Hiroyuki Sanada has been honing his acting skills for over fifty years, having started when he was six years old. He landed his first role opposite the celebrated Japanese actor and martial artist Sonny Chiba in Game of Chance. Since then, the Tokyo-born actor, 63, has barely decelerated.
Hiroyuki Sanada in Shōgun (Credit: FX)
That being said, we cannot overlook the brilliant performance he gave in Rachel Kondo & Justin Marks’ Shōgun. As Lord Yoshii Toranaga, he practically steals every scene of the FX series. Unfortunately, the 10-episode series is over, but he has starred in a number of similar flicks that are well worth your time.
Nevertheless, Sanada’s résumé includes a number of stellar but lesser-known roles. Rest assured, if you enjoy his portrayal of Lord Toranaga, here are three must-see films starring the talented actor that will satisfy your craving for more of his compelling performances.
1. The Twilight Samurai...
Hiroyuki Sanada in Shōgun (Credit: FX)
That being said, we cannot overlook the brilliant performance he gave in Rachel Kondo & Justin Marks’ Shōgun. As Lord Yoshii Toranaga, he practically steals every scene of the FX series. Unfortunately, the 10-episode series is over, but he has starred in a number of similar flicks that are well worth your time.
Nevertheless, Sanada’s résumé includes a number of stellar but lesser-known roles. Rest assured, if you enjoy his portrayal of Lord Toranaga, here are three must-see films starring the talented actor that will satisfy your craving for more of his compelling performances.
1. The Twilight Samurai...
- 5/11/2024
- by Siddhika Prajapati
- FandomWire
There’s a strong chance that FX’s critical darling Shōgun will return for a second season.
Hiroyuki Sanada has signed what sources say is an “if-come” deal that would see the series star and producer return, should FX successfully jump through the multiple hoops required for a second season of the limited series. That means if FX can sort things out behind the scenes and formally greenlight a second season, Sanada would return to the franchise.
Sources stress there are other extenuating circumstances that FX and CEO John Landgraf are attempting to sort through to pave the way for a renewal. Reps for FX declined comment.
Shōgun, billed as a limited series, ranks as the most expensive scripted show FX has done in its history. The network spent years developing the series, which is based on James Clavell’s 1975 novel of the same name. It’s the second stab at Shōgun,...
Hiroyuki Sanada has signed what sources say is an “if-come” deal that would see the series star and producer return, should FX successfully jump through the multiple hoops required for a second season of the limited series. That means if FX can sort things out behind the scenes and formally greenlight a second season, Sanada would return to the franchise.
Sources stress there are other extenuating circumstances that FX and CEO John Landgraf are attempting to sort through to pave the way for a renewal. Reps for FX declined comment.
Shōgun, billed as a limited series, ranks as the most expensive scripted show FX has done in its history. The network spent years developing the series, which is based on James Clavell’s 1975 novel of the same name. It’s the second stab at Shōgun,...
- 5/10/2024
- by Lesley Goldberg
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Prime Video’s Blade Runner TV project has cast Michelle Yeoh in a lead role.
The Oscar-winning Everything Everywhere All at Once actress has signed on to Blade Runner 2099.
The limited series is from showrunner Silka Luisa (Shining Girls) and executive produced by original Blade Runner director Ridley Scott. Jonathan van Tulleken (Shogun) will direct the first two episodes.
There’s no description yet of Yeoh’s role. The actress made history last year as the first best actress Oscar winner of Asian descent for Everything Everywhere All at Once. She’s also known for her roles in Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon, Memoirs of a Geisha, Tomorrow Never Dies and Star Trek: Discovery.
Yeoh will soon reprise her role as Trek‘s Emperor Philippa Georgiou in the TV movie Star Trek: Section 31.
In addition to Luisa and Scott, the show’s executive producers include Andrew Kosove, Broderick Johnson,...
The Oscar-winning Everything Everywhere All at Once actress has signed on to Blade Runner 2099.
The limited series is from showrunner Silka Luisa (Shining Girls) and executive produced by original Blade Runner director Ridley Scott. Jonathan van Tulleken (Shogun) will direct the first two episodes.
There’s no description yet of Yeoh’s role. The actress made history last year as the first best actress Oscar winner of Asian descent for Everything Everywhere All at Once. She’s also known for her roles in Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon, Memoirs of a Geisha, Tomorrow Never Dies and Star Trek: Discovery.
Yeoh will soon reprise her role as Trek‘s Emperor Philippa Georgiou in the TV movie Star Trek: Section 31.
In addition to Luisa and Scott, the show’s executive producers include Andrew Kosove, Broderick Johnson,...
- 5/7/2024
- by James Hibberd
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Michelle Yeoh has never been afraid of working on a TV show. Just in the last couple of years, she’s starred in series such as “American Born Chinese,” “The Brothers Sun,” and “Ark: The Animated Series.” And for her next big project, the award-winning actor is set to lead the cast of the upcoming “Blade Runner 2099.”
Read More: ‘Blade Runner 2099’: ‘Shogun’s’ Jonathan Van Tulleken New Limited Series Director
According to Deadline, Michelle Yeoh has signed on for a secretive role in the forthcoming Prime Video series, “Blade Runner 2099.” The series, as the title suggests, is the latest sequel in the “Blade Runner” franchise, taking place 50 years after the most recent film, “Blade Runner 2049.” Not many details are known about the show right now, other than filming is currently underway in Europe and at least two episodes are directed by “Shogun” helmer Jonathan van Tulleken.
Read More: ‘Blade Runner 2099’: ‘Shogun’s’ Jonathan Van Tulleken New Limited Series Director
According to Deadline, Michelle Yeoh has signed on for a secretive role in the forthcoming Prime Video series, “Blade Runner 2099.” The series, as the title suggests, is the latest sequel in the “Blade Runner” franchise, taking place 50 years after the most recent film, “Blade Runner 2049.” Not many details are known about the show right now, other than filming is currently underway in Europe and at least two episodes are directed by “Shogun” helmer Jonathan van Tulleken.
- 5/7/2024
- by Martin Miller
- The Playlist
CBS is taking a page out of Netflix’s playbook by announcing its programming success in the billions of minutes watched.
If you were wondering what that might mean to a broadcast network, it measures out to 456 billion minutes of CBS programming watched in the first four months of 2024.
With two new hits on its hands — Tracker and Elsbeth — this doesn’t surprise us in the least.
Here’s the real measure of their success, though.
Viewers delivered over 30% more time spent in front of CBS programming than Netflix and over 231% more than all other streamers combined.
No wonder they’re patting themselves on the back.
Those are incredible numbers that often go unnoticed when you use traditional ratings tools to deliver the news.
Even crazier, the time spent watching CBS programming has increased by 5.8% over the same period in 2023.
People often wonder how shows can be considered a success...
If you were wondering what that might mean to a broadcast network, it measures out to 456 billion minutes of CBS programming watched in the first four months of 2024.
With two new hits on its hands — Tracker and Elsbeth — this doesn’t surprise us in the least.
Here’s the real measure of their success, though.
Viewers delivered over 30% more time spent in front of CBS programming than Netflix and over 231% more than all other streamers combined.
No wonder they’re patting themselves on the back.
Those are incredible numbers that often go unnoticed when you use traditional ratings tools to deliver the news.
Even crazier, the time spent watching CBS programming has increased by 5.8% over the same period in 2023.
People often wonder how shows can be considered a success...
- 5/2/2024
- by Carissa Pavlica
- TVfanatic
Shogun's Anna Sawai Reveals She Was Forced to Skip Suicide Squad Audition - Main Image
Shogun star Anna Sawai revealed that she was forced to turn down an audition for a major role in Suicide Squad.
The actress is currently having a breakthrough moment in her acting career thanks to her acclaimed performance as Lady Mariko in the FX limited series. She also recently starred in another hit series Monarch: Legacy of Monsters.
However, as it turns out, she had an opportunity years ago to audition for a major superhero franchise but she was forced to skip it due to a work commitment at that time.
Also Read: James Gunn Debunks Conspiracy Theory About Henry Cavill's Superman
Anna Sawai Was Forced to Decline Suicide Squad Audition Due to J-Pop Commitment
In a recent interview, Sawai revealed that she had an opportunity to audition for the role of Katana in Suicide Squad.
Shogun star Anna Sawai revealed that she was forced to turn down an audition for a major role in Suicide Squad.
