Shōgun (1980)

Name: Shōgun
Rating: 7.7

Rating: 7.7

IMDb

Synopsis

An English navigator becomes both a player and pawn in complex political games in feudal Japan.

First Air Date: 1980-09-15

Last Air Date: 1980-09-19

Number of Seasons: 1

Number of Episodes: 5

Created By: James Clavell

Networks: NBC

View Technical Specifications on IMDb

Top Cast

Richard Chamberlain as Pilot-Major John Blackthorne / Anjin-san
Toshirō Mifune as Lord Yoshi Toranaga
Yoko Shimada as Lady Toda Buntaro - Mariko
John Rhys-Davies as Vasco Rodrigues
Damien Thomas as Father Alvito
Frankie Sakai as Yabu
Yūki Meguro as Omi
Hiromi Senno as Fujiko
Alan Badel as Father Dell'Aqua
Miiko Taka as Kiri

Seasons

None (1980)

John Blackthorne, an English ship pilot, whose vessel wrecked upon the Japanese coast in the early 17th century is forced to deal with the two most powerful men in Japan in these days. He is thrown in the midst of a war between Toranaga and Ishido, who struggle for the title of Shogun which will give ultimate power to the one who possesses it.

Episodes:

Ep. 1: Part 1 (1980-09-15)

Set in early 17th-century Japan, shipwrecked English navigator John Blackthorne finds intrigue and culture shock in a feudal society that puts a premium on honor. A rival Lord sentences Blackthorne to death.
Ep. 2: Part 2 (1980-09-16)

After Lord Toronaga rescues Blackthorn from prison, he enlists him as his aide and names him, 'Anjin-san'. Mariko is directed to tutor Anjin-san in the language and customs of Japan.
Ep. 3: Part 3 (1980-09-17)

Blackthorne and Mariko begin a romance; Toronaga continues to build his army for a battle with Ishido. Anjin-san proves his mettle during an earthquake and is honored by Toranaga for bravery. Mariko's husband Buntaro, arrives in Anjiro.
Ep. 4: Part 4 (1980-09-18)

Anjin-san's assimilation of Japanese ways is evident in his exemplary conduct. Toranaga decides to return the Erasmus to Anjin-san. Mariko tells Father Alvito of a plot to murder a Christian lord on the Council of Regents.
Ep. 5: Part 5 (1980-09-19)

Treachery, tragedy and turns of events occur. Toronaga becomes SHOGUN after the defeat of Lord Ishido. Mariko is killed in the final battle at Osaka Castle. Heartbroken, but resolute, Blackthorne begins construction of another ship.