I nearly ruined the experience of watching Shogun on Hulu, take my advice to avoid the same mistake - Opinion

I have started watching FX and Hulu’s Shogun series and while it’s been incredible viewing so far, I regret starting it so soon.

Thanks to the instant availability offered by streaming services like Hulu, Netflix or Disney+, we have become accustomed to binge-watching shows but the release schedule for FX’s Shogun means that’s not possible unless you can stay patient.

What is Shogun about?

Shogun is a limited series based on the bestselling novel of the same name by James Clavell which is inspired by real-life individuals from Japanese history.

The 2024 series is the second TV adaptation of the acclaimed book following a five-episode series from NBC back in 1980.

Set in the year 1600, during Japan’s Sengoku period – a time of near-constant civil war – Shogun weaves together several plotlines throughout its grandiose narrative.

At the heart of the tale is the under-fire Lord Yoshii Toranaga who must fight for his life as his enemies unite against him. Meanwhile, the series also follows the exploits of an English sailor, John Blackthorne, who ends up stranded in feudal Japan after his ship is marooned.

Their fates are linked by their translator, Toda Mariko, who is the last member of a once proud family.

I started watching Shogun and quickly regretted it

Let me begin by stating that I’ve absolutely adored what I’ve seen of Shogun so far.

The historical epic, set in feudal Japan, is well worthy of its near-perfect Rotten Tomatoes score (currently sitting at 99% after debuting at 100%) and the comparisons that have been made between it and Game of Thrones are fully deserved.

The rising tension in the opening episodes makes for enthralling viewing and each twist and turn surrounding the fates of both Toranaga and Blackthorne has had me on the edge of my seat and yelling for more at the end of each episode.

My biggest issue with the series, however, is that it’s so good I want to delve into the next episodes as quickly as I can but thanks to its weekly release schedule and the fact that I’ve started it so soon, that’s not possible.

Instead, I’m going to have to endure the agony of having to pace myself and eagerly await the release of upcoming episodes as one would have to with traditional TV – ugh, how old-fashioned.

However, if the remainder of the series is anywhere near as good as the opening few episodes then I’m sure it’ll be well worth the wait.

When does the series finish?

In total, Shogun will consist of 10 episodes.

Following its two-episode premiere on February 27, the remaining eight chapters will be released weekly on Tuesdays.

That means the series will continue airing until the tenth and final episode arrives on April 23, 2024.

Shogun is airing weekly on FX and Hulu in the US and Disney+ internationally.