001 4 It has been two decades since James Clavell's novel first aired , but Shogun is still one of the finest mini-series yet produced and it still holds up . The stranger in a strange land story of an English navigator shipwrecked in fuedal Japan strikes such a strong chord because the audience is in the same predicament as the main character , confronted with an unknown and dangerous world that refuses to make sense . Shogun was filmed in Japan with remarkable fidelity to both the original story and local culture .
As Pilot-Major John Blackthorne , Chamberlain is often called upon to do more with looks than with dialogue . As the King of the Mini-Series , it is easy to forget what Chamberlain can do as an actor given the proper material ( I wish his version of Christopher Fry's The Lady's Not For Burning was available on video tape ) . Actually , there is a sense in which Chamberlain's performance is arguable the weakest of the cast , but that speaks more to the strength of the supporting players . Certainly John Rhys-Davies steals every scene he is in as Vasco Rodrigues , Damien Thomas ' Father Alvito personifies political machination , and Nobuo Kaneko as Lord Ishido has that glare down perfectly . Ultimately , it is the Japanese actors who carry Shogun . From the legendary Toshirô Mifune as Lord Toranaga , to the novice actress 。 。 ko Shimada as Mariko , to Frankie Sakai as Yabu and every one of the characters who make up Blackthorne's Japanese household , these actors provide the new word that confront's Chamberlain's character . The choice of producer Eric Bercovici to also adopt Clavell's novel was the ideal choice . Bercovici was not only familiar with the mini-series format , having done Washington Behind Close Doors , but he was the writer on Hell in the Pacific , a 1968 movie with Lee Marvin and Toshirô Mifune . During WWII the two men end up on a deserted island . What made the film unique was that it was done without subtitles ; Marvin spoke English and Mifune spoke Japanese and the idea was to show it in both countries without subtitles . Okay , unfair advantage to the Japanese , but you have to appreciate the idea which Shogun certainly uses to great effect .
Director Jerry London does an admirable job of presenting Japanese culture on its own terms , which is exactly what is right for the story . My understanding was that the Orson Welles narration was added at the , uh , request of the network who felt audiences would not be able to read between the lines . I think that for the most part Shogun would work without the excessive explanations , even if you have not read the novel , but we will never know .
If you are looking for something to lose yourself in next weekend , you would not find too many things as intelligent and as fascinating as Shogun . Just be sure you do the complete original mini-series and not the one cassette mini-version .
001 4 It has been two decades since James Clavell's novel first aired , but Shogun is still one of the finest mini-series yet produced and it still holds up . The stranger in a strange land story of an English navigator shipwrecked in fuedal Japan strikes such a strong chord because the audience is in the same predicament as the main character , confronted with an unknown and dangerous world that refuses to make sense . Shogun was filmed in Japan with remarkable fidelity to both the original story and local culture .
As Pilot-Major John Blackthorne , Chamberlain is often called upon to do more with looks than with dialogue . As the King of the Mini-Series , it is easy to forget what Chamberlain can do as an actor given the proper material ( I wish his version of Christopher Fry's The Lady's Not For Burning was available on video tape ) . Actually , there is a sense in which Chamberlain's performance is arguable the weakest of the cast , but that speaks more to the strength of the supporting players . Certainly John Rhys-Davies steals every scene he is in as Vasco Rodrigues , Damien Thomas ' Father Alvito personifies political machination , and Nobuo Kaneko as Lord Ishido has that glare down perfectly . Ultimately , it is the Japanese actors who carry Shogun . From the legendary Toshirô Mifune as Lord Toranaga , to the novice actress 。。ko Shimada as Mariko , to Frankie Sakai as Yabu and every one of the characters who make up Blackthorne's Japanese household , these actors provide the new word that confront's Chamberlain's character . The choice of producer Eric Bercovici to also adopt Clavell's novel was the ideal choice . Bercovici was not only familiar with the mini-series format , having done Washington Behind Close Doors , but he was the writer on Hell in the Pacific , a 1968 movie with Lee Marvin and Toshirô Mifune . During WWII the two men end up on a deserted island . What made the film unique was that it was done without subtitles ; Marvin spoke English and Mifune spoke Japanese and the idea was to show it in both countries without subtitles . Okay , unfair advantage to the Japanese , but you have to appreciate the idea which Shogun certainly uses to great effect .
Director Jerry London does an admirable job of presenting Japanese culture on its own terms , which is exactly what is right for the story . My understanding was that the Orson Welles narration was added at the , uh , request of the network who felt audiences would not be able to read between the lines . I think that for the most part Shogun would work without the excessive explanations , even if you have not read the novel , but we will never know .
If you are looking for something to lose yourself in next weekend , you would not find too many things as intelligent and as fascinating as Shogun . Just be sure you do the complete original mini-series and not the one cassette mini-version .
010 4 Hmmm , now I understand what it was all about . . . well at least sort of . . . the television miniseries of James Clavell's Shogun was a bit of a television landmark , lots of hype and everybody warned about its horrific portrayal of ancient Japanese suicide , hari-kari , also know to the Samurai as ` The Fine Art of Seppuku ' , is somewhat tame by today's television standards , but still unnerving all the same , and in the early 1980s it certainly got everyone talking and awaiting to tune into the next episode , here is the complete series on four DVDs , two episodes per disc , eight episodes in length , plus a bonus material fifth DVD , make up an interesting package that is worthy of any DVD television series hobby collection . Although somewhat slow paced in parts , sometimes accompanied by hammy acting from the Western folks involved , probably underscored by the remarkably good Japanese acting , relives the traditions of the Japans in the 1600s , and is the main reason why you probably want to see it . Although the story is rather limited for the running time - English pilot marooned on the Japans , falls in love with a local Japanese woman and stirs up the hornets nest - it is not really the tale or Richard Chamberlain's Pilot-Major John Blackthorne / Anjin-san character who drives the show , but the whole Japanese culture on display and this is first rate stuff . Throwing in a few ninjas also heightens its validity as one of the best historical dramas aired on television . However it does show its age because of the impact of modern Asian cinema and better subtitle translation standards , speaking of which , Shogun completely avoids , with long dialogue sequences in Japanese without any English subtitles , to present the audience with a more vivid Japanese presence . Yes , this is certainly very good entertainment for a couple to watch in the evening when the kids are asleep . Although it ends very suddenly you will come away learning a lot more about the Japans than you did going into it .
050 4 Shogun is a very good series for me as it educated me on the lifestyle of ancient Japan . The choreography is well done and the landscape is beautiful . The story has love , revenge and jealousy whilst all the way through is non-stop action ! I hope a talented director will produce the 20th Century equivalent where Shogun left off . One must watch the series as Richard Chamberlain acts his best .
074 4 Shogun by James Clavell is one of my favorite novels and the mini-series is fabulous , if a bit tedious at times . This 10 - hour epic follows the exploits of John Blackthorne , a navigator on a Dutch ship in the 1600 ' s who finds his way to the Japans through the Magellan Straight . In Japan Blackthorne is confronted by a culture strange to him and Portuguese traders and priests who have monopolized trade with the Japan's because of their heretofore secret passage through the Straits . Blackthorne finds himself thrust into the middle of a political struggle that works against him staying alive , much less getting back home . There's plenty of politics , intrigue , and romance here and you'll find that owning the DVD you're like to watch the entire 10 - hour show without much break in-between .
081 4 This review is from :
James Clavell's Shogun ( DVD )
James Clavelli's Shogun DVD is outstanding . It feels like I was watching it for the first time . The scenes are really good all around . The story is classic vintage . Stranger in an unknown land surpasses all obstacles to not only become one of the most powerful but to fall in love at the same time . I loved the country side scenes and the presentation of culture of the high Da。ño . I read the book twice and the DVD follows very closely the story line . It is long but it is worth the wait .
131 4 Having lived 2 years in Japan , I found the DVD format of Shogun very interesting . There is much beauty in Japan . The common people were very polite and respectful ; very clean and industrious . It is a very interesting country to visit . I can certainly sympathize with Pilot Blackthorn , at the end of his experiences , in having a dismal future alone .
012 4 Yoshi Toranaga = Tokugawa Ieyasu ( 1st Tokugawa Shogun , 1600 - 1615 ) , Lord Ishido = Lord Ishida , Captain-pilot Blackthorn = Captain-pilot William Adams , Lord Toda = same ( was not really a bad samuarai who's envy with jelousy ) , the Erasmus = same ( Everything that happened to her was true ) . This is what legends are made of a couple of words added here and there along with a forbidden love.I watched the mini-series when it first came out and loved it then . Do not get 2 hour video too much was cut out ; so disappointing . If any one likes historical fact mixed in with fiction like I do this is a must get item ; so don't delay the money is worth it . The only thing that is fiction about the movie is the love affair between Mariko-san and Anjin-san . If anyone is deep into Japanese history must read about Tokugawa Ieyasu and other books on the Unification wars , Hideyoshi Toyotomi and Nobunaga . There is not much written about Captain-pilot William Adams not even in the Japanese language , but his Japanese name was really Anjin-san ( Mr . Pilot ) . The village of Anjiro did and still does exit but under the modern name Miura . Anjiro was renamed Miura sometime during the Edo period and the Meiji Restoration . Now it's a large city about 50 miles south of Yokohama and about 10 miles south-west of Yokosuka on the same peninsula .
019 4 When I was a child there were three mini-series that I remember most vividly . There was Roots , The Thorn Birds , and Shogun . Surprisingly , all of these have dated extremely well , mostly because they are all epic , memorable stories from a different era ; but also because they are all well-made films with talented actors and huge budgets . Shogun is perhaps the most expensive of the three boasting detailed sets , lavish costuming , and a large cast of extras . There are many notable performaces in the show , the acting all around being very good . The best part of the show is actually what is missing : subtitles . Having a show with so much spoken Japanese would normally demand subtitles , but the creators manage to do without with the use of characters translating and / or the voice of Orson Welles chiming in narrating over the more complex sequences . Subtitles would take away from relating to the main character who is a stranger in a strange land that gradually picks up on phrases as he explores their culture . This is indeed an expensive production , but the DVD is also very expensive . If you are like me and your heart is set on seeing this show then go ahead and spend the cash , but The Thorn Birds is just as epic and lengthy and is half the price . Both mini-series are worth obtaining , and the packaging for Shogun is handsome and the extra features on the final disc are entertaining and enlightening .
048 4 Having lived in Japan for nine years , I found Shogun to be very realistic and detailed as all the costumes were true to the era.I especially liked the fact that there were no subtitles.The viewer is in the same dilemma as Blackthorn would have been.Many conversations left you wondering what was said.My only complaint would be that it was not long enough.I could have spent another ten hours watching more of it.One of the finest mini series I have ever watched .
051 4 This story is magnificant . I have read the book numerous times and this movie truly brings the characters and story to life . I first saw the mini-series as a child and I have always wanted it for my home collection . This movie is a must for all James Clavell fans and adventure / drama fans alike .
067 4 I had never seen this mini-series before buying it for my dad for his birthday . . . definitely not state of the art because it was a late seventies early eighties made for tv mini-series , and the acting from Chamberlain can be a little on the cheesy side , but very good over all . A must watch . . . it may take you a month to get through it all though !
071 4 One of my favorite miniseries of all time . A wonderful look at Japanese culture when the Samurai code still ruled . Though over 20 years old , this one holds up well . Chamberlain is excellent in the role of a man who at first has to learn the ways of Japan , but then learns to love the culture and rise to a position of power . This is an excellent version , full and uncut . Make sure you don't get any of the chopped up versions . I owned the original vhs version which was packaged much nicer than the dvd version . This has everything you could want , from intrigue to great battles .
076 4 This was a very good series but had alot missing from it . I'm not saying that you shouldnt go out and buy it ( for all means do ) but before or even after you have seen it please read the book . Sure it might be long but it will go so fast you will wish that there were 1152 more pages to it . Heck I read it in less that two weeks .
093 4 Based on the real life diary of Will Adams ( very boring ) , the real Anjin san , Clavell makes the tale come alive ! It also makes reading the book Shogun exciting . It inspired me to travel to Japan and follow Anjin's adventure .
104 4 I have been waiting for many years for the mini-series to become available on DVD , as it is one of my favorite movies . Even though the tale is fiction , being somewhat of a history buff , I captured by the story and enthralled by the beautiful scenery of the island of Japan .
108 4 I have not read the book but I bough the DVD as soon as I saw it available . I had watched the series back in the early 80 ' s when I was just 8 . . . I loved it then and to see all those scenes again now at 30 was just great . If you don't know much about medieval Japan , the Japan of the Samurais , this can be an excellent starting point . I am sure you will love the story and the historical details that are given to you as a cultural present .
114 4 No movie has ever caused such a profound impact on me as Shogun did more than 20 years ago . I remember I was simply fascinated by the mini-series and it triggered on me an insatiable curiosity about the Japanese culture . I still remember the Japanese words learned through the mini-series . 20 yrs . later , I finally got the book , which I am reading right now , and it is as fascinating as the mini-series was . . . to the point I came to Amazon looking for the DVD's ! If the mini-series is just half as good as I remember it , it will be a treasure in anyone's DVD collection .
117 4 This is the video collection of the excellent mini-series . It takes place during the shogun period in Japanese history . The only negative to this collection is the lack of subtitles . There are long stretches where the Japanese actors speak to each other in Japanese and the audience has no clue what is being said ( unless you understand Japanese ) . Still I found this very enjoyable !
118 4 James Clavell's Shogun is perhaps one of the best told stories in the past century , both in novel and in the mini series . As you may all ready have read , the photo an acting is great , but to enyoy the Shogun experience at it's fullest , I can advice you the following : Read The book and then see the tapes . The tapes shurely deceipt the scenario and the general view of the story , but it ( and it's perfectly explainable ) misses to portrait all the political intrigue an the very special way of thinking of all the characters , this is the real meat and potatoes of the soup . Shure the series are very well done and are worthy buying and seeing without the book , but you will still miss all the flavour of this exceptional story .
129 4 This movie has everything ! Action , suspense , drama and even a love interest . Plus ! , it is not so graphic that I am embarrassed to let my children see it .
133 4 This product came with very fast shipping , the quality is top notch , and this was a great transaction and I suggest it to everyone !
152 4 I first read Shogun this past summer ( 2004 ) , and liked it so much that I just had to buy this DVD set . I thoroughly enjoyed it , even though I felt it was unable to completely capture Toranaga's cleverness and wit . I got my brother hooked on the book , and he has been watching the DVD incrementally after he reads a section of the book . It's quite fun being able to pick out the little differences between the book and this series . As countless others here have said , this DVD set is awesome , but as usual , not as good as the book .
160 4 This is not a review but a caveat . I love this series but whomever did the DVD disk work on this version made an error of sorts . When you enable the subtitle option to be able to understand the japanese dialogue instead what you get is the japanese dialogue written in . . . . . japanese !
170 4 I got Shogun on DVD for my husband's birthday . He's a big fan . He couldn't have been more delighted . The movie is one of those you can watch again , even after what , 30 years ? and it still is awesome .
175 4 My husband really wanted to watch Shogun , the mini-series that came out in the 80 ' s . I searched rental stores and retail stores , and no one had it . I found it on Amazon and gave it to him for our anniversary and he was delighted .
013 4 This is a great adventure story , set in the 1600s in old Japan , No sex no bad language , what a pleasure to watch . I had read the book and the video is accurate . The 9 hours just flew by . Very little more to say , just get the movie . As a collector one for me to treasure .
068 4 A true Masterpiece enjoyed every moment and was dissappointed when it had to end . A must see . Movies with this quality , substance and performances are no longer made .
105 4 Very true to the novel . If you are a fan of the novel , you are pretty much guaranteed to like the miniseries .
015 4 Reading some of these reviews , I wonder if anyone watches a movie or mini-series to be entertained by it . When you go down the line of people who gave this great title three or lower stars , you'll find it mostly comes from people who try to express their true historical knowledge , or simply didn't have the attention span for a drama of this caliber . Who cares ?
