Ken Watanabe, internationally recognized as Japan’s foremost actor, takes on the demanding role of a Kabuki master in the epic drama Kokuho. The film, which has become a record-breaking box office success, explores decades of rivalry and friendship within the traditional Japanese theatrical world.
A Historical Drama Rooted in Kabuki Tradition
Kokuho,</em translated as “national treasure,” is an Oscar-nominated film for its makeup and hairstyling, set in the distinctive, artistic sphere of Kabuki theater. It traces the intertwined lives of two boys from childhood through adulthood, against the backdrop of Japan’s cultural heritage. Since its release, it has grossed $112 million domestically, securing the title of Japan’s highest-grossing live-action film.
The story starts in 1964 Nagasaki, where 14-year-old Kikuo witnesses the violent death of his father, a yakuza gang leader. This traumatic event leads Kikuo to be mentored by Hanjiro, portrayed by Watanabe, who is revered as the finest actor in Kabuki. Kabuki itself is a classical form of Japanese theater that has flourished for over 400 years, known for its intricate dance, dramatic acting, vibrant costumes, and elaborate makeup. Originally performed by female dancers, Kabuki transitioned to an all-male performance style after women were prohibited from the stage in 1629.
The Challenge of Portraying an Iconic Kabuki Actor
At 66 years old, Watanabe acknowledges the role as the most challenging in his career, given that he is not a Kabuki performer by training. Kabuki actors begin practicing from a very young age, and the art demands a style far removed from conventional acting. Watanabe expressed in a virtual interview,
“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.”
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
His decision to join Kokuho also stemmed from his prior collaboration with director Lee Sang-il, who helmed the 2013 Japanese remake of Clint Eastwood’s Unforgiven. Many who worked with Lee described the experience as grueling but ultimately rewarding.
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
Although initially hesitant due to the immense difficulty and unfamiliar setting, Watanabe accepted the role after appreciating Lee’s passion for the project.
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
Unexpected Success and Wide Audience Appeal
Kokuho posed significant challenges in its presentation, extending to a runtime of three hours without any intermissions, which made it a tough sell before the premiere. Despite concerns about its length and demanding theatrical style, the film quickly gained momentum, especially fueled by social media enthusiasm.
Watanabe reflected on the film’s surprising positive reception across age groups, stating,
“All generations found here a new joy, to see this in the movie theater on the big screen.”
This broad appeal helped the film transform from a niche cultural piece into a nationwide phenomenon, revitalizing public interest in Kabuki’s artistic form.
The Enduring Impact of ‘Kokuho’ and Watanabe’s Role
With the success of Kokuho, Ken Watanabe proves his versatility by convincingly embodying a Kabuki master, navigating a performance style deeply rooted in centuries-old Japanese tradition. The film’s unprecedented commercial and critical achievements highlight the power of cultural storytelling in cinema, while also showcasing Watanabe’s commitment to challenging and diverse roles.
As Kokuho continues to attract audiences worldwide, it is likely to inspire further exploration of Japanese theater in film and introduce Kabuki’s heritage to new generations. Ken Watanabe’s portrayal of Hanjiro stands as a testament to his skill and dedication, reinforcing his status as a bridge between traditional and contemporary Japanese performing arts.