The actress is currently having a breakthrough moment in her acting career thanks to her acclaimed performance as Lady Mariko in the FX limited series. She also recently starred in another hit series Monarch: Legacy of Monsters.
However, as it turns out, she had an opportunity years ago to audition for a major superhero franchise but she was forced to skip it due to a work commitment at that time.
Also Read: James Gunn Debunks Conspiracy Theory About Henry Cavill's Superman
Anna Sawai Was Forced to Decline Suicide Squad Audition Due to J-Pop Commitment
In a recent interview, Sawai revealed that she had an opportunity to audition for the role of Katana in Suicide Squad.
- 5/2/2024
- EpicStream
FX's critically-acclaimed historical drama Shogun finished up its 10-episode run last week, and Anna Sawai was universally praised for her performance as the tragic Toda Mariko.
Amid the Emmy-nomination talk, the Monarch: Legacy of Monsters star is certain to be inundated with movie offers, and we wouldn't be surprised if she was given a shot at a major superhero role at some point.
Sawai spoke about her career and potential move to Hollywood to THR, revealing that her big break could have come much earlier, but her commitment to her J-Pop band, Faky, meant she was forced to miss her chance to audition for the role of Katana in 2016's Suicide Squad.
“After the training — multiple years of training — you are either lucky and join a group, or debut as a solo singer, or you’re gone,” Sawai explained. “I was like, ‘This is my chance!’ And then...
Amid the Emmy-nomination talk, the Monarch: Legacy of Monsters star is certain to be inundated with movie offers, and we wouldn't be surprised if she was given a shot at a major superhero role at some point.
Sawai spoke about her career and potential move to Hollywood to THR, revealing that her big break could have come much earlier, but her commitment to her J-Pop band, Faky, meant she was forced to miss her chance to audition for the role of Katana in 2016's Suicide Squad.
“After the training — multiple years of training — you are either lucky and join a group, or debut as a solo singer, or you’re gone,” Sawai explained. “I was like, ‘This is my chance!’ And then...
- 5/1/2024
- ComicBookMovie.com
It turns out that Anna Sawai, the breakout star of the hit FX series Shogun, might have broken out even sooner had she not been denied an audition for a dream project.
The 31-year-old former J-Pop singer, speaking with The Hollywood Reporter’s Awards Chatter podcast, revealed that she was forced to turn down an audition for the part of Katana in the 2016 film Suicide Squad — which was eventually played by Karen Fukuhara — because the company behind Faky, the girl group to which she then belonged, forbid it.
In 2006, Sawai auditioned for and was signed by Avex, one of Japan’s major entertainment companies, which operates a music and dance boot camp in the hope of turning out J-Pop stars. “After the training — multiple years of training — you are either lucky and join a group, or debut as a solo singer, or you’re gone,” she explained.
During her training,...
The 31-year-old former J-Pop singer, speaking with The Hollywood Reporter’s Awards Chatter podcast, revealed that she was forced to turn down an audition for the part of Katana in the 2016 film Suicide Squad — which was eventually played by Karen Fukuhara — because the company behind Faky, the girl group to which she then belonged, forbid it.
In 2006, Sawai auditioned for and was signed by Avex, one of Japan’s major entertainment companies, which operates a music and dance boot camp in the hope of turning out J-Pop stars. “After the training — multiple years of training — you are either lucky and join a group, or debut as a solo singer, or you’re gone,” she explained.
During her training,...
- 5/1/2024
- by Nicole Fell
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
“Shogun” director Jonathan van Tulleken is set to direct the screen adaptation of Andrew Michael Hurley’s debut novel “The Loney.”
Van Tulleken will also executive produce the project, which is produced by New Regency Television after they scooped up the television rights to the novel following a competitive bidding process. New Regency’s London-based team, comprised of Ed Rubin, Emma Broughton, and Beth Pattinson, will work with him on the project.
Described as a “chilling horror” story, “The Loney” has been translated into twenty languages.
“The Loney tells the gripping story of two brothers on a journey through northwest England where they encounter unnerving secrets and become enmeshed in a series of terrifying events that shape their lives forever,” reads the logline.
Hurley has also written “Devil’s Day” and “Starve Acre,” the latter of which has been turned into a film starring Matt Smith and Morfydd Clark.
“I...
Van Tulleken will also executive produce the project, which is produced by New Regency Television after they scooped up the television rights to the novel following a competitive bidding process. New Regency’s London-based team, comprised of Ed Rubin, Emma Broughton, and Beth Pattinson, will work with him on the project.
Described as a “chilling horror” story, “The Loney” has been translated into twenty languages.
“The Loney tells the gripping story of two brothers on a journey through northwest England where they encounter unnerving secrets and become enmeshed in a series of terrifying events that shape their lives forever,” reads the logline.
Hurley has also written “Devil’s Day” and “Starve Acre,” the latter of which has been turned into a film starring Matt Smith and Morfydd Clark.
“I...
- 5/1/2024
- by K.J. Yossman
- Variety Film + TV
Actor John Rhys-Davies is known for his role as Gimli, the dwarf warrior in Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings trilogy. The loud-mouthed elf hater is played to perfection by the Welsh actor in the fantasy-adventure films. Rhys-Davies was nominated along with the rest of the cast for the Screen Actors Guild Award and won for The Return of the King.
While the actor has played other roles in his career, he is also most well-known for playing Sallah, the Egyptian friend of Indiana Jones in Steven Spielberg’s Indiana Jones films. Rhys-Davies was reportedly not the first choice for the role and the description reportedly needed a much shorter person. However, Rhys-Davies’ remark reportedly led Spielberg to change the character to suit the actor.
John Rhys-Davies Was Not The First Choice To Play Sallah In Indiana Jones A still from Steven Spielberg’s Indiana Jones: Raiders of the...
While the actor has played other roles in his career, he is also most well-known for playing Sallah, the Egyptian friend of Indiana Jones in Steven Spielberg’s Indiana Jones films. Rhys-Davies was reportedly not the first choice for the role and the description reportedly needed a much shorter person. However, Rhys-Davies’ remark reportedly led Spielberg to change the character to suit the actor.
John Rhys-Davies Was Not The First Choice To Play Sallah In Indiana Jones A still from Steven Spielberg’s Indiana Jones: Raiders of the...
- 4/30/2024
- by Nishanth A
- FandomWire
The latest critical darling of the episodic content world is Shogun, a masterful adaptation of James Clavell’s 1975 novel set in early 1600s Japan. The series has been getting a lot of love on social media for its excellent writing, standout performances, high production value, and how closely it hews to the source material.
The cast and crew behind Shogun have been interacting with fans and critics, and revealing details about the conception and creation of the world shown in the series. During one such interaction, it was revealed that Adam Sandler’s character from Uncut Gems provided major inspiration for the development of the show’s breakout character. The wily lord of Izu Kashigi Yabushige, played to perfection by Tadanobu Asano.
Yabushige And The World of Shogun A still from Shogun
Shogun tells the story of two highly ambitious men, Major John Blackthorne (Cosmo Jarvis), and Lord Yoshii Toranaga...
The cast and crew behind Shogun have been interacting with fans and critics, and revealing details about the conception and creation of the world shown in the series. During one such interaction, it was revealed that Adam Sandler’s character from Uncut Gems provided major inspiration for the development of the show’s breakout character. The wily lord of Izu Kashigi Yabushige, played to perfection by Tadanobu Asano.
Yabushige And The World of Shogun A still from Shogun
Shogun tells the story of two highly ambitious men, Major John Blackthorne (Cosmo Jarvis), and Lord Yoshii Toranaga...
- 4/30/2024
- by Neeraj Chand
- FandomWire
Shōgun season 1 is in the books, and the historical epic has garnered both critical and commercial success, with its premiere pulling in 9 million views (the most ever for an FX series) and its ten-episode run earning nearly unanimous positive reviews (it’s currently sitting pretty at 99% Fresh on Rotten Tomatoes). The problem is, if you’re one of the millions captivated by the sprawling mini-series, a second season is anything but confirmed. In fact, at this point, it’s unlikely to happen.
The good news: there are plenty of terrific pieces of Feudal Japanese fiction to explore, and one of the very best is the breathtaking Ghost of Tsushima. The PlayStation exclusive is just as grand in scale as Shōgun, and while it’s a different kind of samurai story entirely, it’s a perfect complement to the show in that it focuses on aspects of the setting that the show doesn’t.
