Nails Coloring the Film 'TOKYO Taxi' — Chieko Baisho Shares Their Charm and Her Feelings

In the film 'TOKYO Taxi,' which commemorates the 130th anniversary of Shochiku's founding, the NPO Japan Nailist Association (JNA), which also celebrated its 40th anniversary last year, cooperated as nail supervisors. JNA nailists handled the nails for the lead actress, Chieko Baisho, adding a significant aesthetic element to the work. Chieko Baisho, who won the Japan Academy Film Prize for Best Actress for this film, shared her thoughts on 'TOKYO Taxi' and the art of nails.

-- Nails representing the life of a protagonist who walked a grueling path
The protagonist of 'TOKYO Taxi' is named 'Sumire.' Having played 'Sakura' in the long-running series 'It's Tough Being a Man' with the same director, Baisho initially thought, 'It's another flower name.' However, since the movie begins in Shibamata, she felt she could move forward by breaking away from the image of Sakura. The director told her that Sumire is a tough and scary old lady, which she kept in mind while performing.

Since Sumire is a nailist, choosing the right nail design was a challenge. The art and prop staff all came to her with their own nails done to offer suggestions, but nothing felt right. It was during a conversation with JNA members that Baisho noticed a specific nail design that caught her eye. It was the design worn by JNA Chairperson Sachiko Nakasone, characterized by its glamour and strength. When she suggested it to the director, he immediately agreed.

Sumire is a woman who bought a one-way ticket to the U.S. and studied nails while working in New York. Chairperson Nakasone also studied hard in America, which created a direct link to Sumire's character. Baisho felt the design truly reflected a 'life story.' During filming, looking at these nails reminded her of the difficult life Sumire had led.

-- Encountering nails in her 20s and rediscovering them in her 80s
Baisho first learned about nails in her early 20s when she saw star actresses at Shochiku wearing them. Since she often played roles of working girls or mothers, she rarely had the chance to wear nails in movies. Her first trip to a nail salon was introduced by her sister, Mitsuko Baisho. She recalls feeling a bit embarrassed to sit back and have someone work on her hands and feet, but she was delighted by the beauty of the finished nails.

Because she does housework, she was interested in gel nails that don't peel off easily. Working with JNA nailists for the movie taught her about their durability. Since then, she has expanded her enjoyment of nails, such as adding sparkles for concert stages. She also learned proper nail care, applying cream and oil every night, which eliminated issues like nail splitting and hangnails. She also expressed deep respect for the concentration required by nailists, which even helped her maintain focus during long dialogue scenes in the film.