'Shōgun' Episode 5 Takeaway: John finally loses his cool after Mariko left bloodied
Contains spoilers for 'Shōgun' Episode 5 on FX
OSAKA, JAPAN: FX's historical drama 'Shōgun' immerses viewers in the enthralling age of medieval Japan.
The series, based on James Clavell's book of the same name, follows the journey of John Blackthorne (Cosmo Jarvis), a ship pilot who becomes entangled in the political intrigues of feudal Japan.
The fourth episode hinted at Blackthorne and Toda Mariko's (Anna Sawai) intimacy, with their romance gradually blossoming.
However, things take an unexpected turn with the return of Mariko's husband, Toda Buntaro (Shinnosuke Abe), who is presumed to be dead.
John Blackthorne and Toda Buntaro try to outnumber each other
The dynamics between Mariko and Blackthorne have drastically shifted with Bunatro's reappearance.
Lord Yoshii Toranaga (Hiroyuki Sanada) instructs Buntaro to relocate to Blackthorne's residence to accommodate Mariko's duties as a translator.
It was evident during their supper that Buntaro held strong opinions about Blackthorne, as he appeared to make disparaging remarks about him.
The two make a concerted effort to outshine each other by participating in childish competitions. The first involves seeing who can create the loudest slurping sounds, while the second revolves around determining who can drink the most sake.
John Blackthorne challenges Toda Buntaro to a duel in 'Shōgun' Episode 5
The tension at the dinner table escalated dramatically as Buntaro used Mariko as bait to showcase his archery skills, nearly causing Blackthorne to have a heart attack.
Blackthorne, witnessing her husband's cruel treatment, urges Mariko that she deserves more merit, which infuriates the Buntaro even more.
Later that night, Blackthorne awakens to Toda Mariko's cries. Still confused and inebriated, the pilot becomes furious upon seeing Mariko's bruises after she has been beaten up by Buntaro.
Furious, Blackthorne summons his inner monster and sets out to find Buntaro, challenging him to a battle.
However, Buntaro declines the offer and bends in front of Blackthorne as an apology for creating a ruckus in his house.
The series premiered with its first two episodes on February 27, 2024, on Hulu and FX. The subsequent episodes are scheduled to be released weekly.