First American Film Casting

Not too long ago, I received an email from my manager, Taka stating that I’ve been cast in my first American film. It’s a suspense/triller scheduled to film in Virginia this fall.

Although I’ve known about the project for a while because Taka had gotten another Japanese actor cast in it, I was surprised to have gotten a role myself. A few months ago, as the Japanese actor going doesn’t speak a word of English, I suggested to Taka that I go along with him as a translator. I felt it was the least I could do because during the live theatre show I did out here a few months ago, this actor himself came along with me on a few occasions just to make sure that I was okay and that the production management was treating me right.

Beyond that, having been onset and having to work and figure out everything exclusively in Japanese, I know full well just how stressful and difficult it would be on him- 1) because he wouldn’t be able to fully understand directions or what’s going on, and 2) because even if he did, he wouldn’t really be able to ask questions. I’ve had to work my way through that situation on more than one occasion, and I know just how hard it is- especially when you are still ‘fresh’ and trying to prove yourself and/or earn respect.

In any event, after getting the green light to go with Toshi as a translator, Taka told them what I've done so far,and they decided to give me a role in the film myself- complete with speaking lines. The film is being produced by Able Kane, a company that worked with Taka’s company, Quorum on ‘The Box’.

I’ve read the script, and it looks pretty cool. It will also be nice because it doesn’t start until after the action Master’s class, I’m teaching at MSU, so there will be no scheduling conflicts with that as well.

Both the film and the Master’s class will be the first time in my 7 year career that I can work in my own language and my own culture, and that prospect is exciting beyond belief. Can’t wait to get started on both.