Shogun. Poster of the 2024 TV series and cover of the 1975 book, Shōgun
VS3
Shogun
James Clavell, 1975
TV series vs book
Justin Marks, Rachel Kondo, 2024-

Taking place in the 17th century, the story centers on John Blackthorne, a sailor who ascends from being an outsider to becoming a samurai. Throughout this journey, he becomes a pawn in the power struggle orchestrated by Japanese leader Toranaga, who seeks to ascend to the pinnacle of the ruling chain, known as Shogun.


The Children's Story. Poster of the 1982 movie and cover of the 1981 book
VS3
The Children's Story
James Clavell, 1981
movie vs book
James Clavell, 1982

In a recently established totalitarian government, a new teacher is assigned to a classroom of young children, replacing the previous instructor who is removed. The fresh educator challenges the students’ perceptions of their world, with young Johnny posing questions. Despite the teacher skillfully manipulating the truth into seemingly rational answers, the children quickly begin to adopt the new perspective.


Shogun. Poster of the 1980 TV series and cover of the 1975 book, Shōgun
VS3
Shogun
James Clavell, 1975
TV series vs book
Jerry London, 1980

John Blackthorne, an English ship pilot, finds himself in a predicament when his vessel crashes on the Japanese coast in the early 17th century. Forced to navigate the complex political landscape, he becomes entangled in a power struggle between Toranaga and Ishido, the two most influential figures in Japan at the time. As they vie for the coveted title of Shogun, Blackthorne becomes a key player in a war that will determine the ultimate wielder of power.


Shogun. Poster of the 1980 movie and cover of the 1975 book, Shōgun
VS3
Shogun
James Clavell, 1975
movie vs book
Jerry London, 1980

John Blackthorne, an English ship pilot, finds himself in a predicament when his vessel crashes on the Japanese coast in the early 17th century. Forced to navigate the complex political landscape, he becomes entangled in a power struggle between Toranaga and Ishido, the two most influential figures in Japan at the time. As they vie for the coveted title of Shogun, Blackthorne becomes a key player in a war that will determine the ultimate wielder of power.


Noble House. Poster of the 1988 TV series and cover of the 1981 book
VS3
Noble House
James Clavell, 1981
TV series vs book
Gary Nelson, 1988

Pierce Brosnan takes the lead in this gripping miniseries portraying rivalry, extortion, and murder within the high-stakes business milieu of Hong Kong. Ian Dunross assumes the title of ‘Tai-Pan’ (supreme leader) of a formidable trading company just as a rival endeavors a hostile takeover.


King Rat. Poster of the 1965 movie and cover of the 1962 book
VS3
King Rat
James Clavell, 1962
movie vs book
Bryan Forbes, 1965

Taking place in a Japanese POW camp during World War II, this adaptation of the James Clavell novel follows an American corporal who orchestrates several lucrative schemes within the camp’s confines.


Tai-Pan. Poster of the 1986 movie and cover of the 1966 book
VS3
Tai-Pan
James Clavell, 1966
movie vs book
Daryl Duke, 1986

Taking place in 19th-century China, Dirk Struan, a power-hungry community leader, harbors ambitious plans for expansion in Hong Kong. However, his aspirations face numerous challenges as rivals emerge, aiming to overthrow him and seize his coveted position for themselves.