The good news: there are plenty of terrific pieces of Feudal Japanese fiction to explore, and one of the very best is the breathtaking Ghost of Tsushima. The PlayStation exclusive is just as grand in scale as Shōgun, and while it’s a different kind of samurai story entirely, it’s a perfect complement to the show in that it focuses on aspects of the setting that the show doesn’t.
- 4/29/2024
- by Matthew Byrd
- Den of Geek
Hiroyuki Sanada has been an unsung hero in Hollywood since the early 2000s where he has starred in many supporting roles in major blockbusters. From his dedicated performance in Tom Cruise’s The Last Samurai to starring in the biggest film of all time Avengers: Endgame, the actor has made a name for himself in Hollywood and is highly respected in the industry.
Keanu Reeves as John Wick in 2023’s John Wick: Chapter 4
Sanada made a big impact in the fourth John Wick film playing Koji, one of John Wick’s friends from the past. While his action sequences and martial arts skills were expectedly brilliant, the scene that leads up to where he strikes up a conversation with John is narratively interesting. Sanada stated that he loved that intimate character-driven scene rather than his big action sequences.
Hiroyuki Sanada Loved His Character’s Heart-to-Heart Moment in John Wick:...
Keanu Reeves as John Wick in 2023’s John Wick: Chapter 4
Sanada made a big impact in the fourth John Wick film playing Koji, one of John Wick’s friends from the past. While his action sequences and martial arts skills were expectedly brilliant, the scene that leads up to where he strikes up a conversation with John is narratively interesting. Sanada stated that he loved that intimate character-driven scene rather than his big action sequences.
Hiroyuki Sanada Loved His Character’s Heart-to-Heart Moment in John Wick:...
- 4/27/2024
- by Rahul Thokchom
- FandomWire
The cinematic journey of Hiroyuki Sanada and his contribution to the fusion of Western and Eastern storytelling have been nothing short of remarkable. Fresh off the heels of his presence in John Wick: Chapter 4, Sanada’s Shōgun success has been a cultural touchstone. But does this success guarantee his quick return to the producer’s chair?
Sanada is involved as a producer and cast member of the acclaimed FX limited series. With a career as dynamic as the Japanese actor’s, his keen sense of storytelling speaks volumes. Indeed, his dedication to cultural integrity and his case-by-case approach to production roles serve as a deliberate blueprint for his future endeavors in the film industry, as he enjoys shaping narratives.
Hiroyuki Sanada as Lord Yoshii Toranaga in Shōgun
But, despite his success with Shōgun, Sanada’s desire to create from scratch as a producer may not be realized in the near future.
Sanada is involved as a producer and cast member of the acclaimed FX limited series. With a career as dynamic as the Japanese actor’s, his keen sense of storytelling speaks volumes. Indeed, his dedication to cultural integrity and his case-by-case approach to production roles serve as a deliberate blueprint for his future endeavors in the film industry, as he enjoys shaping narratives.
Hiroyuki Sanada as Lord Yoshii Toranaga in Shōgun
But, despite his success with Shōgun, Sanada’s desire to create from scratch as a producer may not be realized in the near future.
- 4/26/2024
- by Siddhika Prajapati
- FandomWire
Shogun's Mariko may have died in the series' penultimate episode, but her sacrifice carried with it plenty of meaning heading into the finale.
Airing on FX (and streaming on Hulu), the sword-swinging TV epic, just rounded out its ten-episode run, telling a gripping tale of a country in flux and one man's labyrinthine plan for power.
Lady Mariko (played by Anna Sawai) led the historical drama as a key cog in the political machine, serving the venerable Lord Toranaga as coconspirator and interpreter to Toranaga's new ally, the Englishman John Blackthorne.
Read full article on The Direct.
Airing on FX (and streaming on Hulu), the sword-swinging TV epic, just rounded out its ten-episode run, telling a gripping tale of a country in flux and one man's labyrinthine plan for power.
Lady Mariko (played by Anna Sawai) led the historical drama as a key cog in the political machine, serving the venerable Lord Toranaga as coconspirator and interpreter to Toranaga's new ally, the Englishman John Blackthorne.
Read full article on The Direct.
- 4/25/2024
- by Klein Felt
- The Direct
Cosmo Jarvis is a British actor who’s recently gained fame starring alongside Hiroyuki Sanada as the foreigner Anjin-San, aka John Blackthorne, in FX’s Shogun. It might be the first time some fans experience Jarvis’ talent, but he has been in the entertainment industry for most of his adult life. He started out singing before switching to acting and creating films. While his job may be very public as an actor, Jarvis prefers to keep a low profile regarding his private life. Due to his personal preference, he doesn’t have a public social media profile and talks very little about his romantic relationships. Some blogs
The post 5 Things You Didn’t Know About Shogun’s Cosmo Jarvis first appeared on TVovermind.
The post 5 Things You Didn’t Know About Shogun’s Cosmo Jarvis first appeared on TVovermind.
- 4/25/2024
- by Isabel k
- TVovermind.com
Based on the 1975 novel by James Clavell, “Shogun” is the epic historical drama that got the fans talking for its intense directing, stunning visuals, rich performances, and brilliant story. It delves into the life of a 1600s European sailor, John Blackthorne, who is shipwrecked in Japan.
A still from Shogun
Thrust into a complex world of warring clans and feudal politics, Blackthorne navigates a new life under the rule of a powerful lord. Despite the huge critical acclaim of the series, some fans, it seems, believe a second season might be unnecessary.
The Creators of Shogun Do Not Have Any Roadmap For a Second Season
A still from Shogun
The critical acclaim for Shogun hasn’t translated into an automatic green light for a second season. The show’s creators, it seems, haven’t charted a course for further adventures, as they revealed speaking to The Hollywood Reporter.
“I don’t know.
A still from Shogun
Thrust into a complex world of warring clans and feudal politics, Blackthorne navigates a new life under the rule of a powerful lord. Despite the huge critical acclaim of the series, some fans, it seems, believe a second season might be unnecessary.
The Creators of Shogun Do Not Have Any Roadmap For a Second Season
A still from Shogun
The critical acclaim for Shogun hasn’t translated into an automatic green light for a second season. The show’s creators, it seems, haven’t charted a course for further adventures, as they revealed speaking to The Hollywood Reporter.
“I don’t know.
- 4/24/2024
- by Piyush Yadav
- FandomWire
Shogun is the latest trending topic when discussing series with people. Being an iconic series with Hiroyuki Sanada in the lead role, the series, titled Shōgun has received some astounding high ratings.
With Shōgun being a drama miniseries, fans want more of it (of course). Well, there seems to be one bad news with another season. Writer Justin Marks thinks that a season 2 is definitely possible but there’s only one condition!
Hiroyuki Sanada as Lord Yoshii Toranaga in Shōgun Shōgun Directors Have Only One Condition For Season 2
Based on the 1975 novel by James Clavell, Shōgun narrates the tale of Japan in the year 1600 when Lord Yoshii Toranaga (Hiroyuki Sanada) is surrounded by enemies while a European ship gets marooned off the island.
A still from Shōgun
Being a drama miniseries, fans obviously want more of Shōgun with some even claiming that the series is better than Game of Thrones!
With Shōgun being a drama miniseries, fans want more of it (of course). Well, there seems to be one bad news with another season. Writer Justin Marks thinks that a season 2 is definitely possible but there’s only one condition!
Hiroyuki Sanada as Lord Yoshii Toranaga in Shōgun Shōgun Directors Have Only One Condition For Season 2
Based on the 1975 novel by James Clavell, Shōgun narrates the tale of Japan in the year 1600 when Lord Yoshii Toranaga (Hiroyuki Sanada) is surrounded by enemies while a European ship gets marooned off the island.
A still from Shōgun
Being a drama miniseries, fans obviously want more of Shōgun with some even claiming that the series is better than Game of Thrones!
- 4/24/2024
- by Visarg Acharya
- FandomWire
Plans feel inevitable when they come together as neatly as Toranaga’s (Hiroyuki Sanada) play for power over the throne of Japan. But the team behind Toranaga — and the rest of the characters on FX’s now complete miniseries “Shogun” — had to work just as hard as the warlord to finesse an ending that feels as right as this one does.
Episode 10, “A Dream of a Dream,” was a huge combined effort for editors Aika Miyake and Maria Gonzales, who each worked on three other episodes in addition to their shared credit on the finale. There were the normal challenges of assembling an edit, from placing incomplete VFX shots meant to convey the scale of Osaka to temp sound and score that will hopefully convey the loneliness of Blackthorne (Cosmo Jarvis) missing Mariko’s (Anna Sawai) funeral. That’s a lot for any editor to hold in their mind — in...
