'Shogun' cast talk about bringing Japanese authenticity to FX epic

Hiroyuki Sanada and the cast of FX's most expensive production ever "Shogun" discuss bringing the ambitious story to life and why it was important to tell this story now.
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[@beedoggs]

the show doesn't feel cheap or tacky, everything has had a lot care put into it

[@ciello___8307]

and that's an accomplishment!

[@SubjectiveFunny]

Its so fkin good..

[@hulu]

this show is so special 💚

[@greg.peepeeface]

I'm glad I signed up for HULU

[@tomblexe1416]

Yep ign gave it a 10 out of 10

[@KingSnake420]

Your team behind this show did an amazing job. Truly spectacular.

[@Rocka7038]

Hire good story tellers like this and not woke imbeciles and y'all good 👍🏼

[@_D_P_]

Well of course YOU say that.

[@brandonday2494]

I love Hiroyuki Sanada. What a brilliant actor. Really glad to see him getting all this love late in his career. He's incredible.

[@thomasjones4570]

With protests in Japan...lol.

[@brandonday2494]

Can't please everyone, lmao@@thomasjones4570

[@greyman6353]

He projects power, wisdom and charisma in all of his roles, so he is the perfect choice for Lord Toranaga.

[@thomasjones4570]

Why delete the post? Realize after the fact I was right?

[@erwins_arm]

​@@thomasjones4570what?

[@tigeruntamed6036]

I hope Hiroyuki Sanada gets his own star on the walk of fame

[@Zero8880]

He deserves his own star in the heavens.

[@Emanuela9]

An Emmy and a star. He's so good in all his roles.

[@9sunskungfu]

The guy has been doing movies since he was a toddler.

[@kiabtoomlauj6249]

@@9sunskungfu The movie that made him one of my favorite actors was one of his earliest starring roles (either the first or second starring role, in his early 20s?), an exceptionally well choreographed (especially the fighting scenes) ---- for an early 1980s movie ---- titled SHOGUN'S NINJA, with the veteran Sonny Chiba playing the evil & powerful Shogun. I think that's the first and last time Hiroyuki Sanada tried to "Americanize" his name by using "Henry Sanada." He never seemed to use that Hollywood/American name again; NOR any other well known Japanese actors or actresses. Only with Chinese actors and actresses that everyone sports a boring Hollywood American name, even if most Chinese actors and actresses don't speak a word of English and 99.9999% of their movies would never making it to America for popular shows. Anyway, have seen many good and not so good Samurai and Ninja movies, both Hollywood and Japanese made, over the years and decades; but NINJA SCROLL (cartoon, early 1990s) and SHOGUN'S NINJA (1980) remained two of the Top 5 Japanese movies I've loved the most.

[@Paul-ke2hg]

Oh he'd better! The man is a treasure

[@MrMartyFace]

If Hiro doesn't get ANY Emmy for this, we riot.

[@seanrota3359]

Seriously if he doesn't get any awards for this he needs to lead a bunch of Samurai to see the panellists who make the decisions!

[@NecramoniumVideo]

He's not playing a strong gay transgender so dont bet on it.

[@TheMan21892]

@@NecramoniumVideo Also he’s not black, so fat chance 😂 (But I hope he actually *does* win)

[@seanrota3359]

@@NecramoniumVideo 😂

[@xiaolonglee2525]

they will not give it to him, knowing HOLLYWOOD they love giving it to nit deserving BLACK people

[@lastword8783]

Im glad they actually made them speak Japanese rather than make it a TV show where they just speak english in a Japanese accent. Much more authentic that way.

[@TheRedStateBlue]

but you don't have a problem with portugese being spoken as english?

[@sparklecrackcentral]

They do have an "English dub" for viewers who really can't handle subtitles, but I love that they didn't make that choice the default. I have fond memories of the first Shogun miniseries (I was 11 years old when it was on) and now I'm interested to revisit the story and see additional details about Japanese society from that era with my own increased awareness of the events of that time.

