Breaking Boundaries:
Fusion: Your career has been expanding beyond Japan, reaching audienc- es around the world. How do you navigate the differences between work- ing in Hollywood and Japanese productions, and what excites you most about bridging those worlds?
Mackenyu: Japan is very organized and precise, and I have great pride and love for the country and culture. When we think of the audience base, projects usually stay in Japan and don't reach the worldwide audience. For projects in Hollywood, they have bigger budgets, more time to shoot and more robust marketing. This helps those projects reach a wider audi- ence around the world. Bridging these worlds is exciting because I think a combination of Japanese production and storytelling along with the reach of Hollywood can help bring really meaningful projects to life.
Fusion: Do you ever feel a sense of responsibility or pressure represent- ing Japanese cinema and talent on an international stage? Or do you approach each project simply as an individual challenge?
Mackenyu: Absolutely not. I believe that I am not yet at that stage in my life and career to be given such an honor, so I will continue to try to work to the place where I can proudly represent Japan. It was great to recently have a premiere and press junket in Japan for season 2 of ONE PIECE. I loved being able to relate closely with the fans there.
Fusion: What are the challenges that you face now and how do you over- come these challenges?
Mackenyu: Just do it! You can't overcome anything unless you try. I think, even if it doesn't go the way you intended, it's a learning experience. If I stumble during the process I can learn from it and try to be better next time. I treasure every moment and every challenge makes me better. The challenges I face are just steps in the process to my next success.
Fusion: What keeps you inspired and what motivates you in this industry as an actor?
Mackenyu: The people inspire me. Audiences and fans fuel my motiva- tion. As, I was inspired by an actor who made me say to myself "I want to be like him." I'd like to carry that forward, hopefully ĺ can be an inspiration to someone as he was to me.
Fusion: what do you think is the difference from Hollywood and Japan entertainment?
Mackenyu: The biggest difference is the scale. Hollywood is on a global scale whereas Japan is more regional. The reach of audiences goes further in Hollywood due to the resources and marketing, however, the quality of Japanese projects is just as excellent.