A Very Nikkatsu Evening!

Mieko Nishio. Photo by Brett Homenick.

Tonight, I was lucky enough to meet former Nikkatsu actress Mieko Nishio. Nishio-san (born July 11, 1947) became a Nikkatsu New Face in 1963 and made her film debut in 1964. At Nikkatsu, she worked with such film stars as Yujiro Ishihara and Akira Kobayashi, as well as directors like Toshio Masuda. She ultimately left Nikkatsu in 1966 and became a staple on television, even appearing in episode 9 of Tsuburaya Productions' Horror Theater Unbalance (1973).

I had a great time meeting Nishio-san. One fan distributed photocopies to everyone in attendance of some of her media coverage from the 1960s. One such clipping saw Nishio-san in a group shot with many other famous actresses of the day (most of whom were Nikkatsu starlets). One of the actresses in the photo wasn't, however, and Nishio-san didn't immediately recognize her. The actress in question was Yuriko Hoshi.

A great time was had by all, especially yours truly. I'd certainly love an opportunity to visit Nishio-san again.