Episode 10, “A Dream of a Dream,” was a huge combined effort for editors Aika Miyake and Maria Gonzales, who each worked on three other episodes in addition to their shared credit on the finale. There were the normal challenges of assembling an edit, from placing incomplete VFX shots meant to convey the scale of Osaka to temp sound and score that will hopefully convey the loneliness of Blackthorne (Cosmo Jarvis) missing Mariko’s (Anna Sawai) funeral. That’s a lot for any editor to hold in their mind — in...
- 4/23/2024
- by Sarah Shachat
- Indiewire
This article contains spoilers for both "Shōgun" the 2024 TV show and the 1975 novel.
When I first finished James Clavell's novel "Shōgun," the comparison that immediately came to mind was Homer's "Iliad." The epic Greek poem is famous for recounting the events of the Trojan War, a war that is still famous thousands of years later. I was hardly an expert at Greek mythology before reading "The Iliad," but going in I already knew two big events: that the fierce warrior Achilles (who was portrayed by Brad Pitt in Wolfgang Petersen's "Troy") died near the end of the Trojan War, and that the Greek soldiers won by hiding inside a giant wooden horse and tricking the Trojans into letting them behind their city walls.
The latter was the big moment I was looking forward to. The Trojan horse is such an iconic image; it's still referenced constantly in...
When I first finished James Clavell's novel "Shōgun," the comparison that immediately came to mind was Homer's "Iliad." The epic Greek poem is famous for recounting the events of the Trojan War, a war that is still famous thousands of years later. I was hardly an expert at Greek mythology before reading "The Iliad," but going in I already knew two big events: that the fierce warrior Achilles (who was portrayed by Brad Pitt in Wolfgang Petersen's "Troy") died near the end of the Trojan War, and that the Greek soldiers won by hiding inside a giant wooden horse and tricking the Trojans into letting them behind their city walls.
The latter was the big moment I was looking forward to. The Trojan horse is such an iconic image; it's still referenced constantly in...
- 4/23/2024
- by Michael Boyle
- Slash Film
Given the shocking conclusion to Shogun Season 1 Episode 9, we suppose it should come as no surprise that the title of the series finale would refer to the ephemerality of human life.
On his deathbed, the Taiko -- whose demise set in motion many of the events we've witnessed thus far -- referred to life as a dream within a dream.
And no one was more aware of the fleeting nature of our time on earth than the Taiko's fellow improv poet, Lady Mariko.
Yes, in the previous installment, Mariko went out in a blaze of self-sacrifice, arms spread at her sides in a likely reference to her Christian faith.
It's an image that we return to in the surprising opening scene of Shogun Season 1 Episode 10.
An elderly Blackthorne, back in his native England, lies on his own deathbed and clutches a cross as his grandsons inquire about his tales of heroism.
On his deathbed, the Taiko -- whose demise set in motion many of the events we've witnessed thus far -- referred to life as a dream within a dream.
And no one was more aware of the fleeting nature of our time on earth than the Taiko's fellow improv poet, Lady Mariko.
Yes, in the previous installment, Mariko went out in a blaze of self-sacrifice, arms spread at her sides in a likely reference to her Christian faith.
It's an image that we return to in the surprising opening scene of Shogun Season 1 Episode 10.
An elderly Blackthorne, back in his native England, lies on his own deathbed and clutches a cross as his grandsons inquire about his tales of heroism.
- 4/23/2024
- by Tyler Johnson
- TVfanatic
After giving an outstanding performance in Christopher Nolan’s Oppenheimer, and grabbing the Academy Awards for the Best Supporting Actor Robert Downey Jr. is all set to work on his new project, The Sympathizer. He is going to portray four different characters in the movie: a director, a congressional representative, a professor, and a CIA operative. This project is going to be one of the most difficult projects that the Iron Man actor has put his hands on.
Robert Downey Jr. as Lewis Strauss in Oppenheimer
However, working with Nolan in the 2023 historical drama film, helped Rdj to go nuts with his idea of character development. Susan Downey, the actor’s wife gave an insight into how the Inception director’s intensive character process helped the actor. It allowed him to work on each character’s looks and physicality, making them look different from each other.
Christopher Nolan’s Strict...
Robert Downey Jr. as Lewis Strauss in Oppenheimer
However, working with Nolan in the 2023 historical drama film, helped Rdj to go nuts with his idea of character development. Susan Downey, the actor’s wife gave an insight into how the Inception director’s intensive character process helped the actor. It allowed him to work on each character’s looks and physicality, making them look different from each other.
Christopher Nolan’s Strict...
- 4/22/2024
- by Tushar Auddy
- FandomWire
FX's Shogun Episode 9's ending left fans emotional after Mariko's ultimate sacrifice.
At the core of Shogun's latest installment is Mariko's (Anne Sawai) quest to serve Lord Toranaga with a specific and important mission.
What happens throughout the episode is a thrilling and emotional journey for Mariko as she ponders if she deserves to live after an intense-filled clash with the forces of Ishido.
Read full article on The Direct.
At the core of Shogun's latest installment is Mariko's (Anne Sawai) quest to serve Lord Toranaga with a specific and important mission.
What happens throughout the episode is a thrilling and emotional journey for Mariko as she ponders if she deserves to live after an intense-filled clash with the forces of Ishido.
Read full article on The Direct.
- 4/17/2024
- by Aeron Mer Eclarinal
- The Direct
“Crimson Sky,” the penultimate episode of “Shogun,” delivers on its promise of blood and then some. But, true to the philosophy of the Eightfold Fence, one of the episode’s most powerful scenes finds triumph and cements the strength of the core characters even as their plans are (seemingly) defeated. Spoilers beyond this point, so only attempt to pass the castle gates at your own peril.
That is exactly what Lady Mariko (Anna Sawai) sets out to do at the top of the scene in question. She leads her retinue in an attempt to exit Osaka Castle, with sweeping overhead shots and an audience on the castle walls enforcing how Mariko is the center of attention and bringing the full weight of her authority to bear. She forces the issue of just how firmly the scheming Lord Ishido (Takehiro Hira) is holding everyone inside hostage. The ensuing standoff between castle guards,...
That is exactly what Lady Mariko (Anna Sawai) sets out to do at the top of the scene in question. She leads her retinue in an attempt to exit Osaka Castle, with sweeping overhead shots and an audience on the castle walls enforcing how Mariko is the center of attention and bringing the full weight of her authority to bear. She forces the issue of just how firmly the scheming Lord Ishido (Takehiro Hira) is holding everyone inside hostage. The ensuing standoff between castle guards,...
- 4/16/2024
- by Sarah Shachat
- Indiewire
Every time there's a flashback involving Mariko, a new layer of tragedy is added to her story.
This time, we're reminded that her sadly understandable desire to take her own life has persisted for several years -- 14, to be exact -- and it did not relent during her pregnancy.
But we see more than just pain and misery during this latest look into Mariko's past.
We see the foundations of her religious faith, as well as the emergence of two traits that will serve her well later in life -- her resilience and her facility with language.
While Toranaga and Blackthorne might occasionally claim center stage for themselves, Shogun is Mariko's story as much as anyone else's, and her perseverance and translation skills have enabled her to serve as the bridge that unites the two men's worlds.
As Shogun Season 1 Episode 9 returns us to 1600, Mariko attempts to convince Blackthorne that...
This time, we're reminded that her sadly understandable desire to take her own life has persisted for several years -- 14, to be exact -- and it did not relent during her pregnancy.
But we see more than just pain and misery during this latest look into Mariko's past.
We see the foundations of her religious faith, as well as the emergence of two traits that will serve her well later in life -- her resilience and her facility with language.
While Toranaga and Blackthorne might occasionally claim center stage for themselves, Shogun is Mariko's story as much as anyone else's, and her perseverance and translation skills have enabled her to serve as the bridge that unites the two men's worlds.
As Shogun Season 1 Episode 9 returns us to 1600, Mariko attempts to convince Blackthorne that...
- 4/16/2024
- by Tyler Johnson
- TVfanatic
Shogun has skyrocketed to the top of the streaming ratings, a little over a month since its initial two-episode release, with millions of views in its first week.
