A highly anticipated historical drama set in the world of Samurai has garnered widespread acclaim and accomplished the rare feat of achieving a perfect Rotten Tomatoes score.
Shōgun, set to premiere on FX this month, is based on the 1975 novel by James Clavell and follows the political upheaval in 17th-century Japan after an English sailor, John Blackthorne (played by Cosmo Jarvis), is shipwrecked on the nation’s shores. Blackthorne becomes entangled in the lives of daimyo Lord Yoshii Toranaga (portrayed by Hiroyuki Sanada) and samurai Toda Mariko (played by Anna Sawai).
The series synopsis provides insight into the intricate plot: “When a mysterious European ship is found marooned in a nearby fishing village, its English pilot, John Blackthorne, comes bearing secrets that could help Toranaga tip the scales of power and devastate the formidable influence of Blackthorne’s own enemies — the Jesuit priests and Portuguese merchants. Toranaga’s and Blackthorne’s fates become inextricably tied to their translator, Toda Mariko, a mysterious Christian noblewoman and the last of a disgraced line. While serving her lord amidst this fraught political landscape, Mariko must reconcile her newfound companionship with Blackthorne, her commitment to the faith that saved her and her duty to her late father.”
With a perfect score of 100 percent on Rotten Tomatoes, garnered from 17 reviews, Shōgun has drawn comparisons to the level of hype surrounding Game of Thrones. Despite lacking dragons or witchcraft, the scale and depth of Shōgun’s storytelling have resonated with audiences, much like the HBO epic fantasy drama.
Featuring a stellar cast including Hiroyuki Sanada and Cosmo Jarvis, Shōgun promises to delve into the complex political turmoil of the era. By achieving a perfect score on Rotten Tomatoes, Shōgun has already surpassed Game of Thrones’ highest-rated season, which had a score of 97 percent (season 4).
The first two episodes are set to premiere in the US on FX on February 27, with availability in the UK on Disney+. Fans eagerly anticipate the unfolding of this captivating saga set in the rich backdrop of Samurai-era Japan.
