Ken Watanabe, Japan’s foremost international actor, embraces a challenging new role in the epic drama Kokuho, which unfolds over several decades. The film, centered on the traditional art of Kabuki theater, has become a cultural sensation, drawing attention for Watanabe’s portrayal of a Kabuki master.
Kokuho, which has earned an Oscar nomination for its makeup and hairstyling, has captivated audiences in Japan, grossing $112 million, making it the top-grossing Japanese live-action film ever. Its title translates to “national treasure,” a term used by the Japanese government to honor exceptional masters in traditional arts.
The Film’s Storyline and Setting
Set in 1964 Nagasaki, Kokuho follows the story of Kikuo, a 14-year-old boy who witnesses his father’s murder. His father was a leader of a yakuza gang, and after his death, Kikuo is mentored by Hanjiro, the Kabuki master played by Ken Watanabe. The narrative tracks the evolution of two close friends who eventually become rivals, all within the world of Kabuki theater.
Kabuki, a classical Japanese theater art form that dates back 400 years, combines dramatic acting with stylized dance, elaborate costumes, and intricate makeup. Originating from a female dance troupe, Kabuki became an all-male performance tradition after women were banned in 1629, enhancing its distinctive style and presentation.
The Artistic Challenge of Portraying a Kabuki Actor
Ken Watanabe acknowledged the enormous challenge this role presented, especially as he is not a Kabuki actor himself. Kabuki performers often begin training at age six, learning an art form vastly different from mainstream acting. In a virtual interview, Watanabe said,
“Totally, yes. I’m not a Kabuki actor and I’m playing a great Kabuki actor. They start to train and practice at six years old. It’s a completely different type of acting than what I do.”
He reflected on his long career, saying,
“But I have 40 years of this career and felt some deep feelings of my spirit that made me think, I can do something here.”
– Ken Watanabe, Actor
Director Collaboration and Film Production
Watanabe chose to work with director Lee Sang-il again after their previous collaboration in the 2013 Japanese adaptation of Clint Eastwood’s Unforgiven. Despite the difficulty of the projects, the actor respects Lee’s dedication. He shared,
“On ‘Unforgiven,’ almost all those who worked with Lee say, ‘That’s so hard! I don’t ever want to work with him again.’ But when we saw the whole movie, we thought, ‘That’s a great film!’ With ‘Kokuho’ everyone has said this is the best film in my career.”
– Ken Watanabe, Actor
Initially hesitant about accepting the role, Watanabe explained,
“But I know his passion and realized, I need to do this. And this movie has been an astonishing success in Japan, breaking all of these records.”
– Ken Watanabe, Actor
Audience Reception and Impact
Kokuho poses challenges for audiences, being a nearly three-hour film with no intermission or breaks. Nonetheless, it quickly gained widespread acclaim shortly after its release due to positive word of mouth and social media buzz.
The film’s appeal crosses generations, as Watanabe noted,
“All generations found here a new joy, to see this in the movie theater on the big screen.”
– Ken Watanabe, Actor
The combination of the film’s rich cultural backdrop, the intense personal drama, and the compelling performances, especially Watanabe’s portrayal of Hanjiro, have contributed to Kokuho’s remarkable box-office success and critical praise.
Why Ken Watanabe’s Role Matters
Ken Watanabe’s embodiment of a Kabuki master holds significance beyond entertainment. It connects modern audiences to classical Japanese culture in a profound way, highlighting the disciplined artistry and tradition of Kabuki theater. His performance bridges the gap between contemporary cinema and centuries-old theatrical heritage.
With strong direction from Lee Sang-il and meticulous craftsmanship in makeup and costume design, Kokuho sets a new standard for Japanese historical drama in film. Its resonance at the box office suggests that stories emphasizing cultural identity and tradition continue to capture widespread attention.
As Kokuho opens internationally, Watanabe’s role promises to introduce global viewers to the exquisite world of Kabuki, potentially inspiring deeper interest in this unique form of Japanese theater and expanding appreciation of Japan’s artistic legacy.
