I’m quite impressed with Sanada’s portrayal of Toranaga, in that, for those versed in the history it’s based on, it’s like seeing Tokugawa Ieyasu in the flesh. The way Torunaga’s quiet, firm, unfailingly shrewd and clever presence just dominates a room shows that Sanada has clearly modeled his portrayal on the actual figure. In that sense, we are in fact getting “good history” even within a fictional tale-something we can all agree is almost totally lacking these days.
This is a great review. I don't agree that Sanada isn't portraying Toranaga well. In the book, Toranaga is an incredible actor. Hiding his ruthlessness and ambition, under a benevolent exterior. He uses everyone -- even Mariko -- but makes it seem like it's their idea. I think Sanada is showing this.
@@carloslwanga3143 Spot on here. While I really hate this phrase, it's super apt here. Toranaga is playing chess while everyone else around him is playing checkers. I feel like @ The shogunate is conflating historical Tokugawa with fictional Toranaga in his review. They may be loosely based on the same person, but they aren't the same. Toranaga in the book/mini-series/new series is not the same. He is constantly playing the long game and moving his pawns around the board. Even the use of Blackthorne is meant as a way for him to avoid death, rather than the useful tool he'll become later on in the series. And Sanada is capturing this perfectly. Amazing job!
i agree with @CommonSwindler, Sanada's Toranaga so far is calm, contemplative, a Grandmaster of politics and strategy. His quiet demeanor shows that he is calculating his options and plotting many steps ahead.
Toranaga saw Blackthorne initially as a tool to delay his death and nothing else, as this was explained in a scene between Toranaga and Mariko. It may not have been in the original book but this added plot adds extra depth to the cunningness of Toranaga which I much enjoyed.
There was no need to do that, unless it was to explain it ion a basic way so that dense people could get it! Sadly that's what we get nowadays, everything has to be explained to an American audience.
@user-nz6dx2fj6h as an American, you need stop blaming us for this stuff as it's unfounded. 35% of Americans have an undergrad, 4 of 5 of the world's top universities are here and we put men on the moon with slide rules. We're not stupid, we're overworked. Also that was a production choice.
@@Stevie-L-n8g Perhaps I'm a bit dense but I am a bit dense but I didn't get that at that point in the story and it was quite an important information for me. Imo the adaption has to tell a lot in a short time and for a viewer it can get harder to follow than in a book where you go at your own pacing. I totally agree that over exposition is a very bad evolution of cinema but in this point I felt it was justified. Again I might just be an ignorant westener viewer or you see the show through the glens of someone already aware of the story and don't reliese that some exposition is needed at this point of the story.
And all I'm saying is that there was no need, The Book Toronaga would never have consulted anyone but himself, which makes it an attempt to 'Big Up' the Mariko character. And I thought Hollywood was over trying to make women out to be Alphas!
@@sneakysunset1765 I read it in two days, it's not that big a book! What you really mean is that they had to dumb it down for al the thick-heads out there. And IMO they have failed across the board.
The fact that this story is being retold says everything. It's a story that is worth retelling in a modern way, with the best actors and the best cinematic technology. I greatly appreciate the hearts and minds that have combined to bring this depiction to me, an American boy who lived in Japan.
I personally miss the kinda hidden threats between ishido and toranaga. I feel this version kinda tosses that away and ishido just openly is hostile to him.
@@Stevie-L-n8g I don't think you read.my.entire thing because if you did you would have seen yoshido was a typo caused.by my.phone. just like all the periods in this lol.
Toranaga is a man of patience. He does not show outward emotions nor reveals much to anyone except his closest advisers. Sanada's portrayal seems to highlight this. I could be wrong but this could be a vehicle to show the Noh play that Toranaga plays later on.
Once upon a time, when I was a university student, our Japanese History professor summed up the Big Three (Oda Nobunaga, Toyotomt Hideyoshi and Tokugawa ieyasu) so: Confronted with a non-singing bird, their reactions were: Oda Nobunaga: "I'll KILL you if you don't sing! Toyotomi Hideyoshi: "I'm going to MAKE you sing! Tokugawa Ieyasu: "I'll WAIT until you sing."
Toranaga is also a nioh player. meaning any outside signs emotions might just be expert acting. while sanada is a amazing actor he doesnt really show this yet.
Ahh, yes Cosmo is the guy Tommy gets out of the asylum to assassinate Mosley in Peaky Blinders 🤷♀️ I really loved the first 2 episodes of this show. They really took a lot of care in making this authentic...which makes it very immersive.
You should also check out Cosmo Jarvis' music. He's really good. his song Gay Pirates is so good. He also did a movie with Barry Keoghan called Calm with Horses. In america its called the shadow of violence
In the show they explain that Toranaga feels Blackthorne will be useful before meeting him because he is aware the ship and it's crew are not Portuguese. As a deadman walking he was willing to take any semblance of a political play to his side, including the guns and cannons that were on the ship, even if the odds it would help him were slim. Fortunately for him the play ends up being quite the boon, but with its own sets of complications. Sanada's Toranaga seems to be going for a very shrewd and cunning version of the character akin to Tywin Lannister in GoT. I love seeing him moving pieces in place to see what comes of it and then having the cleverness and boldness to take action and make more moves as a result. I for one am really enjoying this version of the character so far even though he is as you say quite different from the book.
In the original story, Toronaga never felt 'Like a dead man walking', that wasn't in him as he'd been a hostage many times as a child and young man all his life and it made him much more careful in his plotting.
Couple things. First, the oppressive, stormy, foggy, and cold intro had a visually thematic purpose. Second, the show made pretty clear by showing us, that Toranaga was receiving messages via messenger bird. They also had that bastard that enjoys boiling people alive specifically say ‘there’s a spy in this village’. Multiple scenes that should’ve have clearly conveyed that Toranaga was getting information about what was happening, and a clear reason why he would know about John before meeting him.
With all due respect, stormy weather, foggy, etc. Is a cliche for almost any series, film, these days. It's easy, even if for thematic purposes. And, in the original series adaptation (also the novel) it worked better that Toranaga didn't know about Blackthorne until sometime after his arrival (I think). So, when he shows up at the village Lord Yabu is surprised (also afraid), and you realize he's trying to keep this from Toranaga - works better for the story. I could be wrong thou.
@@Kerwin-Kendell a cliche yes. but it works. its the right tool though to feel and sympathise with blackthorn stranded in this horrible barbaric inhumane place at least until he actually finds out how to maneuver in this new world
@@Kerwin-Kendell - I think there’s going to be a difference of opinion on what works and doesn’t between people with no familiarity with the source or previous movie and people experiencing the story for the first time (like myself). If you know how the story is ‘supposed’ to go or how the previous adaptation did it you’re going to have expectations and presumptions that I simply won’t. That could explain why I’m reading it much differently.
@@footthumb that's a good point, hadn't thought of it this way. I read the novel & watched the 80's adaptation, and knew the new series would be very different.
@@KillyBilly141 okay, I agree a cliché can be useful, thou still don't like the use in the series. Also, I think your view of Japan (in the series) is a bit much. The culture def was brutal, seriously unfair in many ways, but it was equally as beautiful, advanced & great.
Toranaga’s interest in Blackthorne stems from the reactions that the Portuguese Catholics have towards him. He is a heretic and his mere presence is causing some division between the catholic daimiyos. He explains in Ep 2 that the regents can’t impeach him if they are divided thus why Blackthorne is useful to Toranaga. And Toranaga knows this because he has a spy in the village where Blackthorne arrives.
The podcast that follows FX's Shōgun provides more insight into the show, the production and the changes. They changed/altered the names of most characters in this adaptation in order to be more historically accurate in accordance to contemporary 1600 Japan.
@@killrsloth9187 In the book, some of the names of the characters are very modern, in comparison to the Sengoku era/beginning of the Edo period of Japan which is when Shōgun is set. One of the key aspects of this adaptation was authenticity. Therefore they focused on the details and being as authentic as possible hence names being slightly altered such as Fujiko becoming Fuji and Yabu becoming Yabushige, same approach can be applied to any changes in the political structure. The podcast which is available on RUclips is well worth a listen, it actually provides a lot of handy and interesting insight into the show as well as providing contextual history to help better understand the show and time period.
@@ciello___8307 I guess if they used the real names, it's less of a historical fiction and more a historical retelling/documentary style thing which is not what the book is, and not what the adaptation wants to be.
@@dharambasi1928 Sadly they buggered the jesuits outfits. They didnt wear all black in japan. Historically they wore the orange silks because the japanese locals found their normal outfits to be in poor quality and wouldnt take them serious. So they adopted the orange colour that monks used to fit their needs. in the fx series they decided to switch them all to black.
If they were to film in Japan, it would take 3 years to edit and digitally remove the millions of houses and modern structures. There is hardly a square inch of Japan that isn’t touched by modern people. I’m sure it was really hard to find any sets in Japan, except of course for the beautiful castles and keeps. That looks legit. But those who know, know that we are only seeing a small portion of the inside of the castles and keeps. I’m glad they showed how they actually were back in that time. (Sort of) That would be a good video, compare the castles in the show with what it really was in 1600 ad.
lol the Japanese countryside is vast and open, but filming logistics would be a nightmare. The countryside is heavily forested or mountainous (and often both) plus far from modern necessities for filming such an epic production. That being said, Canada would be a better choice as there are vast tracts of more preferred open spaces with close locality to the film industry in British Columbia (where a lot of popular tv shows and movies are filmed). Having to both countries in my lifetime, I’d have chosen Canada as the overall filming location as well.
