Kimura Takuya’s Bid to Redefine His Image Through Supporting Roles and Production

Released on July 10th.

“In the article titled “Kimura Takuya as a Salaryman in the Drama ‘Believe’: The Criticism of ‘Kimura Takuya in Any Role’ as Proof of a ‘Great Star’,”

In an article titled “The Conditions for Being a Big Star,” it was written that being able to attract money and people is one of the conditions for being a big star. In this regard, Kimura meets the conditions sufficiently. Therefore,

“Isn’t it fine to just say ‘Anything Kimura does is great’?”

I wrote that story. Nowadays, it seems that the drama production side also accepts that approach. 

However, Kimura himself once said in a variety show that he was worried about being ridiculed in this way. There is no doubt that he is concerned about it, but is he really trying to escape from it?

However, Kimura himself once revealed on a variety show that he was troubled by being teased in that way. It’s clear that he cares about it, but is he trying to break free from it?

Even among the big stars of the Showa era, there were actors who made you feel like no matter what role they play, they’re still XX. While that may be true when you think about it, what prevented that feeling was that they were eccentric and could fit into any role seamlessly. To put it simply, they made you feel like “there really is such a XX.

However,

“On the other hand, there are too many cases where Kimura-san feels like there’s no one like this XX.”

The veteran film reporter says this.

“It’s not that everything is bad. HERO was a success, but his role as a kamikaze pilot in the film ‘I Won’t Forget You’ was terrible. The reason he’s called an idol in costume is because, unlike the big stars of the Showa era who looked authentic in their roles, such as military uniforms or work clothes, Kimura doesn’t fit those costumes as well. For example, Ken Takakura looked fitting in any role, whether as a soldier, a railway worker, a tough guy, or a prisoner; his costumes always suited him.”

 

Kimura is likely putting effort into his roles, but it’s not working out well. However, this is not solely Kimura’s fault; it’s also a problem with the production side, which tends to set up the main character as an unconventional and cool hero. 

“The production side wants Kimura-san to be a hero, so it’s inevitable. However, if this continues, his acting range will never expand. It would be better for him to take on more supporting roles.

Even after Ken Takakura became a big star, he played many supporting roles. All the top actors currently in the spotlight have also gained experience from numerous supporting roles, which has helped them refine their craft.” (same film reporter)

Taking on many supporting roles not only allows an actor to play a variety of characters but also helps them learn how to perform subtly to highlight the lead actor. This expands their acting range, and as their skills improve, they naturally become better suited for different roles.

 

Moreover, it’s unfortunate for him that he’s been used by people obsessed with short-term numbers. If he aims for greater success, it would be better not just to be used but to produce or direct his own projects, according to a film producer.

 

“He’s over 50 now and has built a career as an actor. If he starts producing, he will be responsible for any failures and must bear that responsibility. Through trial and error in figuring out what to do next, his self-production skills will improve.

 

Look at Yujiro Ishihara or Katsu Shintaro, or Tom Cruise abroad. Even if he doesn’t act, he should follow their example. Many actors who have been involved in productions led by them, such as Jamie Foxx and Robert Downey Jr., have won awards. I believe Kimura-san could also change by doing this.”

 

Kimura joined the former Johnny’s office in 1987 and made his drama debut just a year later. With a career spanning 37 years, he has appeared in over 50 dramas and more than 10 films. Given how many actors admire Kimura, many would likely want to work with him if he took on a producing role. 

Since marrying Shizuka Kudo in 2000, Kimura has been free from any scandals, including those related to his relationships. 

However, he still faces criticism on social media, and such incidents are reported. Recently, he received a flood of negative comments about a photo he posted on his Instagram.

Kimura’s style in the photo, where he is sitting on a motorcycle wearing a cap, black-rimmed glasses, and a bandana covering his mouth, seemed to give critics a perfect opportunity to attack him.

“There’s no excuse for dressing like this after 50.”

“Do you have to ride a motorcycle? Do you have to look cool? Do you have to act tough?”

These comments reflect a negative reaction to Kimura’s lifestyle. 

 

Whether over 50 or 60, and even as a celebrity, it should be up to him what he wears or rides in his private time.

 

It seems that critics always want to comment on everything Kimura does.

 

In the Japanese entertainment industry, it’s rare to find a talent who is constantly in the spotlight and frequently criticized. We can only hope that Kimura will grow as an actor and eventually impress even his critics.