This wasn't an easy feat considering the debut success of other FX or Hulu hard-hitters, such as The Bear, The Handmaid's Tale, and The Great.
Immediate comparisons to Game of Thrones were inevitable, given the show's heavy political intrigues set in 17th-century feudal Japan.
As with most popular debuts that delve heavily into cultures foreign to our own, some critics pointed to the white savior trope, drawing lines between Shogun and Dances with Wolves, The Last Samurai, and even Avatar.
Fortunately, those lines failed to meet reality.
The sympathetic, apologetic nature of the white savior plot doesn't stand up to scrutiny within Shogun's carefully constructed mimicry of real-life Japan in the 1600s.
The attention to detail is bar none, with creators...
This wasn't an easy feat considering the debut success of other FX or Hulu hard-hitters, such as The Bear, The Handmaid's Tale, and The Great.
Immediate comparisons to Game of Thrones were inevitable, given the show's heavy political intrigues set in 17th-century feudal Japan.
As with most popular debuts that delve heavily into cultures foreign to our own, some critics pointed to the white savior trope, drawing lines between Shogun and Dances with Wolves, The Last Samurai, and even Avatar.
Fortunately, those lines failed to meet reality.
The sympathetic, apologetic nature of the white savior plot doesn't stand up to scrutiny within Shogun's carefully constructed mimicry of real-life Japan in the 1600s.
The attention to detail is bar none, with creators...
- 4/15/2024
- by Thomas Godwin
- TVfanatic
Apple TV’s Monarch season 2 is officially in the making. The streaming platform is developing multiple other MonsterVerse spin-off shows in addition to Monarch: Legacy of Monsters‘ second installment. Godzilla x Kong: The New Empire‘s stomping box office success has ushered in a new era for MonsterVerse. The film was released on March 29 worldwide and is still going strong at the box office.
The past decade has been a great one for MonsterVerse with movies like Godzilla (2014), Kong: Skull Island (2017), Godzilla: King of the Monsters (2019), and Godzilla vs. Kong (2021) making massive numbers at the box office. Moreover, Apple TV’s 2023 show Monarch: Legacy of Monsters has also been raking in big streaming numbers. However, a new update reveals that many MonsterVerse stories are yet to be told.
Screenshot from Monarch: Legacy of Monsters — Official Trailer | Legendary – YouTube Apple is Developing Monarch Season 2 and Multiple MonsterVerse Spin-offs
Variety has confirmed...
The past decade has been a great one for MonsterVerse with movies like Godzilla (2014), Kong: Skull Island (2017), Godzilla: King of the Monsters (2019), and Godzilla vs. Kong (2021) making massive numbers at the box office. Moreover, Apple TV’s 2023 show Monarch: Legacy of Monsters has also been raking in big streaming numbers. However, a new update reveals that many MonsterVerse stories are yet to be told.
Screenshot from Monarch: Legacy of Monsters — Official Trailer | Legendary – YouTube Apple is Developing Monarch Season 2 and Multiple MonsterVerse Spin-offs
Variety has confirmed...
- 4/12/2024
- by Disha Kandpal
- FandomWire
Shogun's Hiroyuki Sanada Campaigns for Star Wars Role and Fans Are Loving It - Main Image
Hiroyuki Sanada has expressed his interest in joining the Star Wars franchise, and fans are immediately loving the idea as they already have suggestions for the role that he could play.
The 63-year-old Japanese actor has appeared in various franchise projects throughout his decades-long career such as the MCU, John Wick, Mortal Kombat, and X-Men.
He currently stars in the hit FX limited series Shogun as Lord Toranaga and is receiving a lot of praise for his performance. Now, it looks like he has his eyes on potentially joining the galaxy far, far away.
Also Read: Daisy Ridley Hypes Up Her Star Wars Return: "I'm Owning It"
Hiroyuki Sanada Wants to Join the Star Wars Franchise
Speaking with Variety recently during the Hulu on Disney+ event, Sanada revealed that he is interested in...
Hiroyuki Sanada has expressed his interest in joining the Star Wars franchise, and fans are immediately loving the idea as they already have suggestions for the role that he could play.
The 63-year-old Japanese actor has appeared in various franchise projects throughout his decades-long career such as the MCU, John Wick, Mortal Kombat, and X-Men.
He currently stars in the hit FX limited series Shogun as Lord Toranaga and is receiving a lot of praise for his performance. Now, it looks like he has his eyes on potentially joining the galaxy far, far away.
Also Read: Daisy Ridley Hypes Up Her Star Wars Return: "I'm Owning It"
Hiroyuki Sanada Wants to Join the Star Wars Franchise
Speaking with Variety recently during the Hulu on Disney+ event, Sanada revealed that he is interested in...
- 4/9/2024
- EpicStream
This article contains spoilers through Shogun episode 7.
The women of FX and Hulu’s Shōgun may be limited in the roles made available to them by the patriarchal structure of the show’s setting in feudal Japan, but that doesn’t mean they are totally powerless in the growing conflict. If anything, the women of Shōgun hold more power than they are given credit for, and several of them are especially adept at wielding it.
As Mariko (Anna Sawai) so eloquently puts it during a conversation with Toranaga (Hiroyuki Sanada) in episode 6 “Ladies of the Willow World,” “A man may go to war for many reasons. Conquest. Pride. Power. But a woman is simply at war.” For women like Mariko, Ochiba (Fumi Nikaido), Kiku (Yuka Kouri), Fuji (Moeka Hoshi), and Gin (Yuko Miyamoto), this sentiment especially rings true, for they must all be constantly on edge, willing to bow to...
The women of FX and Hulu’s Shōgun may be limited in the roles made available to them by the patriarchal structure of the show’s setting in feudal Japan, but that doesn’t mean they are totally powerless in the growing conflict. If anything, the women of Shōgun hold more power than they are given credit for, and several of them are especially adept at wielding it.
As Mariko (Anna Sawai) so eloquently puts it during a conversation with Toranaga (Hiroyuki Sanada) in episode 6 “Ladies of the Willow World,” “A man may go to war for many reasons. Conquest. Pride. Power. But a woman is simply at war.” For women like Mariko, Ochiba (Fumi Nikaido), Kiku (Yuka Kouri), Fuji (Moeka Hoshi), and Gin (Yuko Miyamoto), this sentiment especially rings true, for they must all be constantly on edge, willing to bow to...
- 4/9/2024
- by Brynnaarens
- Den of Geek
As embarrassing deaths go, it doesn't get much worse than slipping and fatally cracking your head on a rock while attempting to murder your uncle outside of a brothel.
So at the opening of Shogun Season 1 Episode 8, it doesn't come as much of a shock when we see Nagakado getting roasted by the members of his own funeral procession. (Pyre pun not intended!)
But the good news is, the bumbling son finally helps his father's cause by ensuring a 49-day period of mourning before Toranaga's death march to Osaka.
Also managing a complicated mixed-bag situation is Toranaga's former right-hand man, Blackthorne:
It seems that since the Anjin has turned his back on his ex-benefactor, he will not be forced to submit to the Council of Regents, and his service to Toranaga has officially come to an end.
It's what he's been campaigning for since his ship first ran aground. Hell,...
So at the opening of Shogun Season 1 Episode 8, it doesn't come as much of a shock when we see Nagakado getting roasted by the members of his own funeral procession. (Pyre pun not intended!)
But the good news is, the bumbling son finally helps his father's cause by ensuring a 49-day period of mourning before Toranaga's death march to Osaka.
Also managing a complicated mixed-bag situation is Toranaga's former right-hand man, Blackthorne:
It seems that since the Anjin has turned his back on his ex-benefactor, he will not be forced to submit to the Council of Regents, and his service to Toranaga has officially come to an end.
It's what he's been campaigning for since his ship first ran aground. Hell,...
- 4/9/2024
- by Tyler Johnson
- TVfanatic
"The telling of history is but a history of war." How often do you think about the Roman Empire? Peacock has unveiled a first look teaser trailer for an epic new streaming series landing this year titled Those About To Die, a riff on the classic Roman phrase "Hail, Emperor, those who are about to die salute you" or "Ave Imperator, morituri te salutant." The series chronicles the world of gladiators in Ancient Rome. It may not be connected to Ridley Scott's Gladiator movie, or its upcoming sequel Gladiator 2 due out later this year, but it's definitely something they want you to feel is connected. Some of the episodes are directed by Roland Emmerich and it was shot at the Cinecittà studio in Rome. Anthony Hopkins stars as the Roman Emperor Vespasian, with a massive cast: Dimitri Leonidas as Scorpus, Jojo Macari, Gabriella Pession, Iwan Rheon, Sara Martins-Court,...