I was 8 years old when Shogun came to television for the first time and my mother , a single-parent who never had much time for TV , sat enthralled and entranced by it . It was probably the way I looked watching Battlestar Galactica , or Saturday morning cartoons , and during whole time Shogun was airing my mother could not be bothered to pull herself away from this wonderful drama .
When I was a teen it aired again and I couldn't pull myself away , and it inspired my own interest in Japan and its culture . I submit to whoever is reading this the so-called history buffs , or historians who are giving this mini-series , or the book it was based on , low marks , it's only to flex their own scholastic muscle . It's pathetic posturing , really and has nothing to do with the true quality of the story .
Shogun continues to be one of the greatest stories ever told , and among the best adaptations of a novel ever done , right up there with Lonesome Dove , and Gone with the Wind . The charm of Richard Chamberlain's portrayal of Blackthorne ( I don't need to know who the character was based on ) , the beauty and grace of 。 。 ko Shimada's portrayal of Mariko and the rest of the wonderful cast , combine to bring us a tale for the ages of Feaudal politics and forbidden romance .
I loved it .
008 4 Just be aware that this is not the complete , original mini-series . The original was 12 hours long , with little translation . This version is 4 hours shorter with overly dramatic translated narration . This is the one you can catch on TV now and then . The complete original , I believe , only aired once . Wish they would make it available .
153 4 I can't wait to see this on DVD with captioning ! I just finished the book , and viewed the video set from my local library . In 1980 , we didn't have closed-cptioning , and the sound quality on the original four-video set is very poor . I wished for captioning a hundred times during the 10 hours it took to watch it all . I have always enjoed this miniseries , and remember watching it the first time on TV . Of course , it differs from the book in a few details , and leaves out quite a lot . I didn't like the way it wrote more into the story , perhaps in an effort to make some of it more palatable . Watch it cross-legged on the floor with a bowl of cha , pay CLOSE attention , and don't forget to read the book ! Sayonara .
035 4 I DECIDED NOT TO PURCHASE THE DVD SET . WHY ? BECAUSE THEY EDITED OUT ABOUT 3 HOURS FROM THE ORIGIONAL RELEASE . RIDICULOUS .
173 4 This review is from :
James Clavell's Shogun ( DVD )
Have waited YEARS for cost to come down ! Great series to watch once a year !
174 4 Have waited YEARS for cost to come down ! Great series to watch once a year !
041 4 This is a long overdue release of this wonderful insight into 17th century Japan , closely based on the absorbing novel by James Clavell . The series has a very strong cast and an addictive story . It is beautifully filmed and has a bonus disc featuring how the series was made , and information on the Samurai , Geisha , and the Tea Ceremony . This is an excellent boxed set .
055 4 The old mini ? maxi ? series holds up well . The extra features were even more interesting than most . Still , it's easy to see that what captured a generation's fancy would not have the same impact today . It would still be a hit , but not a mega-hit .
088 4 Shogun is an extraordinary depiction of feudal Japan . It's not only a fascinating story , but it actually teaches rudimentary Japanese idioms . The story is wonderful and the acting , especially Toshiro Mifune , is astonishing .
109 4 Truly an entertaing and very informative mini series . The story is captivating and even though the Japanese speak in their own language one is not lost but is held bound as the saga unfolds . A love story and war / power struggle wrapped into one package guaranteed to deliver satisfaction .
124 4 This movie is for all the action fans , love story fans and people who just love samuri movies . The Traditions that this movie shows and the different views of culture is told so amazingly that it just draws you in more . This is my favorite movie ever .
127 4 The series consists of about 10 hours of actual story content which was as good as I remember when I saw it on Television in about 1980 but without the comercials . I haven't read the book so I have no comparison . Lots of good historical and basic Japanese language information made it an enjoyable experience .
042 4 I just want to make a quick comment about the DVD box set of SHOGUN , instead of my standard long-winded review . It's an excellent movie , beautiful locations , wonderful story , etc . But what a DVD transfer ! ! ! The video quality is so good , I forgot that the TV miniseries from filmed in 1980 . Of course it's not widescreen as they never shot TV films in that format back them , but the colors are vibrant and image is overall clean and sharp . I was very surprised . You only see some spots and grain when they transition between scenes but that's okay with me . Considering the audio is in Dolby Digital 5.1 surround sound , this is a sweet DVD collection . Now , if only such teleplays as LONESOME DOVE , CHIEFS and the 1984 A CHRISTMAS CAROL ( with George C Scott ) would receive the same treatment .
106 4 I recieved it right away and was more than pleased with the product . I have watched it three times already and am very glad it is on DVD because I can watch it a lot . The quality is excellent and the packaged arrived in mint condition . I was so very pleased . A BIG MAHALO ( Thank you ) .
049 4 I've been holding on for the DVD release of Shogun for a few years now . Finally back in Sept . my wait was over . I remember watching this series as a child on TV . Ever since then it has touched me in my early years and lasted into my adult life . Now much older I got to enjoy it all over again and I think have a better understanding . Having both lived in Japan and visited 8 times now I can say they do a semi-good job for O ` l . If you like loves stories , mixed with Samurai action and those mixed into a strange culture learning films you'll enjoy this one . Also you can actually learn a little Japanese in one of the episodes if you pay attention to whats being taught .
103 4 It still holds up after all these years . Better than Memoirs of a Geisha and waaay better than The Last Samurai ( which probably would have been better without Tom Cruise ) . Would love to see what HBO would have done with it now days .
134 4 Anyone that has seen Tom Cruise in The Last Samurai will love this movie . I actually think Sho Gun is better . Richard Chamberlain does an excellent job . I highly recommend this movie .
164 4 i received it on time and in very good condition . it was a gift and he said he enjoyed watching it . it does take a long time to watch . he still says the book is better .
054 4 I taped the movie myself , then bought it on VHS , and now have gotten in on DVD . It's such a great movie , the best mini-series ever , that I never get tired of watching it . And , not only is it great entertainment , my five-year-old grandson , who is 25% Japanese , is learning the Japanese language from it and becoming interested in Japanese history .
070 4 Frankly I'm just pleased Shogun came out on DVD as the VHS set cost about a month's rent . The extras are only adequate , but the mini-series itself is transferred excellently and still stands up even a quarter-century later . An excellent treatment of an outstanding piece of work .
058 4 I have read Mr . Clavell's book , plus read about the history of feudal Japan , including the battle of Sekigahara and the arrival in Japan of the English Pilot Smith . By the use of these historical events in order to make his novel , Clavell's book gives a great insight into Japan of the year 1600 . The movie is a great adaptation of the book and does not dissapoint the viewer . The only real change from history in both novel and movie is the changing of names of the principal characters . Despite this , it is captivating to watch .
080 4 My family was riveted by nightly viewing of each episode . We watched it without sub-titles to get the same experiences that Blackthorne had . We did much fact-checking between each episode since Japanese history was a blank slate for us and we had many debates about whether a westerner could become samauri during this era . As a political history Chamberlain's warrior is much more satisfying to watch than the Tom Cruise treatment of conflicting cultural values .
086 4 Although the made-for-TV series , Shogun , came out in 1980 , it still holds true to form for the epic it was at that time and still is . The 12 - hour series leads one alongside Major Pilot Blackthorn as he comes to discover a whole new culture in the Japans and the complexities of that culture . A very well-made production that I and my wife will view many times over before we set it aside for good .
115 4 Seriously ! This film , albiet long , is one of the best acting , storytelling and directing i have ever seen . My first exposure to TV Miniseries was V , and that was pretty neat to me . BUT THIS ! The film making , artfull picture , story was all very cool . The only gripe i had was that it was a little dificult to learn Jappanese just in order to understand the verson without the subtitles . But the whole story is , even though it takes 3 or 4 days to watch it , is captivating . BUY THIS MOVIE !
140 4 this is one of the best movies made . a classic as far as i was concerned . followed the book fairly well although some of the descriptions of the main characters in the book was totally different than was portrayed in the movie . .
061 4 Shogun has been one of the most requested and long awaited titles to be released on DVD , and I'm happy to report that the end product was well worth the wait .
Author James Clavell's story of the Englishman who went to Japan and became a samurai remains one of the benchmarks of network TV fare over 20 years after its release . The detailed sets , gorgeous costuming , and sumptuous details have never looked or sounded better . This boxed DVD set has very crisp video and sharp sound . The packaging is quite attractive with new artwork and a nice gated 5 fold DVD holder . It would have been nice , though , if somewhere on here or on a separate card the contents of the discs would have been listed . A much better value than the expensive 4 VHS set as well !
Disc 5 holds the new extras . The 13 segment Making Of Shogun feature is the jewel on this disc . Many of the surviving actors such as Yoko Shimada , John Rhys-Davies , and Richard Chamberlain were interviewed along with production personnel such as director Jerry London , producer Eric Bercovici and others . Every aspect of the production , filming , and release of the movie is covered with all sorts of great information and ancedotes . Less impressive are the 3 historical featurettes ( samurai , tea ceremony , and geisha ) . These are short with very general information . The disc would have been better served with a 15 minute featurette presenting the historical situation and personalities Shogun was based on ( who would't want to see Hosokawa Gracia , the woman Mariko was patterned after ? ) . As a plethora of easily accessible source material is available on the subject , I don't know why this wasn't done . The audio commentary by director Jerry London on select scenes was a disappointment-rather than running with the soundtrack ( after all , 9 hours of commentary would be a bit much for anyone to fill ) , these few scenes are presented separately and are short and rather non-informative , as most of the information is included in the Making Of segment ( where London does a great job ) . All in all , though , I was happy to see any sort of extras with the program at all , and an entire disc was more than could be asked for !
The miniseries has aged incredibly well . The performances , particularly by the Japanese cast , still hold up . While there are many historical anachronisms and sometimes inaccurate use of the Japanese language , these really do not detract from the splendor of Shogun . After all , as Clavell stressed time after time in interviews , he was writing historical fiction , not fact . It is sad that many aspects of the characters could not be fleshed out to what they were in the novel ( you never get a sense of just how intelligent and cunning Mariko is in the miniseries , or just how devious Omi , Yabu , Toranaga , and the Jesuit fathers are ) , but even a 9 hour miniseries didn't have time for all of this . The Mariko / Blackthorne romance , only a sidestory in the novel , here becomes the focus . In addition , this allowed the characters to reflect the strengths of the actors . Shimada was ( and is ! ) the picture of Oriental womanhood . Chamberlain is good at portraying the romantic and intellectual side of Blackthorne , but was unconvincing when it came to the physical aspects of the role such as fight scenes or intimidating his crew ( Blackthorne was written as a hot tempered , physically threatening sea captain / pirate-Clavell had wanted Sean Connery for the role for this reason . Chamberlain did a nice job on the mad dance , though ! Disc 5 has a great outtake of Chamberlain stumbling and collapsing in a heap while performing it ) . Focusing on the romance aspect therefore plays to Chamberlain's strengths and allows him to turn in a good performance , where his real enthusiasm for the role came through . Toshiro Mifune excels as the Daimyo Toranaga , and Frankie Sakai is a delight to watch as the treacherous Yabu-one minute friend , the other foe , right until the end . Rhys-Davies is at his bombastic best as Spanish pilot Rodrigues . In fact , the entire cast does an impressive job filling their niches .
One of the great things about Shogun is that it was filmed at actual locations you can still visit in Japan . The castles Himeji-jo and Hikone-jo stand in for Lord Ishido's Osaka Castle ( which can also be visited in its rebuilt form ) . The rebuilt Fushimi-jo near Kyoto serves as Toranaga's Edo Castle ( Edo Castle is now the Emperor's Palace in Tokyo , but the main keep no longer exists-the grounds and outbuildings are still huge and impressive ! ) , and Matsumoto-jo as one of Toranaga's satellite castles . And for a taste of samurai life , you can visit Toei Studios Movieland ( where part of Shogun was filmed , I believe ) in Kyoto-it is just like stepping into one of the scenes from Shogun .
Overall , you can't go wrong with this package . A classic , milestone miniseries with great acting and production values with a well done transfer and nice new extras . Paramount made it worth the wait !
002 4 This review is from :
Shogun - The Complete Epic [ VHS ] ( VHS Tape )
Very few mini-series ' ever live up to the book from which it came . Shogun comes very close . Taking place during a period when all of Europe was competing for the riches of the world , the story starts off with the last ship of a lost fleet , down to a skeleton crew ( in size as well as health ) trying to find the Japans . Pilot-Major John Blackthorn , played well by Richard Chamberlain , wakes up on shore in Japan after barely making to land . Used to being in control , he is swept up in all the politics and violence that this period of Japan could offer . In just the first day alone he sees a beheading , is forced to listen to one of his crew boiled to death , and must endure the shame of having a Samurai relieve himself on his back . He then becomes a pawn between two lords , the brutal Ishido , and the cunning Toranaga . As Blackthorn begins to understand the culture , he also begins to build his own power and worth , causing Toranaga to realize the value of the Englishman .
Throughout this mini-series the photography is stunning , the action impressive , and the romance steamy . The acting here is also probably the best overall of any epic film . The film follows closely to the book with minor exceptions , and keeps the viewer riveted throughout the entire series . Also the continual battle between Blackthorn and the Jesuit Priest , Father Alvito , seems to have been written to match the feud between Ishido and Toranaga . Both feuds are intense and gut-wrenching , leading though to different types of endings .
This series is a great story , told well , and captures the imagination quickly . I would recommend this to any viewer who likes an action-packed and entertaining adventure . Just be prepared : There are some scenes that are a little violent . This was necessary to get the feel for how violent this period was in Japan , however it can still be a wee bit disturbing . This is probably not for the pre-teen crowd .
003 4 Very few mini-series ' ever live up to the book from which it came . Shogun comes very close . Taking place during a period when all of Europe was competing for the riches of the world , the story starts off with the last ship of a lost fleet , down to a skeleton crew ( in size as well as health ) trying to find the Japans . Pilot-Major John Blackthorn , played well by Richard Chamberlain , wakes up on shore in Japan after barely making to land . Used to being in control , he is swept up in all the politics and violence that this period of Japan could offer . In just the first day alone he sees a beheading , is forced to listen to one of his crew boiled to death , and must endure the shame of having a Samurai relieve himself on his back . He then becomes a pawn between two lords , the brutal Ishido , and the cunning Toranaga . As Blackthorn begins to understand the culture , he also begins to build his own power and worth , causing Toranaga to realize the value of the Englishman .
Throughout this mini-series the photography is stunning , the action impressive , and the romance steamy . The acting here is also probably the best overall of any epic film . The film follows closely to the book with minor exceptions , and keeps the viewer riveted throughout the entire series . Also the continual battle between Blackthorn and the Jesuit Priest , Father Alvito , seems to have been written to match the feud between Ishido and Toranaga . Both feuds are intense and gut-wrenching , leading though to different types of endings .
This series is a great story , told well , and captures the imagination quickly . I would recommend this to any viewer who likes an action-packed and entertaining adventure . Just be prepared : There are some scenes that are a little violent . This was necessary to get the feel for how violent this period was in Japan , however it can still be a wee bit disturbing . This is probably not for the pre-teen crowd .
004 4 I received the DVD set of Shogun for Christmas . A nice present since I've wanted to see it again ever since it first aired .
However , like a previous reviewer , I found it frustrating that almost 1 / 3 of the original mini-series is missing , and I think that the description of it on several sites as the complete mini-series is at best misleading and at worst in contravention of trading standards . Some of the most memorable parts of the original are entirely absent , including the demonstration of the the Musket Regiment in action , and Mariko's group's attempt to fight their way out of Osaka Castle before she threatens to commit seppuku , as well as more homely sequences such as Blackthorne teaching Mariko and Toranaga to dive head first from the galley .
A previous reviewer notes the lack of action sequences , and this is part of the reason . . . several have been cut out .
