Speak Without Reservation

I was deeply shocked by the sudden news of Toshiyuki Nishida's passing.

While there are numerous dramas and movies that Mr. Nishida appeared in, for me, the Yoshimune he played in the NHK Taiga drama 'Yoshimune, the Eighth Shogun' remains the most memorable.

There are several unforgettable scenes in this work, but among them, the line 'Speak without reservation' was particularly powerful to me.

This single phrase condensed how seriously Yoshimune pushed forward with reforms and his stance of demanding frankness and sincerity from those around him. Through Mr. Nishida's performance, the weight and intensity of these words were made even more prominent.

I believe the line 'Speak without reservation' expressed that even while holding the absolute authority of a Shogun, Yoshimune did not place himself on a pedestal, but instead sought the true feelings and honesty of his retainers.

Mr. Nishida's tone of voice, his sharp gaze, and the tension hanging in the air all became one with this line. It brilliantly expressed not just the superficial words, but the personality of Yoshimune beneath them—his dedication to his reign and his stance of trying to face his retainers with sincerity. Through this line, it was conveyed that Yoshimune was not merely a person of power, but a leader earnestly committed to reform.

Thanks to Mr. Nishida's acting ability, the power of these words has left a strong impression on my heart to this day.

Furthermore, regarding the complex feelings Yoshimune held as a father toward his son, Ieshige, I believe it was only because of Mr. Nishida's acting ability that it resonated so deeply with the viewers.

Although Ieshige carried the weight of expectations as the heir, he had issues with his speech from a young age and was often viewed with anxiety regarding his capabilities. Toshiyuki Nishida brilliantly portrayed the conflict and love Yoshimune felt toward such a son.

Every time Ieshige felt unable to meet expectations, Yoshimune would struggle within his heart, and while he showed a stern face, he continued to pray for his growth in his heart.

There was a scene where Yoshimune shed tears of joy when Ieshige read the Analects or something similar clearly, only to be disappointed when he realized it was a dream. Toshiyuki Nishida brilliantly depicted these complex emotions as a parent with a quiet and weighty performance.

This Taiga drama was aired in 1995, a year when people were stunned by major disasters and unprecedented incidents like the Great Hanshin Earthquake and the Tokyo subway sarin attack. As the Japanese economy was also beginning to decline and dark clouds were gathering over society as a whole, it was a turning point in my own life as well. That is precisely why, even after 30 years, it remains vivid in my heart along with that historical background.

While keeping the image of Mr. Nishida's role as Yoshimune in my mind, I would like to pray for the repose of his soul.