Actor Toshiro Yanagiba (63) attended the opening day stage blessing for the film “Shinji Muroi: The One Who Continues to Live” in Tokyo on the 15th, where he spoke about the passion he put into his previous work and in which he expressed his works. thanks. He was lost in expressing his feelings to his friends, and there was a scene where there were tears when the audience said, “Thank you, Muroi-san.”
When Yanagiha and others appeared at the event after the main film, the excitement in the theater reached its peak. “Everything was possible because of the support of the people who were here.
“I want to thank you,” said Yanagiha, who expressed her gratitude several times on stage. “I couldn’t be happier as an actor to create work in the place where I was born and raised, and I spent every hour filming on location in my hometown feeling grateful for everything.” receiving a large wreath in her home, she said, “I felt the love of the local people again.”
The time we spent together as “Shinji Muroi” for 27 years. He said he felt again that Muroi was “cool.”“He taught me a lot of things. Sometimes it’s good, sometimes it’s not so good, and it made me realize once again that that’s what a best friend looks like.”My 27 years as Shinji Muroi, I hope I can use out of my life,” he declared, receiving a standing ovation from the audience. “I was able to end my life as Shinji Muroi without any regrets,” he said with a smile on his face.
When his co-star from the TV series, Toshio Kakei, expressed his gratitude, saying, “Thank you, Toshiro Yanagiba!”, he closed his eyes. With a bright red face, something shone in Yanagiha’s eyes as she shared her thoughts, saying, “I have nothing but gratitude for the people I have met through this work…that thank you.”
During the photo session, Yanagiha looked very moved when she saw a panel with the words “Thank you, Muroi-san” written on it by a member of the audience. I couldn’t help but burst into tears as the MC blurted out, “Thank you, Muroi-san!” After bowing deeply, Yanagiha looked at each fan individually and remained as she left the venue.
Since the drama series began in 1997, the series “Odori” has created a devoted following and has created a social phenomenon. The six film series, which are said to have changed the history of Japanese cinema, attracted a total of 35.98 million viewers and grossed more than 48.7 billion yen, making the “Odoru Project” truly legendary. This latest work was previewed from the 8th to the 10th in response to fan requests.
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How has Toshiro Yanagiba’s portrayal of Shinji Muroi evolved over nearly three decades?
Time.news Editor: Welcome, everyone, to this special interview edition of Time.news. Today, we have the distinct pleasure of speaking with renowned Japanese actor and filmmaker Toshiro Yanagiba, who recently attended the opening day stage blessing for his film “Shinji Muroi: The One Who Continues to Live.” Toshiro, thank you for joining us today!
Toshiro Yanagiba: Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to be here.
Editor: Your emotional speech at the premiere resonated deeply with the audience. Can you share what led to that moment of gratitude towards your friends and the fans?
Yanagiba: Definitely. I think as actors, we often forget how much support surrounds us, especially from our friends and fans. During the event, when the audience yelled, ”Thank you, Muroi-san,” it hit me hard. It reminded me of the shared journey we’ve undertaken over the 27 years portraying Shinji Muroi. Those words alone made me reflect on the impact we’ve had together.
Editor: It sounds like that acknowledgment was a significant moment for you. How did it feel to bring this character back after so many years?
Yanagiba: It felt magical. Muroi has been a part of my life for so long, and revisiting him allowed me to reconnect with the essence of who he is. Filming in my hometown brought a wave of nostalgia, reminding me how much I’ve grown both as an actor and as a person. The emotional connection to my roots and the people there was palpable, and I felt their love throughout the filming process.
Editor: Speaking of love, you mentioned receiving a large wreath from local supporters. How does community support influence your work as an actor?
Yanagiba: It’s everything! The love and encouragement from the local community fuel my passion. They help create an environment where art can thrive. I feel deeply grateful to have been able to create work in the place where I was born and raised. Those connections inspire me to pour my heart into my craft.
Editor: You’ve portrayed Muroi for nearly three decades. What lessons has this experience taught you, both personally and professionally?
Yanagiba: Oh, many! Muroi has taught me resilience and the importance of authenticity. He’s shown me that every experience—good or bad—contributes to our growth. In portraying him, I’ve learned to embrace the complexities of human emotions and relationships, which are essential both on and off the screen.
Editor: That’s a profound perspective. As you look to the future, are there any new projects or themes that excite you?
Yanagiba: Absolutely! I’m currently exploring narratives that delve deeper into human connections and societal changes. I want to tell stories that not only entertain but also illuminate truths about our lives and foster understanding among people. The world is changing, and I feel compelled to reflect that in my work.
Editor: As we wrap up, what message would you like to convey to your fans and aspiring actors out there?
Yanagiba: To my fans, thank you for your unwavering support. Know that it means the world to me. And to aspiring actors, never stop believing in yourself. Every role you undertake is a chance to learn and grow. Embrace the journey, and let your passion light the way.
Editor: Thank you, Toshiro. Your insights are truly inspiring, and we can’t wait to see where your artistic journey takes you next!
Yanagiba: Thank you so much! It was a pleasure talking with you.