The Last Samurai Kieyama Research Paper

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Akira Koieyama is a famed Japanese martial artist and actor who has played in films like "The Last Samurai", "47 Ronin", "Rush" and in the web series "Street Fighter: Assassin's Fist".

We talk to him about his career, life, martial arts and many other topics.

How did you first enter the martial arts? What kind of training did you receive?

I started karate practice when I was a kid, particularly Shurite Ryu karate. When I started, the students went to the dojo twice a week. We practiced Makiwara, Kata, Kumite, we trained from basic to sparring. I got hurt and injured sometimes but I liked training. I remember doing a lot of practice before the tournament. I started tae kwon do practice last year. I also love Japanese sword training (iaido). …show more content…

I went to Toho's contemporary acting studio for 3 years in Japan, then I started my career, initially on theatre. After that, step by step into television and movies.

You have been part of blockbusters like "The Last Samurai", "Rush" and "47 Ronin". Can you describe your experiences in them?

These are all special experiences for me. What i remember most, though, are the big fight scenes in "The Last Samurai", which were shot in New Zealand. More than 500 Japanese people stayed in Taranaki during filming. The final battle scene was powerful: horses were running, everyone screaming and attacking. It was like a blow of two big waves. It was a very strong experience and I am honored to have been part of that team.

Byung Hun-lee was quite vocal recently about racism issues in Hollywood. Have you experienced similar behaviors?

Fortunately, I have not experienced any racial discrimination. I do not really know about Hollywood, but I hope that more Asian actors will have more opportunities.

You have played an iconic role as Gouken in the web-series "Street Fighter: Assassin's Fist." Can you tell us a bit about the

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