Anime fans and students of Japanese culture probably already know about the infamous “host clubs” in Osaka, Japan and if you’ve already made your decision about the people who work these clubs (regardless if it’s negative or not) I advise you all to watch this documentary by New York based filmmaker Jake Clennell. And for those who are not familiar with this concept, watch it anyway.

I remember watching this film last year and I was amazed, shocked, and sometimes insulted by certain parts of this film and by the end of the documentary, I had totally changed my outlook on men who work as “hosts.” Suddenly the anime Ouran High School Host Club looked like a fake bubble-gum packaged version of the truth behind the life of a host.

The story starts at one of the most successful host clubs in Osaka, “Rakkyo” which is run by “Issei” possibly the most charming man in Japan according to all of his satisfied female costumers who are also featured in the film. Although Issei and the other men who work with him seem to have it easy (being paid to flirt, drink and party) they actually endure quite a lot of difficulties in their line of work. The girls can prove to be quite difficult to satisfy, jealousy has to be dealt with, and they drink everyday to the point of sickness (even throwing up blood.)

Not only that, when long-term relationships begin to emerge, it becomes difficult for the hosts to separate business from pleasure. They usually become attached to the girls and feel extreme guilt for having them spend all their money which serves as a major road block from making money. Enduring this sort of lifestyle causes their quality of lives to suffer as well.

“I have never had a chance to meet and fall in love with that one girl.” - Issei

9 min preview:

official site: http://www.thegreathappinessspace.com/