Summary
The original 1980Shōgunminiseries is superior to the Emmy-nominated FX/Hulu series in one key way. WhileShōgunwas originally intended to be a 10-part limited series based on the celebrated novel of the same name by James Clavell, the overwhelming success and popularity of the series inspired FX, Hulu, and creators Justin Marks and Rachel Kondo to expand the story in further seasons.Shōgunearned a near-perfect 99% critic score on Rotten Tomatoesand is poised to have a big night at the Emmys, which will take place on June 21, 2025.
Shōgunwas previously adapted into a limited series back in 1980 starring Richard Chamberlain and Toshirô Mifune. Like the 2024 critically acclaimed series, 1980’sShōgunreceived outstanding reviews and was widely considered one of the best series of the year in which it was released.1980’sShōgunwent on to win a total of 3 Emmys in 1981after receiving an impressive 14 nominations, includingOutstanding Costume Design for a Series, Outstanding Graphic Design and Title Sequences, and Outstanding Limited Series.
Shogun 1980 Is The Only American TV Show Filmed Entirely In Japan
Tokyo Vice was mostly shot in Japan but not entirely
WhileShōgunis arguably a clear favoritein many of the categoriesit is nominated in and is expected to be a top contender at the 2024 Emmys, the 1980 version remains to be the only American television series that has been completely shot in Japan. The celebrated HBO/Max seriesTokyo Vicestarring Ansel Elgort and Ken Watanabe was mostly filmed in Japan but also shot in a few other locationssuch as Toronto, Canada, which enabled 1980’sShōgunto hang onto its exclusive status.
Because1980’sShōgunwas the very first American television production to be filmed entirely in Japan, it was groundbreaking in and of itself. Because of the social context and standards of Westernized entertainment of the time period, 1980’sShōgunleaned more heavily into Chamberlain’s character as a reliable narrator and access point for American audiences. A series like 2024’sShōgunwith a more universal perspective would likely not have satisfied audiences of the time.
Shogun’s 10 Best Scenes, Ranked
From the engaging duels to the drinking contests that make up unforgettable scenes in Shogun, the series explores cultural clashes in feudal Japan.
Shogun 2024’s Location Changes Affect Its Authenticity
1980’s Shogun remains in a class of its own
Although 2024’sShōgunis widely considered one of the best shows of 2024, the fact that it was mostly shot in Canada does affect its authenticity compared to that of the 1980’s version. Perhaps due to the modern adaptions success and the avenues paved by HBO’sTokyo Vice, which was recently canceledmuch to the disappointment of its loyal fans,Shōgunseason 2will be able to actually shoot in Japan like its 1980 predecessor.Shōgunis currently the favorite to take home the Emmy for Outstanding Drama Series this September.
Why Shogun’s Toranaga Smiles While Killing Yabushige In Season 1 Finale Explained By Editors
Exclusive: Editors Maria Gonzales and Aika Miyake break down why Shogun’s Toranaga smiles while killing Yabushige in the season 1 finale.
