Is What Is Love? Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (2019)

The Narrative Arc & Core Premise

What Is Love?, a standout production of 2019, meticulously weaves its narrative threads through the Romance, Drama landscape, offering a cinematic experience that is as challenging as it is rewarding. The primary thematic concern of the film is an investigation into Teruko is a 28-year-old office worker. As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a world where the traditional boundaries of Romance, Drama are tested.

The screenplay takes its time to establish the stakes, ensuring that every character motivation is grounded in a psychological reality. The synopsis only hints at the depth: "Teruko is a 28-year-old office worker. 5 months ago, she fell in love with Mamoru at first sight. Since that time, she has not cared about her work or her friends. She then loses her job and her friends look at her coldly. Yet, Teruko is happy as long as she is with Mamoru. Meanwhile, Mamoru thinks Teruko is an easy woman for him to not love. Teruko's unrequited love grows deeper."

Artistic Execution & Performance Study

A film's resonance is often dictated by the strength of its execution, both in front of and behind the camera. Audiences are treated to a masterclass in acting by Yukino Kishii, whose portrayal of the protagonist is imbued with a depth and vulnerability that is rare in contemporary Romance. The chemistry with the supporting players is palpable, creating a gravity that pulls the viewer into the screen.

The direction by Rikiya Imaizumi is marked by a steady and professional hand. From a production standpoint, the film meets the high standards of modern industrial filmmaking. The sets are well-crafted, and the visual effects are integrated with a level of polish that ensures the viewer matches the director's intended level of immersion. While perhaps not groundbreaking, the execution is flawless. The pacing, over its 123 minute runtime, allows the audience to fully inhabit the space the director has created, making the eventual resolution feel deeply earned.

Critical Assessment: Why You Should Watch

Is What Is Love? truly worth your investment of time and attention? In an era of disposable content, this film makes a strong case for its existence. If you are a connoisseur of Romance, Drama, then this is a highly recommended entry that delivers on its promises while offering a few surprises along the way.

The film's ability to perfectly execute its genre requirements is why it has earned its 7/10 score. It speaks to a global audience while maintaining a distinct and unique voice, a balance that is notoriously difficult to achieve in the modern marketplace.

Philosophical Subtext & Directorial Vision

At a deeper level, What Is Love? explores the dichotomy of truth and perception. The 2019 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and Rikiya Imaizumi respects this by refusing to provide easy answers to the story's complex questions.

The philosophical underpinnings of the second and third acts suggest a narrative that is interested in more than just entertainment. It is an exploration of what it means to be human in an increasingly complex world.

Final Editorial Recommendation

Ultimately, What Is Love? serves as a reliable piece of entertainment that will satisfy core fans while providing a solid entry point for new viewers. Whether you are drawn to it by the star power of Yukino Kishii or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, What Is Love? is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.