@@baleksander000 There's also the bureaucracy of filming in Japan by a foreign outfit. The red tape would delay it by years if not decades. Each prefecture, city, town, neighborhood, local associations would have to approve. And Japan in general has a strong NIMBY mindset.
@lsayid5654 I was going to reply with a similar comment. People make also sorts of comments about Japan who have never been to the place or have a limited experience of it. As you pointed out, there is plenty of countryside with vast heavily forested areas. It is simply a matter of logistics and extra cost to actually film in those areas.
@@Skeletors_Closet It sound as if you are the agitated one. There are facts about Japan of which it is clear you are not aware of and have made a comment that is simply wrong. It isn't a matter of interpretation. Why not admit that you made a mistake?
At first, the series seemed almost rushed to me. The original miniseries was more evenly paced. However, when I realized that I was making comparisons in my head between the two and not the book itself - I spent early this morning re-watching the first 2 episodes. It is just a bit rushed, but not like I'd initially taken it to be. And by itself, its outstanding thus far.
It feels a bit rushed to me too, but I'm OK with it. I think it's because they are adding all of the subtitled Japanese language political maneuvering, which means there is less time for Blackthorne. It's a trade off, and I'm OK with it, but I think it may turn off casual viewers. It seems to be a turn-off for my wife. It makes me appreciate the original mini-series, where they made the (probably correct) decision to focus on the story almost entirely from Blackthorne's point of view. Of course, audiences have moved on, and I think we're ready for a more complex telling of this story.
@@TheMalfean the owner of the show complains a lot . Tell this weeb youtuber japanese historian men to shut up . Sanada is japanese and knows how to show their culture more than some weeb from ranting in youtube . Sanada is the producer he knows more about japanese history
Just one of those lovely basement dwellers who have no idea of how to behave amongst people. They are rude creatures, no body tried to raise them right. 😂
I loved both episodes. It’s so difficult to do Sengoku era films well so I try not to be overly critical. I thought this was going to be great though and so far it’s surpassing my high expectations.
It’s pretty decent as far as accuracy…much better than the 1980s version. If I was still teaching, I’d show this in my World History classes…with guided narration of course. It’s very entertaining thus far…can’t wait for new episodes in the coming weeks.
I really liked the set design and costumes as well. I liked the gritty feel outside the castle and the pristine cleanliness inside the castle. I thought the acting was solid too. I’m into it. I loved the original as a kid watching the mini-series with my dad.
Shame, you should have read the book first, watched the original series and then watched this one, except I guarantee that you too would have been as disappointed as I.
@@Stevie-L-n8g Sounds like it's better to first watch this series without expectations and possible disappointment, then read the book and maybe re-watch again.
@@Stevie-L-n8g Sounds like it's better to enjoy this series without expectations and possible disappointment, and then read the book afterwards. I'm a terribly slow reader anyway. Also, I'd like to read the book in my native language (Finnish) to really catch all the nuances, but at the moment there aren't any prints available. Hopefully the popularity of the new series will change that. If they won't print the book in Finnish, then I'll just read the English version.
Given that the eighties version was one of my first views on Japan and the Samurai genre, I was looking forward to this new series a lot. I changed a lot since then, having made many trips to Japan and marrying a Japanese, so there being more Japanese language use was in no way off-putting to me. Actually, my first reaction was that I was happy with the switch in "camera focus": The old series told the story from Blackthorne's perspective, with any Japanese politics and drama being moved to the background, using English language voice-overs to explain lightly what was happening. Now we finally get the Japanese viewpoint in full focus. I love that. What I think may be a thing is that, having grown up in the north-east of the Netherlands, I am totally used to foreign-language use in TV and film. Practically everyone in that part of the Netherlands had two antennas on the roof (well, initially three actually, as UHF and VHF needed different ones, but let's not go into that), one aimed at the south to get the two Dutch channels (yes, that was all we had), the other pointed east to get some German channels. Replacing foreign language tracks with local voice-actors was done in Germany, but not in the Netherlands. So any English, German, or French language use (or local dialects, for that matter), got subtitles as a matter of course. I would not be surprised that North Americans, not getting much exposure to this effect, would find large scale foreign language use something they have trouble with.
The original miniseries wanted to put you in Blackthorne's shoes, with all of his confusion. They wanted you to learn about Japan as he did, which precluded showing you all of the machinations going on in the background.
Good review, looking forward to more as the series progresses. Been looking forward to Shogun for forever and it did not disappoint. Sanada is superb; I think we are going to see them reveal more and more about him moving forward that he has his own machinations and it will turn out to be quite ruthless, and that we will come to see Ishido (I do wish they'd just use the historical names, but I get why they don't) in a more sympathetic light and Toranaga less so. In any event, cannot wait for more!
I just watched the first two episodes on FX. I loved it! The only thing I had a problem with was the Portuguese actors speaking English when they were supposed to speak Portuguese. I liked that I could understand them because they were actually speaking English but it ruins the immersion when the Japanese actors speak Japanese but the Portuguese actors speak English. They could have had them speak Portuguese with English subtitles just like with the Japanese speaking actors.
As a portuguese, at least they are not speaking spanish or brazilian portuguese as it is usual in hollywood. "Representation" is only for certain groups
But then they would need a three way translation since the main character is not portuguese or japanese speaker and therefore would be completely isolated as nobody in that place could speak english.
one minor correction is that by the end of the episode one, a fellow-sailor informs Blackthorne of a Japanese belief that “every man has three hearts: one in his mouth, for the world to know; one in his chest, just for his friends; and a secret heart buried deep where no one can find it.” its the mask not the heart.
Nah, Yabu was a freak in the book. Of all the things I was kind of disappointed by, I thought Lord Yabu was pretty spot on so far. It's hard to look at someone else other than Mifune as Toranaga though. Respect to him.
I am glad Yabu is becoming a more three dimensional character than he was in the 80`s series. In that show he felt like just another samurai that just happened to do what he did.
I think it's good that there are changes from the book and the 1980 series. It really gives room for the actors to interpret the characters and to add something new to the story instead of repeating identical portrayals that have already been put to screen.
Yes, Yabu is despicable in a lot of ways. But I find it impossible not to like him. Asano the actor is a pretty charismatic guy, and he does a really good job of portraying Yabu as a devil with a dashing smile. I can appreciate how he's in it all for himself, but he's constantly struggling with having to follow duty and loyalty, even when he sees how it's leading him into disaster.
The first two episodes of this series have been well put together, the sets, the sound editing, and the costumes are great. I love how they are putting the pieces together, but like you, I am wondering how it came that Toranaga "knew" that Blackwell was going to be an ally in what was coming. Either way, it seems that the people they have cast for each part are bringing something special to it and I can't wait for the next episodes to come out. It is looking epic so far.
Sometimes I wish you guys would just chill and enjoy what's being shown on the screen. I'm 61. Soon to be 62. I read the book when it first came out and I watched the original series when it came out, and after watching the first two episodes, I'm loving it. Additionally, unlike you, I am absolutely stoked about seeing Hiroyuki Sanada as Toranaga. To me, he's the perfect person to play this part because HE'S RECOGNIZABLE. I have enjoyed watching him perform for the last 20 years and I am very happy that they chose him for this part. For me, he's the actor that I wanted to see in this part so get rid of your bias against him and try and enjoy the series like I am.
The crew immediately thrown in the cellar, Hiromatsu’s grandson-in-law’s death seemed to omit some of the subtlety of Omi and Toranaga’s behavior. But l’ve read the book at least a dozen times, so I’m biased.
just started and I'm liking it. Clearly we have much more research on the period. I think the politics is important because is shows just how confused and factional it was at this point
It's supposed to be entertainment son, based on a fictional representation of that period. Read the book and get educated. Even watch the first series done.
As far as atmosphere...Maybe blackthorne arrived during the monsoon? He also challenges everything Mariko thought she knew about the world and her faith, i have no doubt she'd be cold toward him.
Mariko worries me. To me she was one of the best represantation of the culture in the older show. Always a facade of gentleness and patience but you could sense a world underneath. Unsure about this "in your your face" portrail
I understand what you're saying. "Anna Sawai" is a wonderful actress. However, ``Anasawai'' does not look Japanese. She looks Chinese or Filipino. She grew up in New Zealand, Hong Kong, and the Philippines. (It is unknown, but her parents may not be Japanese. ← Mystery) Expressionless faces are scary. A troubled expression looks angry. Fumi Nikaido, who plays the villain, has a gentleness even within her stern expression. She looks Japanese. She wanted the role of Mariko to be played by an actress who could imitate Japanese facial expressions and gestures. In 1980 it was possible. ←Of course.
