Saki Takaoka (as Noriko Kubo)
Takaoka used her experience as a classical ballet dancer to launch her acting career. In 1989 she made her film debut in CF Girl. In 1990, she was won acclaim for her lead role in the film Bataashi Kingyo. After that routinely went back-and-forth between television dramas, plays, and films. At the 1994 Japanese Academy Awards, she received the award for Best Lead Actress for Crest of Betrayal. Her notable performances include films such as Kyoko (1996), A Hardest Night!! (2006), A Long Walk (2006/Best Picture - Montreal World Film Festival), and Samurai Gangsters.