I'm hooked on *SHOGUN* (part one) 

If anyone’s wondering where the rest of the episode reactions are, I’ve decided to leave them as Patreon exclusive reactions due to how it performed on RU-vid. I definitely didn’t intend on turning this into a Patreon exclusive reaction initially. I just don’t want to post something that could hurt the channel performance overall. Regardless, I LOVED this show and am so happy I watched it!

Hiroyuki Sanada isn’t just the lead actor he’s also one of the hands on producers on the show. He wanted an absolutely accurate depiction of 1600 Japan, so he brought on historians and experts in Japanese etiquette to make sure everything was absolutely perfect for that era. Plus, Hiroyuki is not only one of the best and most charismatic actors around but with his world class sword fighting and martial arts skills, he’s practically a samurai in real life. They literally couldn’t have picked a better person for the job.

As a lover of Japanese culture and films, there is SO MUCH to love about Shogun! The attention to detail, the authenticity of the culture, the subtle/nuanced and layered performances by the entire cast, and the intriguing story and action sequences are all a sight to behold.

Toranaga treats Anjin like his favorite hawk. Tires him out, keeps him confounded by blinds and jess, and feeds him from his own hand. In this way, he creates a weapon no other regent has. The book makes the comparison more obvious.

This show nails the language barrier; giving the foreigners and the Japanese equally impactful conversations in parallel, and letting us see the third person as translator subtly change the phrasing to better suit what they want in the situation. And I like how they accurately depict Japanese anger. No cursewords or over reliance on yelling, but subtle choice of words that cut you to your core like it's light-work.

It’s so cool that you were invited to check out the red carpet premiere of the first episode. Hiroyuki Sawada contributed a lot into making this show.

The actor playing Yabushige also played one of Thor's companions in the Marvel movies, Hogun.

38:10 Hatamoto means something like Bannerman and is one of ranks among the vassals of a Daimyō (feudal lord).

In a time when most modern television and movies are found wanting, Shogun is an absolute breath of fresh air.

One of the best epic samurai miniseries ever made.

Finally one of my favourite reactors watching Shogun!

31:46 In this time of Japanese history (and even centuries earlier when the samurai were first formed), wives and female servants of samurai were often trained to fight to defend their estates and castles. The naginata (the spear with the sword blade affixed to the end that Mariko was wielding) was mostly their weapon of choice but they could also shoot from a bow (Japanese bows were a lot lighter and much more flexible than European bows, thus allowing women to fire them as well) and use knives and short swords. There are a lot of legends surrounding female samurai throughout the centuries, and so, while Japanese culture during this time period was just as sexist as most of the world, they still honor and value women's courage and skill when it comes to fighting. Japan has many Joan of Arcs and Boudicca's in their history.

Making Anjin take a bath without telling him to

I watched the 1980 miniseries when I was in high school, and really enjoyed it -- along with most of the people in the United States. My mom also loved historical fiction, so we had the book in the house and I read that afterward. As one might expect, I discovered that a miniseries broadcast on NBC network television in 1980 had to leave out *a lot* . 😮 That said, it generated unprecedented interest in Japanese culture that persists to this day. That all *started* with the 1980 miniseries. 😊 Because this miniseries shows on a subscription streaming service, the production doesn't face nearly the same constraints. As such, it can (and does) explore the highs and lows of human experience, as well as the fraught nature of cross-cultural misunderstanding, in ways the original miniseries could never have gotten away with. Highly recommended. This is the best thing I've seen since "The Expanse."

Fun fact! Shogun is based on real Japanese history, specifically the earlier Edo period, with Yoshii Torinaga being based on a famous Japanese figure called Tokugawa Ieyasu! The author changed the names so he didn't feel as restricted to the real history but I'd still recommend not looking into the history until you've seen the whole thing or you might get spoilers 😂

This is a series in which multiple watches per episode are necessary...and worthy of one's time. Yes, this miniseries is that good. Great reactions. Looking forward to seeing the remainder of episodes completed.

This show is so good. Im glad you are watching it! Impatiently waiting for episode 6 now 🤣

In the 1970s and 1980s, television miniseries were huge events that were fully part of the national consciousness. Roots was probably the most famous of all, but Shogun was an enormous success as well. North and South, V (which became a series as well), The Winds of War / War and Remembrance, Lonesome Dove, and The Thorn Birds were others that were extremely famous at the time.

