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Shōgun Director Prefers Intrigue Over Dragons
2 Jul
Summary
- Shōgun director Jonathan van Tulleken compares it to Succession.
- He notes the show emphasizes dangerous machinations over violence.
- Van Tulleken feels 'Game of Thrones' is not the best comparison.

FX's upcoming series 'Shōgun' is being positioned by its director, Jonathan van Tulleken, not as a fantasy epic, but as a character-driven drama focused on intrigue. Van Tulleken stated that 'Game of Thrones' is not the most fitting comparison for his series.
Instead, the director suggested that 'Succession' or 'House of Cards' offer a more accurate spiritual parallel. He described 'Shōgun' as a dangerous world where the true peril lies in machinations and conversations, rather than overt violence.
While 'Game of Thrones' also delved into complex character dynamics and dialogue, Van Tulleken's comparison implies a different emphasis for 'Shōgun.' The director appears to be steering away from fantasy comparisons, focusing on the nuanced political and interpersonal dangers that define his show.