Masatoshi Nagase

Masatoshi Nagase (born July 15, 1966) is a well-recognized Japanese actor and singer, credited with a wealth of roles in both Japanese film and International productions. He first rose to prominence in the West largely due to his performances in Friðrik Þór Friðriksson's Cold Fever and Jim Jarmusch's Mystery Train. With a career kicking off in 1983, Nagase has been in the limelight for more than three decades and is still currently active. Insightful film critic Todd Brown aptly described him as one of the 'great unsung heroes of Japanese film'- a testament to Nagase's extensive and rich contributions to cinema.

Nagase's remarkable filmography spans myriad genres and styles - from co-starring in Mystery Train alongside Youki Kudoh, to leading roles in films like Sion Sono's Suicide Club, Yoji Yamada's The Hidden Blade, and Shinji Aoyama's Mike Yokohama: A Forest with No Name. An exceptional testament to his acting dynamics and versatility. Masatoshi Nagase has bagged multiple awards and accolades for his acting prowess across his career, including Best Actor at the 37th Yokohama Film Festival, the 1992 Japanese Academy Awards, amongst others.