Senpai Hiroyuki Sanada 1st Dan in Kyokushin is one of the Kyokushin family. He began training in martial arts at the age of eight. Sanada trained in many different styles of martial arts because his primary goal was to become an action actor and play roles in martial arts movies. He initially trained in Shorinji Kempo. Doshin So founded this Japanese martial art in 1947, a modified form of Shaolin Kung Fu. Later, he started practicing Kyokushin karate. This style of full-contact karate was developed in 1964 by Masutatsu Oyama.
In 2024 make history winning EMMY for Outstanding Lead Actor as Yoshii Toranaga in Shōgun. He also won second award for Outstanding Drama Series as Producer for the TV amazing series Shōgun.
If you’re a fan of martial arts cinema, Hiroyuki Sanada’s films are a must-watch. Here are his top 5 standout performances:
1. The Last Samurai
Hiroyuki Sanada’s role as Ujio in The Last Samurai (starring Tom Cruise) catapulted him into the global spotlight. His powerful portrayal, especially his chemistry with Cruise, combined with his impeccable combat skills, earned him widespread acclaim. Set in 1870s Japan, this visually stunning film delivers captivating hand-to-hand combat sequences. The final battle, where most actors performed their stunts, brings an unmatched realism to the action.
Fun Fact: During filming, a technical glitch nearly caused Sanada to accidentally injure Tom Cruise during one of their intense fight scenes.
2. 47 Ronin
Blending historical Japanese legends with fantasy, 47 Ronin sees Sanada shine as Yoshio Oishi, the stoic leader of a group of wandering samurai (Ronin). Starring alongside Keanu Reeves, Sanada’s portrayal of Oishi’s quiet strength and loyalty is one of the film’s highlights.
His strong screen presence, combined with skillful fight choreography, delivers a memorable performance that showcases brotherhood, revenge, and duty.
3. Mortal Kombat (2021)
After the infamous 1990s adaptations, fans finally got a worthy Mortal Kombat movie in 2021. Hiroyuki Sanada took on the iconic role of Hanzo Hasashi/Scorpion, breathing new life into the character. His nuanced performance as the vengeful Scorpion, paired with thrilling combat sequences, satisfied both long-time fans and newcomers alike.
4. Bullet Train
In Bullet Train, a high-octane action-comedy from Deadpool director David Leitch, Sanada plays Yuichi Kimura, a father on a mission to avenge his son. Despite his brief screen time, Sanada’s performance as the vengeful warrior aboard a train full of assassins leaves a lasting impression alongside Brad Pitt and the ensemble cast.
5. John Wick: Chapter 4
Reuniting with Keanu Reeves in John Wick: Chapter 4, Sanada takes on the role of Shimazu Koji, the head of Osaka Continental. His character brings a new dimension to the Wick universe, expertly balancing the roles of a gracious host and a deadly adversary.
In this fast-paced, no-holds-barred action flick, Sanada’s masterful use of various weapons and his on-screen chemistry with Reeves and Donnie Yen are standout moments. The intense corridor fight between Yen and Sanada exemplifies the veteran actor’s commitment to authentic and brutal action choreography.
From sword-fighting samurai to vengeance-fueled warriors, Hiroyuki Sanada continues to deliver unforgettable performances, making each film he’s in a must-watch for fans of thrilling action and martial arts cinema.
Bonus: Kyokushin demonstration