- 4/8/2024
- by Alex Billington
- firstshowing.net
Love Is Blind held onto its reign atop Nielsen’s streaming charts for the first full week in March.
From March 4 to 10, the series racked up 1.5B minutes viewed. That’s thanks to the Season 6 reunion episode released on March 6, which Nielsen says tallied a more than a third of that viewing. The reunion saw half of its viewership concentrated on the day it was released — a pretty impressive feat for any streamer.
Netflix’s reality series was joined in the top three by two more of the streamer’s originals. Damsel stormed up the charts to No. 2 after its March 8 release with 1.2B viewing minutes, while The Gentlemen managed 1.2B minutes across its eight episodes following its March 7 debut.
Nielsen reports The Gentlemen attracted a slightly older audience, with half of its viewership coming from the 50+ demographic.
Rounding out the billion-minute club this week was Bluey (no surprise) with 1.1B minutes viewed,...
From March 4 to 10, the series racked up 1.5B minutes viewed. That’s thanks to the Season 6 reunion episode released on March 6, which Nielsen says tallied a more than a third of that viewing. The reunion saw half of its viewership concentrated on the day it was released — a pretty impressive feat for any streamer.
Netflix’s reality series was joined in the top three by two more of the streamer’s originals. Damsel stormed up the charts to No. 2 after its March 8 release with 1.2B viewing minutes, while The Gentlemen managed 1.2B minutes across its eight episodes following its March 7 debut.
Nielsen reports The Gentlemen attracted a slightly older audience, with half of its viewership coming from the 50+ demographic.
Rounding out the billion-minute club this week was Bluey (no surprise) with 1.1B minutes viewed,...
- 4/4/2024
- by Katie Campione
- Deadline Film + TV
Hiroyuki Sanada, the captivating Japanese actor who has wowed audiences in films like Mortal Kombat and 47 Ronin, seems to have a hidden fingerprint on many of the characters he brings to life. Fans have begun to notice a recurring theme that pops up in a surprising number of his roles.
A still from Mortal Kombat
This surprising statistic seems to stand true in about four-fifths of his projects. A hint? It brings him to the same table as the legendary Sean Bean. It should surely be an easy guess now!
Hiroyuki Sanada Says His Character Does Not Survive Until The Very End A still from Mortal Kombat
The one thing common between Sanada and Sean Bean is that their character often meet an untimely demise! While Sanada has delivered iconic performances throughout his career, a significant portion of his characters share a tragic fate – they don’t make it to the final credits.
A still from Mortal Kombat
This surprising statistic seems to stand true in about four-fifths of his projects. A hint? It brings him to the same table as the legendary Sean Bean. It should surely be an easy guess now!
Hiroyuki Sanada Says His Character Does Not Survive Until The Very End A still from Mortal Kombat
The one thing common between Sanada and Sean Bean is that their character often meet an untimely demise! While Sanada has delivered iconic performances throughout his career, a significant portion of his characters share a tragic fate – they don’t make it to the final credits.
- 4/3/2024
- by Piyush Yadav
- FandomWire
Shōgun has become the new epic historical series that has taken the world by storm with its breathtaking depiction of Japan’s beautiful landscapes and the brilliant characters that it employs to tell its story. The series is based on a novel written in 1975 by James Clavell and is much more complex as opposed to what the show depicts.
Anna Sawai and Hiroyuki Sanada in Shogun
The book has been adapted once before in the 1980s in the form of a miniseries and follows the perspective of a white man in Japan. The series that has been adapted on the screen does not follow the entire book down to the T and commits some character arcs in favor of a streamlined structure. Actors Anna Sawai and Hiroyuki Sanada talk about the idea behind adapting the book the way they did.
Anna Sawai mentioned why some parts of the book were...
Anna Sawai and Hiroyuki Sanada in Shogun
The book has been adapted once before in the 1980s in the form of a miniseries and follows the perspective of a white man in Japan. The series that has been adapted on the screen does not follow the entire book down to the T and commits some character arcs in favor of a streamlined structure. Actors Anna Sawai and Hiroyuki Sanada talk about the idea behind adapting the book the way they did.
Anna Sawai mentioned why some parts of the book were...
- 4/2/2024
- by Anuraag Chatterjee
- FandomWire
Rising star Anna Sawai is quickly making a huge name for herself in Hollywood. Action fans were blown away by her portrayal of Elle in “F9” where she worked alongside some of the biggest names in the industry. Her talents extend beyond high-octane action, though.
A still from F9
Sawai is gracing our screens in the epic historical miniseries “Shogun,” where she takes on the role of the formidable Lady Mariko. But Anna Sawai isn’t just about great performances. The actress is also using her growing influence to address a critical issue within the industry.
Anna Sawai Wants To See More Depth and Reality In The Female Character A still from Shogun (2024)
Recently, Anna Sawai spoke to the Av Club alongside her fellow Shogun cast member Hiroyuki Sanada. There, the two spoke a lot about their experiences on the set of the movie and the challenges of bringing this historical epic to life.
A still from F9
Sawai is gracing our screens in the epic historical miniseries “Shogun,” where she takes on the role of the formidable Lady Mariko. But Anna Sawai isn’t just about great performances. The actress is also using her growing influence to address a critical issue within the industry.
Anna Sawai Wants To See More Depth and Reality In The Female Character A still from Shogun (2024)
Recently, Anna Sawai spoke to the Av Club alongside her fellow Shogun cast member Hiroyuki Sanada. There, the two spoke a lot about their experiences on the set of the movie and the challenges of bringing this historical epic to life.
- 4/2/2024
- by Piyush Yadav
- FandomWire
Shogun has enjoyed unprecedented success since the show premiered almost a month ago. The actors have largely contributed to the success of the FX show, with Anna Sawai and Hiroyuki Sanada stealing the spotlight with their roles as Toda Mariko and Yoshii Toranaga, respectively.
Accolades have been pouring in from all quarters as the show creators have successfully adapted the 1975 James Clavell novel of the same name. However, the leading actress deserves special praise for going the extra mile to prepare for her role as Lady Mariko.
Sawai’s character, Lady Mariko, has been one of the standouts (Source: Shogun)
Anna Sawai went to great lengths to play Toda Mariko on Shogun
Shogun was languishing for nearly a decade before the production finally took flight. Rachel Kondo and Justin Marks, the show’s creators, left no stone unturned to bring Clavell’s critically acclaimed novel to life.
Suggested‘Shōgun’ Almost Sent Showrunners Justin Marks,...
Accolades have been pouring in from all quarters as the show creators have successfully adapted the 1975 James Clavell novel of the same name. However, the leading actress deserves special praise for going the extra mile to prepare for her role as Lady Mariko.
Sawai’s character, Lady Mariko, has been one of the standouts (Source: Shogun)
Anna Sawai went to great lengths to play Toda Mariko on Shogun
Shogun was languishing for nearly a decade before the production finally took flight. Rachel Kondo and Justin Marks, the show’s creators, left no stone unturned to bring Clavell’s critically acclaimed novel to life.
Suggested‘Shōgun’ Almost Sent Showrunners Justin Marks,...
- 4/2/2024
- by Sreshtha Roychowdhury
- FandomWire
When the previous episode of Shogun ended with Toranaga’s rousing call to arms, we assumed that Operation Crimson Sky couldn’t be far behind.
Sure enough, A Stick of Time opens in the aftermath of what looked to be a very bloody battle.
If you’re a fan of this show’s unflinching portrayal of feudal carnage, then you probably dug this gory scene, with its many battered corpses and its close-up beheading.
But you may have felt a bit let down moments later when some dude runs through the battlefield screaming, “The war is over!” Well, that was fast!
And not only that, Toranaga has won!
Just when we begin to get the sense that we missed out on something very important, onscreen text reveals that we've been bamboozled, and what we're witnessing is actually the wake of destruction left by Toranaga's first battle 46 years prior.
The fresh-faced...
Sure enough, A Stick of Time opens in the aftermath of what looked to be a very bloody battle.
If you’re a fan of this show’s unflinching portrayal of feudal carnage, then you probably dug this gory scene, with its many battered corpses and its close-up beheading.
But you may have felt a bit let down moments later when some dude runs through the battlefield screaming, “The war is over!” Well, that was fast!