The same reviewer mentions that Blackthorne lapses into thee and thou speech inappropriately . Again , that's explained in a cut section : when Blackthorne and Mariko speak in normal speech they're supposed to be speaking Portuguese , but they both also speak Latin , and use that as a private tongue since some samurai who've had contact with Portuguese sailors speak their language , whereas only the priests speak Latin .
Overall , good , but I would have given it 5 stars if it really had been the complete mini-series . Two more disks would have covered it , so why wasn't it issued complete ?
005 4 I've waited for years for Shogun to be released on DVD , and I'm delighted with it . Yes , a booklet with information and chapter listings would have been nice , but that's probably not going to be a dealbreaker for many people .
I'd like to know what some of the other reviewers think was deleted in this edition . I was very familiar with the miniseries , having seen it several times and having taped it at the time on an old Betamax , and I didn't notice anything missing in the DVD edition . . . except that accidental helicopter shadow ! Nothing that I expected to see was gone . As an earlier customer pointed out , the original show ran for 12 hours on NBC because of all the commercials , network promos , opening titles and closing credits in every segment , etc . Take out all that padding , and 9 hours of actual program content sounds about right . If anybody can identify any actual deletions , I'd be interested in hearing what they are .
I would have liked to have seen the brief nude scenes of Mariko in the bath included as much as the next guy . But they were only in the European version anyway . ( Americans are considered by the world to be backward children in these matters . ) They were never in the American version , so although they would have been a welcome bonus , we can't say they were deleted .
It was a real pleasure to start playing Shogun when the DVD package arrived , and Amazon.com had the best price for it that I could find , so that was an added benefit . Never had I seen it with the sharpness and clarity of the DVD . Maybe it took the advent of DVD to do justice to what is , for me , the greatest of all miniseries .
011 4 Shogun has been , and always will be one of the best Mini Series to hit television ! Never has there been a more perfectly constructed use of television to convey a story either before or since this mini series . Put simply , Shogun is a masterful adaptaion of the James Clavell Novel that translates with complete perfection to the screen . Personally , I have been waiting for the release of this movie on DVD since DVD was invented . The VHS tape was just too expensive , and not good enough quality to merit the honor this film deserves !
It is the story of Pilot Major Blackthorn
( an English navagator aborad Dutch sailing Ship who lands on the Japans ) played by Richard Chamberlain , who is forced to learn the Japanese language and culture because if he does not , his crew and entire villiages will be put to death . He is taught the language and customs through the teachings of Mariko ( Yoko Shimada ) , a japanese lady who is trusted by one of highest lords of Japan : Lord Toranaga ( played by Toshiro Mifune ) . Pilot Major Blackthorn , eventually falls in love with Mariko , and forms a love triangle with Lord Buntaro ( Mariko's husband ) on their journy to fulfill Lord Toronagas ambition fo becoming a Shogun warlord.The only title more powerful than Emperor.This is only a infinitessimal glimpse of the plot ! It is a huge whilrwind of honor , political boundaries , culture , and tradition amidst a touching story of love . All of which are portayed beautifully in fuedal Japan . The costumes and settings are pristine , and the language is kept as close to the original time period Japanese as was possible for the translations .
Just as American Yakuza ( a film from the 1990 ' s ) was true to
the current Japanese language and culture , so was this film true to the ancient culture and language of Japan .
The Mini series is a masterpiece . All the performers were perfect in the roles . Which range from Traditional Japanese roles to Spanish traders , to Jesuit priests . If you value history , and cherish tradion , this is a film to covet ! There are not enough words in the English language to describe how wonderful this film is . By all means if you enjoy things from Japan , and value their history and culture , this fim is for you !
016 4 I traveled twice to Tokyo and while there asked everyone I saw about the accuracy of Shogun . Interestingly to a person I was told that , while there were some historical inaccuracies , this story was one of their favorites .
Yes , the history has been heavily novelized and no , I won't go into the details . Other reviewers have done a great job of setting things straight and my efforts would be repetitious . But in the final go round it's really not necessary . If you're after a cut-and-dried history of feudal Japan there are numerous books and videos that you can check out .
History aside , Shogun should be and can be watched and enjoyed purely for its entertainment value . Richard Chamberlain is marvelous .
017 4 Shogun is a superb adventure story , of that there can be no doubt . This boxed set of videos from the TV mini-series of the novel brings James Clavell's characters vividly to life , making the experience even more memorable for anyone who has read and enjoyed the book . For me the screen version added to the pleasure of reading Shogun because it explained things that were not entirely clear in the printed form .
Both in print and especially on screen Shogun is much more than a great tale of adventure . It contains , in my opinion , an even greater love story featuring , in the person of Mariko , one of the finest romantic heroines in all fiction .
As brought so exquisitely to life here by Yoko Shimada , who to my mind is the real star of the series - the set is worth buying for her scenes alone - Mariko is beautiful , brave , loyal and sincere . Delightful and totally believeable in all she says and does , I could not help but do as Pilot-Major Blackthorne did and fall in love with her , wishing that she would find with him the happiness that she has not known with her Japanese husband Buntaro .
In creating this unforgettable character James Clavell clearly set out to win the hearts and minds of his readers and , later , his viewers . Yet having succeeded in this he cruelly dashes all our hopes . Mariko is given her moment of triumph , but she pays a terrible price for it . It is as if Clavell felt that she was drawing too much attention away from his principal male characters , Blackthorne and Toranaga , and judging by Yoko Shimada's portrayal of Mariko in the series he may well have been right .
Yet if you go back to the book and read the crucial scene again , line by line , it seems clear that right up until the last instant a different outcome would easily have been possible . On screen it appears even more contrived than in print . Was James Clavell genuinely undecided as to what to do with Mariko ? I think he was , and for me he made the wrong choice . If ever a heroine deserved a better fate , it was Mariko .
Once she is gone , both versions of Shogun start to fall apart . The ending of the novel is far from satisfactory , and perhaps in the years following its publication James Clavell may have realised its imperfections . However , when he came to produce the TV mini-series in 1980 , the best character in the book was gone and could not be kept alive in the film . So the changes introduced in the last hour of the screen version , which until now has followed the text of Shogun fairly closely , are invariably for the worse and result in the film having an even less satisfactory ending than the book .
But at least we are given a chance to hear the words of that beautiful and moving final letter which Mariko leaves with Toranaga to give to Blackthorne . And karma or not , both in print and on screen she surely lives on in the memories of all who read the book or see this screen version .
018 4 This is not an easy series to review because I find myself of two minds about it . The story itself I find highly enjoyable and evocative of classical Japanese romance , if not exactly true to the form . The history behind it , however , leaves something to be desired .
The series is a surprisingly faithful adaptation of the book , and the mini-series format gives the story the depth needed to tell Clavell's book properly . The costumes and settings are impressive ( if possibly a bit more elaborate than history would require ) and the story is a complex , well told one . The style and pace of the story are even reminiscent of some classical Japanese romances like Gonza the Spearman or Double Suicide . The ultimate moral and conclusion differ somewhat from the traditional Japanese , but then again , the intention was not to sell Shogun to a Japanese audience .
The history , however , is a bit disappointing . While the story of Blackthorne ( Will Adams in real life ) is a true one , Clavell paints an image of a Japan that is much more stratified and romantic than was actually the case at the time . Tokugawa Ieyasu ( Toranaga , played by Toshiro Mifune ) actually codified and enforced the samurai code that Clavell has in place for the story . The samurai and daimyo of the story are much more stylized than you would actually have found then . For the type of samurai shown in this movie , one would need to jump about a hundred years foward . Historically , the samurai of this movie would have been somewhat more like those seen in Seven Samurai ( another Mifune movie ) .
I am also somewhat confused as to why Clavell seemed to find the need to change the names of all of the historical characters of the movie . If it was to distance the characters from the actual history , then it was probably a good idea . However , if his intention was a historically accurate book or series ( which I rather doubt ) his decision is rather puzzling .
On the technical side , the presentation of the series is a ' book-style ' case with a booklet about the series ( with lots of trivia and useful Japanese phrases ) is quite nice . I regret the producers ' decision to compress the episodes together rather than to give a separate opening and ending for each , but it is a minor complaint . I would love to see what they could do with this as a DVD release .
All in all , though , Shogun is a lot of fun to watch . The Japan presented is the Japan of American fantasy , but that is fine if you're watching it for the entertainment value . If your interest in Japan tends towards the casual or your interest in James Clavell towards the serious , I recommend the entire mini-series .
020 4 I thought the dvd version ( 4 dvd's ) would be the complete miniseries but I was wrong . Many of the scenes I remember from the original NBC airing have been cut out . One is where the samurai in the fish pit with Blackthorn and his crew asks Blackthorn to kill him and , having been refused , tries to kill himself . That was the first scene that I noticed missing with many more to follow . Why the hell couldn't they include ALL the scenes in a dvd set ? That's why we buy dvd sets in the first place - to get a complete version and maybe some extras .
Go to the library where you can check it out for free .
021 4 Paramount was generous enough to transfer the classic TV mini-series to DVD . It could be seen as a risk since something this broad and expansive will not hold the attention of all audiences . Even with compression technology of the DVD format the movie still runs through four discs with a supplementary fifth disc . It is certainly a whole lot better than . . . what , ten VHS cassettes ? That is a little trite .
First , the story . James Clavell's book Shogun is an all-time classic with many plots with multiple characters , not just the seemingly main character Major Pilot John Blackthorne . The book covers a lot of ground that the movie epic amazingly does not have the time to reveal . If that does not say something about the complexity of the story , nothing will . The movie basically tries to mostly cover Blackthorne's adventure through the Japans , with additional focus on the machinations of the Jesuit ' enemy ' .
The transfer to DVD wasn't perfect but the source film is a little dated and grainy but the picture quality definitely passable . No major complaints and I appreciate the effort by Paramount to improve the image . The dialog sound is also not perfect but it does not degrade the experience . I only have one complaint , however tedious . The music is mixed slightly too high as compared to the dialog . The effort to keep turning the volume up and down between music and speaking does compromise the DVD production , but it shouldn't count against the movie .
The casting for the movie is spot on for the most part . Chamberlain is believable as Blackthorne , and no one else cast at that time would've come close . The legendary Toshiro Minfune reveled in his role as the calculating Yoshi Toranaga . Damien Thomas is exactly how I imagined Father Alvito looked and acted while reading the novel . Yoko Shimada spoke with class and elegance as Mariko Buntaro . And John Rhys-Davies ( yes , Gimli of the Lord of the Rings ) gave a rolicking performance as the Spanish Pilot Rodrigues caught up in choice of friendship and duty .
So , once again , a giant arigato gozaimash'te to Paramount for the DVD version to the movie production of one of the most intriguing novels ever . It is a commercial gamble to reach the ' big audience ' of today , but I'm glad the true fans of this epic were not forgotten .
023 4 This is recommended for those who have an interest in feudal Japan . Those looking for an action-packed samurai epic may want to stick with the way-too-Hollywood The Last Samurai . This is a thinking man's epic ; character driven , full of political intrigue ( though not nearly as much as the book ) , and filled with rich details that really transport you to that period in time . As great as it is to see such an excellent book done such justice , the film is flawed . Richard Chamberlain gives an often Charleton Heston-esque performance ( not really a bad thing ) but delivers some unintentionally hilarious lines ( to his ship caught in a storm and about to crash into a reef : Turn you whore from hell , TUUUUURRRRN ! ) . Rather than have subtitles for the few scenes where Japanese characters meet and speak amongst each others , we have annoying voice-overs ( delivered by Orson Welles , no less ) describing the conversation . Cheesy . Also , much of the political aspect of the story was simply cut out to make room for more Blackthorne and Mariko . Lastly , for a story about samurai that was already starving for action to actually have several battle scenes shortened or entirely cut out was unforgiveable . Yabu's duel with Blackthorne's retainer and the battle at Ishido's castle as Mariko tries to leave would have been awesome to see , but are simply skipped . Don't worry though , the ninja attack is entirely intact and the highlight of the mini-series . Most of the action we do get to see is very brief and without any excitement or flair ; this is where a little Hollywood touch might have helped . Thankfully , the action is far from the main reason to watch . This is a STORY . It's got romance , drama , comedy , and much more . John Rhys-Davies ( that's Gimli for you LOTR fans ) steals every scene he's in as Blackthorne's friend / rival pilot Rodriguez and Toshiro Mifune is absolutely flawless as Toranaga . The disc of extras is a happy bonus . It's full of interesting observations from cast and crew and offers a lot of insight into the making of the film and the impact it had when it originally aired . I prefer the book and with this mini-series clocking in at 8 + hours , it might take you less time to read the book . But know that this DVD collection does it justice and that is a rare thing these days . If you have a genuine interest in Japanese culture and thought The Last Samurai was too Hollywood , this is a must-buy .
024 4 I was glad to finally find the entire TV series of Shogun on DVD , but I have one major complaint against the DVD as produced - - the Eglish subtitles are present only when English is being spoken !
As the series progresses , more and more of the dilaogue becomes Japanese , but there are still no English subtitles . This is understandable at the beginning . We are confused as was Blackthorne . However , as he learns Japanese , he begins speaking it . Subtitles would have been more than appropriate at this point , they are essential . We should understand as did Blackthorne .
Do we have to wait for the Japanese Region 2 release of this DVD to come out before we have full subtitles ? Even then , there would perhaps be no more English subtitles available . Too bad .
025 4 Making a mini-series out of James Clavell's historic and highly intricate novel Shogun was an ambitious and groundbreaking undertaking that hasn't stopped fascinating audiences all over the world since it was first broadcast in 1980 . The fictionalized story , entirely filmed on location , takes place in Japan and tells us through the eyes of English sailor John Blackthorne , shipwrecked on the shores of the Japans , the power struggle between several feudal lords and between these and the Jesuits . Together with Blackthorne we discover early 17th century Japan , with him we progressively gain an understanding of the Japanese people and their culture , like him we are torn between the loyalty towards lord Toronaga and the wish to return to open seas and capture the Portuguese Black Ship , we also fall in love with Mariko , his beautiful married interpreter , we share his despair to be stripped from his ship the Erasmus and we are proud when he is granted the status of samurai and hatamoto .
No one could have personified Blackthorne better than Richard Chamberlain . He IS Blackthorne , true to his huge talent and his magic capacity to fade into the character he is interpreting . Richard Chamberlain carries the whole complex production on his shoulders , he is practically in every scene , not only in dialog with other characters but also without uttering a word , he drives the story thus making the audience understand what is going on and what are his nuanced feelings . A tour de force charismatic Richard Chamberlain carries out brilliantly . Moreover he is intensely dramatic and emotional in the seppuku scene , funny and touching in the sailor's dance , staggeringly mad in the escape scene , wonderfully romantic as Mariko's lover and with unmatched class and elegance wearing the silk kimonos .
The whole cast is splendid . The actors who play the Jesuits and the crew of the Erasmus , are beautifully cast , all out of English theatre . To quote but a few : Damien Thomas , Alan Badel , Michael Hordern , John Rhys-Davies . John Rhys-Davies plays the part of the pilot of the Black Ship with tremendous energy and gusto that some consider exaggerated . Not in my opinion , his acting is very useful in the sense that it underlines Blackthorne's composed and reflexive nature . The same has to be said of the Japanese actors , the mythical Toshira Mifune , Yoko Shimada , Frankie Sakai , Yuki Meguro , Hideo Takamatsu , all sensational , with incredible presence .
The fact that Shogun was entirely shot in Japan grants the mini-series the stamp of authenticity , further stressed by the resort to Japanese without dubbing . The sets , made by Japanese craftsmen following century old traditions , are magnificent not to speak of the quality of the light and photography as well as of the music by Maurice Jarre . Jerry London , the director , and Eric Bercovici , both script writer and executive producer , supported by the cast and crew , have crafted a masterpiece . The filming of Shogun was a wonderful nightmare recalls Richard Chamberlain . To enjoy this excellent and spectacular mini-series and to know more about its making watch the five DVDs including a documentary on the making of Shogun .
