5 movies to watch if you like Shogun

Shogun is the most exciting new show in the world at the moment, and it’s bringing samurai drama to a whole new audience. So, here are five movies like Shogun that you can get stuck into next.

Like many of you, we are absolutely obsessed with Shogun right now. It’s definitely one of, if not the best TV show of 2024 so far, and we’re not even halfway through the series.

If you’re watching Shogun and feeling like you need more samurai content and historical, epic battles in your life, you’re in luck: there are plenty of great stories out there to explore that have a similar vibe to your new favorite.

So, here are five movies like Shogun that’ll satisfy your samurai cravings and keep you busy while you wait for more episodes of the show.

The best movies to watch if you’re a fan of Shogun

From classic samurai films, to modern period pieces, and another look at Cosmo Jarvis in a different light, here are five movies like Shogun that you’re sure to love.

Seven Samurai (1954)

Columbia Pictures

This may be an obvious one, but for those who are brand new to samurai stories, what better place to start than the very best of them all? Seven Samurai comes from iconic director, Akira Kurosawa, and has inspired countless other films and TV shows since its release way back in 1954.

When a poor village comes under attack from bandits, the inhabitants hire a team of mercenaries to protect them. Chaos and violence ensue, as you can imagine, and this’ll be perfect for anyone who loves the more intense battle scenes in Shogun.

Where to watch: rent on Amazon Prime Video

Silence (2016)

Paramount

A white man washing up on the shores of a foreign land, being imprisoned, and forming bonds with his captors—sounds familiar, right? Martin Scorsese took a break from gritty mobster movies to deliver one of the most profound and affecting religious epics back in 2016, and he had a stellar cast to bring the story to life, too.

If Shogun’s more disquieting and unsettling moments and the fascinating dynamics between prisoner and natives have you on the edge of your seat, Silence is the way to go.

Where to watch: free with Amazon Prime Video subscription

Ran (1985)

TOHO

Akira Kurosawa may have peaked with Seven Samurai, but none of his movies are more stunning and technically mind-blowing than Ran. To be fair, he did have 30 years to perfect his craft before he put together this monumental movie.

From the set design, the vivid colors popping on screen, and the sheer scale of the rivalries between warring factions, Ran is probably the closest companion piece to Shogun on this list.

Where to watch: free with BFI via Amazon Prime Video

Calm with Horses

Altitude Films

Cosmo Jarvis’ portrayal of John Blackthorne in Shogun is likely to be a real breakthrough for the actor, but he’s actually made a couple of decent movies before. While Lady Macbeth showcased a softer side to the performer, his turn as Arm in Calm with Horses (or Shadow of Violence as the film is also known) really lets Jarvis let out his wild side.

The movie also stars everyone’s favorite movie weirdo, Barry Keoghan, and it’s a story of twists and turns and crime and carnage. Perfect for anyone who likes the messy vibes of Shogun, and Cosmo Jarvis in general.

Where to watch: rent on Amazon Prime Video

The Assassin

Wide Release Co.

There are very few great modern movies that have been able to capture the essence of the samurai tales of old, but The Assassin is about as close to those legendary movies like Seven Samurai and Ran. It’s a totally different take on the sub-genre, though, most notably because it puts a female protagonist front and center.

With exceptional visuals, thrilling combat, and a story inspired by ancient martial arts stories, The Assassin is the perfect blend of paying tribute to the past while possessing the energy and dynamism of the modern era.

Where to watch: free with Amazon Prime Video

They should keep you busy for a while. If you want more from Shogun, check out what we know about what Shogun means, whether Shogun is based on a true story, and if the show is based on a book. If you need more small screen recommendations, here are all the best TV shows streaming this month.

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