SPENDING AN AFTERNOON WITH A TOHO LEGEND! The Famed Actress Discusses Art and Culture!

With actress Mie Hama. 

On November 19, I was privileged to attend another event with actress Mie Hama. Hama-san is best known around the world as Kissy Suzuki from the James Bond thriller You Only Live Twice (1967), but for us Toho fans, nothing will top her roles in such films as King Kong vs. Godzilla (1962) and King Kong Escapes (1967). I've also been fortunate to see her acting in a myriad of other films, such as various Crazy Cats comedies.

The event had nothing at all to do with movies, and it was centered on gosho ningyo (palace dolls). As the only American in attendance, I stood out rather easily, and Hama-san called on me during her presentation, asking me several questions in Japanese. I did my best to answer, which was still quite lacking, but it was a memorable (and fun) experience indeed.

After her talk ended, we took a few photos together. It's always a great experience to see Hama-san, and I hope to have another chance next year.

SAVE THE DRAMA FOR MIE HAMA! Meeting a True Toho Legend!

One of the highlights of my time in Japan was getting the privilege of meeting retired actress Mie Hama.

During my first foray into Hakone, I was lucky enough to meet Mie Hama (King Kong vs. Godzilla, King Kong Escapes, numerous Crazy Cats comedies) at a public event. Readers of this blog know Hama-san's various Toho credits, but internationally she is best known as Kissy Suzuki in the James Bond actioner You Only Live Twice (1967), in which she stars opposite Sean Connery. Though it was limited to 30 people, I made arrangements early enough before the event sold out.

Although autographs weren't part of the event, photo opportunities were, which of course was very cool. The talk show itself was rather brief, but the experience of meeting Hama-san made it well worth it. She was very warm and kind, and I hope for the chance to meet her again.