In FX/Hulu's adaptation of James Clavell's 1975 novel, Shogun, a fresh take on the classic story showcases a careful excavation of the source material. While the perception of the novel may be that it’s dated and colonialist, the series proves otherwise, presenting a well-intentioned and well-researched narrative that stays true to the original book.
The story begins in 1600 with the arrival of a ship called the Erasmus in a small Japanese harbor town. John Blackthorne, a British ship's pilot played by Cosmo Jarvis, finds himself thrust into a local conflict. With Japan's supreme ruler dead and a child as the heir, a Council of Regents has been put in charge. The clear leader among them is Lord Toranaga, portrayed brilliantly by Hiroyuki Sanada. As Toranaga discovers the arrival of the foreign ship, he sees Blackthorne as a potential asset in his political game.
One of the notable shifts in this adaptation is the balance between political intrigue and action. While the original novel presented history and romance on equal footing, the series leans more towards a gripping game of political chess. Machiavellian machinations are accompanied by well-executed action, making for a captivating watch. However, the central love story feels truncated and lacking emotional depth.
The series sheds the point-of-entry perspective character from the book, allowing Toranaga to take center stage right from the start. This change removes any notes of condescension from the story but sacrifices the fluidity of exposition. As a result, the character relationships, particularly the evolving romance between Blackthorne and Mariko, as well as the complex friendship between Blackthorne and Toranaga, become somewhat thin and less developed.
Despite these modifications, the series avoids fetishizing Japanese culture and presents a respectful portrayal. Both Blackthorne and the Japanese characters experience moments of otherness, allowing for a balanced perspective and mutual cultural misunderstandings. The directors carefully infuse every ritual with sensitivity and attention to detail, creating an immersive experience for viewers. The stunning costumes and breathtaking landscapes further enhance the visual appeal.
The international cast delivers standout performances, with Hiroyuki Sanada commanding the screen with his enigmatic portrayal of Lord Toranaga. Anna Sawai shines as Mariko, portraying her character with a fragile yet fierce demeanor. Other notable performances include Tadanobu Asano as the volatile Yabushige, Fumi Nikaido as the manipulative Ochiba, and Hiroto Kanai as the young Omi.
The series excels in its depiction of power plays and the intricate hierarchies within feudal Japan. It draws audiences into a fascinating world where ambition and fate collide. While comparisons to Game of Thrones may arise due to its intricate plot and political maneuvering, the show leans more towards a House of Cards-style narrative, where conversations and manipulations take precedence over action.
Although some scenes from the novel were excluded and certain elements were trimmed, the writing team, led by Justin Marks and Rachel Kondo, keeps the passion and respect for the source material intact. The series showcases a modern sensibility while honoring the work that made Shogun resonate with earlier generations.
In conclusion, the new adaptation of Shogun on FX/Hulu offers a meticulously crafted retelling of James Clavell's novel. With its grandeur, well-executed plot, and international cast, the series succeeds in engaging viewers with its political intrigue and cultural exploration. While there are some minor shortcomings, the overall result is a captivating and visually stunning journey into feudal Japan.