[@avpthegreat]

Well the original movie did the same thing, except they didn’t put subtitles. You literally had no idea what the Japanese characters were saying unless a translator was present in the story. To me that was the biggest thing I liked about it. Made you feel more in the moment.

[@ghengis423]

​@@TheRedStateBlueits an american show with the main themes being about japanese culture and history. It was deemed important to keep the japanese but also to cater to their english speaking audience. If the Portugese want a Shogun where they speak portugese instead of english, they can make one

[@TheRedStateBlue]

@@ghengis423 and yet, here we are, watching a movie about an englishman who speaks potugese, but never actually speaks any portugese...

[@leronharrison1110]

I watched Sanada Hiroyuki in Kage no Gundan with the late Sonny Chiba when I was just beginning to study Japanese in high school; I couldn't have imagined then that he would make it into Hollywood and bring the knowledge of Japanese historical dramas to Shogun like he's doing!!

[@xpact27]

i fcken love hiroyuki sanada. every role that he is in he kills it with such tremendous presence in the screen. lets hope that he will receive an award for his efforts in shogun

[@lorenaperez9698]

I have watched the first two episodes and I’m addicted. Next episode released on Tuesday and I’ll be waiting. They all give a great performance. I do like to watch Hiroyuki Sanada he is amazing.It’s been a while since I saw the original, I’ll definitely have to watch again. I definitely recommend this series.

[@FK-xi4tk]

I couldn't have said it any better. I'm hooked and wished for a whole series release but the suspense is also enjoyable

[@kasession]

DITTO!!!! I read the book years ago, and saw the first series. I saw the first episode live, and recorded the 2nd episode, which I watched the next day. I set up my DVR to record the series, and set a reminder on my phone for every Tuesday at 10 PM.

[@MasterMascotson]

Is the episode 10 of season 1 be the total end of the story? Or is there still a season 2.

[@wattlebough]

@@MasterMascotsonNo season 2. It follows the book Shogun by James Clavell written in 1975. A masterpiece is best left alone.

[@MasterMascotson]

@wattlebough , this will be better than game of thrones. Only season 1? That's nice!

[@fvgoya]

As a half Japanese living in Japan for a long time, seeing this show IN Japan makes the experience even better.

[@adam1ooo]

Hiroyuki is so inspiring even for me who is a white male from Scotland his passion for his country and culture really is something to be admired. He is one of Japan's greatest actors of all time.

[@yuconewyork]

I'm from Japan. This is epic; it's more than just a drama on tv❤

[@greg.peepeeface]

What up nihonjin, nikkeijin desu, hahahaha

[@fistan5447]

Tbh, i have not seen this level of authenticity since the Last Samurai. Generally Hollywood or any other western media has no idea of the tone a show like this should have, and i am very pleasantly suprised.

[@マイペット-e5k]

​@@greg.peepeeface very very nihongo Jozu

[@SwissTanuki]

​@@マイペット-e5kdemo, wagarahen

[@AtagoJRPG]

@@greg.peepeeface shut up troll

[@redpatriotnews]

It's fantastic to hear that the cast of 'Shogun' is focusing on bringing Japanese authenticity to the series! Incorporating genuine cultural elements can deeply enrich a story, making it more immersive and meaningful for viewers. It's a great way to honor and share the richness of Japanese culture and history with a wider audience. Plus, when actors dive into understanding the essence of the characters and settings they portray, their performances become even more compelling. Can't wait to see how this dedication to authenticity is reflected on screen!

[@bogeyb200]

the old one was fairly authentic (for its time and considering target audience) The old mini series decenteed Japanese chartacer and this one does this much better (as the book does) but they are making all the foreigners into idiots.. especially Blackthorne, who's a modern day Chad

[@Emanuela9]

To the Japanese of the time, all foreigners were regarded as idiots, as inferior.

[@tomh8141]

It so authentic and respectful of Japanese culture that they filmed it in Canada

[@spatzzzle]

@@tomh8141 they couldn't film in Japan because of covid

[@Konoronn]

AI.

[@micky482]

The show is for once much better than the trailer alludes to. Love the subtitles which give an authentic touch. The acting is superb.

