Shōgun
A show so pacted in detail it could do with a second watch. Admittedly the show is a slow burner. It has action pieces but there are few and for how highly charged the show is the actual cliched romance is minimal. But the writers and directors are so confident in their material that what transpires is a nuanced story. Patience and attention to micro details in words and actions are rewarded with rich visuals, complicated politics, diverse philosopical beliefs and an assumingly respectful take on Japanese history. SPOLIERS It misses out on 5 stars for me as although I'm happy with the choice in how the story ends and for what is equally shown as not shown, it sadly tells rather than shows Toranagas plans. But when it tells, it shows some really poor cgi which was jarring. Up to this point it wasn't incredible but it definitely was more believable. I'm glad no battle happens and it ends with how Toranaga wants the future of Japan to be, which is less bloody. But using Yubishiges death to tell the audience what happens feels weak relative to the rest of the show. Nonetheless I'll be watching it again and can safely say it's going to be one of if not the best mini series of the year.