Tagawa films episode of NBC’s ‘Heroes’

Cary-Hiroyuki Tagawa begins shooting an episode of the NBC series "Heroes" in Los Angeles today. The 56-year-old Tagawa will play a sword maker connected to the character Hiro Nakamura (Masi Oka). It's possible Tagawa's good-guy role will extend to two episodes, but there's no official word yet.

"In Hollywood, unless you're signed, it's not 100 percent, but it's a good 90 percent," Tagawa said from Los Angeles.

The experience left him impressed. "They spend a lot of money on this show. When I went over there, it was like walking onto a movie set. It's a tight-knit family. I really look forward to working with Oka," an actor people on the set indicate has "absolutely no ego."

Tagawa believes this series -- as well as "Lost"-- signals a new era in television. "It's OK to be speaking a foreign language," he said. "I think it's going to be a growing trend to have more Asian characters on TV. Not only is it acceptable, but it's preferable to have an Asian member of the cast. It's a great sign and should encourage local actors to not lose heart and to study acting." The second season of the Emmy-nominated series "Heroes" begins Sept. 24.

In addition, Tagawa recently read for two new features, "Fighting" and "Tekken," a popular video game slated for the big screen.

The actor, who recently appeared in the sequel to "Johnny Tsunami" on the Disney Channel, returns to Honolulu at the end of August for the opening of his new comedy "Balls of Fury" with Christopher Walken. An advance screening takes place at 7:30 p.m. Aug. 27 at Regal Dole Cannery 18.

Looking for something beyond standard Hollywood fare? Check out the 24th annual Universal ShowQueen Pageant DVD release party tonight at Hula's Bar & Lei Stand (second floor of the Waikiki Grand Hotel on Kapahulu Avenue). "The Ultimate in Boy Beautiful" stars this year's Universal ShowQueen Maddalynn Ashton.

But it's not all about the movie. The festivities start with entertainment from Ashton and female impersonators/former ShowQueens Aiko, Sharee L'amour, Keisha and Kaina Jacobs. Live performances begin at 8:45 p.m., with the DVD screening at 9:30 p.m.

The DVD includes competition footage in various categories, such as couture design, evening gown, talent and Las Vegas ShowGirl costume. Forget Miss USA. You can feel confident this experience will be far more intriguing. For information and to see the DVD trailer, visit www.UniversalShowQueenDVD.com.

Filmmaker Jay Curlee lives in Hawaii and has worked as a news producer and director for 18 years. But he's also managed to make his mark on the national film scene. Earlier this month, he won an award for best documentary feature at the 16th annual Woods Hole Film Festival in Massachusetts. "Rocking the Boat: A Musical Conversation and Journey" features Grammy winner Delbert McClinton -- and 1,500 fans -- aboard a weeklong musical jaunt through the Caribbean.

Watch the trailer at www.rockingtheboatmovie.com.

"Screen Time" is an occasional feature in the Today section. E-mail knichols@starbulletin.com.