[@beverleerose6899]

I've been a fan of his only for a year or so, now, and have been looking forward to this. You can definitely tell his soul has been poured into it and how fulfilling it is for him.

[@isaacmartinez6904]

Toshiro Mifune and James Clavell would be proud to see their work back with a new audience and cast.

[@thomasjones4570]

No, they would not. Its being protested in Japan for a reason and typical ABC is pushing Disney propaganda.

[@StayFrosty325]

Its a Masterpiece. Without a doubt will achieve many awards.

[@Rock-qq6rw]

The first two episodes were AMAZING 🔥🔥🔥

[@bogeyb200]

2nd episode. bad in how they strayed away from book/story. New Alvito sucks and they shaved him down in Franciscan manner. He's a JESUIT. that's the idea/differentiation that Clavell and book stresses!

[@mhampton8358]

@@bogeyb200just enjoyed it….the screen/ movie/tv is never better than the book

[@DenLim123]

Hiroyuki Sanada is definitely one of my favorite actors in the business, the dude can always deliver when it comes to this type of Japanese focused series

[@JohnFreakingPeanut]

I grew up watching this legend, glad the world is finally giving them his long overdue recognition.

[@nissan_skyline]

I respect Disney for not restricting their budget, especially for a one season show. It's crazy how this has been FX's most expensive show to date. I also got to give respect to the show runners for essentially stepping back and allowing the Japanese crew to drive the production. Like, so many things could've been overlooked to save time and money (filming was only supposed to take 6 months but ended up taking 10), like using non-traditional fabrics, wigs, and materials to build the set, or not having Anna learn how to speak formal Japanese or how to move and walk like high status women during that time period, or even how to write exactly like the historical figure her character is based off of. The average viewer wouldn't have noticed, but I'm glad they decided to go in this direction. Japan must be so proud and happy to see their culture finally represented in western media with this level of authenticity. It's truly groundbreaking. Well done, team. Everyone involved in making this adaptation deserves to be praised and recognized. I hope they entered the show into as many awards and categories as possible for the upcoming award season.

[@redpatriotnews]

Exploring Japanese authenticity in a show like "Shogun" offers such a fascinating opportunity for both the cast and viewers! It's really exciting to think about how the cast is diving deep into bringing historical and cultural nuances to life on screen. Their dedication to authenticity can create a rich, immersive experience that not only entertains but educates and connects us to a different time and place. It's wonderful to see stories from diverse cultures being told with such care and respect. Can't wait to see how this dedication reflects in every episode and how it resonates with audiences around the world!

[@gorilladisco9108]

In the 1980s the miniseries Shogun sparked a Japan craze in my city, where youngsters tried to speak Japanese, and the Japan consulate had to limit the entrants of their Japanese language course. What a memory ...😅

[@barrybailey9991]

They did an excellent job and the cast is perfect. I am really glad to see this version as I have always loved Japan and its culture and my degree is in medieval Japanese history and it is so refreshing to see this.

[@LogicalVelocity]

I'm absolutely loving this series so far. The actors, the scenery, the ambiance, the story. Everything is perfection!

[@chriskenobi4165]

This sounds and looks excellent and so happy to hear the care being taken/

[@JD-yz8cn]

I like Hiroyuki Sanada a lot. He must be a timeless soul. Side note, my Japanese girlfriend said she has difficulty understanding some of the dialogue, similar to what Hiroyuki said about Shakespeare. That's an interesting piece to consider.

[@Dtzeo503]

It's used in many Japanese period dramas. I like how it sounds.

[@UncleWayne5104]

Finally, a director and writers who care about the source material and understand and appreciate the characters. Hollywood, Marvel, please take notice.

[@Pinkorchid72]

Disney take notice!!! They focus on woke instead of looking for rich stories and nuanced characters. At least Disney now owns Fox and FX, so they can learn from their success and rebuild from ground up

[@rumblefish9]

@@Pinkorchid72 oh shut up

[@410cultivar]

​@@Pinkorchid72fx IS disney.