026 4 Richard Chamberlain gives an excellent performance as well as all the Japanese actors in this well-made adaptation of Clavell's novel . It sticks fairly well to the plot of the book .
Super-rich in history with one of the most interesting characters , Anjin-san ( Japanese for Mr . Pilot ) . Anjin-san is marooned in feudal Japan and makes a decision to change his Western thinking and fit in to the totally foreign but alluring Japanese society .
He is drawn into a forbidden love with a Japanese noblewoman , while battling jealous Japanese nobles and fanatical Jesuits . He earns the trust of Lord Torenaga who is a wise tactician in the art of waging war and diplomacy . Can Anjin-san survive the constant perils he is put into and win the hand of the woman he loves ?
Many scenes are in Japanese , but if you had no problem with The Last Samauri , it should pose no problem here .
027 4 Definitely a great epic movie , Shogun , brings to the screen the story of John Blackthorne , an English navigator / pilot whose ship , flying the Dutch colors , sinks off the coast of Japan washing him and part of the crew on Japan's shores .
Stranded there , he gets entangled in the shady factional politics of Medieval Japan , while becoming accustomed to the culture and traditions of the Land of the Rising Sun .
The film combines romance , drama , action and adventure making it one of the best of its kind !
Moreover , the clash between the Dutch / England and Spain / Portugal is as fascinating as the conflict between Protestantism and Catholicism , and both are presented very well in the film .
The plot is extraordinary and opens a window into the mysterious Orient .
Furthermore , shot on location it provides for some amazing scenery .
Needless to say , Richard Chamberlain , Hiromi Senno , Toshiro Mifune , John-Rhys Davies , and the rest of the cast have truly outdone themselves with their performances , which are outstanding to say the least , especially Hiromi Senno's character who as Fujiko , steals the show !
The actors ' great talent and chemistry clearly shows , thus providing an entertaining film that can be watched over and over again .
The setting , the dialogues , the music and the costumes are all wonderful !
It is a movie definitely worth owning , yet alone watching , especially for those with a soft spot for History , and especially Eastern / Oriental enthusiasts .
028 4 I wanted this set for a long time , then once I finally got , it sat on my shelf because watching it takes commitment . Finally , I invested the time , and it was worth it . I stayed up well past my bedtime every night to watch it , it is riveting and timeless . I suspect it requires at least a modicum of intelligence and worldliness to be approachable . That said , I was not bored even for a moment during the entire 9 : 07 .
I concur with those who say Chamberlain was the weakest , unless you consider minor characters , because the sailors from the Erasmus were * lame * . Chamberlain's Blackthorne didn't suffer because of the actor , however , it was the dialogue . He speaks normally , except when wooing Mariko , when he falls into thees , thous and thines . It is grating to hear , especially when the timing is completely inappropriate , like during a troop march . There are times when he is faced with a situation , and it is clear what a prudent man would say . Then , he says the opposite . You are left thinking , are you stupid or something ? But it eventually becomes clear that karma truly is on his side . Even though he never establishes himself as particularly bright or cunning , he succeeds . That might be a flaw in the story . He gets to spout off , but no one lops off his head as they would of a native .
I was surprised there wasn't more battle , there really isn't any , just references to battles . But this isn't a war movie , and there are enough ninjas to hold up that aspect . It is odd that Blackthorne seems to be such a mighty swordsman , though he is from the era of the gun in the west . If samurai trained the way western squires did in the Middle Ages , Blackthorne would have been outclassed immediately . I would expect more contempt from true samurai , such as that shown by Lord Bultano ( sp ? ) , the yeoman . The picture does not really make clear whether samurai is a title earned through training , or just handed out to fighters , because there are many , many samurai in the story . Perhaps it was easier to just have all samurai than to also have ashigaru , since again , this was not about war . So there are some holes in the story , but were there not , this could easily have been twice as long .
My gripes are minor . The scope and depth of the story are simply awesome . The sets are well-done , the variety of events is great , and the story takes you on a wild ride , with enough of the unexpected to please without getting ridiculous . Many of the actors were perfect in their roles , such as those who played Toranaga , the Portuguese Blackship captain , Yabu and Omi . I will enjoy watching it again .
029 4 Shogun ( 1980 ) TV series came as a major surprise as I usually do not expect too much from TV products . First puzzled , then absorbed , waiting each week for the next step . I enjoyed this very faithful to the original book ( as I had later opportunity to verify ) mini series .
Mr . Clavell ( author of the book and one of the executive producers ) constructs a master piece reflecting how two so different symbolic universes interact and react to each other . European vision and values embodied by Pilot-Major Blackthorne , Japanese ones by Toranaga-sama and Mariko-san . Characters are based on real-life people : Pilot-Major William Adams and Tokugawa Ieyasu .
Situated in the late 16th century Japan , at the critical transition from a feudal state to a centralized administration ( the Shogunate ) that will last until 19th century , the story depicts the struggle of Toranaga to be designed Shogun . .
Blackthorne , step by step , discovers the values of Samurai code , learn Japanese , understand the complex psychology of the people surrounding him and fall in love with a noble woman . Finally he is converted in a true Samurai with a high rank in Toranaga's entourage .
The story also reflects the deep conflicts aroused between different European groups , struggling to obtain exclusive access to this huge market . Portuguese , Spaniards , Dutch and English are opposed not only by commercial rivalry but also by religious drives .
The mini series has a big budget support , reflected in the care put to recreate ambiance , wardrobe , weaponry and amazing interiors and gardens .
Japanese actors and actress greatly contribute to render verisimilar the whole play .
As for the characterizations : Richard Chamberlain , as Pilot-Major Blackthorne , gives a very sober and realistic composition ; Toshiro Mifune , as Toranaga-sama is outstanding ; Yoko Shimada , as Mariko-san is delicate and beautiful . Supporting cast is also very good and we may point out Frankie Sakai ( Yabu ) , Damien Thomas ( Father Alvito ) , John Rhys-Davies ( Rodrigues ) and Yuki Meguro ( Omi ) as over par .
It also may be noted that Shogun has been nominated and won some Emmy Awards .
Enjoy this mini series !
Reviewed by Max Yofre .
030 4 Shogun remains one of my favorite novels and TV events . The adaptation is amazing in capturing the flavor and overall story line of a novel rich in detail . This is a great presentation , I don't recall any missing content , but then the original on NBC was many years ago . This is the same version that recently aired on the Hallmark channel far as I can tell .
Just a comment about the previous review on bad Japanese by Westerners . The character Rodrigues ( John Rhys-Davies ) SHOULD be speaking bad Japanese . It shows his disdain for the culture in general and demonstates his ethnocentric outlook . Same reason he calls them monkeys and toadies . Yes , some of the Jesuit priests speak it poorly , Father Alvito should have a more natural accent having grown up in Japan but the actor does a good job .
031 4 This review is from :
James Clavell's Shogun ( DVD )
Just recieved the Shogun DVD box set , the most beautiful dvd box set I've ever seen . This box set does due justice to the greatest TV mini-series of all time and one of the greatest literary masterpieces of the Twentieth Century ( Shogun by James Clavell ) . The DVD box follows a Japanese motif and features the lovely Yoko Shimada and Richard Chamberlain on the cover , adding legendary Toshiro Mifune on the back . Inside , three DVD's each feature one of the three stars , including a unique profile of Shimada ( the back cover also features Shimada's hair with perfect ' disarray ' following genuine Japanese aesthetics . When you fold up the DVD's to put them back , you see an Origami of the Two Samurai swords . This is really a work of art , I give thanks and kudos to the team which put this DVD together , a worthy tribute to a true cinematic work of art . I can't wait to view the DVD itself , if the technicians were as good as the design team we are in good hands . Please also read Shogun the novel , as it is even a hundred times more beautiful than the TV mini-series . cheers !
032 4 Just recieved the Shogun DVD box set , the most beautiful dvd box set I've ever seen . This box set does due justice to the greatest TV mini-series of all time and one of the greatest literary masterpieces of the Twentieth Century ( Shogun by James Clavell ) . The DVD box follows a Japanese motif and features the lovely Yoko Shimada and Richard Chamberlain on the cover , adding legendary Toshiro Mifune on the back . Inside , three DVD's each feature one of the three stars , including a unique profile of Shimada ( the back cover also features Shimada's hair with perfect ' disarray ' following genuine Japanese aesthetics . When you fold up the DVD's to put them back , you see an Origami of the Two Samurai swords . This is really a work of art , I give thanks and kudos to the team which put this DVD together , a worthy tribute to a true cinematic work of art . I can't wait to view the DVD itself , if the technicians were as good as the design team we are in good hands . Please also read Shogun the novel , as it is even a hundred times more beautiful than the TV mini-series . cheers !
033 4 I watched SHOGUN as a child when it was first released , around 1980 , and I enjoyed every episode . Since then , I have seen this movie over 12 times .
Toshire Mifune plays his character ( Lord Toranaga ) very well . His posture , etiquette , and indomitable Bushido spirit really stands out . Throughout the film , the dialogue between Blackthorne ( Richard Chamberlain ) and Toranaga are classic as well as Blackthorne's antagonistic view of jesuit priests . The simplicity and mannerisms of Mariko , Blackthorne's love interest in the film , gives the viewer an interesting yet true to life representation of the role of females in japanese society during fuedal times .
The only thing I find irritating is the lack of english subtitles when the japanese speak . It is narrated quite well and the film itself gives an insightful view of the nuances of its language and how respect and honor play in the hierarchial ladder between the samurai and their lords .
To the average viewer who has no knowledge of Japan and its people , SHOGUN gives a glimpse into a society that some consider a mystery . Though the film showcases a bit of flamboyancy in its narrations and character costumes , I highly recommend this book to be a permanent part of high school education in the US . It should inspire readers to go beyond the film and explore the beauty of Japan , its geography , history and culture ; which I have found that the american youth of today fail to grasp an understanding of .
034 4 I remember being allowed to stay up late the nights this series was on TV , and I could hardly wait to own a personal copy . Gorgeous scenery , excellent cinematography , and intriguing characters . The materials ( box , inserts , DVD labeling etc . ) were of excellent quality . Imagine my disappointment when I was unable to view the last few hours of the series due to issues with the last DVD ( In 3 different players . ) Undaunted , I contacted Amazon , and they promptly sent a replacement . Settled down to watch it , and the same thing happened again , same disk , slightly different spot .
At my next interaction with Amazon customer service , I received an email that they had been encountering problems with the manufacturing of this item . They explained that because of this , a refund was my only option . This was processed promptly once the item was returned using their free return shipping label .
So , I would rate this product as not-so-hot , and the customer service at Amazon as excellent .
036 4 I am hard pressed to write any better reviews than what I have read , and I don't think I will try . So many other people have done such a marvelous job of describing the movie I would surely fall well short of their prose . I do feel compelled to discuss the movie though and give you my thoughts , because I just fell in love with it , much like the film Casablanca . As others , I think this is the best mini-series I have watched . The story line of the movie was quite different from the book , and at first I found that disturbing , but the second time I watched it I found myself captivated by the story , the majesty , the acting , the beauty of Yuko Shimoto ( the Lady Toda Mariko Buntaro ) , and a portion of the ending that I thought was fit for the way the story was adapted and written for TV . This being when Blackthorne gave to Omi-san the most precious gift he could give him . Omi was a man whom he had originally hated and despised beyond measure , but had come to respect and call friend in the end .
Yes , I fell in love with Mariko-san in the book , and most assuredly in the movie . What man , who prefers to be with a woman , could not love such a wonderous , intelligent and most beautiful and pristine woman , neh ? hehe The second bedroom scene ( first day out of Yokese ) between Blackthorne and Mariko I think is the most romantic scene I have seen in the movies . There was no nudity , or obvious physical bonding , just a dialogue and a look that proved that their love was on a spiritual plane , not just pillowing , as the book called it , the physical bonding of a man and woman . They were as soul mates , much like the movie Serendipity , which I like immensely . The look on Yuko Shimodo's face was so radiant , and her eyes so beguiling . Such a beautiful and wonderful actress for this role . Who could not love her , neh ? I would think anyone watching it would feel the sensuality and spiritual bonding that Clavell tried to covey and did in such a beautiful way in the book , as well as the movie .
I have read much about Chamberlain's acting in this role . It could have been better I think . I have thought allot about who would be better at that period of time to act in the role , but I can't think of anyone . The only two that come to mind in recent times are James Caviezel because I liked him so much in the role of the The Count of Monte Cristo ( that movie being a complete rewrite of the book , which was a shame in my opinion ) . The other being Daniel Day-Lewis , who I thought was fabulous in the movie , Last of the Mohicans . I think each would make a better Blackthorne , but this is 24 years later , hehe . And now I just remembered that Chamberlain also played the role of the Count in an earlier version of the classic . I guess maybe the casting people see the same type of man in the role of Blackthorne . I think they did a marvelous job nonetheless .
A few words on the characters . We all get caught up in the majesty of the time . It was a feudal period in Japans history , and this story is about the priviledged minority : a very small minority . The lady Toda for instance is , according to the book , the 4th most highly revered woman in Japan . It is so easy to get caught up in that kind of pagentry as we read about it and get lost in the book as we become one with the characters , or also watch the movie and do the same . I am reminded of a scene from History of the World II where Mel Brookes removes his head from the buxom bosom of a fair damesel and proclaims , IT IS GOOD TO BE KING , hehe . Certainly this movie and the book make that statement so true . I don't think I would like living in feudal Japan as a peasant , or eta . I am certain I would love to have lived there as a lord though , just as Pilot Major John Blackthorne , Anjin-san : Samurai , Hatamoto , Admiral of the Fleet and most highly regarded confidant , vassal and friend to his liege lord , Toranaga-sama , the Shogun ( the military ruler of all Japan ) .
I hope you have enjoyed my thoughts . I hope you watch the movie , but more importantly , read the book . The book is , as always , so much better .
I highly recommend this movie and of course the book to anyone who loves to learn and read and loves a good story . It is one of the most captivating stories I have read . I learned allot of Japanese from the book , as well as the movie too . That was a plus . By the way , Blackthorne could speak fluently in 5 languages , and he was learning Japanese , the 6th . Lady Toda could speak 3 . That did not come out in the movie . A few extra hours in the series could have made so many behind the scenes intrigue and knowledge of the characters become apparent . Oh well , so sorry ! : )
037 4 I have waited for years to get my hands on a DVD version of Shogun . I wanted the VHS set , but it was toooo pricy and so I waited . With much joy I managed to save enough money to get the mini-series on DVD and watched it immediately .
Imagine my dismay when I sat wondering where whole scenes were . Please bear in mind that I watched this series ONE time , when it first aired , and it stuck with me in many ways in spite of the fact that I was only 10 years old . So much is missing that it really upset me . What has been cut , you ask ? Well , there was a scene where Blackthorne talks to Alveto about wearing Orange instead of Black garb , a scene where we learn that Anjin does not mean pilot , but Captain , and that he'd better let them think himself to be the captain , and the great love scene complete with nudity ( YES , in case you don't believe me my local television station DID air the version with nudity . I recall it very vividly as it was the first time I had seen a naked lady , and my grandmother , whom I was staying with , pitched a fit that they'd show stuff like that on TV . ) . There are other small scenes missing , but those were the ones that really struck me . Also , there is a very distinct lack of special features for a 5th disc . I would have liked to see the variant scenes they filmed for the trimmed down version .
Overall the tale is a great one , and I reccomend the series , but as DVD sets go this one is a major let down for me .
038 4 In Shogun , everyone of us is invited to the tempting and wonderful world of Japan , one of the few nations never conquered by a foreign power . . .
We are invited to participate in learning the extraneous but fascinating culture of the Orient . . . ' Japan is rare and unique , ' said James Clavell creator of John Blackthorne , ' Anjin ' in Japanese , which means ' pilot . '
Blackthorne ( Richard Chamberlain ) portrays an Englishman , pilot major of a Dutch fleet , who is shipwrecked on the turbulent waters off the ' Land of the Gods . ' England's enemies ( aristocratic warlords , British colonial , Portuguese traders , Jesuit missionaries ) now await him . . .
