Shōgun Breaks Streaming Records on FX Platform
Shōgun surpasses The Bear as the most successful FX series debut on Hulu, setting a new benchmark for streaming numbers.
FX's new historical epic Shōgun has made a big splash in the streaming world, attracting a whopping 9 million views across its platforms in its first week. Set in feudal Japan in the 1600s, the series follows Lord Yoshii Toranaga (played by Hiroyuki Sanada) as he navigates political challenges and encounters an English pirate named John Blackthorne. Drawing inspiration from history, the show offers a fictionalized account of the rise of the Tokugawa Shogunate, with Toranaga modeled after Tokugawa Ieyasu. With its grand scale and positive feedback, Shōgun has drawn comparisons to the beloved Game of Thrones series and has been a hit with viewers.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Shōgun's debut episodes have shattered streaming records for Disney and FX. The premiere episode alone garnered an impressive 9 million views worldwide across Hulu, Disney+, and Star+ within the first six days of its release. This milestone marks the best global debut for any Disney General Entertainment scripted series, excluding major franchises like Star Wars, Marvel, and Pixar. Additionally, the show surpassed the season 2 premiere of The Bear to claim the title of FX's best streaming debut on Hulu.
Every Shōgun Adaptation | Rotten Tomatoes Critical Score | Rotten Tomatoes Audience Score |
|---|---|---|
Shōgun (1980) | 80% | NA |
Shōgun (2024-) | 99% | 94% |
Shōgun Streaming Success Explained
The FX/Hulu show received critical acclaim ahead of its premiere.
Toranaga holding his sword during a battle in Shogun episode 3 - The FX/Hulu show received critical acclaim ahead of its premiere. - Shōgun Streaming Success Explained
The latest adaptation of Shōgun from the 1980s version is expected to showcase a more authentic look and accurately depict feudal Japan.
Reviews for Shōgun have been mostly positive, with critics praising its detailed historical Japanese setting, impressive cast performances, and epic storytelling. The show has gained popularity in Japan and the United States for its cinematic quality and faithful portrayal of Japanese culture. Currently, on Rotten Tomatoes, the FX/Hulu series holds a remarkable 99% critical score from 79 reviews and an audience score of 94% from 250 reviews.
Word of mouth likely played a significant role in the success of the recent streaming adaptation of the show, which is not the first time the story has been brought to the screen. Based on James Clavell's 1975 novel of the same name, the first adaptation was the four-part miniseries Shōgun in 1980. This initial attempt at bringing Clavell's work to life was well-received by critics and viewers alike, pushing the boundaries of network TV with its graphic depictions and earning prestigious accolades. The miniseries also helped make the paperback edition of Clavell's novel a bestseller.
However, the reception in Japan for the 1980s version was not as positive, with viewers criticizing the historical inaccuracies portrayed in the adaptation.
The latest Shōgun adaptation is set to improve upon the 1980s version by showcasing a more authentic representation and highlighting the historical accuracy of feudal Japan. Reviewers have pointed out that it stands out from current TV shows due to its ambitious scope. The attention to detail, artistic cinematography, complex Shōgun characters, and exploration of broad political ideas add a level of depth and sophistication not commonly found in modern television. Clavell's extensive work is given the grand treatment it deserves in the Hulu/FX adaptation, spanning all 1,200 pages with remarkable authenticity and grandeur.
WATCH SHŌGUN ON HULU
Editor's P/S:
The article highlights the impressive success of the new historical epic "Shōgun," which has garnered widespread acclaim for its captivating storytelling, authentic historical setting, and stellar performances. The show's record-breaking streaming debut underscores its appeal to a global audience, reminiscent of the beloved "Game of Thrones" series. The positive reception, coupled with the series' ambition and attention to detail, suggests that "Shōgun" has the potential to become a cultural phenomenon and a must-watch for fans of historical dramas.
As a viewer, I am excited to witness the fresh perspective and authentic portrayal of feudal Japan that "Shōgun" offers. The series' commitment to historical accuracy and its exploration of complex political ideas promises a captivating and thought-provoking viewing experience. The overwhelmingly positive reviews and the show's record-breaking success are testaments to its quality and the anticipation for its future episodes.