@@zerosikisaga what are you saying. she looks japanese. yes, her demeanor is more "western" cause she wasn't born in japan but she is definitely Japanese still
Did you watch the second episode? Blackthorne had just revealed to mariko that her entire belief system of 14 years was a manipulation to help the Portuguese Catholics overthrow her sacred and revered political society. She was of course stand offish towards him after such a worldview shattering moment. Her faith in Catholicism seemingly at threat of being eroded by political subversion
I don’t like how they named Alvito Tsuji instead of Tsuku. Furthermore, in the book, Toranaga doesn’t allow Fujiko’s husband to commit seppuku; he insults him quite a lot and makes him crawl outside to be cut down. He says something like: “How dare you say Lord Ishido insulted me. I will have you and your entire bloodline removed, and your corpse will be displayed for everyone to mock. Below it will be an inscription that reads ‘this man was born samurai by mistake’”
I availed disney+ to watch this in the hopes of it to be completed, then I saw it was still on episode 2 , like damn i have to wait for weeks to watch it, ugh! I can't wait for other episodes to be released, I love japans history so much! i wish they always make something like this
I think the atmosphere of the opening scene was a good way to show that the village of Ajiro was pretty derelict and not a major fiefdom. I think it was a great use of equipment to communicate the scene. 😊
The blue filter approach was a way to shoot a dark, bleak scene without lowering the light as shooting on low light conditions can be costly. Unfortunately, it has become so ubiquitous in this decade's films that it has become a calling card of a film trying to be "serious".
Hiroyuki Sanada was in fact one of the samurai Tom cruise trained with in that movie! Sanada has actually been in quite a few movies like John wick 4 and 47 Ronin. often taking roles of either samurai or samurai-like characters. actually a great actor
I was a big Toshiro Mifune fan back in the day, he was in the first Shogun series but Richard Chamberlain wasn't that great as Anjin.@@rwagingsloth9528
For me, I really appreciated the Blackthorn emphasis on figuring out what's going on in Japan in the 80's series rather than the constant hopping between the multitude of perspectives- though I'm infinitely more grateful for the modern Blackthorn's acting over the stiffness of Richard Chamberlain. I agree fully about the Toranaga wariness as well, which only gets relieved slightly at the very end of episode 2.
Blackthorne just showed the arrogance of the Europeans waltzing into their lands to do piracy under the guise of a Letter of Marque. He demands explanations and rights he no longer has and slowly realizes that he is the property of Toranaga and has NO rights or privileges other than what are granted to him. He has value in the information he has and the training he can provide to them on the use of the canons and muskets. He can thrive as long as he proves his usefulness to Toranaga. Great story so far.
so far i love sanada as toranaga. i think his mysterious and wise persona fits him better and makes the cast of characters more diverse. also i loved the grim atmosphere of episode 1, really added to the vibe of the show in my opinion
Quite surprised by the Sanada take. He has been incredible in my opinion, best part of the show honestly lol. His presence just commands respect/fear in every scene.
Only thing that annoyed me is how they did the: "Not if you win" line, This might seem minor, but that is the moment where Toranaga takes an interest in Blackthorn in the book and is hugely important to how the plot progresses.
My husband and I watched Episode 1 last night on Hulu (with subtitles instead of dubbing), and will be watching Episode 2 tonight. The hubby stuck it out through all of Episode 1; however, I retreated to the next room (and just listened to the rest of the episode) when they were boiling the Erasmus crewmember, and viewers could see his half-melted face -- too "gross-out" for me! I watched the 1980 miniseries back in grad school when it was first broadcast, and have since read the book (and purchased the DVD boxed set of the 1980 miniseries). I'll have to wait and see more of this remake before passing judgment on it vs. the book & the previous miniseries. (I'll trust your judgment on the historicity, though, since I expect you have much more detailed knowledge of Japanese history than I do.)
I loved it tbh. I was tense the entire time. It felt like anyone could die at any time and in the most gruesome fashion. Almost more of a horror show lmao. And I wish u hadn't mentioned Canada. U just made so many people see what they hadn't lol
10:44 I understood more that Tononaga was informed by his spy about what was on Blackthorne's ship and his hostility towards the Portuguese and Catholics that made Tononaga see an opportunity
Tadanobu Asano, if I remember, was also in Mortal Kombat 2021 along with Hiroyuki Sanada as Lord Raiden but he has been in other notable movies like Ichi the Killer, Zatoichi (the Takeshi Kitano version), 47 Ronin (the one where the aforementioned Hiroyuki Sanada and some fella called Keanu Reeves are the stars), Silence, Taboo (a samurai BL movie which features Mr Kitano) and the Kiyosu Conference, a jidaigeki comedy which depicts the race to determine the brand new head of the House of Oda.
Have you watched the interview with Clavell that aired on Canadian broadcasting? I seem to remember he talked quite a bit about the book, and his thoughts about the 1980 production, which was at the time an epochal moment in television. The interview actually coincided with the premiere, I believe. I think I remember he was asked why he changed all the character names from the historical figures and fictionalized the plot as much as he did. It was a while ago since I watched it, but I think it was here on YT. If not, it was in the CBC archive online.
I think Sanada's portrayal is a function of the show trying to make Toranaga more sympathetic/a good guy than Tokugawa Ieyasu was in real history. I think the book was doing the same, but I read that more than 20 years ago, so can't recall exactly. The show seems to be trying to make him out as the good and loyal guy in a den of scheming thieves and will likely steer it in such a way that Tornaga will have to "reluctantly" seize power for self-preservation and the safety of Taiko's heir. In history, Ieyasu was far from being the most trusted by Toyotomi Hideyoshi (there was no way in hell Toyotomi would have given Ieyasu Japan if he had won in Korea as the show says, for example), nor was he some sort of fatherly mentor to Hideyori the designated heir. In fact, when Toyotomi took power after Oda Nobunaga's death, Ieyasu fought on the side of Nobukatsu, (Nobunaga's son), against Toyotomi to restore the Oda clans rightful claim, and, even after defeating the other regents and becoming Shogun after Sekigahara, he carried on a vandetta against the Toyotomi clan and basically wiped them out - including having Hideyori's son (Kunimatsu), 7 years old at the time, beheaded at the river Rukujo.
Yeah, not really. And I don't think you are up for the task of critiquing anything! You are just spurting crap the said on the series. read the book and then you'll know what Toraioonaga the fictional character based on the real one really was.
I really enjoyed the first two episodes, and as a viewer who has watched your whole series of Sengoku jidai, it felt like i was reliving history itself.
Thanks for your review. I did enjoy the first two episodes. I LOVE the change in Point of View characters that give a broader interpretation of the books and the first miniseries. These give us wholly, in my opinion, new takes on the characters other than Blackthorn feel. Cant wait to see how it plays out.
I read the novel and am old enough to remember the series and movie back in the '80s. I was waiting for this with bated breath, and it did NOT disappoint! Also, the climate of Japan is mostly sub-tropical (and cold as evidenced by the breath in scenes). They nailed the climate imo.
i grew up watching the Richard Chamberlain Shogun,.. for a kid it was mind blowing and I had to rewatched it few times to really grasp the core of the story. Now I just finished ep 1 and 2 of this new one. Holy Shit,.. Spectacular !!
I think Sanada's Toranaga is very subtle and believable. As in the novel, we meet Toranaga in an impossible trap. Toranaga is a skilled Nō performer, hiding his true intent from both his enemies and his closest allies. I think Sanada does an excellent job of portraying the outward glumness he must in these early episodes to hide his character's true intentions. As the series develops we'll see if he can expand that range and portray the crafty and charismatic leader who rises to ultimate power.
I didn't read the book or watch the 1980 version so I don't know Mariko's role in the course of the story but her character is based on Gracia the daughter of Akechi Mitsuhide (Toranaga mentioned his story-universe name in episode one about however long since he died and how he looked up to him, probably Clavell's assessment of Tokugawas ambition). The real gracia died in 1600 as Ishida took over Osaka castle. I do believe the actress is trying to portray Mariko like Gracia, rather than the in-universe Mariko, being standoffish to show her pride as the daughter of the one that took out the first unifier.
I’m thinking we’ll get more of the characters becoming their own in the next few episodes. I’ll truly judge this Toranaga when they do the dancing scene. I’m happy with it and I think it’s already better than the 80’s adaptation because of the lack of political intrigue which I hear is a massive part of the novel.
First time coming across you, sir. Loved the review. I stumbled upon the series re-release by accident and I was amazed! I'd read the books years ago and it's a story that I've never forgotten l!❤ I was shocked! I have disney Plus and immediately watched it! I agree with most of your points, but as a fan I'm probably very forgiving! I'm watching the 2 episodes as I wrote this and can't wait for more! The books are so intricate and layered, and I am always amazed whenever fil. adaptations even come close to a great book! So far, I'm all in! Please just release them all uggggh 😅
As a long time dorama fan, I recognized so many actors that I like. I am going to hold off watching it until it is finished but I'm looking forward to it.
Great comments. I'm a bit more positive about Toranaga in this series. For example, in the scene where Blackthorne draws a picture in the sand of the way the world has been split between Spain and Portugal, when Toranaga asks Mariko if Blackthorne really said that Japan 'belongs' to Portugal, he says with just the right intonation and tension and there is also a touch of anxiety projected. But I think we can agree to disagree about Toranaga in the first two episodes and I enjoyed your observations.
I remember the 1980's mini series and at that time I was a pre teenager and thought it was boring. I even tried reading the book, but couldn't get past chapter 3 or 5 or something like that. It was about the late 80s or early 90s I started loving history in general and love of anime and other Japanese culture and history that I try to devour as much as I could in Samurai movies especially from Akira Kurosawa. When I saw the first trailer of this series I was hooked and after watching both episodes I appreciate it much more. The one thing that still throws me off is the changing of certain historical names even if this fictionalized. I do recommend this version over the 80s version so far.