He is caught with his crew by Japanese warriors , and forced to listen as to understand the Japanese language and treatment . . . The audience - like him - struggles to catch what is going on , as no subtitles in the film . . .
Blackthorne is surrounded by hundreds of warriors all dressed up with Japanese multicolored wardrobes fastened firmly by an obi ( a long wide sash that holds the two swords ) . We are in presence of samurai , where ' physical courage and prowess are at a premium . '
The English navigator starts a new life far from home , a new transformation of way of living , thinking and acting , from an uncivilized primitive prisoner to a man of strength , honor and courage . . .
In this epic exposition we see :
- Violent scenes of feudal Japan : Omi ( Yuki Meguro ) in his first meeting with Blackthorne beheads a man for not bowing in respect to him . . . Pieterzoon ( Edward Peel ) , a man of Blackthorne's crew , is brought from a pit to be cook alive in a large deep pot . . . A companion Croocq ( Steward MacKenzie ) is pulled up from boiling liquid . . .
- Intricate and complicated political plots : When Ferriera ( Vladek Sheybal ) , a Portuguese trader , in the presence of Father dell'aqua ( Alan Badel ) gives Toranaga ( Toshiro Mifune ) and Mariko ( Yoko Shimada ) protection on the Black ship in return for the Englishman . . . When Rodrigues ( John Rhys-Davies ) has been overboarded . . . When the Ninja warriors attack Osaka Castle . . .
- Dramatic scenes : Blackthorne's intend to commit seppuku . . . Mariko's seppuku frightening scene . . . When a disgraced warrior Yabu ( Frankie Sakai ) commits instant seppuku ( hara-kiri ) .
- Amusing moments : Blackthorne in his first Japanese bath in Anjiro . . . When he teach Toranaga the lively steps of the hornpipe . . . When he begins his ' mad dance ' moving up and down in order to permit Toranaga escape from Osaka Castle . . .
- Cultural exposition of the traditional Japanese woman : Her moods and feelings , her emotions , her reactions . . . Mariko badly beaten by her husband . . . Mariko treatments so affectionate , sweet and loving . . . Mariko's bath scene . . . Her risky love affair . . .
- Best moment of the whole mini series : Blackthorne becomes a samurai !
Filmed in epic proportions , with breathtaking cinematography , super acting , and great special effects ( few arrow-in-the-chest scenes ; the burning of ' The Erasmus ; ' the earthquake ) , this full-length version of Shogun is fair to James Clavell's colorful best-seller . . .
The Jesuits ( Friar Domingo , Father Sebastio , Father dell'Aqua , Father Alvito ) are interpreters , writers of the first Japanese dictionary , who all share the commerce of silk between Japan and China . . .
Richard Chamberlain appears fervently with noble ambition , firm and dominate as the Westerner who is taken by force as a prisoner , who hates his captors , but little by little is seduced by their culture . . .
Toshiro Mifune performs with great dignity a powerful legendary figure who unifies several political factions into one nation under his authority as Japan's first Shogun !
John Rhys-Davies plays Rodrigues , the Portuguese pilot , with a big sense of humor . . .
Yoko Shimada ( Mariko ) is the ' perfect vision . ' a woman of great beauty and rarity , delicate and fragile , a true precious jewel of the Orient !
039 4 This review is from :
James Clavell's Shogun ( DVD )
I lived in Japan for six years . I studied judo , karate , and kendo , and have black belt rank in the latter two . I studied the Japanese language and customs . My wife is from Japan . Thus , I am quite familiar with that unique culture . I first read SHOGUN when it first came out , and saw the entire series ( taped by a family member and sent to us overseas ) on a not-so-good VHS copy on the not-so-good VHS tape of the 1980 ' s era . What a joy to now see it , crystal-clear picture with crystal-clear sound ! The DVD version ( full production ) is superb , it's like seeing it for the very first time . To be remembered : SHOGUN is NOT an entirely accurate historical event , IT IS A STORY . It should be viewed from that perspective : a story . Sit back , don't get all entangled in looking for historical or production glitches ( the challenges of making this production a reality are fully covered in accompanying presentations as part of the package ) , and enjoy a very good STORY . . . and excellent entertainment . For SO many Americans , SHOGUN was their first introduction to a wonderful culture and similarly wonderful people . Sayonara .
040 4 I lived in Japan for six years . I studied judo , karate , and kendo , and have black belt rank in the latter two . I studied the Japanese language and customs . My wife is from Japan . Thus , I am quite familiar with that unique culture . I first read SHOGUN when it first came out , and saw the entire series ( taped by a family member and sent to us overseas ) on a not-so-good VHS copy on the not-so-good VHS tape of the 1980 ' s era . What a joy to now see it , crystal-clear picture with crystal-clear sound ! The DVD version ( full production ) is superb , it's like seeing it for the very first time . To be remembered : SHOGUN is NOT an entirely accurate historical event , IT IS A STORY . It should be viewed from that perspective : a story . Sit back , don't get all entangled in looking for historical or production glitches ( the challenges of making this production a reality are fully covered in accompanying presentations as part of the package ) , and enjoy a very good STORY . . . and excellent entertainment . For SO many Americans , SHOGUN was their first introduction to a wonderful culture and similarly wonderful people . Sayonara .
043 4 First of all without the availability of closed captions on SHOGUN , it would have been extremely difficult , if not impossible , for many deaf and hard of hearing viewers to understand and appreciate this well produced movie .
The movie consists of five discs and is 9 hours long . It is fascinating ( thanks especially to the closed captions ) .
I recommend it to anyone who enjoys stories of Love and War set against spectacular backgrounds , e.g . , feudal Japan at the beginning of the 17th century .
044 4 Even after 25 years since its original release , the 10 - hour adaptation of James Clavell's ' Shogun ' is as good as ever with a great screenplay and direction carefully revised and supervised by the author himself . The lavish production is further supported by an excellent cast of American and Japanese actors .
Chamberlain is John Blackthorne , a 17th-century English captain of a Dutch trading vessel that found itself run ashore on the coast of feudal Japan . Blackthorne soon finds himself in the middle of a war between two samurai warlords struggling for dominion of the island kingdom . Although initially suspicious of him , Blackthorne is soon appreciated by Toranaga ( Toshiro Mifune ) who takes him as a confidant to help him against his rival , Ishido : having much use for a man who knows a lot about war ships , fire arms , and many other things Japan might otherwise need from the West . Although initially overwhelmed by culture shock , Blackthorne soon becomes as Japanes as can be with the help of his patron and the beautiful Lady Mariko ( Yoko Shimada . ) Despite his rapid learning and loyalty to the new Shogun , Blackthorne is still a foreigner who is unaccustomed to the subtle and rigid customs of of his host country ; he also realizes that this island will forever be his prison .
This is an excellent mini-series with a good screenplay , great direction , a lavish production , and a great cast . Chamberlain performs his manly role as a hardy sailor quite well despite his being a dandy in real life : all the marks of a good actor . This is a great mini-series to rent or own which the whole family can watch .
045 4 Finally , the DVD is here . I wasted $100 on some bootleg low quality VHS tapes that I bought on Ebay , just as I learned that these DVD's were coming out . My loss , I guess , but they never should have priced those VHS tapes as high as they did ( although the little booklet that came in the black box was kind of nice ) .
The DVD transfer was done well . Far superior to the tapes , and much improved sound . It really enhances the experience of watching this miniseries ; the film really fills up the screen nicely and is definitely high end viewing that is better than many motion pictures .
The DVD extras are also nice . In addition to a making of documentary ( with interviews of much of the surviving cast ) , the DVD's include scholarly analyses of feudal and contemporary Japanese society . There's definitely a Hawaii flavor to these DVD's , which is , of course , understandable .
Shogun was really my first introduction to Japanese culture . I've learned much since , but looking back , I'm pleasantly surprised that this miniseries works as well as it did and does .
Which is why the castmembers , craftspeople , producers , and everybody else affiliated with this project , despite the troubles , should be proud of what they did here .
046 4 First aired over 20 years ago , this well done mini-series probably changed forever America's perception of Japan . The new DVD version is presented on 4 DVD's , with the fifth DVD for the bonus features ( interviews with the surviving members of the cast , the directors , and historical notes ) . The video quality is decent ( if less than outstanding ) and the opening scenes of the Erasmus have edited so that the anachronistic shadow of a helicopter is seen only for a fraction of a second . I have not seen the VHS version , but I recall another brief scene that also has been edited out on the DVD version . The production is faithful to Clavell's novel , and well done . In both Shogun and Gaijin , Clavell changed the names of the actual historical figures : Toronaga Yoshi is Tokugawa Ieyasu , John Blackthorne is Williams Adams , Ishido is Ishida Mitsunari , and - mentioned briefly in the story - Kuroda is Oda Nobunaga , and Nakamura is Toyotomi Hideyoshi .
What is called Osaka Castle in this production is actually Himeji Castle , the most often filmed castle in Japan , but I do not recognize the one used as Toranaga's ( Edo ) Castle . A weakness of the bonus material is that it gives no information on any of the sites used . For example , historically Himeji Castle had been awarded by Tokugawa ( again , Toranaga in this story ) to his son-in-law , and is not only one of the most beautiful buildings in Japan , but also a National Treasure as one of the few original castles remaining .
If you enjoy Shogun , you may enjoy Kurosawa's Kagemusha , currently only VHS in the US . One of the characters in this film is Tokugawa Ieyasu .
047 4 I don't know if I can add much to the many great reviews already here , so I thought I would just post a few miscellaneous observations .
Shogun was a great series in every way , possibly the greatest ever aired , in many people's estimation . It has everything going for it that you could possibly ask for : adventure , drama , romance , great characters , outstanding acting , an absorbing plot , all set against the backdrop of an exotic , distant land .
Chamberlain plays the stranger in a strange land , and in the clash of the two cultures we see our own similarities and differences thrown into even sharper relief . The great sociologist , Daniel Bell , once said that both Japanese and American culture are unusual in how they can integrate seemingly contradictory elements - - in the U.S . , for example , religious piety and the pursuit of wealth . And in Japan , after the emperor regained power and outlawed the samurai class in he 1860s , they re-emerged as samurai warriors of business and international commerce , even taking market share from the U.S . in many markets , a much bigger , more powerful , and in many ways more technologically advanced country .
As a martial artist and teacher for many years , I was very interested in how the martial arts were portrayed , and they were depicted very well . Clavell was fascinated by feudal era Japanese culture and military history and tactics , and it shows here . In fact , I've seen some of the feats of martial skill in the movie demonstrated by my own teachers .
An interesting piece of trivia was that Shogun was the first network TV program which allowed the word p_ss to be used , and to show a man in the act of urinating .
As a miniseries , Shogun was a class act that perhaps has never been surpassed . It's a dramatic and thrilling adventure that holds your interest from beginning to end , and that continues to hold your interest on repeated viewings .
052 4 It has been nearly 30 years since the original broadcast of this superb miniseries , and my recollections of that and the subsequent re-broadcast are still vivid .
This is an excellent set , and highly recommended . I have watched these DVD's several times now , and the set wears well . Certainly , it is one of the finest and most faithful adaptations of a book you will ever see .
This DVD set was made from the re-broadcast version . Compared to the original version , several short , minor scenes have been cut , and voice-over narration added in places . Take for example the scene in which Lord Toranaga confronts Lord Yabu . In the original broadcast , there was only a single subtitle at the beginning of the scene : Lord Yabu's treachery revealed . From the action and the actor's expressions , a viewer immediately can understands what is happening , and in my opinion the word-for-word voice over narration of the actual dialogue detracts more than it adds . I understand that the director's intent originally was for the viewer to experience the scene as Blackthorne with his limited fluency in Japanese would have .
I've been to Japan a number of times since I first saw this series , and I am now amused to understand where and how some scenes were filmed . The scene in which Blackthorne goes to to Osaka-Jo ( castle ) was filmed at both Himeji-Jo and Hikone-Jo : the procession enters at Himeji-Jo , walks under the bridge at Hikone-Jo , then returns to Himeji-Jo . The scene with Blackthorne , Mariko , and Toranaga was filmed at Hikone-Jo .
053 4 This is a MUST for any true videophile !
Action , intrique , romance [ but not smarmy , mushy romance ] , gorgeous locations for brutal scenes , incredible time-relevant costumes , impeccable acting . . . Toshiro Mifune , need I say more ? . . . a fascinating true-to-life storyline , and a timelessness make this one collection I can [ and do ] watch time & time again .
Tho there is plenty of swordplay , this is not a cut & slash movie ; instead , all the fighting is pertinent and nothing is gratuitous . Characters are ALL fully-developed and not one is superfluous .
As a huge fan of the book , I am equally enamoured of this adaptation .
You WON'T be disappointed as it is well worth the price !
056 4 This review is from :
James Clavell's Shogun ( DVD )
I would let the readers read other reviews on the movie itself and I would only comment on the transfer . I am pleasantly surprised by the excellent quality of the transfer , Paramount should should be commended . The image is very sharp and the fleshtone is very natural . The image is still sharp even when I use the letterbox zoom on my 42 - in plasma to view it .
There are no breaks and the series is one continuous 10 - hour long story , personally , I prefer it this way . I wish Shaka Zulu was like that too .
057 4 I would let the readers read other reviews on the movie itself and I would only comment on the transfer . I am pleasantly surprised by the excellent quality of the transfer , Paramount should should be commended . The image is very sharp and the fleshtone is very natural . The image is still sharp even when I use the letterbox zoom on my 42 - in plasma to view it .
There are no breaks and the series is one continuous 10 - hour long story , personally , I prefer it this way . I wish Shaka Zulu was like that too .
059 4 What more is there to say about this mini-series ? It's incredible , so check it out . The picture quality is incredible ( compare it to the 2 hour movie edit , which looks dark and grainy - the DVD looks like it was filmed in the last couple of years ! ) , and the sound is great too .
I must say that after finding out there's a 12 hour version of this , I was a little disappointed . The 9 hours was engaging , but I was left wanting so much more . Now I know why ! : ) Surely Paramount could have fit another three hours onto the 4 discs ? Also , why did they take out the nudity ? The movie edit has it , and it's not like this version on DVD was going to be broadcast on television . The movie edit version also has a different scene on the docks , when a blinded Blackthorne is being escorted to his ship past the Black Ship and her crew . In the mini-series version , Father Dell'Aqua along with a group of Christian samurai are confronted by Ferreria , the Black Ship captain , and his crew , who intend to burn Blackthorne on a stake . In the movie version , there is no Ferreria character , nor is there a Father Dell'Aqua , so the dock scene that version was an alternate take ! Blackthorne is instead escorted to the docks area by his brown samurai where he stops to have an amicable conversation with Rodriguez who is now the Black Ship captain rather than just the pilot . They must have planned the movie edit from day one for this alternate scene to even exist . It's too bad they didn't include this as part of a deleted scenes feature .
Overall , the set is amazing . The making of featurette is very interesting , although the featurettes about the history of Japan and aspects of its culture are somewhat dull . It's definitely worth the money .
060 4 Everybody here loves this serial , with good reason ! I'll mention a few details that haven't been covered . The color is vivid and the picture quality is excellent . The sound has been re-mixed into an impressive stereo surround , although the original mono track ( this was broadcast before the days of stereo TV ) is available for you armchair purists .
Shogun was so popular that a special 30 - minute summary version was shown a few days after it ended for viewers who had to miss the final episode to observe a Jewish holiday . Despite its success , someone at NBC decided that parts of the story needed to be clearer , so narration was added . The bad news is that this is not the original version from 1980 , but that somewhat re-worked Shogun that aired a few years later . Sometimes the editors went overboard with this , adding redundant details that would come out five minutes later anyway .
