Ohm Thanapak plays Chocky, a character who has become incredibly popular in the TBS Sunday drama "VIVANT" (Sundays at 9 PM), starring actor Masato Sakai. We asked him how he portrayed this important character who loves Kotaro Shinjo (Ryo Ryusei) and participates in the operation to recapture the special unit.
◇ "You can hug me," Ryusei Ryo's words brought me comfort.
--What kind of reactions have you received since appearing on "VIVANT"?
It's amazing! It's so good! I'm really happy that the fans love the character of Chocky so much and that he's so loved. When I appear at events, lots of people gather, and wherever I go, people call out "Chocky!"
--What did you keep in mind when playing Chocky?
I focused on my tone of voice, gestures, how I used my eyes, and body language. I had to portray Chocky in a way that would make everyone understand, "This is the kind of person Chocky is." I myself am a bit more masculine and rough around the edges (laughs). I've mostly played so-called masculine men up until now, so Chocky was a really fresh experience for me. I had to portray a slightly refined femininity, or rather, a softness, which was quite a challenge for me.
--In "V_Log#18" of "VIVANT-Adventure Log-" (TVer), you mentioned that at first you couldn't really act freely in front of your co-stars.
In the first few scenes, I hadn't really warmed up to everyone yet, and I was hesitant and scared, holding back. Especially since there were many scenes where I had to hug "Shin-chan," I felt bad for Ryusei-san. I was doing my best in my own way, but I was still holding back.
But as the second half of filming progressed, I had more opportunities to act with Ryusei-san, and we started talking a lot during breaks in filming. Ryusei-san told me, "You can do anything! You can even hug me, so go all out!" At that moment, I thought, "This person isn't afraid of me. What a relief!" (laughs). From then on, I was able to act with all my heart.
When I perform, everyone laughs and comes over to me and praises me, saying, "Chocky, that was great!" That gives me confidence and allows me to perform with even more gusto.
◇ "Sakai-san is my idol" - Surprised by the long monologue spanning three pages of the script
--What was it like working with Mr. Sakai, who played the role of Nogi?
I was truly impressed. In the scene where they were planning the rescue of the other team members, Mr. Sakai had a long monologue that was about three pages long in the script. He had memorized it perfectly, which was amazing. The director and all the staff were applauding, and I was also applauding at the time, thinking, "How did he memorize three pages of lines?" (laughs).
He's incredibly well-prepared, highly professional, and passionate about acting. I want to be like Mr. Sakai. He's my role model. He's my idol!
-- Are there any memorable moments from filming with Ryusei-san or Ninomiya-san, with whom you had many scenes together?
I've filmed with Ryusei-san many times, so I have many memorable experiences. He's incredibly professional, and we often talked during breaks; he really opened up to me. As we became closer, I think our acting improved, and we helped each other grow. Ryusei-san is a wonderful actor and a very lovable person.
I had scenes where I conversed with Mr. Ninomiya in various languages. It was a mix of Thai, Azerbaijani, and English, but there were hardly any retakes, and we were able to act very smoothly.
Then Ninomiya-san asked, "How do you know when it's your turn to speak next?" I had memorized the last word of the other actor's lines and practiced by myself, thinking, "This person ends with this word, so I'll speak after that." Then Ninomiya-san said, "That's amazing, I'm impressed you can do that," and I was so happy! We often clashed in the play (laughs), but I really enjoyed the scenes where we clashed emotionally.
◇First appearance in a Japanese drama I love "Otsukaresama deshita" (Thank you for your hard work)
--This is your first time appearing in a Japanese drama. What was the most memorable thing about the filming set?
One of my favorite things about working on set in Japan is the phrase "Otsukaresama deshita" (Thank you for your hard work). When filming is finished, everyone says "Otsukaresama deshita!" to each other, acknowledging and appreciating their efforts. I think it's a really wonderful and charming custom.
Also, I like it when the staff says "Let's check!" after the cut (laughs). I sometimes imitate them (laughs). I've also learned the phrase "Check OK!"
-- Are there any Japanese works that you have liked so far?
I watched the movie "Crows Zero" (2007) a while ago and really loved it. But I usually watch anime more often. "One Piece," "Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba," "Blue Lock," "Bleach"... there are so many. I also like "Jujutsu Kaisen," and among the characters, I like Satoru Gojo the most. "Domain Expansion!" (laughs).
I haven't been able to watch many Japanese dramas lately, but since I worked with Mr. Sakai on "VIVANT," I'd like to watch some of his past works now. He's my idol, someone I really look up to!
--Finally, do you have a message for viewers who are looking forward to episode 19 and beyond?
From here on out, there are so many different elements! It's thrilling and tense, but also incredibly entertaining! And even amidst all that, Chocky remains Chocky as always (laughs). He'll continue to appear, providing a bit of relief from the tense developments. I hope you'll enjoy watching, and pay attention to Chocky as well!
