Shōgun (TV Series) Servants of Two Masters (2024) User Reviews

Next Big Thing?

[benjaminchristopher · 9/10 · 27 February 2024]

It is pretty incredible. I think this has the power to be the next Game of Thrones. Will the subtitles put people off? I hope not, but it's always a factor.

These first two episodes follow the first Englishman to cross the Japanese borders and what this means for the country. The country is in a matter of states with no appointed Shogun. After being captured by multiple parties, the Englishman brings information that the Portuguese and Spanish have "claimed" this part of the world saying; The kings right to claim any non-Catholic land discovered by their subjects. This infuriated the leader. Letting the Englishman "John Blackthorne" live, assuming to be their source of information- let's him stay on his quarters for the night. The rest I'll leave it to you to watch or find out yourself.

This is epic in every sense. Perfectly balanced pacing in terms of story telling and gruesome action.

All actors play their roles very convincingly, Cosmo Jarvis is channelling something between a Tom Hardy character but with a Daniel Plainview cadence of speaking. Bring on the conspiracies, politics and play for who to be Shogun.

Bottom line is I love this already after 2 episodes.

Do your self a favor: read the book first

[matiasbockerman-03044 · 9/10 · 1 March 2024]

At the current moment I read James Clavell's Shogun book, and now, after reading about 700 pages, I have started to think that Shogun is one of the best books ever written (my claim is also supported by Goodreads' scoring). It is educational, riveting, surprising, funny, beautiful, sad. The plot is cunning, clever and carefully built: I have studied history between 900 and 1600 for about five years and have read hundreds of fictional historical novels and the same type of fantasy and this book goes beyond them(exept asoiaf witch is simply the best series ever, but in historical fiction shogun is it's own class): no one else has succeeded in harnessing history and fiction such as Clavell did. It's a good idea to read the book before watching the series because I believe it is a greater experience. For those who complain about this is a got copy: Shogun is written before song of ice and fire so how can it be a copy? And why people vote in the series before all its episodes have come? It ruins the actual score of the series: how anyone can vote for the series based on one or two episodes?

As for this TV series, it is perhaps the most anticipated series this year among with masters of air and boys s04. Does it live up to expectations? First of all, the Actors are well chosen, most of the rather unknown to me, but it (acting) is flawless across the line. Like directing, shooting, staging, costuming and its truly stunning visually: The series seems to do justice for its budget. The story begins quite faithful to the book(altough story seems built maybe too fast and it's hard to relate with characters but i believe we all love them when the story goes on. They also leave some important stuff out but i also believe artistic liberties if done right)and it's riveting from the beginning. The first two episodes set the stage on larger story lines and leave the viewer to want more.

The first episode was quite intense and, as I said, I already had a bit of a difficulty of relating, but on the other hand, building such a great story takes time: the second episode was more plot -driven and managed to create a little depth for the characters and presented a few more: hopefully future episodes do justice for these characters. The story is progressing and hopefully it will achieve its epic scale and its aspects such as vengeance, love, friendship: it's intriguing and riveting: plotting, amazing characters and stunning battles: all that is required for a great story. By the end of the week I have read the end of the book and then I know if it will reach my top 10 list, maybe even the top five. Together rating of two episodes: 8.5

Sorry for my english im non native speaker.

Refreshing

[vsek · 9/10 · 27 February 2024]

I haven't read the book it's based on but I know the 1980 series well. This show improves on it without being overly dramatic or cutting corners script-wise like in so many entertainment products these days.

It gives the japanese characters bigger roles compared to 1980, which is definitely a plus, looking at the marvellous cast. Sanada is really comparable to the great Toshiro Mifune here.

I am a bit torn about the Blackthorne actor but for now he's fine.

The actors are great and there's a feeling the makers of this series want to take you on this ride without talking down to you.

Let's see how this plays out! So far, I'm impressed.

Great start of a soon-to-be classic

[doug-grier · 9/10 · 28 February 2024]

I have seen first two episodes, first one was very good with the usual character development and "introductions" but I would have said nothing really special or even worthy of writing a review.

That was, until the final scene of E01 which somehow came with such energy and a great set up for even greater things to come. With E02 they delivered in spades! The only reason I did not rate as a 10 is because I am sure this will get even better.

This series so far has everything, great scenery, fantastic costumes, good balance between action and dialog and the subtitles just adds to it all. The plotting and back-stabbing have just begun, and I felt like I haven't seen anything like this since Ran. I'm excited to see what's ahead.