Why do daimyos in the series call each other "general"? This term (title) appeared later in France. In Japan, samurai warlords were called "Daimyo" In Japanese - 大名
Dear, sir, you made a perfect background explanation and an excellent review in the best way! 👍👍👍👌💖💖💖 Thank you so very much! In fact, both episodes are incredibly well done in every detail, indeed even in the smallest detail to make us switch back in time to the feudal age of Japan. Just mention that I love the Japanese culture and theirs mindset and behaviors of the society we can only find in the people of Japan! I give 9/10! The efforts and the footage deserve all credit from us followers of this excellent series! (Please forgive my rather poor English writing skills!) Best regards from Sweden! Stay blessed!
Couldn't agree more about the assassination attempt. Even if she was indeed shinobi rather than a monk as described in the show, my immediate thought when I saw her on screen was "finally!" As in, somebody finally got it right. She was completely embedded in the castle and had been for months, and this was how she was portrayed: somebody right under your nose. And even while she was completely bleeding out the side of her neck, she STILL tried to complete her task. One of my favourite scenes in the entire series.
Great review!! I completely understand being caught up on the topography. I grew up in Pennsylvania. When I became a truck driver and saw many other states, I noticed that I could almost feel a difference between the flora in different states. Although Pennsylvania and Virginia look very much alike and aren’t that far from one another, I can just tell that the flora and fields are different. I think Toranaga and Mariko will both change and grow into the roles. In this adaptation, the director is playing up the tension in Osaka plaguing Toranaga and his attitude, and Mariko is dealing with this tension as well as the stark reminder of her own losses while dealing with Fuji. I don’t think these overall tones allowed the actors much room to explore their character’s personalities. I did get the sense in the book that Mariko was short and unimpressed with Blackthorne and his perceived brutishness and rudeness when she first met him. I felt like the Mariko-sama correction was a shorthand of this to portray in a short interaction tension that was building in the book. I do think Toranaga is more reserved and less intrepid than in the book so far. I think they are setting up Blackthorne as an invigorating character for Toranaga, someone who gives Toranaga motivation to overcome enemies that outnumber him. The interaction where Blackthorne says, “Unless I win,” is key in the book to Toranaga wanting to start this friendship with Blackthorne. I think in the TV show that they are using this interaction for more than motivating Toranaga’s friendship, but also reinvigorating his fight to survive against the regents. So far I love this adaptation, except it’s impossible not to miss Sallah, wait I mean Gimli, nope, John Rhys-Davies. I love him in everything I see him in. Lol
Haha, your comment about the darkness and rain is soo true. Thats our weather in Vancouver. We basically filmed in the rain until the summer where we brought in rain towers to mimic the environment. Lets just say we were cold and wet the whole time. No issues on your opinion about Mr. Sanada, but he was outstanding throughout the filming both on/off set as the actor and producer.
I started watching it, groaned when I saw it was subtitled but got invested in the story pretty quick and actually, I like that the scenes in English give you a break from feeling like your always looking at words.
The part about it being filmed in Canada almost didn’t surprise me. I literally paused episode 1 just to search up where this was filmed and it turns some scenes were filmed in an area I’ve been to before. I guess thats why it felt so familiar lol.
I live a hour away from where they filmed ... thanks for ruining the scenery for me ... I had no idea .... kidding .... it's actually neat that it was filmed right where I am. I was too busy restoring Japanese swords to pay attention to the details of the series until it actually came out. I'm actually taking a break from restoring a wakizashi to watch your take on this series and how it related to the real historical facts because you have a great channel. Thanks again.
I don't have a Hulu subscription, but I'm thinking of waiting till the end of the year (I think?) to just binge-watch this. I saw the original series as a kid, and read the book a bit later (a daunting task for a 10 year old!) I just hope that Rodrigues gets to talk about having "cojones" in the show, since the book was my first exposure to that lovely word!
I have been looking forward to this since I heard about it. I am not a scholar on the subject matter but I have had a life long interest! I remember seeing Shogun on TV as a VERY young child and it captivated me. As an adult I have read it many times and continue to love it. I have to ask are you looking at the "based on" with historical fact?
4:12 Amen! I'm so glad I'm not the only one to notice the perpetual and intentionally destaurated, "Grim Dark Everything Always" look, that this and so many other "Modern" Movies all seem to have along with this bizarre Yellow/Orange color grading they do to everyone's skin, presumably to make everyone the same non-racial/neutral shade. It's absolutely ubiquitous in every new poster, movie, TV show to the point where everything is basically just 50 shades of beige, blue, black and "bronze". It's genuinely off putting and ugly. Not to mention boring. It does such a disservice to the historical clothing, which was intensely vibrant, and even "gaudy" at times. The amazing array of colors and patterns in the clothing of the original TV show are some of its most memorable parts.
Loved it I love the book and 1980 series but this one is the best for me Always love the moment blackthorn reveals Portugal and Spain have portioned the known world and Japan is "owned" to Toranaga The wtf look and you know stuff is racing through his head
ieyasu definitely had an idea of portugal and spain due to the missionaries. I think blackthorn/adams just cemented his suspicion of those two nations. Thats why the shogunate kept the dutch as trading partners even in isolation- they were not catholic and did not have ties to portugal/spain
You sort of pointed it out about the dark depressing colors; it seems intentional. There is a scene where they arrive in Osaka and Blackthorne is told something along the lines of "You think our world is the pinnacle of civilization?" and that's when the cinematography opens up with colors and you see the city and its vast expanse for the first time.
I like it so far ..... great outfits with great looking swords ... pretty rare in shows. Props for the jump scare of buddy being beheaded after attempting to bless the other guy from England after already being told to back off the prisoner.
I don't know when the change happened, but I went from being confused and unfortunately less interested in the show than I thought I would be to absolutely hyperfixated on it. I cannot wait for episode three. Episode 1 is a great start in hindsight, but you're correct that episode 2 is really where it's at. I love the scene in the garden when Blackthorne explains the Spanish-Portuguese deal to them. So good. I'm glad I caught this show right as it started because I never heard of it until this week.
I wasn’t aware that this was a book first, all I saw was “oh hey, a show set in Japan way back then, that’s cool.” So I personally loved the first two episodes and cannot wait for more.
I’m quite impressed with Sanada’s portrayal of Toranaga, in that, for those versed in the history it’s based on, it’s like seeing Tokugawa Ieyasu in the flesh. The way Torunaga’s quiet, firm, unfailingly shrewd and clever presence just dominates a room shows that Sanada has clearly modeled his portrayal on the actual figure. In that sense, we are in fact getting “good history” even within a fictional tale-something we can all agree is almost totally lacking these days.
The best part is that it’s “Sanada” Hiroyuki portraying as Tokugawa.
I bet Masayuki and Yukimura are rolling in their graves now.
This is a great review. I don't agree that Sanada isn't portraying Toranaga well. In the book, Toranaga is an incredible actor. Hiding his ruthlessness and ambition, under a benevolent exterior. He uses everyone -- even Mariko -- but makes it seem like it's their idea. I think Sanada is showing this.
This is Isekai-fantasy, not history.
@@carloslwanga3143 Spot on here. While I really hate this phrase, it's super apt here. Toranaga is playing chess while everyone else around him is playing checkers. I feel like @ The shogunate is conflating historical Tokugawa with fictional Toranaga in his review. They may be loosely based on the same person, but they aren't the same. Toranaga in the book/mini-series/new series is not the same. He is constantly playing the long game and moving his pawns around the board. Even the use of Blackthorne is meant as a way for him to avoid death, rather than the useful tool he'll become later on in the series. And Sanada is capturing this perfectly. Amazing job!
i agree with @CommonSwindler, Sanada's Toranaga so far is calm, contemplative, a Grandmaster of politics and strategy. His quiet demeanor shows that he is calculating his options and plotting many steps ahead.
Toranaga saw Blackthorne initially as a tool to delay his death and nothing else, as this was explained in a scene between Toranaga and Mariko. It may not have been in the original book but this added plot adds extra depth to the cunningness of Toranaga which I much enjoyed.
There was no need to do that, unless it was to explain it ion a basic way so that dense people could get it! Sadly that's what we get nowadays, everything has to be explained to an American audience.
@user-nz6dx2fj6h as an American, you need stop blaming us for this stuff as it's unfounded. 35% of Americans have an undergrad, 4 of 5 of the world's top universities are here and we put men on the moon with slide rules. We're not stupid, we're overworked. Also that was a production choice.
@@Stevie-L-n8g Perhaps I'm a bit dense but I am a bit dense but I didn't get that at that point in the story and it was quite an important information for me. Imo the adaption has to tell a lot in a short time and for a viewer it can get harder to follow than in a book where you go at your own pacing. I totally agree that over exposition is a very bad evolution of cinema but in this point I felt it was justified. Again I might just be an ignorant westener viewer or you see the show through the glens of someone already aware of the story and don't reliese that some exposition is needed at this point of the story.
And all I'm saying is that there was no need, The Book Toronaga would never have consulted anyone but himself, which makes it an attempt to 'Big Up' the Mariko character. And I thought Hollywood was over trying to make women out to be Alphas!
@@sneakysunset1765 I read it in two days, it's not that big a book! What you really mean is that they had to dumb it down for al the thick-heads out there. And IMO they have failed across the board.
