A Great Afternoon in Even Greater Company

On May 20, I once again had the distinct privilege of meeting former Toho actress Mie Hama again. Of course, most folks know her from either her Toho days or other film roles she's had, but these days she pursues a different path and has left her acting career happily in the past. It's always great to have a chance to meet her.

Celebrating 50 Years of Greatness

With actress Mie Hama. 

Today, I had the privilege of attending a special event with actress Mie Hama, the retired Toho star who appeared in the films King Kong vs. Godzilla (1962) and King Kong Escapes (1967), which is currently celebrating its 50th anniversary. Of course, Hama-san's other international hit film, You Only Live Twice, is also celebrating 50 years.

The event itself was quite enjoyable. There was a rakugo performance followed by a lunch made with local cuisine. The highlight, of course, was meeting Hama-san again, who is always incredibly friendly.

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.

YOU ONLY LIVE THRICE! Meeting Actress Mie Hama Again!

Posing for a photo op with retired actress Mie Hama, who follows a different passion today.

During the 1960s, Mie Hama was one of Toho's biggest stars. She headlined King Kong vs. Godzilla (1962) and King Kong Escapes (1967), for which she is best remembered kaiju eiga fans. James Bond fans will instantly recognize Hama-san from You Only Live Twice (1967), which teamed her up with Sean Connery.

Today, however, Mie Hama has retired from acting and now speaks her mind as a commentator and essayist, promoting various causes in which she believes. She also has a strong interest in the arts, and occasionally hosts events highlighting the work of a particular artist or musician. This was one such event. Hama-san was very friendly, the same as she was the first time I met her two years ago. I was able to spend more time with her on this occasion, and it was most certainly time well spent.

LINDA MILLER INTERVIEW POSTED! Vantage Point Interviews Has the Scoop!

Actress/model Linda Miller, just after completing her work on King Kong Escapes. Photo courtesy of Linda Miller.

Great news for kaiju fans!

If you've been wanting to read my interview with King Kong Escapes (1967) star Linda Miller ever since it was first published, the wait is over! Vantage Point Interviews has published the conversation in full!

I think you'll find that it's well worth the wait!

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.