This series has the potential to be the most talked about series of 2024, and the way it's going I hope they continue the story!

It takes a bit of time to get used to the subtitles as you must always pay attention but if they had all been speaking English it definitely would not be the same impact, so I hope they don't change this.

Great episode and the beginning of something truly amazing (hopefully)

[851222 · 9/10 · 2 April 2024]

Greetings from Lithuania.

Second episode of Shogun called Servants of Two Masters was very interesting in revelations and plot building. After the first great episode I was looking forward for a second one and didn't disappointed for sure. It's a great episode focused on world building, with place, situation, characters falling slowly into their places. It's like Game of Thrones but set in real world.

Overall, second episode was great. I like how brutally bloody it is at times. Acting is amazing in here as well as excellent writing, directing and sets. Costumes are out of this world gorgeous.

not as action-packed but good development

[nerrdrage · 8/10 · 10 April 2024]

Comparing this with the 80s version, I don't recall the political machinations to have been so intricate with wheels within wheels within still more wheels.

Maybe because Blackthorne was more of the focus, whereas here, Toranaga is clearly the main character. He must always be scheming, simply for survival. He values Lady Mariko because of her sharp, incisive mind and excellent intuition. They made a formidable pair.

Blackthorne in this story is a rougher-hewed, less romantic, somewhat pathetic character compared with the Richard Chamberlain version. A lowly sailor who lives by what passes for his wits.

There's some action in this episode but mainly it's an impressively written compendium of the various political threads and plots that Toranaga and Mariko must navigate, with the help of the crude, dog-faced outsider.

It only gets better!

[and_mikkelsen · 10/10 · 28 April 2024]

This episode has me convinced, that this show is wort watching, as it only improves the aspects from the first episode, adding more development, thrills and excitement to a historical and authentic experience!

What really strikes me is how good this show looks! It has a unique style, visuals, setting and an overall feeling that tve people making this show. Is very passionate about the story they are telling! Some scenes looks cinematic, straight from a movie!

The complexity of the story only reaches new heights, as we further explore the political struggle for power, and who will essentialy rule Japan!

The japanese actors are amazing and manages to capture their historical figures!

Please watch this show, its something that stands out from a lot of TV produced these days!

A GoT-like reveal!!! History unfolds before our eyes!

[moritzherz · 9/10 · 30 March 2024]

After watching the grandious pilot a few days ago I finally got to see the second episode of this hostorical epos. Now I am certain, that this is no ordinary show, this is huge.

In my first review I conpared Shogun with Game of Thrones because obviously there are similarities. One of them are the politics and most important the intrigues.

In this episode the setup for the show is complete by revealing the greater conflict. At first we thought the impeachment of Lord Taronaga by the council led by Lord Ishido would be the major threat. But its bigger, much bigger than that. Spain and Portugal the two big colonial empires of the world at that time have a secret masterplan to conquer and divide countries around the globe.

Jon Blackthorne, the english pirate, reveals these plans to Lord Taronaga. It turns out that the portuguese already have build secret bases on Japan ground with the goal to replace their leader with a portuguese marionette.

Now it makes sense why the portuguese priests fear Blackthorne. Not just because he is a prostestand, but because he has intel that could destroy their whole operation.

If you ask me this is masterclass writing! This twist shook up my expectations completely and I am still shocked, especially by the assassination attempt on Blackthorne at the end of the episode. The stakes are high!

But to think now everything has been revealed would be foolish. What's with the Lord that serves as a double agent for both, Lord Ishido and Lord Taronaga? On which side does he stand? He reminds me of Littlefinger from Game of Thrones. You never know what he's up to.

And then there's so much else. Lady Mariko which is definitely a love interest for Blackthorne. I can't wait for them to fall in love.

Overall this second episode widened the scope of this epic. We now have two major conflicts (Ishido vs Taronaga and Japan vs Portugal) set up and 8 episodes to go. If they continue on this level they will write themselves into the books of history!