The last disc in the set includes a fascinating collection of extras , including some spectacular bloopers caught on 35mm film . We get a rare glimpse of Yoko Shimada looking lovely in 2003 - - I recall that she appeared at least once as a guest star on an American TV series after Shogun , but didn't thrive in Hollywood . And we get to meet a Paramount exec who happens to look a heck of a lot like John Belushi reincarnated !
062 4 This review is from :
James Clavell's Shogun ( DVD )
Excellent adaptation of a slightly cheesy novel about an English sea captain who , with his crew in tow , washes up on the shores of pre modern / feudal Japan .
Shogun falls just shy of a full 5 stars , and I would have gladly given it such had it not been for the inclusion of a romance angle which distracts from the main plot , and Richard Chamberlains occasional hamming it up .
He does though play the part of an indignant English man surrounded by savages quite well , and the tempo carries throughout as you , along with the characters become familiarized with an alien culture that was like none the western world had ever experienced .
NBC exec's made the right call in forgoing subtitles so that you are forced to suffer Chamberlains fate alongside him . It really gives you a great sense of what it must have been like for the non fictional Captain William Adams , the first Englishman to arrive in Japan , and upon whom the story is loosely based . They also did a wonderful job aesthetically recreating the period that was 17th century Japan .
The brilliant casting of Toshiro Mifune as the Shogun apparent really carries this into the realm of great television , and on the strength of Mifune alone this is well worth whatever effort you may put forth in seeing it .
All in all , a great Samurai teleseries , smartly acted by all involved .
A must see for fans of Samurai culture !
063 4 Excellent adaptation of a slightly cheesy novel about an English sea captain who , with his crew in tow , washes up on the shores of pre modern / feudal Japan .
Shogun falls just shy of a full 5 stars , and I would have gladly given it such had it not been for the inclusion of a romance angle which distracts from the main plot , and Richard Chamberlains occasional hamming it up .
He does though play the part of an indignant English man surrounded by savages quite well , and the tempo carries throughout as you , along with the characters become familiarized with an alien culture that was like none the western world had ever experienced .
NBC exec's made the right call in forgoing subtitles so that you are forced to suffer Chamberlains fate alongside him . It really gives you a great sense of what it must have been like for the non fictional Captain William Adams , the first Englishman to arrive in Japan , and upon whom the story is loosely based . They also did a wonderful job aesthetically recreating the period that was 17th century Japan .
The brilliant casting of Toshiro Mifune as the Shogun apparent really carries this into the realm of great television , and on the strength of Mifune alone this is well worth whatever effort you may put forth in seeing it .
All in all , a great Samurai teleseries , smartly acted by all involved .
A must see for fans of Samurai culture !
064 4 I saw Shogun on TV when I was in high school and the movie inspired me to read the book . I loved both .
I loved watching Shogun again . Once I start watching it I can't stop . The Making of Shogun included as an extra on disk five is great .
I do have one major gripe about the packaging . One reason I love DVD's are the chapters which allow me to quickly find a scene in a movie I really enjoy . While the five DVD's in this set have chapters when inserted into a DVD player , there is no guide on the packaging or in the five DVD set which lists all the chapters in the series . As a result I am forced to put each disk in my DVD player and look at the chapters on my TV screen to see if a particular scene is on the disk .
There are a number of scenes in Shogun I want to watch over and over . I loved when Blackthorne was imprisoned and learns about Japan from the Franciscan priest or the time when Blackthorne saved Toranaga from the earthquake or when he became a samurai . I loved some of the scenes with Mariko . I loved when Rodrigues tried to kill Blackthorne during the typhoon and when Rodrigues visits Blackthorne with the intent to kill him . Since four of the DVD's cover the series ( with the fifth being devoted to some nice extras ) it is hard to guess which DVD has a scene I want to watch .
It would have cost so little to include a piece of paper with a chapter index for the entire collection . The set is not cheap either .
I am glad I bought Shogun . I just wish someone had created a chapter list somewhere .
065 4 Stunning miniseries !
But , the purpose of this review is to give an alternate viewpoint on the ` frustrating ' lack of subtitles that some previous reviews complained about .
The main purpose of a lack of subtitles is to really bring you into Blackthorn's shoes and let you feel what he is feeling . There is enough narration to get across important plot information , but you have to figure out the rest , just like Blackthorn .
It really increases the drama when you don't know whether Blackthorn's captors are discussing the weather or deciding the manner of his death . On my first viewing , I found myself paying close attention to every facial expression and shrug of body language in the desperate attempt to learn ( just as Blackthorn is ) . It is really a simple and effective way of drawing you into the world and making you relate to the main character .
By the time Blackthorn and Rodriguez are on the ship together , I felt I really had a handle on some basic Japanese , just as Blackthorn did .
Even later in the story and armed with my basic knowledge of Japanese , the lack of subtitles is still effective . It makes you listen attentively and patiently ( even cautiously ) and still brings you effortlessly into the shoes of the wiser Blackthorn .
Subtitles may be an option on the DVD version , but I'll never use them .
066 4 I had not seen SHOGUN since it was first shown on TV , and I was very eager to see it again ; However , I had a disappointing experience with these DVDs .
1 - This is not the complete miniseries , even though the box claims it is .
Why not ? DVDs should not be censured or abridged .
2 - The Japanese dialogue definitely needs subtitles . This is not just a matter of a few phrases . There are important conversations which need translation . There is often no way of getting what was said unless you are fluent in the language . I don't accept the argument that it's to put you in Blackthorne's place , because there is Japanese spoken between Japanese characters , without Blackthorne being present .
I tried using the English subtitles , and the only attempt at clarifying the Japanese was the phonetic interpretation ( Romaji ) of Richard Chamlerlain's words !
Subtitles should definitely have been an option .
Watch for the blooper in the opening scene : The helicopter's shadow on the water next to Blackthorne's ship ! How did they leave this in a movie so careful about details ?
069 4 This review is from :
James Clavell's Shogun ( DVD )
Frankly I'm just pleased Shogun came out on DVD as the VHS set cost about a month's rent . The extras are only adequate , but the mini-series itself is transferred excellently and still stands up even a quarter-century later . An excellent treatment of an outstanding piece of work .
073 4 This review is from :
James Clavell's Shogun ( DVD )
Shogun by James Clavell is one of my favorite novels and the mini-series is fabulous , if a bit tedious at times . This 10 - hour epic follows the exploits of John Blackthorne , a navigator on a Dutch ship in the 1600 ' s who finds his way to the Japans through the Magellan Straight . In Japan Blackthorne is confronted by a culture strange to him and Portuguese traders and priests who have monopolized trade with the Japan's because of their heretofore secret passage through the Straits . Blackthorne finds himself thrust into the middle of a political struggle that works against him staying alive , much less getting back home . There's plenty of politics , intrigue , and romance here and you'll find that owning the DVD you're like to watch the entire 10 - hour show without much break in-between .
075 4 When I was . . . very young I saw Shogun when it first aired on TV , and haven't seen it since until the release of the DVDs ( I did see the 2.5 hour version - I will never speak of THAT again ) . In the intervening decades I read the book about 5 times .
I rate these DVD 5 stars because you will have a very hard time finding a better entertainment value for your money . This show was fantastic . The storyline ( which I will not repeat ) is complex and fascinating , and the miniseries does it justice . The acting is superb - my personal opinion is that Yoko Shimada makes the series . Markio is an extraordinarily complex character , and Ms . Shimada's portrayal captures her wonderfully . Plus Yoko is unbelievably beautiful . You can't go wrong looking at her for 9 hours . But that is not to take away from Blackthorne , or Alvito , or Yabu , and of course Tishiro Mifune as Toranaga . Stellar performances all .
The miniseries faithfully reproduces the main substory , the rise of the Englishman to Samurai . Much of the other substories , the interactions of the Japanese characters mainly , are not fleshed out . This is not a criticism , since the resources were limited and the language barrier formidable . Lastly , the score by Maurice Jarre completes the miniseries . The score , as much as the acting , storyline , and scenery , helps make the series a masterpiece .
I do have criticism about the DVDs . One is , of course , the deleted scenes . Since it s been 23 years I don't remember everything about the series , and I sometimes think I remember scenes that were only in the book . However , with 5 DVDs no scenes should have been left out . Especially the nudity . If I could watch those scenes on NBC when I was . . . young , I should be able to see them now . I do question the claim that 3 hours were cut . The 12 hour miniseries included commercials , and the opening and closing credits for each episode .
Next is the over-narration by Orson Wells . Nothing against the venerable Mr . Wells , but the voiceover noticeably detracts from some scenes . Sometimes the point is to be as confused as Blackthorn , but other times there is plot movement that the book clearly wants the reader to understand . Many times the interactions are later summarized in English . Regardless , while 23 years ago subtitles may have been taboo , they certainly aren't now . In this respect Paramount should have updated the series with subtitles .
Finally , while the packaging is adequate , a booklet would have been a great touch , including pictures , chapter titles , etc .
So some minor criticisms , but again , this is fantastic entertainment and a great investment .
077 4 but I've been waiting for years for this miniseries to be released on DVD . As a kid I saw Shogun when it first aired and was completely blown away . This is probably the most elaborate and expensive TV that was ever - or will ever be - made . It is a work of art , with superb acting , intense and beautiful scenery , brutal and graphic scenes of sex and violence that all move an absolutely incredible and detailed plot line forward . It is the opposite of all the garbage reality TV that maximize Exec profits while destroying any and all intelligence and art to television . I don't know if Shogun ever made the profits that The Pleasure Hotel will make , but it will definitely go down as the pinnacle of The Golden Age of the Miniseries . About time they brought this to DVD !
PS . The book is still better .
079 4 This review is from :
James Clavell's Shogun ( DVD )
My family was riveted by nightly viewing of each episode . We watched it without sub-titles to get the same experiences that Blackthorne had . We did much fact-checking between each episode since Japanese history was a blank slate for us and we had many debates about whether a westerner could become samauri during this era . As a political history Chamberlain's warrior is much more satisfying to watch than the Tom Cruise treatment of conflicting cultural values .
083 4 This review is from :
James Clavell's Shogun ( DVD )
I read the other reviews that were listed when trying to find this movie . I had never seen it but knew that my husband really liked the movie . He had looked around and been unable to find it . I was hesitant because the reviews said it was shortened from the TV version and parts were missing . I gave it to my husband for Christmas and he loves it ! He says it is all there and he has been enjoying it since . I have sat and watched it with him also and have enjoyed the movie . It is worth buying it if you like Shogun !
085 4 This review is from :
James Clavell's Shogun ( DVD )
Although the made-for-TV series , Shogun , came out in 1980 , it still holds true to form for the epic it was at that time and still is . The 12 - hour series leads one alongside Major Pilot Blackthorn as he comes to discover a whole new culture in the Japans and the complexities of that culture . A very well-made production that I and my wife will view many times over before we set it aside for good .
087 4 This review is from :
James Clavell's Shogun ( DVD )
Shogun is an extraordinary depiction of feudal Japan . It's not only a fascinating story , but it actually teaches rudimentary Japanese idioms . The story is wonderful and the acting , especially Toshiro Mifune , is astonishing .
090 4 This review is from :
James Clavell's Shogun ( DVD )
Movies rarely do a book justice . This does . Not only does it tell the story in an entertaining manner , it is quite educational . I learned a lot about Japanese culture inspite being of Japanese ancestry
092 4 SHOGUN by James Clavell
We are fans of James Clavell and have enjoyed reading and then seeing both Noble House and Shogun . Born on October 10th , 1924 under the name of Charles Edmund Dumaresq Clavell , the writer has such eloquent style that reading his works is like living his adventures .
Clavell is the son of a British Royal Navy officer who was stationed in Australia . At the age of 16 , he joined the Royal Artillery and was sent to Malaya to fight the Japanese , was captured and sent to a Japanese prisoner of war camp on Java , later transferred to Changi Prison in Singapore . Clavell went through great distress while a prisoner of war in the hands of the Japanese , therefore , when we read his works , we read from the perspective of a man that has lived experiences that have provided depth of humanity in ways unknown to most of us .
With Shogun , he achieves an in-depth and rare look into Japanese culture . If you read the book and watch this series , you end up becoming well versed in the wonders of Japan . It is the story of discovery , of great adventure , of romance , love , a new way to look at relationships and personal growth , for as the character played by Richard Chamberlain , John Blackthorne learns of the ways of Japan , the more he transforms into a new kind of man . . . no longer English , not necessarily Japanese , but a mixture that bridges two worlds .
The world John Blackthorne discovers surfaces a culture where cruelty was part of daily life , where honor was the key to the lives of Samurai worriers , and where men like Toranaga , masterfully played by one of our favorite actors , Toshiro Mifune , live their lives in search for power and control .
Through an assigned translator and interpreter , Lady Mariko , beautifully played by Yoko Shimada , John Blackthorne learns to love Japan , enjoys forbidden relationships and opens his heart to the transformation into Samurai . He develops a dictionary , English to Japanese that helps eliminate the language barrier .
John Rhys-Davies plays the part of Vasco Rodrigues , a rather colorful individual that will capture your hearts with his interpretation of friend and foe to John Blackthorne .
From watching this series as a family , we inspired Katya to learn more about Japan and even take lessons in Japanese . We got so interested in Japanese culture that we visited The Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens , http : / / www.morikami.org / , in Boca Raton , Florida and attended a festival and the Tea Ceremony .
If you want to experience 10 hours worth of one of the best mini-series ever done , don't miss Shogun , a masterpiece done by Director Jerry London . Too good to miss ! ! !
094 4 Shogun is one of the best adaptations of a literary bestseller to the small screen . Superb acting , great scenery and great suspense story .
Too bad that one of the 5 discs is flawed . The picture stalls and there is no way to continue watching unless the skip button is used causing that a considerable part of the film is not possible to view .
096 4 I have loved this story ever since it first appeared in book form and as a mini series . I own the VHS version and recently bought the DVD version . This is a top quality DVD set with a bonus features disc . It is high quality , colorful and well designed . This is a wonderful addition to any movie / DVD library . Highly recommended .
098 4 Takusan dijobe desu or this movie is very ok alot .
I had lived in Japan between Yokohama and Tokyo between 1962 and 1964 on the Tokaido Road , that great ancient highway between Tokyo ( Edo ) and Kyoto ( Miyoko ) , so during the summer of 1975 as SHOGUN the book released I bought the book and was immediately carried back to the real Nippon or Japan . Admittedly it was medieval Japan , but it was in action and custom a Japan I could understand . In fact , at Odawara at the foot of Mount Fujiyama and the Hakone Mountains , I several times saw a remaining grey-stone medieval castle identical to the ones in SHOGUN .
For those of you who have never resided in Japan among the everday people , trust in the fact that this movie will bring you very close to the real thing , although several hundred years removed . The outlawed Samurai era did not completely leave Japan until almost 1900 , and though it passed , most of the custom of the Japan I knew was yet controlled by that tradition . Anywhere one went on the island of Honshu , where SHOGUN has much of its action , Shinto or Buddhist all exhibited its worship of ancestor and military war lord past . Even the ' willow world ' in Tokyo yet remained in spirit if not actual locations of Yoshiwara Yukwaku of the Ginza area .
If one has any interest in a very good story and a very good movie then one can do no better than view SHOGUN . The story and the action are both almost seemless . This epic movie truly captures the essence and spirit of medieval Japan as well as some of today .
Wakaru , to understand , is what SHOGUN will aid you in doing .
Arigato gozaimasu , Sayonara . Thank you very much , and good-bye .
Semper Fi .
