What a Bloody outstanding show! This is the first time I've ever wanted to give a show a genuine 11/10!
The writing brings out all of the respect, honour and dignity, even in deception. I love this epic and especially this episode (although once I see next week's episode I'll no doubt rave over that too), there is no dumbing down for the audience, you need to be immersed.
When 'Mariko' translating as she does 'Blackthorne's' words to 'Toranaga' and the sublime transition turning to 'Blackthorne' with eyes the sharpness of a sword, to ask "Shall I translate this too, or is this directed to me". Outstanding.
Each and every actor, no matter who they represent in this epic 'goes all in', for their character, their craft in acting is flawless. If there was any legitimacy in the Academy or in any entertainment award for actors, crew and show, Shōgun would do a clean sweep without exception, even though we still have two episodes to go.
Shōgun is definitely the pinnacle of any show I've had the privilege of watching in my six decades of life. This is not a throw away comment as I am an enthusiast in quality entertainment for most my life.
I cannot wait to own this on UHD Bluray boxset when it's released. Outstandingly Brilliant. 11/10
I just started watching this show a couple days ago on Amazon Prime. I'm well into S2 and will probably finish up S3 in the next few days. Law genre will always get my attention but the strong character/relationship focus is wonderful. Dabney Coleman as Nick's father does a great job.
Also, it's a treat to see stars like Aaron Paul (Jesse Pinkman Breaking Bad) and Erik Knudsen (Alec Sadler, Continuum) as kids.
