In FX’s 10-episode limited series “Shōgun”, Anna Sawai plays the role of Toda Mariko, a devoted Christian trying to overcome societal barriers, a disgraced family lineage, and an abusive marriage to find her own purpose. Sawai’s journey to embody Mariko was a meticulous one, requiring her to learn various skills to represent 1600 Japan authentically. She found natural clarity in the role, despite the cultural details.
To prepare for the role, Sawai learned about wearing a kimono, which consists of seven layers of clothing that restrict movement. She also studied period speech, which is almost Shakespearean, and mastered an English accent different from her own. The lengthy shoot helped her become comfortable with the new skills, as she was able to refine them over time.
Sawai revealed that there were moments when things went wrong and she had to stop and have a laugh about it. She recalled a scene where Cosmo Jarvis’ foot fell asleep, causing him to stop suddenly, and she had to maintain a serious face. She also joked that wearing the kimono was a challenge in itself, as it restricted her movements.
One of the aspects that interested Sawai was the concept of wanting permission to take one’s own life. She understood that this was a common practice in 1600 Japan and saw Mariko’s story as a reflection of that era. Mariko’s desire to take her own life was rooted in her father’s death and her sense of betrayal by those around her.
A Still From Shogun 2024 (Photo: Shogun)
Sawai’s portrayal of Mariko’s transformation was impressive, as she went from being aimless to finding clarity and purpose. She said that Mariko’s journey was well-written and that she felt a deep connection to the character. She also credited her fellow cast members, particularly Hiro Sanada and Rachel Kondo, for their input and guidance.
The dynamic between Mariko and Blackthorne was a highlight of the series for Sawai. She said that Mariko was skeptical of Blackthorne at first, but their connection grew as they spent more time together. She praised the natural way their bond developed, saying that it wasn’t planned but rather something that happened organically.
When asked if she saw Mariko as a hero, Sawai replied that she didn’t. She believed that Mariko didn’t regard herself as a hero and that her actions were driven by her own purpose rather than a desire to be heroic. Sawai also identified the death of Mariko’s father as the biggest villain or threat to her existence, saying that it shaped her and influenced her choices.
Sawai’s performance in “Shōgun” was a testament to her dedication and commitment to the role. Her cultural odyssey in portraying Mariko was a complex and challenging one, but she emerged victorious, bringing depth and nuance to the character.