099 4 Being chased by the Spaniards at the Magellan's straight on the high seas during the last days of the 16th century , the English pilot of the Dutch galleon the Erasmus , John Blackthorne , sets sail altogether his crew for the Japans a legendary land beyond the unmeasurable Pacific Ocean , in a desperate attempt to scape from their pursuers and getting the mythical wealth of Cathay . Blackthorne will find himself ashored on a totally strange land , where he will witness both the brutality and the utter nobleness of their inhabitants , in an era when Japan is going to change forever through the ferocious winds of civil war , brought by the feudal lords who will dispute through a time of bloodshed and turmoil , the highest rank of political and military leadership in Japan : Shogun . Surrounded by hazardous circumstances , political and religious enemies , John Blackthorne ( Richard Chamberlain ) will find the true love of his life in the person of beautiful and kind-hearted Lady Mariko-Buntaro ( Yoko Shimada ) , his translator to powerful and impressive Lord Toranaga ( Toshiro Mifune ) , ruler of the Kwanto ( nowadays region of Tokyo and adjacent prefectures ) and rival to Lord Ishido , ruler of Osaka Castle . In an expedition that changes his life forever , the foreigner with the unpronounceable name who is re-named by the Japanese as Anjin-san ( honourable pilot ) , will climb from being regarded as a dangerous pirate , to Hatamoto and Samurai in a frantic chain of fateful events . A classic TV series of all times , with spectacular scenaries and splendid photography , packed in a beautiful deluxe case containing 5 DVD's , 4 of them the film , and the 5th of trivia , Japanese culture explanations , and cast comments . Are wa anata no unmei desou , Anjin-san = That's your destiny , honourable pilot . * * * * *
102 4 This review is from :
James Clavell's Shogun ( DVD )
It still holds up after all these years . Better than Memoirs of a Geisha and waaay better than The Last Samurai ( which probably would have been better without Tom Cruise ) . Would love to see what HBO would have done with it now days .
107 4 This story presents an interesting perspective on what Feudal Japan might have been like to a shipwrecked sailor .
It's a fairly long movie , but that just gives it time to fit in a lot of mystery , romance , and some subtle humor .
111 4 This review is from :
James Clavell's Shogun ( DVD )
Shogun is , in my opinion , the greatest miniseries ever made . It is a very faithful adaptation of James Clavell's bestselling novel , and a great story it is . This is the story of Pilot-Major Blackthorne of the ship Erasmus , which is the first English ship to navigate to the orient . Shipwrecked in Japan circa 1600 , Blackthorne must adapt to the Japanese culture or die . This is a wonderful story of an extraordinary man who is thrust into a highly civilized but very alien culture - - a culture wracked by intrigue , politics , powerful Jesuit priests , and imminent civil war . The friendship between Blackthorne and Lord Toranaga is very satisfying , and the story of his love for the Lady Toda is touching .
First and foremost , this is the story of a clash of cultures . Blackthorne initially considers himself more civilized than his Japanese hosts , but by the end of the story he comes to appreciate the culture's emphasis on politeness , cleanliness , and honor . He ultimately is assimilated and becomes an intimate advisor to Lord Toranaga and a samurai in his own right .
Other reviews have pointed out various historical inaccuracies to the story , and I will only say that such inaccuracies do nothing to detract from what is ultimately a fine story . This miniseries is remarkably free from overlong tedious filler scenes , and instead for the most part moves along smartly , holds the viewer's interest , and is highly entertaining . The DVD is of very high quality both audio and video , and constitutes a very good value . I had not seen Shogun for many years , and if there are any missing scenes on this DVD I don't remember them . This appears to be a fairly complete reproduction of the miniseries . I have read Mr . Clavell's novel several times , and this miniseries does a fine job adapting it to the miniseries format , and is quite faithful to the story , taking no liberties with it .
Shogun is a story that will hold the interest of most viewers . Recommended
112 4 Shogun is , in my opinion , the greatest miniseries ever made . It is a very faithful adaptation of James Clavell's bestselling novel , and a great story it is . This is the story of Pilot-Major Blackthorne of the ship Erasmus , which is the first English ship to navigate to the orient . Shipwrecked in Japan circa 1600 , Blackthorne must adapt to the Japanese culture or die . This is a wonderful story of an extraordinary man who is thrust into a highly civilized but very alien culture - - a culture wracked by intrigue , politics , powerful Jesuit priests , and imminent civil war . The friendship between Blackthorne and Lord Toranaga is very satisfying , and the story of his love for the Lady Toda is touching .
First and foremost , this is the story of a clash of cultures . Blackthorne initially considers himself more civilized than his Japanese hosts , but by the end of the story he comes to appreciate the culture's emphasis on politeness , cleanliness , and honor . He ultimately is assimilated and becomes an intimate advisor to Lord Toranaga and a samurai in his own right .
Other reviews have pointed out various historical inaccuracies to the story , and I will only say that such inaccuracies do nothing to detract from what is ultimately a fine story . This miniseries is remarkably free from overlong tedious filler scenes , and instead for the most part moves along smartly , holds the viewer's interest , and is highly entertaining . The DVD is of very high quality both audio and video , and constitutes a very good value . I had not seen Shogun for many years , and if there are any missing scenes on this DVD I don't remember them . This appears to be a fairly complete reproduction of the miniseries . I have read Mr . Clavell's novel several times , and this miniseries does a fine job adapting it to the miniseries format , and is quite faithful to the story , taking no liberties with it .
Shogun is a story that will hold the interest of most viewers . Recommended
113 4 I was only seven when this movie hit tv , but I was still allowed to watch it entirely . Although it is not an accurate depiction of the true events of the time , it is in my opinion however the most wonderful Bushido-Samurai movie ever produced . The characters seem to have been lifted right out of the pages of the novel . I highly doubt that a better cast could have been picked .
If you want an amazing saga filled with intrigue , romance , bloodthirsty villans , lavish sets and costumes , then this is the movie for you .
No true movie buff can let this DVD pass them by . a must have !
116 4 This review is from :
Shogun - The Complete Epic [ VHS ] ( VHS Tape )
This is the video collection of the excellent mini-series . It takes place during the shogun period in Japanese history . The only negative to this collection is the lack of subtitles . There are long stretches where the Japanese actors speak to each other in Japanese and the audience has no clue what is being said ( unless you understand Japanese ) . Still I found this very enjoyable !
120 4 One of he best things on TV ever . A phenomenon when it first aired in the 80s , the production value is still unparalleled . This extraordinary mini series about japan that was shot in japan with japanese actors and , somewhat frustratingly ( but intentionally so ) , with lots of real japanese dialog . Chamberlain is the only reasons this piece is not one of televisions best moments ever . He is so outclassed by the rest of the fantastic cast and must overacts all the time .
The series ' depiction of the culture of the time is accurate and in a way can save you feudal japan 101 . The constant suicides everywhere might seem overdone or even silly , but are actually quite in keeping with the times depicted . Visit one of the actual castles in japan and you will find a rediculous selfslaughterfest among some of its regal inhabitants ( if a lord kills himself a good dozen woman around him do the same and there are many goodbye poems on display , ah there is so much our culture could learn . . . ) . I found this knowledged made the series more enjoyable to watch , knowing that this was very real and giving some insights into the origins of this behaviour .
So much has been said about the movie I only want to add that this is a shortened version of the original 12.5 hour piece . This is very frustrating , because having additional material never shown on tv ( the great american fear of nipples ) seems ideal for dvd releases . If ever there was an opportunity for added value dvd this was it . That is why I gave only 3 stars , well and Chamberlain .
121 4 This review is from :
James Clavell's Shogun ( DVD )
First let me say that I agree with the good reviews given about this mini series . There were just a few things that they could have done to really make this great . First off was the transfer to DVD wasn't digital so in some shots there's a bit of a grainy quality . Which is a little distracting when there truely are so many great shots .
The only other complaints I have is about the original filming . I don't understand why a film made for American TV has so much Japanese spoken without sub-titles . I mean that when there wasn't one of the characters acting as an interpreter there was often a great deal of dialog spoken with no understanding of what was said . Granted we eventually get the ghist of what was said , but personally I like to know what's being said if it was in the script . It would have helped those of us who didn't read the book to get a better understanding of what all was going on . On the DVD I thought that maybe they would have them included if you select English sub-titles , but there's nothing written when they speak Japanese .
The only other problem was again with the original movie as a mini-series . Even though most of the movie is a good strong story that really moves along there are some segments that slow things down so much that I'm thinking they were left in to fill the amount of time alloted .
None the less this is a good DVD set , but I'd check to see if they release another addition in digital .
122 4 First let me say that I agree with the good reviews given about this mini series . There were just a few things that they could have done to really make this great . First off was the transfer to DVD wasn't digital so in some shots there's a bit of a grainy quality . Which is a little distracting when there truely are so many great shots .
The only other complaints I have is about the original filming . I don't understand why a film made for American TV has so much Japanese spoken without sub-titles . I mean that when there wasn't one of the characters acting as an interpreter there was often a great deal of dialog spoken with no understanding of what was said . Granted we eventually get the ghist of what was said , but personally I like to know what's being said if it was in the script . It would have helped those of us who didn't read the book to get a better understanding of what all was going on . On the DVD I thought that maybe they would have them included if you select English sub-titles , but there's nothing written when they speak Japanese .
The only other problem was again with the original movie as a mini-series . Even though most of the movie is a good strong story that really moves along there are some segments that slow things down so much that I'm thinking they were left in to fill the amount of time alloted .
None the less this is a good DVD set , but I'd check to see if they release another addition in digital .
123 4 This DVD is a tour-de-force of production quality and has a nifty 5th disc with extras to delight even the most war-hardened bushido . The colors are crisp , the music vibrant and full of that percussive quality Maurice Jarre made famous in the first TV broadcast . The sad part is that most of the actors that made this mini-series a gem are now gone . The remaining cast comes together on the fifth disc to discuss their roles and the production crew explains the trials and tribulations of working in Japan . There are plenty of tid-bits to fill a bento box , so grab some yakatori , make some cha and sit back in your pappasan chair and re-live the experience as though it was just coming to television . I was dismayed that the production was re-issued in the original full-screen format , I had hoped it was shot wide screen for potential theatrical release , and then trimmed for television broadcast , but alas , there is only one version .
Correct me if I'm wrong , but I could have sworn that a version I had seen earlier contained subtitles for the japanese to japanese scenes , but the Orson Wells over-the-top narrative is all that remains for action clarification .
All in all , I give this fabulous period piece 5 throwing stars . . so watch out for the amida tong and happy viewing .
126 4 This review is from :
James Clavell's Shogun ( DVD )
The series consists of about 10 hours of actual story content which was as good as I remember when I saw it on Television in about 1980 but without the comercials . I haven't read the book so I have no comparison . Lots of good historical and basic Japanese language information made it an enjoyable experience .
128 4 I can think of only one epic series that rivals this , and that is Lonesome Dove . Both were based upon first-class novels ; both were adapted by talented writers ; and both were populated by very good actors on extremely realistic sets .
The novel Shogun is many things : an adventure story , a romance and a political manual . All three are retained in the mini-series . An English captain loses control of his sailinng ship in a storm and lands in The Japans , in effect , in another world . It is 1599 . The culture shock stuns him , but when he adapts somewhat he becomes a pupil under the guiding hands of Toranaga , a warlord , Mariko ( a beautiful translator ) and an army of fierce samurai who are quick to anger and quick to chop off a head . While denying his political ambitions , Toranaga inexorably maneuvers himself toward ultimate leadership .
The tale is filled with great characters , lots of jeopardy , numerous subplots and magnificent scenery . This is one mini-series not to be missed .
130 4 This review is from :
James Clavell's Shogun ( DVD )
Having lived 2 years in Japan , I found the DVD format of Shogun very interesting . There is much beauty in Japan . The common people were very polite and respectful ; very clean and industrious . It is a very interesting country to visit . I can certainly sympathize with Pilot Blackthorn , at the end of his experiences , in having a dismal future alone .
136 4 This review is from :
James Clavell's Shogun ( DVD )
Great film rendition of the book . A little hokey at times , considering the improbability of a Gaijin becoming Samurai , but hey , that's the way the book was written . I found the depiction of Post-Heiyan , feudal Japan to be fairly accurate , and the Japanese actors performed flawlessly .
Watch this film and enjoy .
137 4 Great film rendition of the book . A little hokey at times , considering the improbability of a Gaijin becoming Samurai , but hey , that's the way the book was written . I found the depiction of Post-Heiyan , feudal Japan to be fairly accurate , and the Japanese actors performed flawlessly .
Watch this film and enjoy .
139 4 I love this movie , glad to be able to show to my kids .
maggie
141 4 This review is from :
James Clavell's Shogun ( DVD )
It's been a long while since I've read the book , and had always heard good things about the mini-series , so I had to get this . It so does not disappoint . Emotionally , it runs the gamut . It has the action and the beautiful oriental women , er , I mean , scenery . LOL The bonus features are a nice addition as well . You get the Making of documentary as well as historical documentaries on the Samurai , Geisha and even the Tea Ceremony . Sit back , grab the popcorn and enjoy .
143 4 This review is from :
James Clavell's Shogun ( DVD )
This product was shipped very carefully and quickly . The price was very reasonable also . I wouldn't hesitate to do business with this seller again !
145 4 I love japanese history and culture , and this is one of my complete favorites . Im not expert on asian history , nor have i read the book this mini-series is based on , so i review it for what it is .
In brief , this is an great tale of an english man , captain John Blackthorne , who is shipwrecked on the island of japan in the early 17th century , and gets one hell of a culture shock if there ever was one . Eventually he finds himself in the middle of what seems to be a geo-political conflict , secrecy and war , as he trys to just stay sane and stay alive and cope with this ancient yet alltogether new world .
This is just as good as any film made for the theater , but very epic in length . And every hour is great classic entertainment . You'll meet many interesting characters from good , to bad , to the mysterious . A lot of the characters are likable and fasicinating .
The performances are charming and fun . Theres even a good dose of humor through out the parts of the film , which is welcome becouse theres plenty of serious stuff going .
The action is decent , from intense scuffles , assassins in the night , and various battles . Theres no all out massive wars , but theres still enuff sword weilding and explosive events that take place .
The music that accompanies this mini-series is well done , and memorable ; the main theme in particular . That youll hear immediatly with the opening credits .
A story filled with adventure , intrique , laughs , and a little romance .
Its lots of fun and even educational , i learned some of my first words in japanese becouse of this film , since there are various scenes where John Blackthorne is given lessons the japanese language . As Blackthorne learned various things , from language to beliefs to way of life , i learned .
The depth of this feature mini-series is rich and just so interesting , nothing im typing does it proper justice . The things John Blackthorne experiences and all the happenings that take place are so indepth that it would take so much longer to type it all out . And im sure this series cant even compare to how wonderfull and utterly deep and vividly lavish and powerfull the book must be .
But , ill just say that its a captivating world that unfolds and its unforgettable .
147 4 This is my all time favorite story . I think it is one of James Clavell's best pieces of work ( in my opinion ) . I like the way James Clavell wrote the relationship between Lord Toranaga and Blackthorne , and the forbidden love between Blackthorne and Mariko , and the hatred the Jesuits have for Blackthoren . It is amazing how James Clavell is able to make you almost feel like you are Blackthorne himself , and have you asking what would I do if I were him ? . I would recomend this movie for anyone who has a love for Japan .
148 4 I bought Shogun after reading the book . I approached it with a little trepidation , worrying that it would not live up to the standard of the novel . I needn't have worried . I spread it out over four nights and enjoyed it thoroughly . The only complaint I have is the portrayal of the Japanese characters . With the exception of the translator Mariko , none of the Japanese characters ever speak for themselves . The film has instances of untranslated Japanese ( irritating ) and whenever something vital happens , the English narrator tells us what has taken place . This , I think , cheapens the Japanese players , reducing to them to secondary characters . In the book , they are as vital to the story as Blackthorne and the other barbarians and this doesn't come out as much in the film . It would have been better to allow the Japanese characters to speak with their own voices , providing us with subtitles . That being said , it is a fantastic series and well worth the price .
