Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa "Rising Sun" 7/11/93 - Bobbie Wygant Archives

Summary of the Video (Interview Segment)

The video appears to be an interview segment from the Bobbie Wygant Archives, featuring actor Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa. The discussion covers his background and his film “Rising Sun” (7/11/93), including how Japanese audiences may receive the movie and what it was like working with Sean Connery.

Personal Background and Identity

• Tagawa explains he was born in Tokyo (Japanese by birth), but grew up in the United States because his father served in the U.S. Army, and the family moved every two years.
• He describes a persistent sense of “Japanese” presence in his identity and mind, even while living in America.
• He says he speaks Japanese (bilingual) because his mother spoke to him in Japanese, though he often responded in English.
• He expresses a desire for future generations to know Japanese, but emphasizes he doesn’t want to force it on his children—preferring to pass on “the good aspects” of Japanese culture.
• He clarifies his marriage: his spouse is described as a white woman from San Diego, but with an upbringing/personality he characterizes as “very Japanese.”

Expectations for Japanese Reception of “Rising Sun”

• Tagawa predicts Japanese audiences will be critical of portrayals of themselves, arguing the most accurate image is the one Japan creates internally; outside depictions tend to invite scrutiny.
• He also notes a potentially positive factor: Japanese admiration for Sean Connery. He suggests Connery’s involvement could increase interest and approval.

Working With Sean Connery

• Tagawa recalls that first working with Connery was initially scary, due to Connery’s legendary presence and charisma.
• He says the pressure eased when he realized Connery is “human” and also generous.
• He emphasizes that Connery’s character comes across as respectful and dignified, which aligns with what Tagawa values.

Cultural Differences: Japan vs. America

Tagawa’s core cultural comparison is:

• Japan builds society around relationships
• America emphasizes individualism, often treating the lone person as the hero

He contrasts working dynamics, arguing that Japanese life often centers on mutual reliance and support.

What Japan Might Learn From America (and Vice Versa)

• Tagawa argues Japan can feel intense because a large population (he cites 110 million) lives in a small area, which may contribute to perceptions of reservedness or limited space.
• On creativity, he rejects the stereotype that Japanese people lack creativity, citing Japanese art and history as evidence.
• He suggests Americans may contribute freedom of mind—the ability to explore possibilities with fewer constraints.

Film-Making Ambitions

• Tagawa says he has not yet made a film entirely with Japanese actors, but would consider it someday.
• He feels it would be unrealistic to think he could do better than Japanese creators/actors.
• He also mentions he is currently involved in a Hawaiian project funded by the state of Hawaii, where he speaks exclusively Japanese, requiring him to approach the situation differently than expected.

Presenters or Contributors

• Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa — interviewee
• Bobbie Wygant — interviewer (implied by the archive title)