Yabushige is easily my favorite character😅 his facial expressions sure everything you don't need to know Japanese to understand

Superb show, happy you’re watching it.

34:03 Edo was a major city during this time, some even calling it "the capital in the East" while Kyoto was still the original capital being the palace of the Emperor. It would soon become one of the largest and densely populated cities in the world: Tokyo. So...yeah, what he is saying is a big deal.

What a GREAT surprise. I lived in Japan for 3 years and studied Japanese History with a focus on the Sengoku Period. Though the names have been changed to protect the innocent... LOL... this an excellent and far less complicated representation of what it took to survive in the Edo period and to ultimately rule... for the next two hundred and sixty five years. I had the good fortune of having a Japanese mother in law who exposed me to some excellent Japanese historical mini series including "Môri Motonari" (1997.) In comparison to a period master piece like "MM97" , this production is superb.

Women of Samurai families were often taught martial forms of combat from early childhood. The weapon/polearm she picked up is called a Naginata which women were particularly trained in. In trained hands it can be a devastating weapon in combat even when outnumbered. While most women in the Edo Period of Japan had absolutely no agency those from high born bloodlines were extraordinarily gifted in politics and were very often very very influential advisors to their Lords

Blackthorne's "hello there" really sounds like Ben Kenobi's "hello there" when he saw R2D2.

The cool thing about all this is that this story is based off real life events. And I love how close to detail they have gotten. Even have the beautiful graceful walk, the women do. It's like they are floating.

You're hooked! As an English Literature Major, and Japanese Religion and History Major I'm obsessed despite the iteration and intentional allegory of the history of the story.

One little note: you said that Toranaga was taking a risk on John's life when he was put in the prison. Nope. He was one step ahead. In the book, we learn that Toranaga had men in the prison to protect the Anjin & to lead him to meet the Spanish priest. Toranaga knew about the priest, but couldn't touch him because the priest was the Taiko's prisoner, so out of bounds for anyone else. He killed 2 birds with one stone.

I suggest also watching the original, which is even better (for its time). Ive studied Japanese for 3 years at University and this series is pretty good. Not accurate at all, but you get a good feeling of what it was like in terms of social components. Also Hatamoto means he is a member of the personal staff of Toranaga which is an insanely high honour

The book is great (I've read it several times) and the original miniseries is pretty faithful to the book. This new series has been updated a little to be more historically accurate but overall I feel it does a good job at telling the main narrative~ I'm just glad the new series has created so much hype for a book that I love~ Thanks for giving it a go~

I feel *Blessed* to have witnessed the first 'Shogun' broadcast across the open airwaves, so many decades ago. Also bought and have read/reread the book so many times, it's literally falling apart! Seeing some of the 'Reactions' to this remake has me intrigued. Obviously the quality of the episodes is outstanding, and from what I can tell, they're honoring the book.

Shogun is fantastic! I'm up to episode 5 and it has been amazing!

As far as I can tell, this is the most authentic representation of ancient Japan ever put to film.

Amazing! So cool you're enjoying as well. I read the book several years ago and I cannot believe how good they made the series so far.

At the begining, after the conquest of the Sultaned ofMalaca by yhr portuguese, the chinese govermente looked to the portuguese with distruss, trade with Portugal was closed, but some merchants made trade with Portugal through smuglling. When japanese pirates begin to raid the south China sea, the portuguese took action against the japanese pirates, this cought the atention of the chinese emperor. The emperor decided to give Macao to the portuguese and autorize trade betwen the two nations, in exchange the portuguese would have to patrol and secure the China sea along with Macao. The treaty was called the Trearty of Tordesilhas,mediated by the church, just a little while Columbus arrived to the Americas, if not for the treaty Portugal and Spain would be at war every where around the globe.

I am SO glad you're watching this. It's been so amazing.

Toranaga having his eyes open during the sunrise while Yabushige was squinting isn't accident. It's meant to represent Toranaga's ability to see the bigger picture, the future of Japan as he envisions, while Yabushige only partially sees it, hence his wavering allegiances.

It's a truly amazing series. ❤

Gets invited to red carpet says she loves show but puts up half, the disrespect

Oh man, so glad you’re doing this one. It’s sooooo good!

The first miniseries with Richard Chamberlain is pretty good too, worth a watch.

