Based on the 1975 novel by James Clavell, Shōgun has been delighting fans and critics as no other historical TV series has. From unexpected action to some of the most complex yet intriguing characters, the miniseries is one hell of a ride that leaves fans wanting more.
A series that is definitely emotionally challenging, exhilarating, and tiring, Shōgun is the work of Rachel Kondo and Justin Marks with the lead star Hiroyuki Sanada also serving as the producer. Debuting with excellent reviews, the series’ latest episode 9 has achieved the highest episode-wise rating from critics and fans can hardly disagree.
Shōgun Episode 9 Receives Brilliant Rating From Critics
In a world where cross-media adaptations are normal, Shōgun redefines the whole culture and process of the art. A historical drama based in 17th-century Japan, the series is a brilliant example of how adaptations and historical dramas should be: authentic with a twist of originality and creativity.
Hence, the series has an impeccable audience and critical ratings, with a brilliant 99% on Rotten Tomatoes. Yet it is the series’ latest episode 9 that seems to have outdone the rest of the equally intriguing previous episodes. On IMDb, Crimson Sky currently has a shocking 9.6 out of 10 rating with 4.4K reviews, making it the highest-rated episode of the historical drama series.
SPOILER ALERT
An exceptionally crafted episode with a brilliant deception that no one could have foreseen, the episode is focused on Mariko, played by Anna Sawai. Without delving much into the details, despite the episode promising a catastrophic battle, as the episode’s title suggests, one thing leads to another and Mariko is on the verge of committing seppuku.
A Christian by faith but a Samurai by duty, Mariko is confused yet chooses to go through it. While she does die eventually, honorably while at it, the whole episode is a confusing ride full of twists and turns that the audience least expected.
Yet despite its complications and explosive storyline, Crimson Sky is an episode crafted with exceptional care and meticulousness (see Polygon). And the efforts of the creators have certainly yielded incredible results as even the fans agree with the episode’s critical ratings.
Fans React to Shōgun’s Crimson Sky’s Excellent Critical Ratings
From the chemistry between Blackthrone and Mariko to Mariko’s eventual win over Ishido, episode 9 of Shōgun is no less than a masterclass in suspense and intrigue. Even Mariko’s unfortunate yet triumphant end was the perfect way to end the episode. And so when Crimson Sky achieved the highest-ever episode-wise ratings of the show, fans were hardly surprised.
As the news went viral, this is how many of the fans reacted on the internet:
I mean, that episode was jaw-dropping and heart-wrenching. 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾
— Brianne Russel Sales (@rhustle18) April 19, 2024
For a show that I think most expected more action, it’s extremely well written and acted and the dialogue alone has tremendous consequences
— Ronnie Serpico (@RonnieSerp) April 19, 2024
The episode broke my heart
— OB (@GhostRMCF) April 19, 2024
Damn good adaptation. pic.twitter.com/IwurwXAG1l
— Eric Pellinen (@EricPellinen) April 19, 2024
That episode was cinema, the last one probably will be just as good. I didn’t read the book and it hasn’t been spoiled but yeah, e9 was wonderful minus the ending 😒
— Jay son's son (@Jaysonsson1) April 20, 2024
Undoubtedly the best character! I watched yesterday and she totally breaks my heart. pic.twitter.com/r7z79mgZRn
— Bai He (@Baihe12345) April 20, 2024
With the final episode of the miniseries left, airing next week, expectations among fans and critics are definitely high. With the series consistently delivering the best throughout its run, the last and final episode 10, A Dream of a Dream is expected to be an epic feast.
Shōgun can be streamed on Hulu.
