Good evening! I’m planning to review some streaming shows this year. A crowded gaming schedule isn’t giving me much time for movies or streaming, but I’ll squeeze viewings in the equation periodically. Shōgan is my first streaming show of 2024 and it was a very different experience than I expected. I will give you my thoughts briefly about each episode. Keep reading to find out more.
Anjin- Episode 1 The story takes place in Japan, circa 1600. After Taikō’s death, his young heir is not old enough to rule the land. Several regents control the government, led by Yoshii Toranga, the lord of Kantō. However, the other lords are planning to overthrow him. Tensions also rise between Japan and Catholic Europeans, such as the Portuguese. Toranga sees a political opportunity when an English captain, named John Blackthorne, sails to Japan and becomes stranded. The Japanese capture Blackthorne and consider executing him until they realize he might be useful as a bartering tool. Shōgan’s opening episode sets a very dark, gritty, and politically driven tone for the entire show. Much of the marketing touts a blockbuster epic with grand battle scenes, but it seems like a more realistic tone with a heavy emphasis on political intrigue is the primary focus. The first episode didn’t impress me, although it left me curious enough to continue watching. Servants of Two Masters- Episode 2 This episode covers a number of rivalries, both on a political and religious front. Think of Game of Thrones and similar shows where everyone is vying for power. Toranga assigns Mariko, a lady of the court and a Japanese Christian, to be Blackthorne’s interpreter. The pacing still felt slow in this episode, but part of the backstory and some character motivations became more clear. At this point, the show is proving to be surprisingly bloody, violent, and almost barbaric in some instances. It has plenty of shock value. Shōgan also has several lengthy, quiet, reflective scenes that fill in the dramatic tension and character relationships. The show felt somewhat dull for a while until a sudden cliffhanger occurred at the end of the second episode. Tomorrow is Tomorrow- Episode 3 Blackthorne survives an assassination attempt, which prompts Toranga to assess potential enemies, including members of the Japanese regency. It seems like the story and pacing is moving along much better at this point. A major catalyst from the previous episode sets the story in motion with various outcomes. Despite a strong viewing overall, the later part of the episode grinds to a halt and focuses more on the political angle. Truthfully, political drama isn’t a favorite subject of mine, but I realize many audiences enjoy it. The Eightfold Fence- Episode 4 Taranga’s army trains for war while they learn how to use cannons under Blackthorne’s guidance. The English pilot doesn’t trust the Japanese, although they share the same Catholic enemy. With that said, Blackthorne builds a closer bond with Mariko. The fourth episode has more spectacle with armies, cannons, and more violence on a grander scale. Keep in mind, it’s the period before the war begins. That means you’re not going to see huge battle scenes yet. I feel like the characters open up and become more interesting in this episode. Also, it’s more entertaining overall with a few action scenes, including a shocking end that escalates the drama. Broken to the Fist- Episode 5 This episode scales back the action in favor of spy craft and more political intrigue. It becomes clear to multiple members of the regency that enemies, assassins, and spies have infiltrated their inner circles. Unlike the first couple of episodes, this one is pretty interesting. It has less violence and action, which doesn’t hurt the quality of the show. I would say the audience is finally learning more about the characters as they show more emotion, personality, and motivations in this episode. Ladies of the Willow World- Episode 6 Some of the characters come together to conspire against Toranga. As Blackthorne and Mariko become closer, Toranga begins to question her loyalty. The sixth episode has a bigger emphasis on political intrigue and seems like a step backwards. It also feels like this episode is mostly filler content to stretch out of the season. I suppose the audience learns more plot points in this episode, but it’s not particularly interesting. In fact, parts of the story are a bit confusing. It’s worth noting the environment is very gloomy and grimy throughout the season. I actually don’t mind this part because it’s realistic instead of an idealistic fantasy. A Stick of Time- Episode 7 Toranga has a many enemies and very few allies. He searches for help in unlikely places. The show includes a forbidden attraction or romance between Blackthorne and Mariko. Also, a subplot about Mariko’s quest for vengeance becomes more clear. She’s the sole survivor of an entire family who was assassinated years ago and she wants retribution. Major parts of the story are heating up in terms of drama and romance. Usually, political intrigue bores me, but some of the story points kept my attention in this episode. I found it hard to predict where the remainder of the story was heading, but the journey became mostly satisfactory. The Abyss of Life- Episode 8 Toranga relocates his clan to Edo where they prepare for the impending war. The romance between Blackthorne and Mariko continues, even though the story won’t likely end well for them. Most of the characters are reaching a point of no return. Quite a few shows fall apart within the last few episodes, but Shōgun keeps getting better. I believe the show has too many flashbacks, subplots, and unexplained elements. However, it definitely feels like excellent prime time television in the vein of HBO and Showtime with strong characterization, harsh realities, and complex moral dilemmas. The Abyss of Life is probably the best episode up to this point. Crimson Sky- Episode 9 I will try to avoid spoilers. Basically, we’re approaching the end of the season and many of the characters are in great danger. That’s all I’m going to say. You could probably guess some of the themes in this episode. It’s rife with tragedy, hopelessness, violence, and tense drama. In a way, this form of storytelling is predictable, but it’s also quite entertaining. This show plays out like a Greek tragedy to a certain extent with woeful ideas and bleak scenes. I found this episode quite satisfying and it also sets up the finale successfully. A Dream of a Dream- Episode 10 After losing many friends and foes along the way, it’s becoming clear that Taranga wants to take control of Japan and ultimately become Shōgan after waging a war. Blackthorne comes to terms with his situation and helps Taranga’s army. Once again, it boils down to a fight against mutual enemies. The finale is more than hour long, so it feels a bit drawn out. Regardless, this episode wraps up many plot points and closes the story for a few more characters. It also opens the possibility for another season. Shōgan is excellent as a gritty drama and political thriller. I wish the show had more action scenes. Granted, that level of spectacle might be prohibitively expensive. Sometimes the story was a bit confusing and it doesn’t answer every question, but I can live with it. Overall, the finale was satisfying and it has enough potential to become a major Hulu franchise. That’s the end of my review. I was surprised with this show, although it was a really good streaming experience anyway. Due to some pacing issues, you might want to watch a few episodes at a time. Have you watched Shōgan yet? What did you think? Feel free to leave a comment. If time permits, I might review Fallout and the live action version of Avatar: The Last Airbender. Until then, I’m heading back to the gaming space. Make sure to find plenty of TLC for yourself. 2024 is a volatile year and I don’t expect it to get any better. So, take care of yourselves, treat each other with respect, and have a great week.
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May 2019
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