I like how this movie compares two cultures that historically hated each other. Remaining unbiased to the justness of each, Zhang explores a variety of contrasting aspects between the Chinese and Japanese cultural norms. He leaves us with an insightful appreciation of both. On one side we have the Chinese valuation of family and community; on the other side we witness the Japanese regard for independence. We are shown both Japanese strength of composure and Chinese openness to expression.
Takakura does an amazing job of acting like he's not acting. By this I mean Mr. Takata's battle with the suppression of his emotional expression. Takakura's challenge was to obviously exist in anguish while showing signs to no one. Throughout the movie you can see the torment in his eyes while he struggles to shroud it from his hosts. Needless to say he can't always hide it (otherwise Takakura would of had it a little easier) and the times that he slips up and makes the sad face are the times that reassure us of his humanity. In fact, many times it takes just that to remind ourselves of the very same thing.
Takakura does an amazing job of acting like he's not acting. By this I mean Mr. Takata's battle with the suppression of his emotional expression. Takakura's challenge was to obviously exist in anguish while showing signs to no one. Throughout the movie you can see the torment in his eyes while he struggles to shroud it from his hosts. Needless to say he can't always hide it (otherwise Takakura would of had it a little easier) and the times that he slips up and makes the sad face are the times that reassure us of his humanity. In fact, many times it takes just that to remind ourselves of the very same thing.