The fact that this story is being retold says everything. It's a story that is worth retelling in a modern way, with the best actors and the best cinematic technology. I greatly appreciate the hearts and minds that have combined to bring this depiction to me, an American boy who lived in Japan.
the book itself is historical fiction (emphasis on fiction) so I'm fine with some liberties taken as well
I personally miss the kinda hidden threats between ishido and toranaga. I feel this version kinda tosses that away and ishido just openly is hostile to him.
Why? And why is it better retold in a modern way? It's a fictional historic piece, so why change anything?
@@masonhill5157 It's ISHIDO actually.
@@Stevie-L-n8g I don't think you read.my.entire thing because if you did you would have seen yoshido was a typo caused.by my.phone. just like all the periods in this lol.
Toranaga is a man of patience. He does not show outward emotions nor reveals much to anyone except his closest advisers. Sanada's portrayal seems to highlight this. I could be wrong but this could be a vehicle to show the Noh play that Toranaga plays later on.
I really liked his barest hint of a smile when Blackthorn proclaims "Unless I win"
Once upon a time, when I was a university student, our Japanese History professor summed up the Big Three (Oda Nobunaga, Toyotomt Hideyoshi and Tokugawa ieyasu) so: Confronted with a non-singing bird, their reactions were:
Oda Nobunaga: "I'll KILL you if you don't sing!
Toyotomi Hideyoshi: "I'm going to MAKE you sing!
Tokugawa Ieyasu: "I'll WAIT until you sing."
Toranaga is also a nioh player. meaning any outside signs emotions might just be expert acting. while sanada is a amazing actor he doesnt really show this yet.
@@Otokichi786Exactly…Toranaga considers everything as a tool to enable him to get what he wants.
He is playing GO in his mind at all times
Having a Sanada play Ieyasu is awesome. I bet Ieyasu himself would have heads roll for that decision.
Masayuki and Yukimura would be rolling harder
Except he's playing Yoshi Toronaga in Clavell's book.
@@Stevie-L-n8gHe has played Ieyasu before.
@@Stevie-L-n8g Toronaga is basically Ieyasu
@@steakdriven Do you think I'm as stupid as you are?
I was legitimately glued to the screen. Haven't had that happen since I watched "when evil lurks"
Ahh, yes Cosmo is the guy Tommy gets out of the asylum to assassinate Mosley in Peaky Blinders 🤷♀️ I really loved the first 2 episodes of this show. They really took a lot of care in making this authentic...which makes it very immersive.
You should also check out Cosmo Jarvis' music. He's really good. his song Gay Pirates is so good. He also did a movie with Barry Keoghan called Calm with Horses. In america its called the shadow of violence
Cosmo did a great job. He was very quiet and reserved on set.
He also has an uncredited role as a soldier in Annihilation.
I *KNEW* i seen his face somewhere!
Of course!!!
Thank you for that.
@@calzone3843I was gonna mention that tune! I like his music quite a bit.
Had to check online reviews after I finished watching and it had to be yours first that I had to watch. Thanks!!
In the show they explain that Toranaga feels Blackthorne will be useful before meeting him because he is aware the ship and it's crew are not Portuguese. As a deadman walking he was willing to take any semblance of a political play to his side, including the guns and cannons that were on the ship, even if the odds it would help him were slim. Fortunately for him the play ends up being quite the boon, but with its own sets of complications. Sanada's Toranaga seems to be going for a very shrewd and cunning version of the character akin to Tywin Lannister in GoT. I love seeing him moving pieces in place to see what comes of it and then having the cleverness and boldness to take action and make more moves as a result. I for one am really enjoying this version of the character so far even though he is as you say quite different from the book.
In the original story, Toronaga never felt 'Like a dead man walking', that wasn't in him as he'd been a hostage many times as a child and young man all his life and it made him much more careful in his plotting.
Stupid take
Couple things.
First, the oppressive, stormy, foggy, and cold intro had a visually thematic purpose.
Second, the show made pretty clear by showing us, that Toranaga was receiving messages via messenger bird. They also had that bastard that enjoys boiling people alive specifically say ‘there’s a spy in this village’. Multiple scenes that should’ve have clearly conveyed that Toranaga was getting information about what was happening, and a clear reason why he would know about John before meeting him.
With all due respect, stormy weather, foggy, etc. Is a cliche for almost any series, film, these days. It's easy, even if for thematic purposes. And, in the original series adaptation (also the novel) it worked better that Toranaga didn't know about Blackthorne until sometime after his arrival (I think). So, when he shows up at the village Lord Yabu is surprised (also afraid), and you realize he's trying to keep this from Toranaga - works better for the story. I could be wrong thou.
@@Kerwin-Kendell a cliche yes.
but it works. its the right tool though to feel and sympathise with blackthorn stranded in this horrible barbaric inhumane place
at least until he actually finds out how to maneuver in this new world
@@Kerwin-Kendell - I think there’s going to be a difference of opinion on what works and doesn’t between people with no familiarity with the source or previous movie and people experiencing the story for the first time (like myself). If you know how the story is ‘supposed’ to go or how the previous adaptation did it you’re going to have expectations and presumptions that I simply won’t. That could explain why I’m reading it much differently.
@@footthumb that's a good point, hadn't thought of it this way. I read the novel & watched the 80's adaptation, and knew the new series would be very different.
@@KillyBilly141 okay, I agree a cliché can be useful, thou still don't like the use in the series. Also, I think your view of Japan (in the series) is a bit much. The culture def was brutal, seriously unfair in many ways, but it was equally as beautiful, advanced & great.
Toranaga’s interest in Blackthorne stems from the reactions that the Portuguese Catholics have towards him. He is a heretic and his mere presence is causing some division between the catholic daimiyos. He explains in Ep 2 that the regents can’t impeach him if they are divided thus why Blackthorne is useful to Toranaga.
And Toranaga knows this because he has a spy in the village where Blackthorne arrives.
The podcast that follows FX's Shōgun provides more insight into the show, the production and the changes. They changed/altered the names of most characters in this adaptation in order to be more historically accurate in accordance to contemporary 1600 Japan.
Sorry but I'm confused, how does changing the names and their positions in the government help make it more historically accurate?
@@killrsloth9187 In the book, some of the names of the characters are very modern, in comparison to the Sengoku era/beginning of the Edo period of Japan which is when Shōgun is set. One of the key aspects of this adaptation was authenticity. Therefore they focused on the details and being as authentic as possible hence names being slightly altered such as Fujiko becoming Fuji and Yabu becoming Yabushige, same approach can be applied to any changes in the political structure. The podcast which is available on RUclips is well worth a listen, it actually provides a lot of handy and interesting insight into the show as well as providing contextual history to help better understand the show and time period.
@@dharambasi1928 if they wanted to be authentic, they should've just used the real life people's names lol.
@@ciello___8307 I guess if they used the real names, it's less of a historical fiction and more a historical retelling/documentary style thing which is not what the book is, and not what the adaptation wants to be.
@@dharambasi1928 Sadly they buggered the jesuits outfits. They didnt wear all black in japan. Historically they wore the orange silks because the japanese locals found their normal outfits to be in poor quality and wouldnt take them serious. So they adopted the orange colour that monks used to fit their needs. in the fx series they decided to switch them all to black.
Been waiting for this, just finished the first 2 episodes. Love this content and your channel and absolutely fell in love with 🇯🇵 and its culture.
If they were to film in Japan, it would take 3 years to edit and digitally remove the millions of houses and modern structures. There is hardly a square inch of Japan that isn’t touched by modern people. I’m sure it was really hard to find any sets in Japan, except of course for the beautiful castles and keeps. That looks legit. But those who know, know that we are only seeing a small portion of the inside of the castles and keeps. I’m glad they showed how they actually were back in that time. (Sort of)
That would be a good video, compare the castles in the show with what it really was in 1600 ad.
lol the Japanese countryside is vast and open, but filming logistics would be a nightmare. The countryside is heavily forested or mountainous (and often both) plus far from modern necessities for filming such an epic production. That being said, Canada would be a better choice as there are vast tracts of more preferred open spaces with close locality to the film industry in British Columbia (where a lot of popular tv shows and movies are filmed). Having to both countries in my lifetime, I’d have chosen Canada as the overall filming location as well.
@@baleksander000 There's also the bureaucracy of filming in Japan by a foreign outfit. The red tape would delay it by years if not decades. Each prefecture, city, town, neighborhood, local associations would have to approve. And Japan in general has a strong NIMBY mindset.
@lsayid5654 I was going to reply with a similar comment. People make also sorts of comments about Japan who have never been to the place or have a limited experience of it. As you pointed out, there is plenty of countryside with vast heavily forested areas. It is simply a matter of logistics and extra cost to actually film in those areas.
Yeah yeah yeah.
Calm down.
I found the “you’re not allowed to disagree with me”crowd
@@Skeletors_Closet It sound as if you are the agitated one. There are facts about Japan of which it is clear you are not aware of and have made a comment that is simply wrong. It isn't a matter of interpretation. Why not admit that you made a mistake?
At first, the series seemed almost rushed to me. The original miniseries was more evenly paced. However, when I realized that I was making comparisons in my head between the two and not the book itself - I spent early this morning re-watching the first 2 episodes. It is just a bit rushed, but not like I'd initially taken it to be. And by itself, its outstanding thus far.