Truly a masterpiece

[moviesfilmsreviewsinc · 10/10 · 23 April 2024]

The last episode of the series, "Servants of Two Masters," saw the three main characters, Lord Toranaga, Anjin, and Mariko, in a room together. The importance of the moment was highlighted, as Toranaga and Anjin need each other for survival, and Mariko's goals remain a mystery. The second episode, "Servants of Two Masters," follows the same pattern, with Toranaga's relationship with the deceased emperor and an Important Conversation establishing bonds. However, after an exchange with Father Martin, Anjin is sent to jail, leaving the audience uncertain about the outcome. The story emphasizes the importance of teamwork between unlikely allies, and the viewer should not feel forced or arbitrary in the "earning." The relationships between the main characters should be built on a plausible foundation, allowing for uncertainty and tension. The series aims to build relationships between the three main characters, ensuring they are built on a plausible foundation rather than starting from scratch. In the second episode of Shogun, "Servants of Two Masters," Lord Toranaga faces a dilemma with the Council Regents, as John Blackthorne becomes a pawn in two separate plots. The episode begins with a flashback to Osaka a year prior, where the Taiko warns Toranaga of the vultures circling and asks him to become the sole Regent. In present-day Osaka, Lord Rodrigues discusses the heretic foreigner with fellow Jesuit clergymen, Father Dell'Acqua and Martin Alvito. Rodrigues warns them of Blackthorne's crimes against Catholics and his potential threat. Alvito is summoned to the throne room and is required to translate between Toranaga and Blackthorne, revealing his disdain for Catholicism as a Protestant. The dialogue between Torananga and Blackthorne is crucial, as Lord Ishido arrives and "the Freak from the West" is imprisoned and set for execution. The episode highlights the tensions and potential civil wars that could arise between the two lords. Mariko's family, including her son and husband, Buntaro, is summoned by Lord Toranaga to feast with him, his wife Lady Kiri, and other noble people. They reminisce on Mariko's wedding 16 years ago, signaling she married shortly after the death of her father, Lord Kurdo. Toranaga plans to use John's religious bias to sow division among the regents, as two of them are devout Catholics. Without the full support of each regent, Ishido cannot proceed with a unanimous vote. John makes do in prison, where he meets an aging prisoner who reveals his allyship with Toranaga is doomed as they both will not leave the castle alive. The elder also reveals that the Catholics control the trade route of Japan's most valuable vessel, the Black Ship, captained by Ferriera (Louis Ferreira). He alleges their economic power has formed secret bases in Macao to convert Japanese allegiances against the current rule. Ishido meets with the Council Regents, Lords Kiyama (Hiromoto Ida), Sugiyama (Toshi Toda), and Ohno (Takeshi Kurokawa), who object to Toranaga's impeachment plan. Ishido requests they vote on Toranaga's impeachment, but Kiyama and Ohno object, opting first to execute Blackthorne. Toranaga's plan works as predicted. With Mariko serving as translator, John reveals the Portuguese conspiracy, claiming they seek to replace all non-Christian rulers of Japan and ally to eliminate their common enemies. Toranaga takes this news to heart, and as the President of Foreign Affairs, delays the Black Ship's departure, much to the dismay of Ferriera and Lord Kiyama.

Fantastic, mind blowing tv is back

[aveenashbatra-94213 · 10/10 · 17 May 2024]

I have been craving for high quality for so long, finally something to marvel at. One more thing i have been watching tv/movies for over two decades but this is the first time i have been introduced with concept of prisoner of prisoner. What a dilemma for blackthorne.it was beyond comprehension. Loooking forward to watch remaining episodes i am fairly certain i will be blown away by rest. To add i hate required characters to be 600 on this site, please reduced the limit to 150 or ideally no limit. To add i hate required characters to be 600 on this site, please reduced the limit to 150 or ideally no limit.

50% Click Bait

[estefano_slb · 5/10 · 1 March 2024]

For a series that claims to be "period" in style, only 50% can be considered period. The most important part of a period series/film is the language, it has to be faithful to the original, only then can it be considered period. If Portuguese and Spanish are spoken in English, why isn't Japanese spoken too? As shown in the Warrior series with the Mandarin

Why 'Yes' in English when asked if you speak Portuguese? Don't make any sense....

Portuguese and Spanish in English feels like mismatched dubbing, it's annoying...

But be aware that the series still has a good narrative and good characters.

Servants of Two Dullards

[Oslo_Jargo · 4/10 · 24 March 2024]

*** This review may contain spoilers ***

*Plot and ending analyzed*

The second episode proves that the first was not the worst. It is proving to be an exceptionally badly written series, with extremely unlikeable characters.

Hopefully a few good things will come from this pathetic and pitiable series. Japanese mom and pops restaurants will have some business, people will buy some Japanese history and art books, and that they will also look to the past for the excellent Japanese film directors, who include Akira Kurosawa.

Intelligent people will avoid the series, the masses will probably flock to it like rats to stale cheese.

Stick with the original version and the book itself. This version is useless and horrendous. A complete waste of time.