Slice of Japanese life

appearing as an actor in (2010).

On his worst acting experience, he said: “It’s a bit off-topic but it was when I had no acting offers, since I can’t call myself an expresser if I have no place to prove my existence.”

is one of 14 movies and an anthology to be shown at the 14th Japanese Film Festival. Takumi also has a supporting role in another film presented at the festival, organised by The Japan Foundation KL.

For Takumi, film festivals are wonderful. “It’s a journey with encounters and also beginnings — a wonderful space for the film enthusiasts to meet people without any concerns.”

On the appeal of the Japanese Film Festival offerings to Hollywood blockbuster fans, Takumi says he would like cinema-goers to know the current situation of Japanese cinema with this festival. “It’s also necessary for us (directors) to realise the entertainment that satisfies audiences.”

An avid cinematic fan, Takumi has seen several movies more than twice, such as

by Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu, by Nicolas Winding Refn, and

by Xabier Dolan.

“I believe that it’s more of whether I’m moved or not, rather than the techniques used. So I watch them many times to find a way to bring the films I’m involved in to that level,” he said.

As for Malaysian films, he revealed that he was interested in directors like Yasmin Ahmad (of fame) and Ah Niu

Being his first visit to Malaysia, Takumi said: “The audience reactions will be the biggest souvenir to take home.”

The Japanese Film Festival began yesterday and runs till Sept 13 in the Klang Valley at GSC Cinemas in Mid Valley, Pavilion KL, NU Sentral and 1Utama. It’ll then tour Penang (GSC Gurney Plaza) from Sept 14 to 17, Kuching (GSC CityONE Megamall) from Sept 21 to 24, and Kota Kinabalu (GSC Suria Sabah) from Sept 29 to Oct 2.

All films are presented in Japanese with English subtitles. For details, visit jfkl.org.my. Tickets are priced at RM8, except

and which will be sold at the prevailing GSC box office price.

Tickets for all screenings can be purchased at the GSC box office or www.gsc. com.my.