[@xOzymandias]

after being incredibly disappointed by Masters of the Air on apple tv...im so glad I found this show. Its only been two episodes and It has me hooked like I havent been in a long time. The story the acting, everything is great. This mans scene in episode 2, during the spain-portugal deal converstation was epic!

[@grandmufftwerkin9037]

There was a reason why there were no subtitles in the first television adaptation, and it wasn't because of a lack of care or budget, it was intentional. They wanted to convey how lost and completly out of his depth Blackthorne was when arriving in Japan. He doesn't know what's happening around him, and without subtitles neither does the audience. As he learns, we learn along with him, and Mariko helps fill in the gaps as the story progresses. It's not a bad thing to have to use ones mind a little.

[@GlobenTrote]

This should be the top comment. I feel like the interviewer missed the mark on that one.

[@pressrepeat2000]

Yeah they kissed this critical point! This current version of Shogun is a true masterpiece in every way, but the previous version was also simply amazing.

[@joaquieroux]

this was covered in the interview, "the idea of centering this show around the point of view of john blackthorne - my eyes kind of glaze over" that story has been told before, You can see a lot more care and budget has been put into this version - especially from people more familiar with what they're talking about (japanese) compared to the previous series. So the singular point of view of the original series while intentional may have also been lacking care and budget.

[@Songbirdstress]

I'm currently learning Japanese and that's exactly how I feel, straining to understand a word here and there, the nuances of interactions. The Japanese actors in the original are top notch.

[@Songbirdstress]

@@joaquieroux Rubbish. It was way ahead of its time. It was also a pretty disrespectful comment about James Clavell.

[@nicolasf7243]

I really hope a lot of people watch this so we get more of it. TV this good feels so scarce.

[@E-A-Z-Y]

LOVE the authenticity. LOVE how faithful it is to the source material. LOVE everything about it. Hiroyuki Sanada NAILED it. Masterpiece.

[@Manjot609]

Ive watched Sanada for over 20 years. This man is immensely talented, he deserves all the recognition hes getting for this epic show. Cant wait for the finale episode!

[@jjforcebreaker]

Mr. Hiroyuki Sanada is simply fantastic. His presence alone makes Shogun worth watching. Passion and dedication are radiating from the screen.

[@fruzsimih7214]

Hiroyuki Sanada has so much charisma, you feel it even from the trailers!

[@iTz_Plewtoe]

I am speechless as to how good this show is. I can only say thank you to everyone involved for creating this masterful show

[@cocoa_pacific]

The first thing I noticed when watching this series is how detailed and beautiful the costumes were! I knew that this show would be epic 🎉

[@patrickhudson9236]

This Shogun series is a masterpiece. The amount of detail shows in every episode. My favorite character is Mariko.

[@jw427]

I've been loving this series and it has made me want to return to Japan to experience their culture again. Even after 9 trips, there is still so many things I want to experience in Japan.

[@lauris5275]

I watched 2 episodes. Best show i see in years if it keeps that way.

[@Bullfy890]

One of the best series I have seen in years ... And with my favorite Japanese actor Hiroyuki Sanada , I just love to watch everything this man does .. simply amazing Series !

[@Allen2saint]

Wow. Huge fan of these producers. The show is so fresh and interesting. Respect.

[@ShaunStephens777]

I loved the original and I really love the remake. I love to see more Japanese period shows, in the style

[@dirk2058]

this is one of my favorites already and i have oly watched 2 episodes.... love it

[@loungingwithlenny]

I am amazed by this show. Saw 2 episodes, and i can't wait for other parts. Great job

[@tysonristau4995]

Dang she’s gorgeous

[@Salient-n7c]

Hiroyuki, Twilight Samurai is one of my favorite movies!!

[@aquicktake]

first 2 episodes were brilliant. highly recommended series

[@sonny9054]

Love Hiroyuki Sanada. He’s come such a long way. His English has improved dramatically.

[@ShamanWolves]

Looking forward to every Tuesday to watch the next episode!