This show is amazing

I spent a lot of my life finding and absorbing every old school samurai film I could find. There are sooo many great classic samurai films, and this series scratches that itch in a way that I haven't felt for a long time. It's a beautifully shot and well acted show so far. They hooked me too.

I watched the mini series a few times in the 80's while I was a kid. I don't remember much, but remember the excitement when watching. I'm so happy to see this new version as an adult and having those same feelings. Glad you're reacting to this great series. Was waiting for your video ❤

For me Buntaro and Yabushiga, outside of the leads of course, are probably the most fascinating characters in the show. Complex and have flaws, it's refreshing to see nowerdays.

Glad you are enjoying the show.

This show really is something special. I have to watch each episode twice, which I am super cool with. Once to get to grips with the story and subtitles, the second, to marvel at the sheer beauty of if all.

I can remember watching the 80s miniseries with my parents (Love you mom 💔) and its an amazing show!! Hiroyuki Sanada has driven the development of this and DEMANDED it be kept as accurate as possible for 1600s Japan! They're even speaking a more formal version of Japanese than what is typically spoken today :) You're in for a treat with this show :)

Personally, as someone who has watched Samurai films, been obsessed with Japanese cinema and culture, "Shogun" is one of those shows that truly deserves all the recognition. Hiroyuki Sanada and the company did a beautiful job portraying their beautiful culture and history for the screen in the most respectful and historically accurate way possible. This show deserves an Emmy!

I don't think a show has been able to capture people's attention this well since maybe Game of Thrones or The Boys. You can tell that the showrunners and whole crew put real love into making this as authentic as possible.

Hell yeah! Nat’s watching Shogun.

Shogun has done everything near perfectly! What a great mini-series they've put together. We need more quality shows like this!

I also got emotional at Buntaro's scene on the harbour. I wasn't remotely attached to his character or story but the sheer respect and honor between him and his Lord in that moment was beautiful. The strength his wife showed was heartbreaking.

I also liked Yabu in this remake. Great character. In the original series he was portrayed by Frankie Sakai. You should watch the "old" adaptation as well. It's worth it. Seeing Mifune Toshiro at work is just a delight. *edit* Almost forgot John Rhys-Davies (Gimli from LotR) as Vasco Rodrigues. Also, worth the watch!

yes yes yes, so glad to see you adding this!

So glad you're watching this series!

YESSSSS I just watched Episode 5 this morning and holy shit this is so good. It's got an added layer of meaning for me because I majored in Asian Studies so I know some of the history that Shogun is based on, AND I can understand some of the Japanese as well as some of the cultural aspects.

Really enjoyed watching this show with Nat. She's up to episode 4 over on her Patreon if you can't wait for more 😊

A superb new miniseries based on my favourite novel 🎉

Best show since GOT

It’s not that Toranaga doesn’t want power, he just wants to be in a position to hold it first. He just knew that if the Taiko made him sole regent, the other lords would unite and easily overthrow him. Toranaga’s strategy is to accrue strength but project weakness.

Nice catch on that first scene with Toranaga. It pretty much captures the essential nature of his character and overall strategy...😊

The opening scne of episode 3 skyrocketed my respect for Toranaga through the roof.

Been waiting for this reaction since you posted about the premiere. Super excited!

What I like about this series is that it’s based on historical events. There was an English sailor who landed in Japan who did indeed became a samurai and helped shaped events due to his influence 🤔

Oh, Nat, you’re in for treat! This show is fantastic!

Awesome reaction of my favorite episode of Shogun!!!!!😊😊😊😊😊😊😊

I love this book! Read it 5 or more times over the years. From what I see here, the show seems like a pretty faithful adaptation. The book is pretty dern thick, so we may get plenty of episodes out of it

Such a good show, every episode is 🔥🔥

As an old fart I saw the original on TV back when so the story has no surprises to offer. This one is so well done and brilliantly acted you just gotta love it. Fumi winning it all for me. Love her.

that assassin was really precise, all neck hits

A beautiful intelligent "slightly expressive" young woman I've been subscribed to for years... can't think of a better person to review this new series I'm in love with ❤❤❤

This show got me so hooked in the first 2 episodes that I went and bought the book, I've almost finished it, and I'm really looking forward to the final 2 episodes of the show. As someone who doesn't like sub shows, this show has kept me so engaged and left me wanting more with every episode.

