Behind Tsuyoshi Kusanagi’s Acclaimed ‘Gobangiri’ Performance Lies Tsuka Kohei’s Teachings

Tsuyoshi Kusanagi’s starring film “Gobangiri” was released on May 17th and has remained in the top 10 of the weekend “Box Office Rankings” even after three weeks. Additionally, it won the Black Dragon Award selected by critics at the Udine Far East Film Festival and is scheduled to be screened at the New York Asian Film Festival, gaining attention overseas.

In this movie, Kusanagi plays Kakunoshin, a ronin who, after being falsely accused of a crime and losing his wife, is driven out of his homeland, Hikone Domain, and lives in poverty in Edo with his daughter Okiku (played by Kasumi Arimura). One day, Kakunoshin and Okiku, informed of the truth behind a tragic false accusation incident by an acquaintance from the old domain, resolve to seek revenge.

Director Kazuya Shiraishi, known for directing acclaimed films such as “The Blood of Wolves” and “The Devil’s Path,” has brought to life the revenge-driven entertainment based on the classic rakugo tale “Yanagita Kakunoshin.”

Kakunoshin, originally portrayed as unyieldingly upright and virtuous to a fault, transforms into a vengeful demon and embarks on a journey. His intense presence is otherworldly, leaving co-stars astonished by his drastic change from his formerly gentle demeanor.

“Taishi Nakagawa, who plays Yajirobei, a servant of the Mangeya clan and a close observer of Kakunoshin, remarked, ‘His ability to gradually intensify his focus from a natural state was astonishing.’ Masachika Ichimura, who portrays Chobei, the boss of the town, and who reunited with Kusanagi after a long time, commented, ‘He’s someone who acts with his soul, so it was a joy to work in the same atmosphere again in this film.’ Saito Takumi, who has often played the antagonist Heikichi, said, ‘There are undiscovered realms that only Tsuyoshi Kusanagi can reach, and he has arrived there.'” (Film’s Producer)

Tsuyoshi Kusanagi’s approach to his roles is truly unique.

“Regardless of which character he plays, Kusanagi memorizes only his own lines and does not read the lines of other cast members. When asked about this, he simply answers, ‘Lines can change on set, and there are other actors to consider, so I express myself based on how I feel in the moment,'” explained a director from the production company.

Approaching performances without reading the script raises questions about whether such a style can truly inform his character portrayal.