[@ShaunNugent-bp6hl]

I just found out my Great Grandmother was half Japanese and hid it from our family. Please 🙏 cherish Japanese heritage and language for the world. 🎉

[@jowallprieto7727]

Amazing series, the first two episodes where incredible, not just in cinematics but in story telling. I am waiting anxiously for the next one.

[@junistheking2027]

I am Japanese, and I am actually excited about this show🎉

[@perkeletto640]

You can really feel the care for details in the show. Really authentic show that allows viewers truly immerse to the setting.

[@mikhaelcrossfield5712]

If Toshiro Mifune was watching this production, he would be very happy 😊😁

[@maidacameron4093]

Everything about Shogun is special, the costumes, music, sets, cast and the tiny details of how some enters a room, it’s beautiful. Hiroyuki Sanada is Toranga, he commands the screen. They better remember him come Emmy time.

[@KalvinPatel]

This show is already phenomenal! Can't wait for the rest of the season!

[@LeeMoore-tu4gr]

The first two episodes have been soooo good!

[@GuineaPigEveryday]

The joy of making this show is just radiating from their faces as they talk, it's wonderful to see actors so genuinely excited to share this with the world. Also as a history student its so heartwarming to see these FX producers so genuinely passionate about authenticity, and reading on how long it took for them to make this they clearly put so much work into it, you can see it in every single second of screentime.

[@arkon6084]

Hiroyuki is the most qualified Japanese actor/director of the samurai films in our time. Just do research on his career and see. He is very good at martial arts and had done so many films. A serious actor and a person who pays lot of attention to details that help to make the scenes in the film so real.

[@mostboringyoutubechannel8845]

I was 10 years old، when the old show came۔Having watched the first two episodes of this new effort، it's safe to say that this show is addictive۔ Eagerly waiting what is in store in episode 3۔ My only apprehension is that it will become a show with seasons، if super successful۔ My humble opinion، keep it a mini-series، if the producers read my comment۔ Thanks۔

[@phrous]

This is series is really good

[@Bahngoura]

I love the authenticity of the Portuguese in this show..

[@jonbetteridge2377]

its an amazing show 10/10 a must watch

[@theadventurer1602]

I worked a few years for Mitsubishi Corporation (from my own country) and had the opportunity to work with several young Japanese General Managers in global office who were either raised/educated overseas and spoke English like Americans do, just like Anna Sawai. Pretty cool.

[@matthewjuarbe5826]

there is something special about this show that i saw all 3 episodes in one day waiting for more. i was hooked. and i don't really get hooked on a tv show due to its hard for a tv show to hold my interest. but this show really got me. the acting is beautiful. you can tell the actors are giving it their all in every scene. the set pieces te way each scene is framed and how a scene plays out everything was handled with such care and precision. its a great show so far and people should take the time out to watch it and give it a chance

[@tyl8770]

Hiroyuki Sanada is one of the best actors on the planet. This was the first time I had seen Anna Sawai, and she was amazing. I do love the show, but I am a bit disappointed with some of the changes they made from the books and 1980 series.

[@turanserce2344]

❤❤❤❤❤ Hiroyuki Sanada (Henry Sanada)

[@ShadowofFenrir]

Really is one my favroite actors ever. really humble and his acting skills are amazing.

[@pressrepeat2000]

It’s a truly stunning show. A MASTERPIECE! Most importantly because it makes you feel something. It connects with the viewer like few other shows have made over the last 20 years.

[@eisernfront8549]

Happy for my man, Sanada for getting the spotlight

[@Farron6]

The authenticity to the source material and the real history of Japan elevates this series above so much what has been churned out in the past 10 years, I hope this sets a precedent when it comes to TV historical dramas because there is so much untapped potential (Mansa Musa or Olga of Kiev). The care that went into it from the casting to the writing should serve as a firm lesson to the clowns behind the likes of Netflixs Queen Cleopatra.

