Shōgun series stars thank masterful Canadian crew

Shōgun is a thrilling, emotional and action-packed adventure series on Disney+ in Canada, showcasing Canada's film and TV resources.

The new FX series Shōgun on Disney+ in Canada, based on James Clavell's novel, is a captivating, emotional, and action-packed adventure that not only entertains but also showcases the force of Canada's film and TV resources.

Shōgun, available on Disney+ in Canada and Hulu in the U.S., is set to be released on Feb. 27. The series, created by Rachel Kondo and Justin Marks, stars Hiroyuki Sanada, Cosmo Jarvis, Anna Sawai, Tadanobu Asano, Hiroto Kanai, Takehiro Hira, Moeka Hoshi, and Tommy Bastow, with 10 episodes.

According to Hiroyuki Sanada, the star and producer of the show, Vancouver was the perfect place to film a samurai drama due to its beautiful studio and natural surroundings. The Japanese and Canadian crew collaborated to create an authentic and detailed set, with the extras from Vancouver working diligently to bring the story to life.

Cosmo Jarvis, Sanada's co-star, also praised the Canadian crew for their technical proficiency and attention to detail, which was essential in bringing the script to life. The collaboration between the Japanese and Canadian crew was crucial in executing the series with care and precision.

Set in Japan in 1600, Shōgun follows Lord Yoshii Toranaga, played by Sanada, as he faces the Council of Regents who have united against him. The story unfolds as English pilot John Blackthorne, portrayed by Jarvis, becomes the first Englishman to reach "the Japans," raising suspicion and tension among the characters.

Anna Sawai's character, Mariko, plays a significant role in the story, and Sawai was particularly moved by the commitment to authenticity in Shōgun. She emphasized the importance of proper representation and authenticity in portraying Japanese characters, which was achieved through collaboration and learning from Japanese experts.

Sanada, as a producer, ensured the involvement of a specific Japanese crew with expertise in various aspects of the samurai drama. The series was shot chronologically, allowing the actors to develop their dynamic organically, with Jarvis staying in character even when the cameras weren't rolling.

Sanada praised Sawai for mastering her role, stating that no one else could have played Mariko due to the complexity of the character. He also commended Jarvis for his dedication to learning Japanese and mastering his character's language.

Overall, Shōgun is a testament to the collaborative efforts of the Japanese and Canadian crew, bringing an authentic and captivating samurai drama to the screen. The series not only entertains but also highlights the talent and resources available in Canada's film and TV industry.

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