*I loved that the 2nd title had many suitors, even Blackthorne*

Great reacgtion Natalie like always, love this series, i loved the original series, and this one is awsome, BTW The word hatamoto literally means "origin of the flag", with the sense of 'around the flag', it is described in Japanese as 'those who guard the flag' (on the battlefield) and is often translated into English as "bannerman". The highest rank. Only these warriors were expected to die to protect their lord's interests. During the Edo period, hatamoto were subject to a considerable income: in the case of Adams, in return for his service, he was granted an estate in Hemi, where he lived very comfortably. In the show, Toranaga's promotion of Blackthorne to the rank of hatamoto signifies the Englishman's entry and acceptabce into the confidence and employ of the shōgun, and his increasing assimilation into his new environs.

shogun so far was amazing

Just finished this finally. I have Japanese family and they gave this a thumbs up. Such an impressive production. Great acting. Great story. Great illustration of an insane society trapped in a cycle of toxic protocol, ritual, and blind obedience.

Best limited series since Chernobyl, and certainly a more joyous experience. I remember being shocked and upset, and probably a bit excited, by a sudden decapitation in the original miniseries when i watched it as a kid in the early 80s. Watching this new version, i am shocked and delighted about how much work Hiroyuki Sanada put into this show, especially as producer. The level of authentic detail he's brought to the project is nothing short of staggering. Also, i liked Anna Sawai in Monarch: Legacy of Monsters, but holy shit, she's amazing in Shōgun.

netflix has ruined my ability to wait a week for each episode i dont know what to do with myself inbetween them now

@Natalie Gold - the 1980 mini-series was superb also…and has held up very well over time.

"I'm hooked on *SHOGUN*" Yeap... so am I... so am I.

It was a tv series in 1980 I saw it

Plsss release the part 2 the series is already done 😊😊😊

Absolutely loving this show so far. 3 episodes in. 😊

I've read the book twice and watched the 80s series multiple times. This version of the show is very, very well done and even though some scenes are different they still get the point across. It isn't a 1:1 comparison but I have to say I am impressed with everything in this show. After watching this show, I highly recommend watching the 80s version.

At the risk of repeating another post, Hatamoto translates to Banner Bearer, basically it is a vassal that stands next to the clan leader under his banner in time of war, making Blackthorne the highest ranking person other than Hiromatsu, the old guy who is Toronaga's general

It stays pretty true to the novel - which you should totally read, it's a big fat pill to get through but it's a pretty rewarding read.

Your comments on the theme in the 1st episode (only one I've seen so far) of facing death are spot on, actually. I hadn't thought about it but it's touched on very frequently in the episode in all of the storylines. Rather humourously you even have the Catholic priest (?) facing away (ie unaware) of his own death.

I loved the book, was too young to remember the mini series, can't wait to buy it on disc, and love your reaction.

"Hatamoto" is a real historical term which translates from Japanese to English as "guardian of the flag," working as a bannerman or upper vassal to a samurai lord. A daimyo such as Toranaga would have a whole number of hatamoto working under them, similar to officers working under a general.

I appreciate you and thank you for making content.

TBH I am a huge fan of the 1980 Mini Series. This series is well done, but the additional information of the original makes much more sense at what is happening in the show. As a side note I actually learned to understand and speak some basic Japanese, as Mariko was teaching Anjin-san in the original.

Great stuff - you are SO the right person to react to "Shogun!"

This is among the best shows of 2024

I think you would love Netflix’s Blue Eye Samurai . It’s an epic masterpiece of storytelling . Cheers

24:26 You have to realize that, while there is a system of honour, there is also a system of people maintaining their own agendas. Also, this wasn't the information age where word travels fast. So, it's easier to control information. Toranaga didn't even know about this treaty until he asked Blackthorne about the world. This is really good show about how misinformation is used to destabilize basically the shogunate, be it for someone's personal reasons or otherwise. Edit: In the end, Toranaga was wise to use Blackthorne as a distraction, because he knew that Blackthorne's presence was enough of a distraction.

The mini series as well as the book is/was AAAA....MAZING!❤ I know you're too young to have seen that, but you should really read the book as well 😘 Thank you for watching this series. 🥰

show is soo good

I'm hooked on the show, the official podcast is also worth listening to about how they put the show together and level of care and love for the original material and to make it as authentic as possible.

The 80 version was good for 80 series… worth of watching also. If you can stand 80 TV series pacing and low budget. This new one… yeah! Golden!

Loved your commentary and reaction to Shogun. Will be back for more. Keep up the great work.