Shogun star Anna Sawai comments on the stereotypical representation of Japanese woman in the Western Media.

Rising star Anna Sawai is quickly making a huge name for herself in Hollywood. Action fans were blown away by her portrayal of Elle in “F9” where she worked alongside some of the biggest names in the industry. Her talents extend beyond high-octane action, though.
A still from F9
Sawai is gracing our screens in the epic historical miniseries “Shogun,” where she takes on the role of the formidable Lady Mariko. But Anna Sawai isn’t just about great performances. The actress is also using her growing influence to address a critical issue within the industry.

Anna Sawai Wants To See More Depth and Reality In The Female Character

A still from Shogun (2024)

Recently, Anna Sawai spoke to the AV Club alongside her fellow Shogun cast member Hiroyuki Sanada. There, the two spoke a lot about their experiences on the set of the movie and the challenges of bringing this historical epic to life. The conversation soon moved to broader topics on Hollywood stereotypes.

The image of the submissive Japanese woman is a well-worn stereotype in Western media. These portrayals often depict them as being meek, gentle, and eager to please. Sawai said that she is often offered roles that reinforce the stereotype of the submissive woman. However, she is determined to find roles that challenge this stereotype and show the full range of Japanese femininity.

“Why is it now the right time to do a Shōgun adaptation after the 1980 limited series?” The AV Club asked

“I thought it was important to tell Toda Mariko’s story because she’s unlike any figure I’ve seen in Western media. There’s more representation now, and I’m thankful for the opportunities we have and for people like Hiro for paving the way.

But as for Japanese women, we are still categorized to play submissive, quiet ladies—or the one who does action or who is sexy. I wanted to see more depth and reality in the female character. To be able to bring the Japanese nuance of being subtle and sensitive, but having core strength meant a lot to me.” – Anna Sawai replied

Sawai’s role in Shogun is nothing short of phenomenal. Her captivating performance has left fans in awe, completely invested in the series, and eager to see what she does next.

What Is Shogun About?

A still from Shogun (2024)
Based on the 1975 novel by James Clavell, Shogun plunges viewers into the heart of feudal Japan during a period of warring clans and shifting power dynamics. The story centers around John Blackthorne (Cosmo Jarvis), a shipwrecked English pilot, who finds himself thrust into a world far removed from his own.

Blackthorne’s initial defiance clashes with the social hierarchy of Japan, causing him a lot of trouble. However, he catches the eye of Lord Toranaga (Hiroyuki Sanada), a powerful and ambitious feudal lord vying for control.

Blackthorne has to learn the Japanese language and customs while Toranaga fights for power. He finds himself caught between two worlds, with Lady Mariko (Anna Sawai) acting as a bridge between Toranaga and Blackthorne. The first season of Shogun is currently streaming on Hulu and FX.