149 4 This review is from :
Shogun - The Complete Epic [ VHS ] ( VHS Tape )
As Mr . Bernabo states , the original airing of this series was without narration and it worked so much better because , like Blackthorn , the ( non-Japanese speaking ) audience often had to rely on the voice inflections and facial expressions of the Japanese actors as well as the often suspect translators to understand what was going on . My only hope is that when this is released on DVD ( WHEN ! ? ! ? ! ? ! ) that the option is there to see it as it was first released ( sans subtitles and narration . ) I recommend this miniseries to anyone and everyone who wants to appreciate the beauty of a culture that is rarely understood by those of European descent .
Now on DVD and I stand by my review . This was the peak of the mini-series years . If only networks could produce these again instead of reality shows .
150 4 As Mr . Bernabo states , the original airing of this series was without narration and it worked so much better because , like Blackthorn , the ( non-Japanese speaking ) audience often had to rely on the voice inflections and facial expressions of the Japanese actors as well as the often suspect translators to understand what was going on . My only hope is that when this is released on DVD ( WHEN ! ? ! ? ! ? ! ) that the option is there to see it as it was first released ( sans subtitles and narration . ) I recommend this miniseries to anyone and everyone who wants to appreciate the beauty of a culture that is rarely understood by those of European descent .
Now on DVD and I stand by my review . This was the peak of the mini-series years . If only networks could produce these again instead of reality shows .
151 4 I am not sure how I should start ? I suppose I suggest you read the book first before you watch ( . . . and probably have to buy ) the movie . It is dated and certainly not up to the current standards of special effects that we see in the movies today . But what it lacks in that category it spills over in abundance with acting and just beauty . This was not an action film . It was a drama about a mans transformation and how he adapted to an entirely foreign land . And it was about a women of the highest nobility in Japan and how she came to love such a foreign man . He was a Barbarian to her at first , a man to be despised and reviled . At first she thought him a liar and his thoughts and ways revolting . Later she came to understand him , his ways , his honor and compassion , his unpredicability , his incredible knowledge and mind , his bravery and courage and most importantly his love for her . She knew in her heart of hearts , he was Samarui and a man she would forever love .
The movie does not do the book justice , but Yoko Shimada is ( or was I guess ) one of the most beautiful actresses you will find in a movie . Indeed , the costumes were so beautiful . If I were an actor or actress in that movie , that would have been in my contract ( that I get to keep the kimono's that I wear ) . They were absolutely stunning . The movie is worth watching just for the beauty of the costumes . Yoko Shimada - The Lady Toda Buntaro Mariko , in her pink kimono's was the picture of beauty , much like the godess Aphrodite or perhaps like the Mona Lisa . But in the book you will read and come to understand that she was so much more than that . A wonderfully talented , intelligent , gifted , courages and brave women , not to mention beautiful . How could any man not want a women like her ? Her husband did , but did not , such a fool ! Blackthorne came to love her on a plane of love that I think only few of us ever experience . I am saddened to have to say that . We should all be so fortunate to experience such spiritual love ! Their bodies were not just one , but their entire conscience , and their souls became eternally bonded . They became one in body and soul . Who could ask for more in life ?
One of the things you won't notice probably on first viewing of the film is Yoko Shimada's blemishes ( pimples ) . I didn't the first time I watched the movie but I do now . It is actually realistic . Such a beautiful women , who also had problems with her complexion at times . The makeup artists did a wonderful job of making them more or less transparent , but it was to me a reality of life and one that was nicely left in the movie . It made it seem so much more real .
I bought this movie because I liked the book so much and because you can't find it in a rental store as far as I can tell . The movie is different from the book but I think you will thoroughly enjoy the acting and the film , although it strays somewhat from the book in theme and in the various plots . Both Shimada and Chamberlain won best actress and actor awards , and the film best TV mini series , and more I think . There are some scenes in the movie that I particularly like . The romantic scenes for one were just so captivating . Yoko Shimada as the Lady Toda is just so seductive and beguiling . Her eyes just enticed me and I wish they had been meant for me ! I fell hopelessly in love with her when I watched this movie and those scenes although there was no nudity , just dialogue . But there are other stirring scenes throughout the movie ( the 4 DVD discs ) that make this movie worth watching . The one in particular was when Blackthorne was officially made Samurai and Hatamoto , Admiral of Toranagas fleet and given incredible wealth , a Lordship actually , a fief and just unbelievable gifts . This was done in front of hundreds of Toranaga's officers , not just Samurai . You don't quite understand the significance of this in the movie unless you have read the book , because the movie did not indicate that .
I was in the navy at the time this movie aired , an officer on submarines . Yoko Shimada and I are the same age . I wish I could have met her back then ! ! ! I know so well the loneliness that can overcome you while out at sea . I never watched TV back then or read much fiction , only science fiction and fantasy when I had the time . For many years I have not watched TV , except for the news . I only know of this movie because of the reviews about the book on Amazon.com and I happened to have the book in my library , a gift from a friend many years ago . I loved reading the book ( recently ) so I decided to buy the movie . If I had seen the movie back then , in 1980 , I would have taken 60 days leave , hopped the first military flight from Norfolk , VA ( when I returned to port , which was seldom , hehe ) to Tokyo , or wherever Yoko might have been in Japan in the hopes that she was not married , and hope that I might get a date with her hehe : ) To me she is just that beautiful ( and my guess is she still is ) . And also to experience the beauty that is Japan . I was an east coast , North Atlantic , Artic and Mediterranean sailor , and a few other spots , hehe : ) . Europe is beautiful though and I loved my leave when I was there . I saw such wonders . Despite most movies and books I guess , sailors are not just about debauchery , we do love culture too . I never was on the west coast . I wish now I had been on the west coast sailing . Although nuclear submarines are not allowed in Japanese ports it would have been an easy hop from the Phillipines to anywhere in Japan .
If you like a fantastic tale , and beautiful costumes and wonderful acting , you will love this movie . You won't find much better acting than the Japanese actors in this film . I really got a kick out of Captain Yoshinaka , and you will understand if you watch the film : ) I suggest you read the book first . Even though the movie is different in some of the tale , you will appreciate having read the book before you watch this movie . Enjoy it for its beauty , as I do .
154 4 This review is from :
James Clavell's Shogun ( DVD )
i love this show .
we need the Blu-ray of it .
i hope they are restoreing it .
also hope they use a cover like they did on the tapes . . vary nice .
anyway if you like history type shows you will love this .
as for me im waiting for a Blu-ray lelease .
i already have this one .
155 4 i love this show .
we need the Blu-ray of it .
i hope they are restoreing it .
also hope they use a cover like they did on the tapes . . vary nice .
anyway if you like history type shows you will love this .
as for me im waiting for a Blu-ray lelease .
i already have this one .
156 4 It was an excellent TV movie which is why I was so pleased to find that it finally was release on DVD .
The movie itself was well done with sensitivity and respect to the Japanese culture . The movie prompted research into the history of ships that sailed the seas and discovered new worlds on behalf of other countries during that period .
158 4 No need to recount this marvelous story . However , the DVD is an opportunity lost . After seeing the absolute miracle that Paramount did cleaning up the grainy VHS version of LeMans , you'd think / hope / pray they'd use the same technology on Shogun . Sadly , it appears they put more into packaging and a so-so additional interviews disk , rather than cleaning up the core mini-series ( which I have on VHS , for comparison ) . The price is right on this classic , and for the hours and hours of entertainment , I'd still recommend it . . . even with lament over an opportunity lost .
159 4 At last this brilliant mini-series has been set to be released on DVD . It is a great drama where a the first 17th century Dutch ship is swept by storm to the shores of Japan . It is the story of how an English Pilot Blackthorne played by Richard Chamberlin becomes a samaurai . Told on the backdrop of two opposing japanese Lords Toronaga ( Toshiro Mifune ) & Ishido in a nation heading towards a possible civil war . Also involved are enemy catholic Spanish traders , at war with England , & with a trade monopoly in the country which is threatened by Blackthorne's presense . Mixed in this is doomed love affair between Blacktorne ( Chamberlin ) and his japanese translater .
The story tells how Blackthorne adapts to 17th century feudal Japan and the events going on arround him , becoming eventually a samaurai & confident to Lord Toranaga . It is a great drama told over 9 hrs with terrific acting & lovely picturesque japanese settings
I have had this on VHS for years and look forward to buying this on DVD in September . I would recommmend it to anyone who hasnt seen it .
Colin Sinclaire ( ccsinclaire @ aol.com )
162 4 I rented the VHS version a few years ago and was sadly disappointed . . . but now I'm looking forward to falling in love with this saga all over again !
In 1980 , I was only 7 years old , but I loved this series - - probably one of the first ' adult ' programs I was allowed to stay up and watch ! When I was older , I read the novel ( it's big and it's got small print , be warned ) . . . and reread and reread it ! Granted , there's only so much you can show on TV and only so many hours you can tie up programming , but I think the series does a darn fine job of following the book . For an American TV population probably not very familiar with Japanese customs , this was a fascinating look into a very different world .
Even at 7 , I felt the finely tuned tensions between the characters . I knew they had to deny what was in their hearts in order to hold to the dictates of society . Don't expect a Hollywood happy ending ! This is much more like traditional Japanese stories and legends that end in heartbreaking separation of the hero and heroine for the sake of destiny or duty . If you're an anime or manga fan ( like me ! ) , you'll find familiar elements . . .
I absolutely loved the costumes and the settings in this series . There's enough in here to keep the romantics , the swashbucklers , and the military and history buffs occupied for a good long time .
This series is a favorite memory of mine , and I'm looking foward to getting the DVD version - - at last !
163 4 This review is from :
James Clavell's Shogun ( DVD )
i received it on time and in very good condition . it was a gift and he said he enjoyed watching it . it does take a long time to watch . he still says the book is better .
165 4 This review is from :
James Clavell's Shogun ( DVD )
What do you want , Great TV Mini just seems there is not enough of it . wish it had the other 4 hours .
167 4 This review is from :
James Clavell's Shogun ( DVD )
One of the best mini-series ever shown on TV . Great history lesson of early Japan . The costumes are fabulous .
169 4 This review is from :
James Clavell's Shogun ( DVD )
I got Shogun on DVD for my husband's birthday . He's a big fan . He couldn't have been more delighted . The movie is one of those you can watch again , even after what , 30 years ? and it still is awesome .
177 4 This review is from :
James Clavell's Shogun ( DVD )
The Shogun miniseries DVD disk set was in it original box and appeared that it was never opened . I loved watching the miniseries again as I saw it when it was first aired on television in 1980 . I hope that my future purchases will be as pleasant as this one . Thank you .
089 4 I'm an avid reader , and when SHOGUN came out on TV , I decided to watch the movie and read the book later . It's a terrific movie , and I enjoyed all the characters along with the people who played them . Afterwards i settled in to read the book . It was a pleasant surprise , because the movie worked well when compared to the book . I now have both the book and the movie . The actors who played in the movie fit into the characters as created by Lavelle . I have read the book a few times , and I'm in the process of enjoying the movie again . They are not identical , but definitely tell you the same story in an enjoyable way .
009 4 Having passionately watched the mini-series SHOGUN many times over , I was dissappointed , that after spending the money to buy a complete copy for myself , that it wasn't complete . If not cut , this expensive edition is clipped of many of of it's charming vignettes . I would gladly forgo the fancy packaging for the original version . . .
084 4 I read the other reviews that were listed when trying to find this movie . I had never seen it but knew that my husband really liked the movie . He had looked around and been unable to find it . I was hesitant because the reviews said it was shortened from the TV version and parts were missing . I gave it to my husband for Christmas and he loves it ! He says it is all there and he has been enjoying it since . I have sat and watched it with him also and have enjoyed the movie . It is worth buying it if you like Shogun !
091 4 Movies rarely do a book justice . This does . Not only does it tell the story in an entertaining manner , it is quite educational . I learned a lot about Japanese culture inspite being of Japanese ancestry
144 4 This product was shipped very carefully and quickly . The price was very reasonable also . I wouldn't hesitate to do business with this seller again !
157 4 Having seen and enjoyed this mini-series so much on TV , I couldn't wait for it to come out on DVD . It is facinating how one feels well introduced to the Japanese culture during this tale . Extremely good entertainment !
100 4 We truly enjoyed this set from the series we had seen so many years ago . A good enactment of the book .
146 4 We enjoyed this movie so much that we wanted to share it with all our freinds and family .
110 4 I've been looking and hoping they would put the entire Shogun mini-series on DVD and finally . . . . after much anticipation , they did it . Included are all kinds of special features , interviews , etc . If you are a fan of old world Japan , like I am , this is a must have for your collection . It was well worth the price and I highly recommend !
022 4 This is a fantastic series . Why on earth doesn't any of James Clavell's works end up on DVD ? ? If they were on DVD , I'd buy them again !
078 4 Jim Halverson's review was spot on , so I won't add more about the series other than the production values were tremendous , the costumes and scenery spectacular . I only wish that this was done on DVD . If anyone could read this who might have a say in getting this done , PLEASE make it happen !
125 4 The Ninja attack alone makes this thing worth watching . The best mini-series ever . Put it on DVD NOW !
119 4 I was never able to see the original broadcast version of this movie , so I cannot say how faithful this version is to the original . However , based on this version , I have to deem Shogun surely among the best made for television movies ever made . It is a truly epic story of adventure and intrigue set in feudal Japan . Ship's pilot-major Blackthorne is stranded in the Japans when his ship , a Dutch man-of-war licensed to raid Spanish shipping , is pursued and then destroyed in a typhoon . Made the pawn in a dangerous power struggle , all the players involved recognize Blackthorne's presence as a threat to the delicately balanced equilibrium established among the ruling warlords and among the Spanish who wish to maintain their lucrative monopoly over the Japans . Shogun is a vast , swashbuckling , magnificent tale chock-full of political intrigue , oriental-meets-european culture shock , machiavellian power plays , revenge , backstabbing , love , Samurai duels and swordplay , and , above all , HIGH ADVENTURE !
072 4 Relive what Japan used to be like . The rules , the bushido , the joy , the romance . This is the complete miniseries that aired 5 nights on tv . It's great to watch . The dress , the manners , you'll get caught up on all of it . The extras on the DVD are worth it too ! This is one you'll WANT to keep .
171 4 Arrived promptly , dvd was well packaged and is a wonderful addition to our dvd library . Was great to find this classic as it's one of my husband's favorites .
135 4 Simply an awesome mini-series . One of my favorites . Glad to get it on dvd . Good product .
James Clavell's Shogun ( DVD )
The missing stars represent the missing portions of this incomplete version of the original . A very heavy handed censor has hacked this miniseries to pieces . And to make a bad situation worse , some of the most memorable scenes have been cut or edited to the point of being unrecognizible . Amazon , you should not advertise an item for sale as complete unless you know it to be absolute fact . The buyer's of this product have really been short changed and that is being very polite . . . . . Shame on you Amazon . Lynn Stubblefield , Nashville , TN
006 4 This review is from :
James Clavell's Shogun ( DVD )
The missing stars represent the missing portions of this incomplete version of the original . A very heavy handed censor has hacked this miniseries to pieces . And to make a bad situation worse , some of the most memorable scenes have been cut or edited to the point of being unrecognizible . Amazon , you should not advertise an item for sale as complete unless you know it to be absolute fact . The buyer's of this product have really been short changed and that is being very polite . . . . . Shame on you Amazon . Lynn Stubblefield , Nashville , TN
101 4 Excellent movie for its time . Very few TV mini-series ( if any ) come close to its grandeur today .
132 4 Excellent original version of this James Clavell novel .
It's very long , but great history is included .
138 4 James Clavell's Shogun
Very good quality , excellent package and presentation , Very happy with the DVD Boxset , the purchase , Amazon service and delivery .
176 4 This video made in the 80 ' s for TV audiences , has some how managed to capture the class of the original novel written by James Clavell . It is an excellent view of the samurai culture with all its positive and negative aspects . The dissonance created by the entry of a foreigner in to an insular culture is beautifully portrayed . The acting is superb and keeps you rivetted to the seat . An excellent buy both historically and in terms of entertainment value .
