Not even bad in a good way

Boring, long, and too preachy.

Each character in this movie — down to the smallest one — is an individual rather than a type, prone to spontaneous changes of mood and sometimes amusing outbursts of pettiness or ill humor.

It is an exhilarating, distressing, funny and profound film, with one of the more memorable film scores in years,

Shogun is an amazing novel, and can be reread countless times yet still present one with overlooked/newly discovered details. To do justice adequately to such a complex/detailed saga seems improbable, yet the miniseries did just that. The acting was spot on, and visually such a feast for the eyes! It really was a great introduction to the roots of Japanese culture, and I learned several words in the language just by reading the book and watching the miniseries. Highly recommend it- you will be sucked in!

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.

"Shogun" was one of the best mini-series in television history and a HUGE event when it debuted in 1980. It managed to do something very unusual--it taught history while entertaining. This is because James Clavell's novel of the same name took real history of Japan during its pivotal Shogun period and mixes it with wonderful fiction.The series stars Richard Chamberlain as an Englishman who is shipwrecked in Japan in the 16th century. He and his fellow shipmates are taken prisoner--and he alone is eventually released. After release, this man learns everything he can about the country--both through observation and with the help of a beautiful female guide appointed to him by this Shogun. This plot device allows the audience to learn through Chamberlain's eyes--and this works very well. In fact, EVERYTHING works well due to some wonderful performances, wonderful location shooting, a lavish budget and a lovely artistry. This bittersweet tale is compelling from start to finish and should be remembered along with the best of its era such as "Roots", "The Winds of War"/"War and Remembrance" and "Holocaust". A must-see.

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****