It feels a bit rushed to me too, but I'm OK with it. I think it's because they are adding all of the subtitled Japanese language political maneuvering, which means there is less time for Blackthorne. It's a trade off, and I'm OK with it, but I think it may turn off casual viewers. It seems to be a turn-off for my wife.
It makes me appreciate the original mini-series, where they made the (probably correct) decision to focus on the story almost entirely from Blackthorne's point of view. Of course, audiences have moved on, and I think we're ready for a more complex telling of this story.
Shut up nobody cares about the novel the story is going it's own road
@@dhimankalita1690 …shut up?
@@TheMalfean the owner of the show complains a lot . Tell this weeb youtuber japanese historian men to shut up . Sanada is japanese and knows how to show their culture more than some weeb from ranting in youtube . Sanada is the producer he knows more about japanese history
Just one of those lovely basement dwellers who have no idea of how to behave amongst people. They are rude creatures, no body tried to raise them right. 😂
I loved both episodes. It’s so difficult to do Sengoku era films well so I try not to be overly critical. I thought this was going to be great though and so far it’s surpassing my high expectations.
Been waiting a year for this, I wasn’t disappointed very entertaining. I didn’t care for the authenticity, just entertainment.
It’s pretty decent as far as accuracy…much better than the 1980s version. If I was still teaching, I’d show this in my World History classes…with guided narration of course.
It’s very entertaining thus far…can’t wait for new episodes in the coming weeks.
HA got you beat I’ve been waiting for three absolutely worth the wait✌🏻❤️🔥❤️🔥❤️🔥
@@alexblackburn2021 🤣
@@baleksander000 Every man has three hearts 🔥
@@baleksander000it was not much better than the original
I really liked the set design and costumes as well. I liked the gritty feel outside the castle and the pristine cleanliness inside the castle. I thought the acting was solid too. I’m into it. I loved the original as a kid watching the mini-series with my dad.
Started watching this series without prior knowledge, and now I'm hooked. Planning on getting the book too.
Shame, you should have read the book first, watched the original series and then watched this one, except I guarantee that you too would have been as disappointed as I.
The book is outstanding, as is this new miniseries.
@@paulstone2586 I'll get to watch this series without expectations, and then I'll read the book afterwards.
@@Stevie-L-n8g Sounds like it's better to first watch this series without expectations and possible disappointment, then read the book and maybe re-watch again.
@@Stevie-L-n8g Sounds like it's better to enjoy this series without expectations and possible disappointment, and then read the book afterwards. I'm a terribly slow reader anyway. Also, I'd like to read the book in my native language (Finnish) to really catch all the nuances, but at the moment there aren't any prints available. Hopefully the popularity of the new series will change that. If they won't print the book in Finnish, then I'll just read the English version.
Your channel is incredible and I’ve been listening for years. I’m so happy that this will push many new viewers to you!
I've started watching the original 1980 miniseries recently, Once I'm finished with it I'll move onto this one.
It's a great show. I must have watched it like 3 times when I was in High School in the 90's. They used to play it on the History Channel.
Where were you able to find it?
You should start with the novel, then the mini-series.
Given that the eighties version was one of my first views on Japan and the Samurai genre, I was looking forward to this new series a lot. I changed a lot since then, having made many trips to Japan and marrying a Japanese, so there being more Japanese language use was in no way off-putting to me. Actually, my first reaction was that I was happy with the switch in "camera focus": The old series told the story from Blackthorne's perspective, with any Japanese politics and drama being moved to the background, using English language voice-overs to explain lightly what was happening. Now we finally get the Japanese viewpoint in full focus. I love that.
What I think may be a thing is that, having grown up in the north-east of the Netherlands, I am totally used to foreign-language use in TV and film. Practically everyone in that part of the Netherlands had two antennas on the roof (well, initially three actually, as UHF and VHF needed different ones, but let's not go into that), one aimed at the south to get the two Dutch channels (yes, that was all we had), the other pointed east to get some German channels. Replacing foreign language tracks with local voice-actors was done in Germany, but not in the Netherlands. So any English, German, or French language use (or local dialects, for that matter), got subtitles as a matter of course. I would not be surprised that North Americans, not getting much exposure to this effect, would find large scale foreign language use something they have trouble with.
The original miniseries wanted to put you in Blackthorne's shoes, with all of his confusion. They wanted you to learn about Japan as he did, which precluded showing you all of the machinations going on in the background.
The shade of green is definitely different in North America as opposed to Japan. Glad I'm not the only one who got hung up on this!
Good review, looking forward to more as the series progresses. Been looking forward to Shogun for forever and it did not disappoint. Sanada is superb; I think we are going to see them reveal more and more about him moving forward that he has his own machinations and it will turn out to be quite ruthless, and that we will come to see Ishido (I do wish they'd just use the historical names, but I get why they don't) in a more sympathetic light and Toranaga less so. In any event, cannot wait for more!
I just watched the first two episodes on FX. I loved it! The only thing I had a problem with was the Portuguese actors speaking English when they were supposed to speak Portuguese. I liked that I could understand them because they were actually speaking English but it ruins the immersion when the Japanese actors speak Japanese but the Portuguese actors speak English. They could have had them speak Portuguese with English subtitles just like with the Japanese speaking actors.
As a portuguese, at least they are not speaking spanish or brazilian portuguese as it is usual in hollywood. "Representation" is only for certain groups
But then they would need a three way translation since the main character is not portuguese or japanese speaker and therefore would be completely isolated as nobody in that place could speak english.
Blackthorn is fluent in Portuguese. He mentions that in the beginning parts of the first episode.
one minor correction is that by the end of the episode one, a fellow-sailor informs Blackthorne of a Japanese belief that “every man has three hearts: one in his mouth, for the world to know; one in his chest, just for his friends; and a secret heart buried deep where no one can find it.” its the mask not the heart.
I've enjoyed James Clavells' writing, all of his books are great.
it has finally been released i have been waiting for so long 🙏
Nah, Yabu was a freak in the book. Of all the things I was kind of disappointed by, I thought Lord Yabu was pretty spot on so far. It's hard to look at someone else other than Mifune as Toranaga though. Respect to him.
Yabu was an absolute bastard in the book, but also not a caricature or a one-sided villain. He was strangely likeable by the end of the story.
I am glad Yabu is becoming a more three dimensional character than he was in the 80`s series. In that show he felt like just another samurai that just happened to do what he did.
Great review and insights! Can’t wait for more 👊🏻
I think it's good that there are changes from the book and the 1980 series. It really gives room for the actors to interpret the characters and to add something new to the story instead of repeating identical portrayals that have already been put to screen.
Yes, Yabu is despicable in a lot of ways. But I find it impossible not to like him. Asano the actor is a pretty charismatic guy, and he does a really good job of portraying Yabu as a devil with a dashing smile.
I can appreciate how he's in it all for himself, but he's constantly struggling with having to follow duty and loyalty, even when he sees how it's leading him into disaster.
The first two episodes of this series have been well put together, the sets, the sound editing, and the costumes are great. I love how they are putting the pieces together, but like you, I am wondering how it came that Toranaga "knew" that Blackwell was going to be an ally in what was coming. Either way, it seems that the people they have cast for each part are bringing something special to it and I can't wait for the next episodes to come out. It is looking epic so far.
Sometimes I wish you guys would just chill and enjoy what's being shown on the screen. I'm 61. Soon to be 62. I read the book when it first came out and I watched the original series when it came out, and after watching the first two episodes, I'm loving it. Additionally, unlike you, I am absolutely stoked about seeing Hiroyuki Sanada as Toranaga. To me, he's the perfect person to play this part because HE'S RECOGNIZABLE. I have enjoyed watching him perform for the last 20 years and I am very happy that they chose him for this part. For me, he's the actor that I wanted to see in this part so get rid of your bias against him and try and enjoy the series like I am.
@@DrippingCunnyJuice-ux3hg Agreed. You have to take it with a grain of salt. They're trying to garner universal appeal for sure.
Exactly. ❤
I would have had no idea that this was filmed in Canada until you mentioned that.
The crew immediately thrown in the cellar, Hiromatsu’s grandson-in-law’s death seemed to omit some of the subtlety of Omi and Toranaga’s behavior.
But l’ve read the book at least a dozen times, so I’m biased.
Me too. They got it right in 1980 with 0 budget
just started and I'm liking it. Clearly we have much more research on the period. I think the politics is important because is shows just how confused and factional it was at this point
It's supposed to be entertainment son, based on a fictional representation of that period. Read the book and get educated. Even watch the first series done.
I'm from Canada and I've been living in Japan for over a decade. The landscape was a slight distraction for me, but I soon got over it.
ニュージーランドの風景より気になりませんでした。
Bravo for you!
As far as atmosphere...Maybe blackthorne arrived during the monsoon?
He also challenges everything Mariko thought she knew about the world and her faith, i have no doubt she'd be cold toward him.
Mariko worries me. To me she was one of the best represantation of the culture in the older show. Always a facade of gentleness and patience but you could sense a world underneath. Unsure about this "in your your face" portrail
I understand what you're saying.
"Anna Sawai" is a wonderful actress.
However, ``Anasawai'' does not look Japanese. She looks Chinese or Filipino.
She grew up in New Zealand, Hong Kong, and the Philippines.
(It is unknown, but her parents may not be Japanese. ← Mystery)
Expressionless faces are scary.
A troubled expression looks angry.
