thedaddywilson I remember watching the mini-series years ago (more than I would like to admit). It was worth watching then and worth watching now. Some people make comments about the special effects, we have to remember how long ago it was made. It is still extremely great entertainment, from the moment they meet the Japanese people too the time Blackthorne becomes a member of Toranaga's family. The many differences between the caste system from the lowliest peasant to the highest ranking Samurai Lords. Their different outlook of life and death was centuries and world's apart. I would recommend the series and the book to anybody. People can criticize the wardrobe the speech or other things. I don't believe it was ever made as a documentary, it was made for entertainment. It is my opinion that it was kept as close to history as was needed. Any closer would have been unnecessary after all it was made for entertainment not education. I think it showed life as it was without any bias in any way. I would like to see it remade. With the wealth of talent in the film and television companies from all the differing jobs involved in making films and T.V series it would be amazing. A definite 5 star's for the existing series. Hoping to be able to rate another version.

thinker1691 The extraordinary six-part novel " SHOGUN " was written by noted author James Clavel, superbly directed by Jerry London and came to American audiences in the 1980s. From the first chapter to the last, the cast which included Richard Chamberlain who plays Anjin-san (Pilot), Toshirô Mifune as Lord Yoshi Toranaga and Yôko Shimada and Lady Mariko, captivated American's attention for Japanese culture during the entire length of the series. Indeed, the romantic love story between two two principals prompted a loyal viewing audience and a million letters to the network. Clavel set his story of John Blackthorne in the 16th century Japan where he lands. During his stay, he is soon adopted into the civilization where he meets Lady Toda Buntaro (Yôko Shimada) as his Interpretator and later as his love interest. Further, he is also acquainted with both his friends and enemies which include the ever spreading European explorers and Christian Church. The series itself is an interesting blend and exchange of culture, idea and beliefs, mixed with romance and political intrigue. Many audiences are treated to the incredible cast which include the likes of Alan Badel, Damien Thomas and John Rhys-Davies. In addition, there is the beautiful and spacious landscapes which include the impressive customs, Japanese gardens and surrounding Architecture. All in all a great Mini-series. Highly recommended****

seanowain Great mini-series, but I was under the impression that there were TWO versions of the series, the second about 4 hours longer and following the book in far greater detail than the one available now on DVD. For example, I remember Miko-san as fighting a samurai before she was to commit seppuku in the 4th DVD, which occurred before Lord Yabu betrayed them in Osaka Castle. Also, this one had English sub-titles when the Japanese were speaking. Please tell me I am right before I start trying to find which reality I saw that series in, I really want a DVD of the fuller version. As for the series, either version is to be treasured, I know I treasure the one I have.

kinume Any movie with this magnificent actor even showing up in a cameo, I give a 10. Actually, the costumes weren't very good, & a lot of the true historical facts were sometimes a little silly, but Toshiro Mifune makes the movie a classic. He's elemental, a force of nature, fantastic. Watch it just to get a glimpse of this wonderful actor's presence & charisma. The movie is based on the book by Clavell, & he did write the part of Toranaga with Toshiro in mind. The movie does follow the book pretty closely, and the book is based very loosely on an Englishman who was stranded on the Japanese Islands in the early 1600's.All-in-all, the movie on DVD is a lot better than the previous video tape that was out.