Q
What’s your impression on the character of Tamako Tanaka?
A
She loves working and always strives to do her best. Despite being sexually harassed or being in the midst of unreasonable demands by her bosses, she keeps calm and carries on with her work. But when her friends were mistreated, she would go help them without any hesitation. Tamako has a side of her that’s a bit reckless, as she suddenly decides to start her own restaurant with no practical experience, but she’s not exactly a career-oriented or an “off-the-wall” type of woman. So I hope to play her as someone who is in between those two types.
Q
Considering that all of the cast members are distinctly unique, what do you look forward to the most in working with them?
A
As each character being extremely unique and having talented actors who can bring these eccentric characters to life, I’m very excited to see how the dialogues between the characters will be played out in the story. We never really know how it would turn out until we actually shoot the scenes, so I’m always looking forward to our filming.
Q
Many of your scenes are shot with other actresses. How do you feel about being on the set with mostly women? Do you ladies engage in girl talk?
A
“Girl talk”… Well, I guess we do. I grew up with brothers, so I naturally feel more relaxed around boys. But I think I can have more frank conversation when I’m talking with girls.
Q
One of the overarching themes of this drama is about encouraging women to stand up for themselves. Any comment on that?
A
Personally I’m supportive of the overall idea of a society where women can live full, self-determined lives, so I’m very happy to be involved in this kind of drama featuring such focus. In the first episode, there are scenes depicting discrimination against women. but later in the episode, Tamako successfully takes revenge. Such scenes are refreshing to watch. There will be more of these feel-good moments in the story, so I hope viewers will enjoy it.
Q
Any new or challenging things for you in starring in this drama?
A
Playing the role of Tamako who is not exactly a tough, collected woman, but not a scatterbrained, spontaneous person either, is definitely a challenge for me. I constantly question myself how far I can go in my acting. I’ll continue working closely with the director and explore together how we can make the best of the character.
Q
Mr. Masahiro Higashide plays the head chef of Tamako’s rival restaurant. This is your first time co-starring with Mr. Higashide, correct?
A
Yes. He’s always very relaxed and seems like a perfect young gentleman. I’ve liked him even before shooting this drama. My heart races a bit whenever I’m around him. *laugh*
Q
What are fun elements in this drama as a comedy?
A
One of the characters, Heidi Oshimazuki (Kei Yasuda) is gay, and Kyoko Morimura (Asami Usuda) always assumes that whatever he says has to be a dirty joke because “he’s gay,” and she just starts cracking up. I think the two of them poking fun at each other is fun to watch. Also, whenever the gals gather and start discussing or chit-chatting, they keep the rhythm of the dialogue rolling, so it’s very entertaining. None of them are ordinary or have common sense, so… *laugh* I hope viewers will enjoy these humorous dialogues.
