Is Which Man Is It? Worth Watching? Honest Movie Review & Audience Verdict (1990)

The Narrative Arc & Core Premise

In the evolving tapestry of Drama cinema, the 1990 release of Which Man Is It? stands as a landmark endeavor that pushes the boundaries of conventional storytelling. The primary thematic concern of the film is an investigation into In a corner of Shinjuku, there is a run-down hotel called Sankai Hotel, which used to be a gay-only Hatten inn that is quite famous in this world. As the story unfolds, we are introduced to a world where the traditional boundaries of 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: "In a corner of Shinjuku, there is a run-down hotel called Sankai Hotel, which used to be a gay-only Hatten inn that is quite famous in this world. One day, a man arrived who had inherited the land and building of the hotel from a distant relative of his. The man's wife ran away with him, he was laid off from his job, and he was in the depths of despair. He was thinking of starting his life over by running this hotel. However, the man was straight, so of course he didn't know about the actual situation at this hotel. What the man saw there were customers who were enjoying being gay and enjoying sex with whomever they wanted."

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. The presence of Chiaki Nanjô provides a necessary level of professionalism to the production, even when the underlying script struggles to maintain a consistent tone. It is a testament to their skill that they remain the most engaging element of the film.

The direction by Sachi Hamano 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 60 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 Which Man Is It? 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 Drama, then this is a worthwhile watch if you have a specific interest in the themes or the performers involved.

The film's ability to perfectly execute its genre requirements is why it has earned its 2/10 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, Which Man Is It? explores the dichotomy of truth and perception. The 1990 audience is increasingly sophisticated, and Sachi Hamano 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, Which Man Is It? is an interesting experiment that, while flawed, offers enough moments of creative spark to be worth a casual glance for the curious. Whether you are drawn to it by the star power of Chiaki Nanjô or the critical acclaim surrounding its release, Which Man Is It? is a film that demands to be seen on the largest screen possible.