From 'House of Ninjas' to 'Outlander', here are 5 shows to fill 'Shōgun' void
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Captivated by the rich tapestry of power struggles and cultural clashes in FX's 'Shōgun'? 'Shōgun' is a historical drama that dives deep into feudal Japan. The series follows John Blackthorne, an English sailor shipwrecked on the Japanese coast.
Initially an outsider, Blackthorne's skills catch the eye of Lord Toranaga, a powerful daimyō on the rise. Blackthorne becomes entangled in Toranaga's quest for ultimate power, the position of shogun. 'Shōgun' promises a captivating journey through a bygone era, filled with complex characters and
However, now that the 'Shogun' has ended leaving fans craving for more historical drama that transports you to another time and place, fans are pondering in the search for more shows like this. Look no further! We've curated a list of 5 binge-worthy shows guaranteed to satisfy your samurai sword-wielding, period piece-loving spirit.
'The Last Kingdom' (2015)
Still, buzzing from the historical intrigue of 'Shōgun'? Look no further than Netflix's 'The Last Kingdom'. Set amidst the brutal landscapes of 9th-century England, this series follows Uhtred, a warrior grappling with a divided identity.
Raised by Danes after his Saxon village is massacred, Uhtred embodies the show's central theme: the struggle for belonging. Filled with heart-pounding battles and political maneuvering, 'The Last Kingdom' mirrors 'Shōgun' in its exploration of loyalty, cultural clashes, and the fight for power in a turbulent period.
Both shows offer rich historical settings brimming with political machinations and the clash of cultures. They delve into the complexities of human relationships, forcing compelling characters to navigate loyalty and power dynamics in a world on the brink.
'House of Ninjas' (2024)
The series on Netflix, 'House of Ninjas' throws you into the heart of Tokyo, where ancient ninja traditions collide with the grit of modern-day crime. Here, a band of skilled vigilantes, led by a seasoned ninja master, fights a shadow war against corruption and injustice.
'House of Ninjas' mirrors 'Shōgun' by offering a deep exploration of Japanese culture. Both shows weave themes of honor, loyalty, and complex power dynamics into their narratives. The protagonists face difficult choices while navigating the intricate systems that govern their societies.
Furthermore, both stories explore the fascinating clash between tradition and modernity. 'Shōgun' delves into feudal Japan, while 'House of Ninjas' portrays the struggle to uphold ancient traditions in a bustling metropolis.
'Age of Samurai: Battle for Japan' (2021)
Yearning for another epic saga set in the heart of feudal Japan? Look no further than 'Age of Samurai: Battle for Japan'.
This historical drama on Netflix transports you to the tumultuous 16th century, a period rife with power struggles and warfare among rival lords. Witness firsthand the relentless ambition, ruthless betrayals, and relentless pursuit of supremacy that defined this era.
'Age of Samurai' shares a kinship with 'Shōgun' by exploring Japan's complex feudal system. Both shows delve into the intricate power struggles and shifting alliances that shaped the nation's history.
Themes of honor, betrayal, and the heavy burden of leadership during wartime come alive on screen, offering a captivating glimpse into the challenges faced by those who ruled and fought during a period of immense upheaval.
'Game of Thrones' (2011)
While not set in Japan, 'Game of Thrones' on Prime Video offers a fantasy world brimming with the same captivating elements that made 'Shōgun' so enthralling. 'Game of Thrones' whisks you away to Westeros, a land where noble families vie for control of the Iron Throne.
Prepare to be drawn into a world of political intrigue, where loyalty is a fickle thing and betrayal lurks around every corner. Just like 'Shōgun', the series boasts complex characters like the brilliant Tyrion Lannister (Peter Dinklage) and the fierce Daenerys Targaryen (Emilia Clarke).
These characters grapple with ambition, morality, and the consequences of their choices in a world where good and evil blur. Both shows excel at weaving intricate narratives that explore the power dynamics of complex societies.
'Outlander' (2014)
The Netflix series 'Outlander' throws a modern woman, Claire Randall (Caitriona Balfe), into the heart of 18th-century Scotland through the magic of time travel.
Thrust into a world vastly different from her own, Claire encounters danger, romance, and a chance encounter with the dashing Highlander, Jamie Fraser (Sam Heughan).
While 'Shōgun' focuses on Japan's feudal system, 'Outlander' offers a captivating exploration of 18th-century Scottish culture. Both shows share thematic threads of cultural clash, navigating unfamiliar societal norms and finding common ground.
Themes of loyalty, love, and the complexities of relationships against a historical backdrop also resonate throughout both narratives. Claire and Jamie, like the characters in 'Shōgun,' face internal and external threats while forging a bond that transcends time.