Fumi Nikaido, who plays the villain, has a gentleness even within her stern expression. She looks Japanese.
She wanted the role of Mariko to be played by an actress who could imitate Japanese facial expressions and gestures.
In 1980 it was possible. ←Of course.
@@zerosikisaga what are you saying. she looks japanese. yes, her demeanor is more "western" cause she wasn't born in japan but she is definitely Japanese still
Excellent show. Looking forward to the rest of the series.
Did you watch the second episode? Blackthorne had just revealed to mariko that her entire belief system of 14 years was a manipulation to help the Portuguese Catholics overthrow her sacred and revered political society. She was of course stand offish towards him after such a worldview shattering moment. Her faith in Catholicism seemingly at threat of being eroded by political subversion
I don’t like how they named Alvito Tsuji instead of Tsuku. Furthermore, in the book, Toranaga doesn’t allow Fujiko’s husband to commit seppuku; he insults him quite a lot and makes him crawl outside to be cut down. He says something like:
“How dare you say Lord Ishido insulted me. I will have you and your entire bloodline removed, and your corpse will be displayed for everyone to mock. Below it will be an inscription that reads ‘this man was born samurai by mistake’”
I availed disney+ to watch this in the hopes of it to be completed, then I saw it was still on episode 2 , like damn i have to wait for weeks to watch it, ugh! I can't wait for other episodes to be released, I love japans history so much! i wish they always make something like this
I think the atmosphere of the opening scene was a good way to show that the village of Ajiro was pretty derelict and not a major fiefdom. I think it was a great use of equipment to communicate the scene. 😊
The blue filter approach was a way to shoot a dark, bleak scene without lowering the light as shooting on low light conditions can be costly. Unfortunately, it has become so ubiquitous in this decade's films that it has become a calling card of a film trying to be "serious".
I seem to recognize the actor that plays Toranaga's part, wasn't he a Samurai in the movie The Last Samurai with Tom Cruise? It sure looks like him.
Hiroyuki Sanada was in fact one of the samurai Tom cruise trained with in that movie! Sanada has actually been in quite a few movies like John wick 4 and 47 Ronin. often taking roles of either samurai or samurai-like characters. actually a great actor
I was a big Toshiro Mifune fan back in the day, he was in the first Shogun series but Richard Chamberlain wasn't that great as Anjin.@@rwagingsloth9528
For me, I really appreciated the Blackthorn emphasis on figuring out what's going on in Japan in the 80's series rather than the constant hopping between the multitude of perspectives- though I'm infinitely more grateful for the modern Blackthorn's acting over the stiffness of Richard Chamberlain. I agree fully about the Toranaga wariness as well, which only gets relieved slightly at the very end of episode 2.
Blackthorne just showed the arrogance of the Europeans waltzing into their lands to do piracy under the guise of a Letter of Marque. He demands explanations and rights he no longer has and slowly realizes that he is the property of Toranaga and has NO rights or privileges other than what are granted to him. He has value in the information he has and the training he can provide to them on the use of the canons and muskets. He can thrive as long as he proves his usefulness to Toranaga. Great story so far.
Did you play Ghost of Tsushima? And will you be playing Rise of the Ronin? Which is Shogunate vs Anti-Shogunate forces?
ruclips.net/video/HNrOs2ic6fM/видео.html here is my review for Ghost of Tsushima, and yes I will be playing Rise of the Ronin!
Nice!
so far i love sanada as toranaga. i think his mysterious and wise persona fits him better and makes the cast of characters more diverse. also i loved the grim atmosphere of episode 1, really added to the vibe of the show in my opinion
Quite surprised by the Sanada take. He has been incredible in my opinion, best part of the show honestly lol. His presence just commands respect/fear in every scene.
Only thing that annoyed me is how they did the: "Not if you win" line, This might seem minor, but that is the moment where Toranaga takes an interest in Blackthorn in the book and is hugely important to how the plot progresses.
I loved the old mini series as a child, and so far these new version looks awesome
My husband and I watched Episode 1 last night on Hulu (with subtitles instead of dubbing), and will be watching Episode 2 tonight. The hubby stuck it out through all of Episode 1; however, I retreated to the next room (and just listened to the rest of the episode) when they were boiling the Erasmus crewmember, and viewers could see his half-melted face -- too "gross-out" for me! I watched the 1980 miniseries back in grad school when it was first broadcast, and have since read the book (and purchased the DVD boxed set of the 1980 miniseries). I'll have to wait and see more of this remake before passing judgment on it vs. the book & the previous miniseries. (I'll trust your judgment on the historicity, though, since I expect you have much more detailed knowledge of Japanese history than I do.)
I loved it tbh. I was tense the entire time. It felt like anyone could die at any time and in the most gruesome fashion. Almost more of a horror show lmao. And I wish u hadn't mentioned Canada. U just made so many people see what they hadn't lol
The Japanese crew apparently had high praise for the location (West Vancouver Island).
10:44 I understood more that Tononaga was informed by his spy about what was on Blackthorne's ship and his hostility towards the Portuguese and Catholics that made Tononaga see an opportunity
Tadanobu Asano, if I remember, was also in Mortal Kombat 2021 along with Hiroyuki Sanada as Lord Raiden but he has been in other notable movies like Ichi the Killer, Zatoichi (the Takeshi Kitano version), 47 Ronin (the one where the aforementioned Hiroyuki Sanada and some fella called Keanu Reeves are the stars), Silence, Taboo (a samurai BL movie which features Mr Kitano) and the Kiyosu Conference, a jidaigeki comedy which depicts the race to determine the brand new head of the House of Oda.
Fantastic to get the Shogunate's take on it, always fascinating to see your insight and glad to know it's an ongoing review series
What? Expalin that please?
@@Stevie-L-n8g He's going to review the other episodes, so this video is part of a series
@@CliosPaintingBench So! What do you mean by the Shogunate's take on it? During the time this was written for there was no Shogun!
Have you watched the interview with Clavell that aired on Canadian broadcasting? I seem to remember he talked quite a bit about the book, and his thoughts about the 1980 production, which was at the time an epochal moment in television. The interview actually coincided with the premiere, I believe. I think I remember he was asked why he changed all the character names from the historical figures and fictionalized the plot as much as he did. It was a while ago since I watched it, but I think it was here on YT. If not, it was in the CBC archive online.
I will have to see if I can find that somewhere
The thing that I`m most astounded about is that most characters look exactly how I imagined them (except for maybe Mariko)
I think Sanada's portrayal is a function of the show trying to make Toranaga more sympathetic/a good guy than Tokugawa Ieyasu was in real history. I think the book was doing the same, but I read that more than 20 years ago, so can't recall exactly. The show seems to be trying to make him out as the good and loyal guy in a den of scheming thieves and will likely steer it in such a way that Tornaga will have to "reluctantly" seize power for self-preservation and the safety of Taiko's heir.
In history, Ieyasu was far from being the most trusted by Toyotomi Hideyoshi (there was no way in hell Toyotomi would have given Ieyasu Japan if he had won in Korea as the show says, for example), nor was he some sort of fatherly mentor to Hideyori the designated heir. In fact, when Toyotomi took power after Oda Nobunaga's death, Ieyasu fought on the side of Nobukatsu, (Nobunaga's son), against Toyotomi to restore the Oda clans rightful claim, and, even after defeating the other regents and becoming Shogun after Sekigahara, he carried on a vandetta against the Toyotomi clan and basically wiped them out - including having Hideyori's son (Kunimatsu), 7 years old at the time, beheaded at the river Rukujo.
Yeah, not really. And I don't think you are up for the task of critiquing anything! You are just spurting crap the said on the series. read the book and then you'll know what Toraioonaga the fictional character based on the real one really was.
bad take
I really enjoyed the first two episodes, and as a viewer who has watched your whole series of Sengoku jidai, it felt like i was reliving history itself.
Thanks for your review. I did enjoy the first two episodes. I LOVE the change in Point of View characters that give a broader interpretation of the books and the first miniseries. These give us wholly, in my opinion, new takes on the characters other than Blackthorn feel. Cant wait to see how it plays out.
IT WAS SUCH A GOOD first two episodes. I liked how real it almost felt too.
Except it looked nothing like the coast of Japan!!!
@@Stevie-L-n8g holy shit, you keep commenting constantly being a pessimistic asshat. Go away.
I read the novel and am old enough to remember the series and movie back in the '80s. I was waiting for this with bated breath, and it did NOT disappoint! Also, the climate of Japan is mostly sub-tropical (and cold as evidenced by the breath in scenes). They nailed the climate imo.
i grew up watching the Richard Chamberlain Shogun,.. for a kid it was mind blowing and I had to rewatched it few times to really grasp the core of the story. Now I just finished ep 1 and 2 of this new one. Holy Shit,.. Spectacular !!
I think Sanada's Toranaga is very subtle and believable. As in the novel, we meet Toranaga in an impossible trap. Toranaga is a skilled Nō performer, hiding his true intent from both his enemies and his closest allies. I think Sanada does an excellent job of portraying the outward glumness he must in these early episodes to hide his character's true intentions. As the series develops we'll see if he can expand that range and portray the crafty and charismatic leader who rises to ultimate power.
