For the 16th issue of the fashion magazine "PLEASE," Hio Miyazawa effortlessly donned the sophisticated pieces from COMME des GARÇONS HOMME PLUS, the pinnacle of Rei Kawakubo's menswear, as if they were everyday wear. In the accompanying interview, he discusses the film "Moonlight Shadow." Reflecting on his upbringing, he delicately shares, "'Tohru' was an extension of myself," in a captivating interview that's drawing attention.

Within the beautiful visuals, the performers exist with equal grace. The subtle lack of palpable warmth might be a deliberate device crafted by the novelist. In "Moonlight Shadow," a film that leaves such an impression, Hio Miyazawa portrays the protagonist's boyfriend, 'Tohru' (played by Nana Komatsu as 'Satsuki'), as if he has stepped directly out of the novel.

Yoshimoto Banana's "Moonlight Shadow" is said to explore themes of overcoming the loss of a loved one. How did Miyazawa approach the character of Tohru from the novel?

"In terms of character preparation, it might have been easier. When I read the original novel, I felt a sense of closeness to Tohru. As the eldest of three brothers, with my younger siblings living freely, I often found myself trying to maintain the family's balance, sometimes at my own expense. It was like suppressing my own feelings and desires, yet still managing to smile. In a scene in the film, Tohru shows an indescribable expression, and in that, I could relate to his darkness, that aspect of suppressing himself to keep the family's balance. Tohru was an extension of myself."

The interactions with Komatsu are also minimal, allowing the film's visual beauty to take center stage. The performers seem to approach their roles with a focus on expression and atmosphere.

"The work was created without adding too many words or overthinking the world. Therefore, I hope it resonates with viewers in a straightforward way."

For more, including additional cuts, please see "PLEASE 16." Orders can also be placed at bookstores nationwide or via Amazon.https://www.amazon.co.jp/dp/490872217X?ref=myi_title_dp

Hio Miyazawa
Born April 24, 1994, in San Francisco, California, USA. Raised in Tokyo.
Exclusive model for "MEN'S NON-NO" (Shueisha).
Debuted as an actor in the second series of the TBS drama "Kounodori" in 2017. Since then, he has appeared in the NHK serial TV novel "Yell," "Gisou Furin," and the film "The Great Yokai War: Guardians." For his first leading role in the film "his," he received the Best New Actor Award at the 12th TAMA Film Awards, the Rookie of the Year Award at the 45th Hochi Film Awards, the Best New Actor Award at the 42nd Yokohama Film Festival, and the New Actor Award at the 30th Japanese Film Critics Awards. Stage credits include "BOAT," "The Frolicsome Sea," "CITY," and "Pissarro."
He is scheduled to appear in the NHK serial TV novel "Chimu Don Don" in the first half of 2022.