In September, Shogun set a new record at the Emmys for most wins for a series in a single year. The FX original’s magnificent victory lap includes the top categories of best drama series, best actress in a drama series for Anna Sawai, best actor in a drama series for Hiroyuki Sanada and best drama directing for Frederick E.O. Toye. Naturally, I’ve been wanting to catch up on the show to see what the hype was about. And now I have.
Set in Japan in the year 1600, Lord Yoshii (Hiroyuki Sanada) is fighting for his life as his enemies on the Council of Regents unite against him, when a mysterious European ship is found marooned in a nearby fishing village.
Following a fascinating cast of well-rounded characters, Shogun places these characters to navigate an intricate web of power, diplomacy, betrayal, and war. Beyond its political intrigue, the FX original masterfully utilises three distinct perspectives of its lead characters, delivering a story that’s fundamentally about life and death. Combined with a remarkable approach to root this period drama in the specificities of Japanese culture, Shogun fires on all cylinders to deliver a television programme of epic proportions.
On a production level, Shogun has the look of expensive money all over it. Boasting beautiful sets, stunning scenery, and remarkable attention to detail, the aesthetics of the ten-part series is further elevated by incredible cinematography. In addition, the tremendous action sequences are also riveting to watch, providing the series a level of scale and spectacle that befits prestige television. More impressively, the incredibly visuals and breathtaking set pieces do not overshadow the human drama that’s vital to its sweeping success.
Between the wonderful cast, the breathtaking imagery, and a compelling story, there’s a lot to like about Shogun. Expertly balancing visual spectacles with a narrative filled to the brim with cultural conflict, gender inequality, and political manoeuvring, Shogun is undoubtedly must-watch television. While watching, you might have a sense that you don’t quite know where it’s going, but rest assured that you’d be glad you came along for the ride.
*Shogun is now streaming on Disney+ Hotstar in Malaysia.
