I wouldn't say the 1980 version is a white savior story because, quite simply, Blackthorne is mostly powerless. And the ending reveals just how little power he had and how he was manipulated and used by Toranaga. Also, it's based on a real guy and his real experiences! And that dude did not save Japan.
9yo memories, eh? I remember the focus being more on Blackthorne than perhaps it was. Good to hear this. Mind if I add your review link to the post itself?
The novel, depending on your tastes, can be a slog. It's a thicboi. The original series was wonderful, but, as I stated, 9yo me remembers it being centered on Blackthorne. No need to seek either out when you can just enjoy this, unless you want to enjoy them.
I hear you. It was one reason I waited to post this. I don't plan on spoiling it in any way, but I do want to give folks a chance to watch it first. I haven't seen ep 4 myself. Will post a second review of eps 4 and 5 together.
Really enjoyed the 1980 version (we watched it about a month ago - wrote about it here: https://radicaledward.substack.com/p/shogun-1980) and the current adaptation.
I wouldn't say the 1980 version is a white savior story because, quite simply, Blackthorne is mostly powerless. And the ending reveals just how little power he had and how he was manipulated and used by Toranaga. Also, it's based on a real guy and his real experiences! And that dude did not save Japan.
9yo memories, eh? I remember the focus being more on Blackthorne than perhaps it was. Good to hear this. Mind if I add your review link to the post itself?
Yeah, go for it!
The focus is probably 90% on Blackthorne, but that's part of what makes the ending so interesting! You come to realize how out of the loop he was.
Great will update and integrate tonight.
Loving the show so far, though I’m not familiar with the source material. Looking forward to more recaps!
The novel, depending on your tastes, can be a slog. It's a thicboi. The original series was wonderful, but, as I stated, 9yo me remembers it being centered on Blackthorne. No need to seek either out when you can just enjoy this, unless you want to enjoy them.
I really need to watch this. But waiting a little so more episodes get released. Dont like waiting week to week.
I hear you. It was one reason I waited to post this. I don't plan on spoiling it in any way, but I do want to give folks a chance to watch it first. I haven't seen ep 4 myself. Will post a second review of eps 4 and 5 together.
Thanks for that. I was wondering about watching the series. I'll give it a try now.
You are exactly the person I wrote it for. I JUST said that to someone else. I really think you'll enjoy it.