Toshiyuki Tanaka (SHINTOKYO) “The Persuasiveness of Silence” — embodied at the cost of the self in “Joker (2019)”
- ko shinonome
- Jun 6
- 2 min read
Please introduce yourself.
I’m Toshiyuki Tanaka, the keyboardist of SHINTOKYO and the CEO of SHINTOKYO LLC.
Tell us about your latest release.
“Mirror” is a track from SHINTOKYO #5, the EP that marks the final chapter of the current era of SHINTOKYO. The work explores the theme of “dimensional transcendence.”
Though we ourselves exist as creations, we also serve as mediums—through music, videos, and merchandise—to explore how deeply we can resonate with our audience. This project was a test of how far that resonance could reach.
Can you share a film scene that moved you deeply?
A particularly unforgettable scene for me is in Joker (2019), where Arthur sits in the corner of a locker room, stretching out his shoes.
Shot in a long take from behind, with no dialogue, the scene’s stark realism struck me more powerfully than any overt emotional performance. What especially seized my attention was Joaquin Phoenix’s grotesquely emaciated back—after he lost 23kg for the role. His trembling, tensed muscles and protruding bones conveyed more than any words could have. It was a raw, visceral embodiment of the character’s emotional state.
There’s a similar technique used in the film Rage (2016), where Ken Watanabe acts with just his back in a long take, without any dialogue. It’s a pivotal moment in the plot, and the risk of showing it in that way felt bold. But in Rage, the music substituted for spoken words, enhancing the emotional tone.
In contrast, the Joker scene was devoid of even music—only the creaking of Arthur’s shoes echoed in the silence. His frail body, the bruises on his back, the cold, green-tinted lighting—all worked in tandem to portray Arthur as a “victim” isolated by society. And yet, we also sense his latent violence, simmering just beneath the surface.
Joaquin’s physical transformation and silent performance in that one moment captured a profound truth: the power of what is not said. It reminded me of the importance of leaving space for the viewer’s imagination, rather than filling every gap with explanation.
Any news or updates you’d like to share?
SHINTOKYO is currently preparing for a new chapter under a renewed lineup. Please stay tuned—we’ll be back with a new vision soon.
Toshiyuki Tanaka (SHINTOKYO)
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