and Toranaga both knew that was her secret desire and that was what was behind the bonfire remark by Toranaga in 10.. In the book I believe Toranaga thought in one act she destroyed all her enemies which were also Toranaga's.
Lastly the most serious mistake to me in the show was the first episode when Blackthorne first met Toranaga. The series chopped that crucial establishing scene and thereby butchered a major theme in the book, Alvito undermines Blackthorne at that 1st meeting by explaining that his allies the Dutch were in rebellion against their lawful liege lord, Spain. This was the central political issue Toranaga was embroiled in, because he was accused of seeking to rebel against the heir of the Taiko, his liege lord. Per the book, obedience to one's liege lord was at the core of Japanese culture and disobedience was punishable by death, which is why Toranaga insisted that there were no mitigating circumstances for rebelling against your lawful liege lord. Then Blackthorne said there is one mitigating circumstance and that was "Unless you win". This scene crystallized the heart of Tornado's story, and was essential to establishing how the feudal system nominally worked in Japanese law but not always in reality, and the tension of Toranaga's quest apart from his public stance; yet the show runners trivialized this major thematic plot line into why fight the Catholics if you can't win, which missed this major plot point. To me this was an unforgivable plot change made for no good reason.
Other changes didn't really bother me as much. At the end of the day, I thought episodes 9 and 10 were wonderful on their own merits. The acting in 9 when Ochiba and Mariko have their last conversation was so brilliant by both women it made the whole show better for me. Also in 10 the scene with Fuji in the boat was very poignant and using Yabu to let Toranaga explain what he was really doing was a clever idea. I thought the Oldman Blackthorne scenes were unnecessary and I really didn't see the value you did in them. Of course the production values, attention to detail and the acting throughout the series was beautiful.
Thank you for your synopsis of the series, it was really good.
Yabushige later, at his end, asks "What is it like to shape the wind to your will?" shortly before we move ahead in time to watch the Dream within a Dream.
Remember how Toranaga says "I don't control the wind, I only study it" , it coincides with the brothel lady who says "Fate is like a sword, only useful to those who wield it"
Toranaga never controls the wind; like the wind and the sword; he simply studies its form and plan with the flow
Notice also that Mariko mistranslates virtually everything Blackthorne says so as not to offend anyone. Except for when she translates Kiku's ("brothel lady") words. Is this because she hopes Blackthorne will learn how to be a bit more Japanese in his attitudes, or because she wants a successful "pillowing" to distract him from lusting after her?
The ending was as poetic and obscure as Japanese mysticism. Very brave and wonderful. Few shows command respect like ShoGun.
Great Video! Your VO is a little low frequency heavy. Please pull down about -6dB out at 160hz with an EQ plugin. Currently it is very difficult to understand what your're saying
Very helpful, I would say...as a missionary who has served in Japan for 40 years now, And before that, as a missionary kid in Sendai. BTW, I thought I caught a tiny misspelling which should have been Ieyasu, the Shogun. But many thanks for your labors.
Tremendous breakdown. Super encouraged me to watch Shogun again. I'm surprised there's talk of Season 2....but very pleased! Possibly the best period piece ever from a set / costume authenticity standpoint. The 'cityscapes' were a bit CGI-ish but nothing egregious.
The moment the two men share before Yabu dies was beautiful. Seemed like Yabu himself saw the irony in all the work/time he spent playing both sides to attempt to save himself from what he thought was the sinking ship Toranaga clan, only to learn that he was jumping onto Ishido's actual sinking ship.
When he finally gets his just reward and stabs himself, it is as if for a brief moment his sins were completely absolved and his last moments alive he feels almost proud. He is acknowledging Toranaga's great brilliance and cunning, recognizing his victory, and feeling honor that his lord won despite the odds (and OH YEAH his own working against him)... all encapsulated within and communicated through that cheeky little Yabu smirk he gives Toranaga.
Never read the book or to be honest had any interest in watching the show. I took a chance on it when there was only 2 episodes out and I have to say I'm glad I did. I was very happy with the show I have recommended it to many people. I appreciate the back story and the break down or the final episode.
That’s really super. The spoilers ahead prove there’s a lot to unpack from this great series. My take, not that Goyer’s was that Toranaga told Ochoba No-kata that Ishido would undoubtedly kill the heir. Mariko’s death poem about the leafless tree or whatever was, to me, the prelude to that letter. This series was like the wind, and I’ll watch again to peg my theory. I’m hoping for a continuation of some kind, but I’d rather hold my tongue than breath.
I agree that the battle sequence was not needed. Tomonaga's willingness to sacrifice those dear to him for the unification of Japan is very reminiscent of many Chinese Movies such as "Hero" which have the same thought.
I can't help but wonder if his ultimate goal was unification of the country for it's sake or for his own ambition. Both? Or in reality of fate they can't be seperated.
Agree! I think “both” is most likely.
"Why tell a dead man the future" is what Yabushige told Omi when he asked him why he hasn't told Toranaga about the foreign ship. Omi was another spy for Toranaga all along.
I appreciate how it ended at the beginning of the end, and focuses on how Toronaga check-mated his enemies in his mind before any player could realize the game was over for them and the future written for Japan. Beautiful.
Thank you for your summaries. I was angry that they showed you the ending in the first sequence. I was angry as well because he had the cross which he threw into the sea. Then you explained that it was his dream for the future. Having said that I think that it should have been more obvious that it was a dream because it lead to assumptions that were correct. I found you with Foundation and enjoy all your videos, also I never watch before, only after I have seen that episode, which included not watching the preview trailer for the last Shogun episode. I look forward to watching more of your videos in the future. ALL the best.
Good job showing the connections with historical figures and the book. It enriches the perspective for those, like me, that didn’t know the inspiration/material for the show.
I like Japanese culture, so the character’s actions don’t come as a complete surprise, but I loved the show.
Most shows these days are disappointing, or they change too much etc. Shogun was the first show in a long time, as far back as I can recall that I couldn't wait for the next episode. This is how storytelling needs to be. Amazing how in the last year, the best movie that was a total surprise was Godzilla Minus One and then this adaptation of Shogun being produced and starring Hiroyuki Sanada. This show was a masterpiece.
Amazing summary of each episode. Thank you so very much.
I don’t think Torenaga really meant that Anjin just makes him laugh truthfully. His next step was to completely shut down the window into his secret heart, so I think that statement was a half-truth, a closing of the window and a direct “fuck you” to Yabu’s earlier “you have me to thank for the Anjin”. Hia final “fuck you” though was not keeping silent on whether or not he wanted to be Shogun, but citing him the quote Yabu -whispered- to Omi, with his most trusty adviser right behind them, letting Yabu know someone close to him was Torenaga’s spy all along and never letting him know who it really was.
Amazing summery. Thank you
really impressed. Best of the year so far.
The smile at Yabushige got me really thinking. Was Yabushige correct in thinking that this was all to get Toranaga to become shogun and was that smile just confirming it
Great job covering this. That last scene was an emotional kick in the chest.
What a detailed explanation! I liked Mariko how changed the translation especially from Anjin to Toranaga. Without her, their relationship will be destroyed by misunderstanding!
U4 breakdown for this show is so far the best, thank u
The silence, the facial expressions, the eyes, are excellent. We, the audience, are expected to read the air.
Great video, it was great to hear how their real life counterparts played out, thanks.