My hype for the upcoming FX show “Shogun” is no secret. Not only was the miniseries one of our most anticipated shows for 2024, but it also made it to my personal shortlist of the most anticipated shows of the year. Based on the 1975 novel of the same name – and a spiritual successor to the hugely successful 1980 miniseries – this show looked incredible every time we got a new trailer.
However, some people get more than just trailers. While the first two episodes of the 10-episode limited series won’t air until February 27 on FX and arrive on Hulu the following day, a select few critics have already reviewed the entire show.
And the reviews are impressive. After 17 critical reviews, the show receives a perfect 100% “fresh” rating on Rotten Tomatoes. The critical reviews are also impressive, with the lowest rating still achieving an impressive 3.5 out of 5 or 7 out of 10.
In short, everyone loves it.
So let’s take a close look at what critics are saying and why I think Shogun is my top pick for the best series of 2024. In fact, I think it could potentially be the next Game of Thrones.
“Shogun” on FX: Critics call it “prestige drama”
When I wrote about why I’m so excited for this series, I immediately drew comparisons to the HBO hit Game of Thrones. The trailers for this miniseries show the same violence, political machinations, and indoor conversations that made the early seasons of Game of Thrones so great, and given the scope of Shogun, it just feels like a natural comparison.
Based on early reviews, this comparison might be spot on. Nick Clark of the London Evening Standard calls it a “prestige drama on a grand scale,” praise usually reserved for the best HBO shows. Screen Rant’s Mae Abdulbaki calls it “a priority watch” and praises the show for its colorful political intrigue.
And there doesn’t seem to be a lack of excellent dialogue. Decider’s Meghan O’Keefe refers to the verbal battles as “poetry contests”…although I haven’t seen the show myself, there might be literal poetry contests. In any case, she describes the show as “an elaborate historical soap opera full of depth and spectacle.” Sounds like an early “Game of Thrones” to me.
Outlook: “Shogun” seems to be a hit
When multiple reviews call a TV show a “masterpiece,” it’s probably going to be one of the best shows of the year. Especially considering the expectation that it will be a prestige appointment TV based on these initial reviews.
It remains to be seen whether audiences will agree that this is a show they can’t wait to watch. If they pull it off, “Shogun” will be a hit and probably the biggest hit of the year so far. While audiences generally praise the show, it won’t be an exaggeration to say that this will be a favorite for the best show of 2024.