I didn't read the book or watch the 1980 version so I don't know Mariko's role in the course of the story but her character is based on Gracia the daughter of Akechi Mitsuhide (Toranaga mentioned his story-universe name in episode one about however long since he died and how he looked up to him, probably Clavell's assessment of Tokugawas ambition). The real gracia died in 1600 as Ishida took over Osaka castle. I do believe the actress is trying to portray Mariko like Gracia, rather than the in-universe Mariko, being standoffish to show her pride as the daughter of the one that took out the first unifier.
I’m thinking we’ll get more of the characters becoming their own in the next few episodes. I’ll truly judge this Toranaga when they do the dancing scene. I’m happy with it and I think it’s already better than the 80’s adaptation because of the lack of political intrigue which I hear is a massive part of the novel.
First time coming across you, sir. Loved the review. I stumbled upon the series re-release by accident and I was amazed! I'd read the books years ago and it's a story that I've never forgotten l!❤
I was shocked! I have disney Plus and immediately watched it! I agree with most of your points, but as a fan I'm probably very forgiving! I'm watching the 2 episodes as I wrote this and can't wait for more! The books are so intricate and layered, and I am always amazed whenever fil. adaptations even come close to a great book! So far, I'm all in! Please just release them all uggggh 😅
As a long time dorama fan, I recognized so many actors that I like. I am going to hold off watching it until it is finished but I'm looking forward to it.
Great comments. I'm a bit more positive about Toranaga in this series. For example, in the scene where Blackthorne draws a picture in the sand of the way the world has been split between Spain and Portugal, when Toranaga asks Mariko if Blackthorne really said that Japan 'belongs' to Portugal, he says with just the right intonation and tension and there is also a touch of anxiety projected. But I think we can agree to disagree about Toranaga in the first two episodes and I enjoyed your observations.
I remember the 1980's mini series and at that time I was a pre teenager and thought it was boring. I even tried reading the book, but couldn't get past chapter 3 or 5 or something like that. It was about the late 80s or early 90s I started loving history in general and love of anime and other Japanese culture and history that I try to devour as much as I could in Samurai movies especially from Akira Kurosawa. When I saw the first trailer of this series I was hooked and after watching both episodes I appreciate it much more. The one thing that still throws me off is the changing of certain historical names even if this fictionalized. I do recommend this version over the 80s version so far.
Watching it brought back everything from the book. So far so good.
Also we’ve been spoiled with both this and Tokyo vice coming out every week
I definitely had gotten a sense that the show is going in the right direction with this version with the guns and the decision to not portay ninjas.
Why do daimyos in the series call each other "general"? This term (title) appeared later in France.
In Japan, samurai warlords were called "Daimyo" In Japanese - 大名
Dear, sir, you made a perfect background explanation and an excellent review in the best way! 👍👍👍👌💖💖💖
Thank you so very much! In fact, both episodes are incredibly well done in every detail, indeed even in the smallest detail to make us switch back in time to the feudal age of Japan. Just mention that I love the Japanese culture and theirs mindset and behaviors of the society we can only find in the people of Japan!
I give 9/10! The efforts and the footage deserve all credit from us followers of this excellent series! (Please forgive my rather poor English writing skills!) Best regards from Sweden! Stay blessed!
Hey Shogunate will you be playing Rise of the Ronin? If so will you review it?
damn i was not expecting anything much at all, so I was blown away by how good it was.
Couldn't agree more about the assassination attempt. Even if she was indeed shinobi rather than a monk as described in the show, my immediate thought when I saw her on screen was "finally!" As in, somebody finally got it right. She was completely embedded in the castle and had been for months, and this was how she was portrayed: somebody right under your nose. And even while she was completely bleeding out the side of her neck, she STILL tried to complete her task. One of my favourite scenes in the entire series.
Great review!!
I completely understand being caught up on the topography. I grew up in Pennsylvania. When I became a truck driver and saw many other states, I noticed that I could almost feel a difference between the flora in different states. Although Pennsylvania and Virginia look very much alike and aren’t that far from one another, I can just tell that the flora and fields are different.
I think Toranaga and Mariko will both change and grow into the roles. In this adaptation, the director is playing up the tension in Osaka plaguing Toranaga and his attitude, and Mariko is dealing with this tension as well as the stark reminder of her own losses while dealing with Fuji. I don’t think these overall tones allowed the actors much room to explore their character’s personalities. I did get the sense in the book that Mariko was short and unimpressed with Blackthorne and his perceived brutishness and rudeness when she first met him. I felt like the Mariko-sama correction was a shorthand of this to portray in a short interaction tension that was building in the book.
I do think Toranaga is more reserved and less intrepid than in the book so far. I think they are setting up Blackthorne as an invigorating character for Toranaga, someone who gives Toranaga motivation to overcome enemies that outnumber him. The interaction where Blackthorne says, “Unless I win,” is key in the book to Toranaga wanting to start this friendship with Blackthorne. I think in the TV show that they are using this interaction for more than motivating Toranaga’s friendship, but also reinvigorating his fight to survive against the regents.
So far I love this adaptation, except it’s impossible not to miss Sallah, wait I mean Gimli, nope, John Rhys-Davies. I love him in everything I see him in. Lol
Been waiting for this upload! 😀
I recently reread the book, not knowing that this series was in the works. I liked what I saw last night.
Haha, your comment about the darkness and rain is soo true. Thats our weather in Vancouver. We basically filmed in the rain until the summer where we brought in rain towers to mimic the environment. Lets just say we were cold and wet the whole time. No issues on your opinion about Mr. Sanada, but he was outstanding throughout the filming both on/off set as the actor and producer.
I started watching it, groaned when I saw it was subtitled but got invested in the story pretty quick and actually, I like that the scenes in English give you a break from feeling like your always looking at words.
Just turn off the subs no? If u understand Japanese it shouldn’t be a problem
@@TheSleyarMost people watching the show don't speak Japanese..
I think I saw that there is a dubbed version?
Absolutely loved both of these episodes and can’t wait to see more! Will definitely be starting the book soon
The part about it being filmed in Canada almost didn’t surprise me. I literally paused episode 1 just to search up where this was filmed and it turns some scenes were filmed in an area I’ve been to before. I guess thats why it felt so familiar lol.
Great review! I must say, I was immediately pleased that you pronounce Shogun correctly. Most seem to get it wrong.
I live a hour away from where they filmed ... thanks for ruining the scenery for me ... I had no idea .... kidding .... it's actually neat that it was filmed right where I am.
I was too busy restoring Japanese swords to pay attention to the details of the series until it actually came out.
I'm actually taking a break from restoring a wakizashi to watch your take on this series and how it related to the real historical facts because you have a great channel.
Thanks again.
I don't have a Hulu subscription, but I'm thinking of waiting till the end of the year (I think?) to just binge-watch this.
I saw the original series as a kid, and read the book a bit later (a daunting task for a 10 year old!)
I just hope that Rodrigues gets to talk about having "cojones" in the show, since the book was my first exposure to that lovely word!
I have been looking forward to this since I heard about it. I am not a scholar on the subject matter but I have had a life long interest! I remember seeing Shogun on TV as a VERY young child and it captivated me. As an adult I have read it many times and continue to love it. I have to ask are you looking at the "based on" with historical fact?
4:12 Amen! I'm so glad I'm not the only one to notice the perpetual and intentionally destaurated, "Grim Dark Everything Always" look, that this and so many other "Modern" Movies all seem to have along with this bizarre Yellow/Orange color grading they do to everyone's skin, presumably to make everyone the same non-racial/neutral shade. It's absolutely ubiquitous in every new poster, movie, TV show to the point where everything is basically just 50 shades of beige, blue, black and "bronze". It's genuinely off putting and ugly. Not to mention boring. It does such a disservice to the historical clothing, which was intensely vibrant, and even "gaudy" at times. The amazing array of colors and patterns in the clothing of the original TV show are some of its most memorable parts.
Loved it I love the book and 1980 series but this one is the best for me
Always love the moment blackthorn reveals Portugal and Spain have portioned the known world and Japan is "owned" to Toranaga
The wtf look and you know stuff is racing through his head
No, no, its more like " I suspected this"
ieyasu definitely had an idea of portugal and spain due to the missionaries. I think blackthorn/adams just cemented his suspicion of those two nations. Thats why the shogunate kept the dutch as trading partners even in isolation- they were not catholic and did not have ties to portugal/spain
This show is making me play Shogun 2: Total War again! Both media are so good.
Been waiting for this to be made/remade for years! I never watched the 1980 show.
You sort of pointed it out about the dark depressing colors; it seems intentional. There is a scene where they arrive in Osaka and Blackthorne is told something along the lines of "You think our world is the pinnacle of civilization?" and that's when the cinematography opens up with colors and you see the city and its vast expanse for the first time.
I like it so far ..... great outfits with great looking swords ... pretty rare in shows. Props for the jump scare of buddy being beheaded after attempting to bless the other guy from England after already being told to back off the prisoner.
I don't know when the change happened, but I went from being confused and unfortunately less interested in the show than I thought I would be to absolutely hyperfixated on it. I cannot wait for episode three. Episode 1 is a great start in hindsight, but you're correct that episode 2 is really where it's at. I love the scene in the garden when Blackthorne explains the Spanish-Portuguese deal to them. So good. I'm glad I caught this show right as it started because I never heard of it until this week.
This channel is definitely going to be part of my Shogun-watching experience.❤
I wasn’t aware that this was a book first, all I saw was “oh hey, a show set in Japan way back then, that’s cool.” So I personally loved the first two episodes and cannot wait for more.