The HBO crime drama Tokyo Vice offers more than just a captivating story. Following a journalist Jake Adelstein (Ansel Elgort) immersing himself in the neon-lit landscape of Tokyo’s criminal underbelly, the show is set against a backdrop of Japan’s capital city in 1999. And it’s attention to detail extends to its use of period-correct Japanese cars, delighting JDM car enthusiasts with every scene.
Among the ensemble cast of the show is Ken Watanabe taking on the role of Hiroto Katagiri, a seasoned detective in the organized crime division of the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department who also serves as a mentor to Adelstein. And his character’s ride, an S130 Nissan Fairlady Z, has also garnered significant attention from enthusiasts.
Ken Watanabe’s Nissan Fairlady Z Steals the Spotlight in Tokyo Vice
Although the HBO crime drama primarily focuses on Ansel Elgort’s Jake Adelstein, the Japanese veteran actor Ken Watanabe has also emerged as a captivating figure in the series, not only for his performance but also for his choice of wheels, a magnificent Nissan Fairlady Z.
His character in the series Hiroto Katagiri navigates the neon-lit streets of Tokyo in nothing less than the iconic Fairlady Z. Although some may mistake it for its American counterpart, the Datsun 240Z, enthusiasts recognize the subtle distinctions.
Introduced in 1969, the Fairlady Z quickly became an international sensation with its sleek design and unparalleled performance and has had a special place in automotive history. And the S130 Nissan Fairlady Z, which Katagiri proudly drives in the series, hails from the model’s second generation, produced from 1978 to 1983.
The series depicts Watanabe’s character’s attachment to his car perfectly, as it becomes a symbol of nostalgia and a connection to a bygone era. The glossy all-red exterior and the impeccably maintained interior of the Fairlady Z underscore its timeless allure and undeniable coolness.
Ken Watanabe Praised Ansel Elgort’s Dedication For Tokyo Vice
Initially premiered in 2022, Tokyo Vice recently released its second season, with the season finale scheduled to be released this week. Starring as the lead character in the series, Ansel Elgort committed himself to the role as he even went on to learn Japanese.
And his co-star Watanabe shared his appreciation towards the 30-year-old actor’s dedication to the role. “Ansel is an exceptionally hard worker,” he said in an interview with Variety. The Last Samurai star further explained that Elgort immersed himself in learning about the Japanese culture and language during his free time.
“On his days off, he’s made an effort to travel a lot throughout Japan to try and learn about the customs, culture and language. After shootings, everyone will wave him goodbye, and he’ll bow and respond with ‘arigato.'”
Watanabe also shared that the Baby Driver star has become a “true Japanese actor” while working on the crime drama. Elgort also shared his admiration for Watanabe’s effortless acting style and his ability to nail scenes in just one take.
Tokyo Vice is available to stream on Max.
