Shogun Star Anna Sawai received an impressive accuracy rating for her performance as Mariko. FX historical drama created by Rachel Condo and Justin Marks. adapts the events of James Clavell’s seminal 1975 novel. Shogun received rave reviews for chronicling the power struggle between the various lords and ladies of feudal Japan, centering on Lord Toranaga (Hiroyuki Sanada), John Blackthorne (Cosmo Jarvis) and Lady Mariko. Mariko has one standout fight sequence in the series, which appears in episode 9, when she demands to leave Osaka and fights a handful of soldiers.
In a recent video for InsiderMartial arts and katana expert Seki Nobuhide-sensei analyzes Mariko’s fight sequence from Shogun episode 9. Although some aspects of the wider sequence are incorrect, such as one samurai not stepping back after washing the blood from his sword and sheathing it, Mariko’s fighting techniques and depiction of the naginata and yari, two spear-like weapons, earned this episode an impressive eight out of 10.. Read Seki’s comments or watch the video below (the relevant section starts at 3:19):
“The difference between a naginata and a yari is that the shape of the blade is completely different. Yari has a straight blade with a triangular or diamond shape. On the other hand, the blade of a naginata has a greater curve than a katana. The spear is capable of hitting enemies in a straight line with great speed. On the other hand, the naginata can also be used as a yari, but in principle it is used to strike the opponent.
“If all she wanted to do was stay at a safe distance while holding position, it might be better to hold the naginata in front of her like this, but getting it in the air means that if the opponent closes the gap, she can be ready to attack without changing direction.
“I really think this is the correct way to pose with a naginata. This scene shows her swinging as she switches the hand holding the naginata. In fact, she would have killed two people at once. However, the soldiers are ordered to avoid harming Mariko in this scene. Additionally, if Mariko had been an expert with the naginata, she would have struck her enemies with an isizuki, an iron-tipped spear.
“If I had to rate it, I would give it an eight. [out of 10]. From the point of view of reality, this is very good and conditional.”
What Shogun’s Accuracy Means for Reception and the Show’s Future
How historical accuracy helped the FX epic
Shogun was surprisingly well received by both audiences and critics. As of this writing, the series has received 99% ratings. Rotten Tomatoes from critics and 91% from viewers. The show was such a success among viewers that Shogun FX has confirmed that seasons two and three are moving forward, continuing the story of Lord Toranaga as he takes the throne and leads Japan to peace.
Connected
While strong storytelling and performances are undoubtedly reasons ShogunThe success of Russia and its historical authenticity also played a role. Aspects of the show are clearly exaggerated for the sake of entertainment, but The show is based on real historical events and people, focusing on complex human relationships and the struggle for power over fabricated battles.. The action in the series is strong and brutal, but it also serves a purpose, and intense yet subdued sequences like Mariko in Osaka are one of the reasons for the show’s success.
Our View of the Shogun’s Historical Accuracy
Can seasons 2 and 3 be as successful?
The goal of any movie or TV show should be to entertain. Those looking to recreate history one-on-one are probably better off turning to documentaries or non-fiction books. At the same time, ShogunThe commitment to historical accuracy is commendable and has helped give the show a unique tone and storytelling style.. It also helped that the series was about a particularly eventful period in Japanese history.
Historical accuracy is also a reason Shogun Seasons 2 and 3 may face an uphill battle. After all, there is a reason Clavell’s novel begins and ends where it does.and it’s unclear whether actual historical events will cause as much excitement in future seasons. At the same time, Kondo and Marx certainly deserved the presumption of innocence after Shogun The first season and Mariko’s action sequences certainly give a hint of the amazing moments to come.
Source: Insider