Excerpts from the interview:
Ryoma Takeuchi said he was strongly inspired by Machida's approach to practice. Can you tell us why you continue to face your role in such a dedicated manner?
It's because I have no choice but to do it (laughs). It might be something common among people involved in creating works, but we know that there is joy at the end of accomplishing things in a dedicated stoic manner, so we can work hard because we want to feel that joy.
Speaking of “10DANCE,” I originally did dance myself and had a past where I aspired to become a professional dancer. Although I gave up on my dream of becoming a professional along the way, I felt something like fate when I received this offer in such a roundabout way.
That's why, for my past self who held onto that frustration, I decided to face this role properly and see it through. Also, it might be because there is a set deadline for tackling difficult roles that I can work hard. If it were lifelong, even I wouldn't be able to do it (laughs).
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How do you spend your time off?
I'm from Gunma and I like hot springs because Ikaho Onsen and Kusatsu Onsen are close. It is so relaxing that the skin is puffed up. I also like taking a morning bath. It's also nice to go in while it's cold. When I go on a hot spring trip, I am the type to soak in hot springs many times from morning to night.
Is there anything you usually do to adjust your mind and body?
I like to move my body. Moving my body makes me feel better, and I also train on a daily basis. But as I get older, I feel that maintenance is also necessary, so I try to go to chiropractic.
From the time I was over 30 years old, I also became aware to take care of myself. I love using the Mytrex massage gun *, and that's why I couldn't let go of it during the filming of “10DANCE.” When I had a little free time, I kept putting it on my body. I brought it with me when I was filming in England, and I even used it on the plane.
Is there anything else you must take with you for a long-term location or trip?
Pillow! I like the custom-made one made by measuring the length of my neck. I can't sleep without it anymore. It is truly an essential item.
Is there anything you eat for your health?
I'm always careful about nutritional balance. But I actually have a great love for sweets. There are times when I eat them to an excessive extent. All sweets are welcome. I love both Japanese and Western sweets.
Finally, could you tell us your ‘charm point’?
I wonder... it might be my really big hands. In the film, these large hands are shot symbolically. Please pay attention to the expression of my hands.
* the Mytrex massage gun is a nasty looking gadget that looks like a vibrator. 😈