And not only that, Toranaga has won!
Just when we begin to get the sense that we missed out on something very important, onscreen text reveals that we've been bamboozled, and what we're witnessing is actually the wake of destruction left by Toranaga's first battle 46 years prior.
The fresh-faced...
- 4/2/2024
- by Tyler Johnson
- TVfanatic
Exclusive: Alejandra Reyes, most recently a TV lit agent at UTA, is switching to management and joining 3 Arts Entertainment. She is bringing an expertise in the international space — focusing on Latin America and Spain — which she developed as an agent, introducing international writers and directors to the US market, attaching them to major series and closing first-look/overall deals for them. That includes a first-look deal with Onyx for The House of Flowers creator Manolo Caro and his production company Woo Films and an overall deal with Netflix for Chilean writer José Ignacio “Chascas” Valenzuela, creator, executive producer and showrunner of Who Killed Sara?
“We are so thrilled that Alejandra Reyes chose to join us, bringing her unique eye for talent, coupled with her deep knowledge of the expanding global marketplace,” the 3 Arts partners said in a statement.
Reyes, originally from Mexico City, spent more than eight years at UTA,...
“We are so thrilled that Alejandra Reyes chose to join us, bringing her unique eye for talent, coupled with her deep knowledge of the expanding global marketplace,” the 3 Arts partners said in a statement.
Reyes, originally from Mexico City, spent more than eight years at UTA,...
- 3/28/2024
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
The shaved head look of Shogun's samurai might be confusing to Western audiences, but there is plenty of history showing it is more than just a fashion choice.
FX's Shogun series (which is also streaming on Hulu) has done its best to remain faithful to its setting, recreating the era of the Japanese Tokugawa shogunate.
This has meant shooting on location in an environment similar to Japan, building massive sets to recreate feudal Japanese towns and cities, and outfitting the series' cast with authentic looks to the time.
Read full article on The Direct.
FX's Shogun series (which is also streaming on Hulu) has done its best to remain faithful to its setting, recreating the era of the Japanese Tokugawa shogunate.
This has meant shooting on location in an environment similar to Japan, building massive sets to recreate feudal Japanese towns and cities, and outfitting the series' cast with authentic looks to the time.
Read full article on The Direct.
- 3/27/2024
- by Klein Felt
- The Direct
Each new episode of Shōgun raises the stakes, deepens the political intrigue, and brings us closer to the brink of war. It’s a description that, years ago, would have applied to Game of Thrones, a show to which Shōgun has been compared ad nauseam. It’s not an inappropriate comparison. Both tout sprawling casts, sweeping locations, political intrigue, backstabbing, and characters residing in moral gray areas, ready to surprise and disappoint. Though, it may be more apt to compare the show to Japan’s Chanbara or samurai films.
Given Shōgun’s intensity and cliffhangers, waiting a week between episodes is excruciating. Digging back into Game of Thrones or even House of the Dragon might not scratch that Shōgun itch in the long days between installments.
Instead, let’s dive into samurai epics in and around the Edo period when Ieyasu Tokugawa unified Japan and built a shogunate that ruled for more than two centuries,...
Given Shōgun’s intensity and cliffhangers, waiting a week between episodes is excruciating. Digging back into Game of Thrones or even House of the Dragon might not scratch that Shōgun itch in the long days between installments.
Instead, let’s dive into samurai epics in and around the Edo period when Ieyasu Tokugawa unified Japan and built a shogunate that ruled for more than two centuries,...
- 3/26/2024
- by Alec Bojalad
- Den of Geek
From the moment that John Blackthorne and his crew (someone should really check on those guys!) ran aground in the fishing village of Ajiro, Shogun has seldom allowed its viewers a moment to catch their breath.
So it came as a bit of a relief when the show slowed things down a little in its fifth episode, Broken to the Fist.
The intricate political maneuvering and the stunning action set pieces are thrilling, of course, but the best dramas know that coaxing viewers to genuinely care about your characters is the best way to raise the stakes and transform those battle and earthquake scenes into the stuff of white-knuckle panic.
Pulse-pounding boat races and surprise cannon attacks might generate the most next-day buzz, but it's in its quieter moments that Shogun distinguishes itself as one of the premiere dramas on TV.
So when Ladies of the Willow World opens with a 22-year flashback,...
So it came as a bit of a relief when the show slowed things down a little in its fifth episode, Broken to the Fist.
The intricate political maneuvering and the stunning action set pieces are thrilling, of course, but the best dramas know that coaxing viewers to genuinely care about your characters is the best way to raise the stakes and transform those battle and earthquake scenes into the stuff of white-knuckle panic.
Pulse-pounding boat races and surprise cannon attacks might generate the most next-day buzz, but it's in its quieter moments that Shogun distinguishes itself as one of the premiere dramas on TV.
So when Ladies of the Willow World opens with a 22-year flashback,...
- 3/26/2024
- by Tyler Johnson
- TVfanatic
If you’re a fan of Shogun’s willingness to “go there” in its depictions of the brutality of 17th-century combat, then you probably derived a sort of grim pleasure from the end of The Eightfold Fence and the beginning of the latest episode.
Others, however, may have found it difficult to watch as Ishido’s men were obliterated with cannons, and their gory remains were then loaded into wagons.
That revulsion is likely shared by the peasants of Ajiro, who have been tasked with cleaning up the remnants of the massacre, and who are all too aware that their village is soon to be torn apart by war.
When a procession of troops arrives on the scene in the opening minutes of Shogun Season 1 Episode 5, we (and presumably the peasants) initially assume that it’s Ishido, come to exact his revenge for the death of Jozen and, like, 100 or so of his loyal vassals.
Others, however, may have found it difficult to watch as Ishido’s men were obliterated with cannons, and their gory remains were then loaded into wagons.
That revulsion is likely shared by the peasants of Ajiro, who have been tasked with cleaning up the remnants of the massacre, and who are all too aware that their village is soon to be torn apart by war.
When a procession of troops arrives on the scene in the opening minutes of Shogun Season 1 Episode 5, we (and presumably the peasants) initially assume that it’s Ishido, come to exact his revenge for the death of Jozen and, like, 100 or so of his loyal vassals.
- 3/19/2024
- by Tyler Johnson
- TVfanatic
Production has begun in Japan on Searchlight Pictures’ comedy drama Rental Family starring Brendan Fraser.
Takehiro Hira from Shogun and Akira Emoto have joined the cast.
Beef and Tokyo Vice director Hikari helms the film which also stars previously announced Mari Yamamoto.
Principal photography is scheduled to continue in Japan through May on the story of a lonely US actor in Tokyo who forges unexpected connections after he gets a job playing stand-in roles in people’s lives at a Japanese “rental family” company.
Eddie Vaisman and Julia Lebedev of Sight Unseen are producing with Hikari, and Shin Yamaguchi. Hikari...
Takehiro Hira from Shogun and Akira Emoto have joined the cast.
Beef and Tokyo Vice director Hikari helms the film which also stars previously announced Mari Yamamoto.
Principal photography is scheduled to continue in Japan through May on the story of a lonely US actor in Tokyo who forges unexpected connections after he gets a job playing stand-in roles in people’s lives at a Japanese “rental family” company.
Eddie Vaisman and Julia Lebedev of Sight Unseen are producing with Hikari, and Shin Yamaguchi. Hikari...
- 3/18/2024
- ScreenDaily
Having trouble predicting who will win Best Movie/Limited Actor at the 2024 Emmy Awards? Let’s consult Gold Derby’s Emmy Experts! These savvy pundits from major media outlets have chimed in with their first set of predictions, and they say the trophy will go to either Jon Hamm (“Fargo”) or Tom Hollander (“Feud: Capote vs. the Swans”). The other potential nominees at this early stage are David Oyelowo (“Lawmen: Bass Reeves”), Hiroyuki Sanada (“Shogun”), Matt Bomer (“Fellow Travelers”) and Andrew Scott (“Ripley”) — but that could all change in the coming months.
As of this writing, two our of six Emmy Experts predict a victory for Hamm: Peter Travers (ABC) and Ray Richmond (Gold Derby). He plays corrupt Sheriff Roy Tillman on Season 5 of FX’s quirky anthology series. Hamm has received 16 total Emmy nominations throughout his career for his work on “Mad Men,” “30 Rock” and “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt,...