[@ahr355]

Love this show so much! Amazing acting, story and cinematography

[@kristallmenschkristallwolf1969]

wow the Words of Hiroyuki surprising me and offers me he is far more as an Master and the Producer of it and its his Life? i Love his Character and his Spirit about he speaks and the Presentation in John Wick 4

[@GigaHellblaze]

I watched both episodes on Hulu yesterday and I'm amazed on how they put time and effort into the series. The costumes are also perfect in detail, all of them did alot of research. I bet they will win awards for the series both here and in Japan. I'm sure Japan is watching this and are tearing up with joy.

[@jec1ny]

What I've seen so far has left me deeply impressed with this show. I would expect that Shogun is a name we will be hearing frequently during the next awards season.

[@allgoo1990]

Sanada is the man!!

[@MrSteve280]

I'll have to wait until the last episode to know which of these wonderful Japanese actors/actresses is my favorite. But I have to admit that Sanada-sama steals every scene he's in.

[@kveldgorkon4611]

AMAZING SHOW !!! ..The Emotional Roller-coaster is Incredible !! .. Very Impressed with the Acting, Story Telling and Cinematography..

[@ogukuo97]

The Japanese cast is magnificent. The actors for Blackthorne and Mariko left something to be desired.

[@joependleton6293]

The silhouette of A leader, where legends stand.

[@9sunskungfu]

I am so glad Hiroyuki is getting all this mainstream success now , He was known for doing martial art films in the 80's. A favourite i liked of his is "Ninja in the Dragons den" a HK action film. I will definitely check out "Shogun" though. I saw the original mini series when i was kid in the mid 80's and I'm sure this is gonna be 10 times better.

[@StanHowse]

Such a GREAT show already, and we're only 3 Eps. in.

[@emimi333-]

Finished episode 2 and I’m itching to watch ep3 tomorrow.

[@KewpieGirl]

i can see they will have many trophies from awards because this tv series looks like a winner. I've seen old Shogun, the reboot is like clarify up and make it real life. Nothing cheesy or wacko.

[@adamaa9144]

Hiroyuki Sanada is a master. He deserves anything for him.

[@sophieamandaleitontoomey9343]

Sanada san steals every scene that he’s in. I’m glad so many more people are going to exposed to his work with this. He’s such a talented man.

[@jocknarn3225]

I remember being enthralled by the James Clavel paperback & the emotions & passions fairly bursting out of the pages. This & Taipan very much of my Uni yrs in the 70s. Shogun is a logical extension 2 Hiroyuki’s work in the Last Samurai👍

[@factspoken9062]

This Japanese movies are so realistic and natural...some country like to overact and have over dramatic unrealistic scenes where one kick from a thin scrawny man sends five men flying away

[@luissalazar6279]

A truly Masterpiece, and felt transported to that era due to its authenticity and actors performances, looking forward to see more Japanese storytelling brought to the screen.

[@quebecpower978]

Best show of this century.

[@teufeltuna1956]

What a phenomenal show.

[@dennisobrien2578]

What beautiful people ❤

[@randomrob2221]

Best series in YEARSSSSS

[@SA-bq1us]

I watched the premiere episode and I'm excited for episode 2. One at a time

[@ryann6067]

The only major inaccuracy Ive spotted (and others too), is the Englishman’s flintlock pistols. They are about 150 years to new.

[@jordanmapfumo9359]

This show is a gem

[@archangel5110]

Wow he speaks fluent "Portuguese" lol

[@123mrmaynard123]

btw your Portuguese spelling is really good

[@juankwanmendoza5219]

Hiroyuki Sanada Rocks!!🎉💪🐉✨🐲🧧🥇💯

[@moonday5521]

It's already showing the love and respect we historical fiction fans have long been asking for. Something authentic yet with the backdrop of fiction and elaborate storytelling of a complex group of characters intermingling in a time period that is foreign to all of us, not even to mention such a unique setting for those of us in the West who may be unfamiliar with how feudal Japan operated. They did not hold back from showing the darkness as well as the light in this series, just as historical drama should be.

[@andreasmerkel5717]

When I first saw Hiroyuki Sanada in The Last Samurai, he left a very strong impression on me. For me he belongs in the same class as Ken Takakura, Ken Watanabe and the legendary Toshiro Mifune.

[@jimmy_x557]

Such an incredible show !