A Reluctant Heir: Does Hulu’s “shōgun” Live Up to Its Predecessor?
Table of Contents
- 1. A Reluctant Heir: Does Hulu’s “shōgun” Live Up to Its Predecessor?
- 2. How do the differences in narrative focus (love story vs. ancient and cultural exploration) contribute to the distinct appeals of the 1980 miniseries and Hulu’s adaptation of “Shōgun”?
- 3. Interview with Jerry London: Does Hulu’s “Shōgun” resonate with American Audiences?
- 4. Jerry London,Director of the 1980 “Shōgun” miniseries,shares his thoughts on Hulu’s recent adaptation and its impact on American viewers.
- 5. engage in the Discussion
Hulu/FX’s recent rendition of “Shōgun” has stormed the awards circuit, sweeping up accolades like Emmys adn Golden Globes, a feat that has surprised many. However, Jerry London, director of the original 1980 miniseries, harbors a different perspective. While he’s pleased with the new series’ distinctive approach, he believes it ultimately alienates American audiences.
“It’s completely different from the one I did. Mine was based on the love story of Shogun between Blackthorne and Mariko, and this new one is based on Japanese history, and it’s more about Toranaga, who was the Shogun,” London stated. “It’s very technical and very tough for an American audience to get their grips into it. I’ve talked to many people that have watched it, and they said, ‘I had to turn it off as I don’t understand it.’ So the filmmakers of the new one really didn’t care about the American audience.”
London attributes this disconnect, in part, to viewers’ discomfort with subtitles, arguing that the new “Shōgun” feels more tailored for a Japanese audience.
“They made it basically for Japan, and I was happy about it because I didn’t want my show to be copied. I think I did such a great job, and it won so many accolades, that I didn’t want them to copy it, which they didn’t do. But the new one is funny because everybody I talked to said,‘I don’t understand it. What’s it all about?’ I watched the whole thing. It’s very difficult to stick with. It won all the [Emmy] awards because there were no big shows against it. There was not too much competition.”
While London’s comments might seem critical, it’s significant to acknowledge the success of his own adaptation. The 1980 “Shōgun” garnered immense acclaim, snagging an Outstanding Limited Series emmy and two others from its 12 nominations, along with a trio of Golden Globes and even a Peabody Award.The new version,however,has already secured a unique position within the franchise.Unlike its predecessor, which aired in a five-night extravaganza, Hulu’s “Shōgun” is poised to continue its story with confirmed seasons two and three.
This divergence in format and narrative focus raises an intriguing question: how do these two iterations of “Shōgun” resonate with audiences, and what does their contrasting success reveal about the evolving landscape of historical drama?
Ultimately, the interpretation of “Shōgun” rests with the individual viewer. Both the 1980 miniseries and the modern Hulu adaptation offer compelling perspectives on this epic historical tale, urging us to delve into the complexities of cultural clash, power dynamics, and the enduring human experience.
How do the differences in narrative focus (love story vs. ancient and cultural exploration) contribute to the distinct appeals of the 1980 miniseries and Hulu’s adaptation of “Shōgun”?
Interview with Jerry London: Does Hulu’s “Shōgun” resonate with American Audiences?
Jerry London: The new “Shōgun” on Hulu is quite different from mine. their focus is on Japanese history and Toranaga, while my miniseries centered around the love story of John Blackthorne and Lady Mariko.
While I’m glad thay didn’t just copy my adaptation, I’ve heard from many people struggling to follow the new series. It’s more technical, filled with subtitles, and seems tailored towards a Japanese audience.
Archyde News: Would you attribute the mixed reactions to the increased use of subtitles and cultural nuances?
Jerry London: Absolutely. Subtitles can be challenging for American audiences. The new “Shōgun” dives deep into Japanese history and culture,which is great,but it might be overwhelming for some.
archyde News: Despite your concerns, Hulu’s “shōgun” has been critically acclaimed and renew for two more seasons. How does this reflect the evolution of historical dramas?
Jerry London: It shows a shift in audience tastes and TV executives’ willingness to take risks. The new “Shōgun” isn’t your typical historical drama. It’s gritty, authentic, and unapologetic in its exploration of japanese history. I think it appeals to viewers craving something fresh and challenging.
Archyde News: Given the contrasting narratives and formats, how do you think these two iterations of “Shōgun” compare and complement each other?
Jerry London: They offer two unique perspectives on the same historical period. My miniseries was an epic love story while Hulu’s “Shōgun” is a complex exploration of power and culture.both are compelling in their own ways, and I think viewers benefit from having both interpretations.
engage in the Discussion
Which incarnation of “Shōgun” intrigues you the most, and why? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
