──The film 'Shadow Work', released on September 25, explores the concept of unpaid labor, particularly the unseen burdens borne by women. What insights did you gain from your role?
First Summer Uika (hereafter, Uika): In this story, shadow work refers to a pact of mutual murder. On the surface, it's a shelter for abused women, but in reality, everyone there conspires as accomplices to eliminate their abusers. It's undoubtedly a crime, but the desire for revenge after one's life has been shattered is something I can deeply understand. I felt that only those who have suffered similar wounds can truly break free.
The character I played, Nami, is skilled in cooking and welcomes residents with deep compassion. Those hurt by loved ones find solace in Nami's kindness. I believe it's a crucial role in helping them reclaim their love and kindness.
──In 'First Voice', released on October 2, you play Megumi Uehara, a plaintiff. What was the most striking scene you witnessed in the real courtroom you observed before filming?
Uika: The moment I entered, it felt like a different world. The spectator area was separated by wooden barriers, resembling a theater, but the atmosphere was unique. The defendants who took the stand emitted an aura you wouldn't encounter in everyday life. They spoke in whispers or suddenly burst into tears. Their logic was often flawed, making conversation impossible.
I wanted to channel the tension unique to that setting into my role. Although Megumi is a plaintiff, she faces skeptical gazes from the audience, questioning, "Did that really happen?" She raises her voice in a situation where no one yet believes her. That atmosphere was incredibly educational for me.
──There are insights you can only gain by being present at the scene.
Uika: This work is fiction inspired by real events, so there are actual people involved. I met with them before filming to hear their stories firsthand. When portraying a role based on real people, it's crucial to internalize it as your own experience. It's about bridging that gap and making it personal.
──Nami in 'Shadow Work' evades the law, while Megumi in 'First Voice' chooses to seek justice. Did you find any common ground between these seemingly opposite paths?
Uika: 'Shadow Work' is themed around thought experiments, like the trolley problem—choosing to save five lives by sacrificing one. It's a work that invites you to ponder, setting aside the legality for a moment. Conversely, 'First Voice' is about challenging norms by raising a voice where the law hasn't yet reached, akin to current debates on AI copyright. There are still many gray areas. Both films share the theme of women confronting adversity. The overlap of such works suggests that society is ready to address these issues.
However, I also feel that excessively elevating women's issues alone might not be the right approach. Ideally, we should bridge gaps across various positions, not just between genders. I hope people will focus on the fundamental aspects that transcend position, origin, and race.
