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"I do not want to escape into the traditional or conventional life. I would rather throw my whole being into the 'frantic' life."
"I would rather be known as an actor instead of a 'STAR'."
<Sanada has a unique ability to exist in both the bright glittery world and the 'shibui' world. And that is the fascinating charm he shows in Aegis. This movie shows the battle between the men of different convictions or beliefs and how one man (Sengoku) single-handedly jumps into the fight to retake the Aegis transport ship from the terrorists.>
"I know it is the typical MACHO MALE role in the story lines, but it was such a meaty part that I thought this type of entertainment was needed in today's JAPANESE MOVIE industries and that is why I threw myself into the 'TOUGH' men's world." (laughter)
"Where does JAPAN stand, and how is she evolving? I think we have to come out and show our intent. As far as this production went, it (the movie) showed the problems we face and hopefully this will give the audiences something to think about and to chew on. That was part of my thought process and also made me plunge into the MACHO role." (laughter)
"Lately, I started to feel that if any portion of the production, be it (the role, the screenplay, the book, the director, or the costars) is missing, it will not move me to be in it. I guess I have reached that certain age when this kind of thought crosses one's mind. (laughter) I wonder, 'How many more years do I have left to work?'. After all, we do dedicate and give a large part of our lives to the movie making and that is why, I want to be absolutely sure that this is the right part in every way, before I commit myself."
<We saw this dedication to his work at the movie shoot. His main objective in making this movie was to make a film that will equal the foreign films and to show the originalities of the Japanese movies.>
"I believe the days of imitating HOLLYWOOD is over. So when we make the movies, we try not to use the so-called 'catchy' scenes. I asked for a consultation with the director or the staff to talk this over and even if it seemed OK, I persevered to go one step further."
"In that sense, I believe this movie is not the 'showcase for the STAR' as in HOLLYWOOD. There is a big fight scene, but I didn't feel it was an 'ACTION' film, but rather a continuation of the play. I, as Sengoku, fight them huffing and puffing, wheezing and groaning. (laughter) I thought it was idealistic for an actor to show that carnal side of him. It might be OK for the 'STAR' to be able to do everything (like a superhero) but I prefer to be an actor."
<Sanada is speaking softly in the calm tone, but he is proud of his work. He is sure of his calling (his career). It shows in his relationship with his co-stars, Sato Koichi and Nakai Kiichi, who are all about the same age.>
"We are not chummy (or buddy buddy) at all. We don't talk much, but in our quiet ways, through our roles (acting) show our respect and admiration with the 'stoic' friendships. (laughter) It was a very comfortable and pleasant scene. Probably it comes from our being confident in our fields, we don't have to show off, nor try to outdo each other. We compete fair and square and we show our appreciation for each others' talent. I think it is important for both men and women to have those feelings. And as I look at them, I was reminded again, of their work ethics and that is where their charm lies."
<When these three met at the private showing of their completed film, they had a chuckle or two about themselves.>
"We thought when we reached 40, we would be more like the mature adults... but we are still wet behind our ears. But funny thing is, we kinda like the feeling of being the naughty kids. (laughter) Because I still feel young. I feel adventurous to try anything. It's shaking and rattling out there... the fear of opening the door. I bet there would be a bigger challenge, higher waves, when one becomes an adult."
"So shall we play conservative or shall we shed our armour and jump in and take a risk? well, I would take a chance, and choose an adventure."
"I met some GREAT giants of directors overseas and though they are mature men, and aware of the world situation, they still had those innocent child-like qualities. They hadn't forgotten to be like a child. They were absolutely charming. I want to be an old 'geezer' like them. (laughter) I don't want to be boxed into the rigid mould. Instead, I want to throw myself into an exciting future... an unknown one, but the one that will quicken my heart beat."
<Everyone has to be responsible for his growth, and with that knowledge, go forth with the 'free spirit' and that requires the maturity and truly, it is the sign of adulthood, of manhood>
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