As of this writing, two our of six Emmy Experts predict a victory for Hamm: Peter Travers (ABC) and Ray Richmond (Gold Derby). He plays corrupt Sheriff Roy Tillman on Season 5 of FX’s quirky anthology series. Hamm has received 16 total Emmy nominations throughout his career for his work on “Mad Men,” “30 Rock” and “Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt,...
- 3/18/2024
- by Marcus James Dixon
- Gold Derby
Shogun, the new show from FX, has already become one of the biggest hits of the year, and the first season is yet to conclude. The premiere ratcheted up over 9 million views, and its popularity is only going up. With Hiroyuki Sanada playing one of the key characters on the show, Disney has hit the jackpot.
As the audience is taken on a journey that sees three plots eventually converge, it has been hailed as the new Game of Thrones. There is a good reason for the comparison too, since it boasts of a rich world filled with political intrigue and thrill with a smattering of gore.
Sanada’s Shogun is a critical success (Source: FX)
The creators of Shogun believe in the show they have created
Based on the historical novel written by James Clavell in 1975, this is only the second time that the book has been adapted into a television series.
As the audience is taken on a journey that sees three plots eventually converge, it has been hailed as the new Game of Thrones. There is a good reason for the comparison too, since it boasts of a rich world filled with political intrigue and thrill with a smattering of gore.
Sanada’s Shogun is a critical success (Source: FX)
The creators of Shogun believe in the show they have created
Based on the historical novel written by James Clavell in 1975, this is only the second time that the book has been adapted into a television series.
- 3/17/2024
- by Sreshtha Roychowdhury
- FandomWire
This article contains spoilers for Shogun episode 4.
As depicted in FX’s Shōgun, Japan’s Sengoku period in the 15th and 16th centuries was a pretty rough time. Perhaps no Shōgun character represents that better than poor Usami Fuji (Moeka Hoshi).
As the noble-born granddaughter of Toda Hiromatsu (Tokuma Nishioka), the closest ally of the powerful Lord Yoshii Toranaga (Hiroyuki Sanada), Fuji’s life was marked by comfort and dignity. Unfortunately that all comes crashing down in the series’ first episode when Lord Toranaga becomes embroiled in a power struggle with Osaka’s Council of Regents. After Fuji’s husband Tadayoshi speaks out of turn at a Council of Regents meeting in defense of his lord, he immediately realizes that he jeopardized Toranaga’s safety in doing so and asks for permission to commit seppuku – a ritualistic suicide to reclaim his family’s honor. Lord Toranaga grants Tadayoshi the right...
As depicted in FX’s Shōgun, Japan’s Sengoku period in the 15th and 16th centuries was a pretty rough time. Perhaps no Shōgun character represents that better than poor Usami Fuji (Moeka Hoshi).
As the noble-born granddaughter of Toda Hiromatsu (Tokuma Nishioka), the closest ally of the powerful Lord Yoshii Toranaga (Hiroyuki Sanada), Fuji’s life was marked by comfort and dignity. Unfortunately that all comes crashing down in the series’ first episode when Lord Toranaga becomes embroiled in a power struggle with Osaka’s Council of Regents. After Fuji’s husband Tadayoshi speaks out of turn at a Council of Regents meeting in defense of his lord, he immediately realizes that he jeopardized Toranaga’s safety in doing so and asks for permission to commit seppuku – a ritualistic suicide to reclaim his family’s honor. Lord Toranaga grants Tadayoshi the right...
- 3/13/2024
- by Alec Bojalad
- Den of Geek
It's a testament to Rachel Kondo and Justin Marks' talent for establishing tone that while Shogun takes place in a world about which the average viewer knows very little, there's seldom any doubt in the audiences' mind with regard to what's at stake and how we should feel about it.
Take the opening scenes from Shogun Season 1 Episode 4, for example.
A messenger hurries through a snowy village carrying an urgent missive for Lord Omi (whom we haven't seen since he butted heads with Blackthorne in the show's pilot episode).
Most viewers will be unable to read the lettering on the message or the sign in the town square, but the scene that follows is a familiar one:
The peasants scurry to prepare for the arrival of a couple of bigwigs, and the local lord beams with anticipation for the opportunity to impress his superiors.
Similarly, the title of hatamoto and...
Take the opening scenes from Shogun Season 1 Episode 4, for example.
A messenger hurries through a snowy village carrying an urgent missive for Lord Omi (whom we haven't seen since he butted heads with Blackthorne in the show's pilot episode).
Most viewers will be unable to read the lettering on the message or the sign in the town square, but the scene that follows is a familiar one:
The peasants scurry to prepare for the arrival of a couple of bigwigs, and the local lord beams with anticipation for the opportunity to impress his superiors.
Similarly, the title of hatamoto and...
- 3/13/2024
- by Tyler Johnson
- TVfanatic
The stakes are high as Shogun's protagonists prepare for war in Episode 4.
At the end of Episode 3, Lord Yoshii Toranaga and his allies manage to flee Osaka Castle despite the combined forces of Lord Ishido and Lord Kiyama trying to stop them. Buntaro's sacrifice allowed Toranaga to escape.
Shogun Episode 4, "The Eightfold Fence," premiered on Hulu on March 12.
Read full article on The Direct.
At the end of Episode 3, Lord Yoshii Toranaga and his allies manage to flee Osaka Castle despite the combined forces of Lord Ishido and Lord Kiyama trying to stop them. Buntaro's sacrifice allowed Toranaga to escape.
Shogun Episode 4, "The Eightfold Fence," premiered on Hulu on March 12.
Read full article on The Direct.
- 3/12/2024
- by Aeron Mer Eclarinal
- The Direct
War, spy games, political intrigue, social commentary, and plenty of 1970s style -- all wrapped up into one exciting limited series.
In July 2021, HBO announced it had ordered The Sympathizer as a series, with Park Chan-wook and Don McKellar signed on as co-showrunners.
The Sympathizer is based on Viet Thanh Nguyen's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel about a communist spy during the Vietnam War and his eventual life in the United States.
In 2021, Nguyen announced his novel was optioned by production studio A24. Robert Downey Jr. soon joined as a producer and costar.
The Sympathizer will be executive produced and directed by filmmaker Park Chan-wook, who also worked on Snowpiercer, Oldboy, and The Little Drummer Girl.
Other directors for the show include Brazilian director Fernando Meirelles, known for City of God, and English director Marc Munden, known for Utopia and National Treasure.
Notable writers for The Sympathizer include Mark Richard (The Man in the High Castle...
In July 2021, HBO announced it had ordered The Sympathizer as a series, with Park Chan-wook and Don McKellar signed on as co-showrunners.
The Sympathizer is based on Viet Thanh Nguyen's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel about a communist spy during the Vietnam War and his eventual life in the United States.
In 2021, Nguyen announced his novel was optioned by production studio A24. Robert Downey Jr. soon joined as a producer and costar.
The Sympathizer will be executive produced and directed by filmmaker Park Chan-wook, who also worked on Snowpiercer, Oldboy, and The Little Drummer Girl.
Other directors for the show include Brazilian director Fernando Meirelles, known for City of God, and English director Marc Munden, known for Utopia and National Treasure.
Notable writers for The Sympathizer include Mark Richard (The Man in the High Castle...
- 3/8/2024
- by Shela Ward
- TVfanatic
Hiroyuki Sanada is one of the most respected actors in Japan, and he has successfully carved a niche for himself in Hollywood with his unique set of skills. Sanada’s rise to fame has been slow, but he is finally at a place where his voice is heard and honored in the industry. He donned the producer’s hat on Shōgun, and given the critical acclaim the drama has been winning, the actor has hit the jackpot.
Hiroyuki Sanada made his Hollywood debut in The Last Samurai in 2003, where Tom Cruise played the protagonist. Since then, he has gone on to lend his expertise in the fields of martial arts and Japanese culture, and after two decades of work, his efforts have paid off.
Sanada worked with Cruise in The Last Samurai (Source: The Last Samurai)
Suggested“It is no exaggeration to say that this is Game of Thrones”:...
Hiroyuki Sanada made his Hollywood debut in The Last Samurai in 2003, where Tom Cruise played the protagonist. Since then, he has gone on to lend his expertise in the fields of martial arts and Japanese culture, and after two decades of work, his efforts have paid off.
Sanada worked with Cruise in The Last Samurai (Source: The Last Samurai)
Suggested“It is no exaggeration to say that this is Game of Thrones”:...
- 3/8/2024
- by Sreshtha Roychowdhury
- FandomWire
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