Episode 5 of Shogun's first season on FX brought a significant turning point for the characters Mariko and John Blackthorne. The episode featured a major plot twist with the unexpected return of Mariko's presumed-dead husband, Buntaro. The tension escalated during a dinner scene where Blackthorne engaged in a sake-drinking competition with Buntaro, revealing Mariko's complex emotional turmoil.
Anna Sawai, who portrays Mariko in the series, recently shared insights into filming the intense sake scene. She discussed Mariko's conflicted feelings as she witnessed the competitive drinking between Blackthorne and Buntaro. Sawai highlighted Mariko's struggle to conceal her emotions from her returned husband and the challenges she faced in portraying the character's internal turmoil.
Mariko's reaction to the drinking contest reflected her apprehension, particularly towards Blackthorne's cultural insensitivity and provocation of Buntaro. Sawai emphasized Mariko's silent plea for the drinking competition to cease, underscoring the character's sense of impending conflict.
During a poignant moment in the episode, Mariko refrained from sharing her tragic life story, which involved her father being hunted for killing his lord. Sawai explained that Mariko's reticence stemmed from societal perceptions and the need to maintain a facade in front of her husband.
Sawai also discussed the challenges of portraying Mariko's emotional complexity in the sake scene. She described feeling 'stuck' in capturing Mariko's internal struggle, a sentiment that resonated with the character's own emotional suppression in the presence of Buntaro.
Shogun's co-creator, Rachel Kondo, provided guidance to Sawai during the scene, which spanned two days of filming. Sawai recalled seeking Kondo's assistance to navigate the intricate emotional dynamics of the moment, ultimately finding her footing with the support of the production team.
The unexpected return of Buntaro introduced a new layer of complexity to Mariko and Blackthorne's relationship, potentially altering their romantic prospects. As the series unfolds, viewers are left to ponder whether the characters will escape the political turmoil in Japan and forge a new life together in London.
Shogun, an FX original mini-series set in 17th Century Japan, follows the journey of John Blackthorne as he navigates the intricate world of samurai warriors and political intrigue. With a stellar cast led by Cosmo Jarvis and Hiroyuki Sanada, the series delves into themes of power, loyalty, and personal sacrifice.
As Mariko and Blackthorne navigate the tumultuous events unfolding around them, the audience is poised to witness the evolution of their relationship amidst the backdrop of historical upheaval. The emotional depth of Mariko's character, portrayed with nuance by Anna Sawai, promises to captivate viewers as the series progresses.
