Call Boy

"Call Boy," a Japanese drama directed by Kazuhito Tanabe, explores the complexities of the world of host bars and the societal expectations placed on men in modern Japan. The film centers around Ryo Morinaka, a university student who finds himself stuck in a rut. He works part-time at a bar, but this job hardly fulfills him, and he exists in a state of torpor, detached from the world around him. Ryo Morinaka's life takes a dramatic turn when his friend Shinya Tajima brings Shizuka Mido, the enigmatic owner of a high-end host bar, to the bar where he works. Shizuka Mido is intrigued by Ryo Morinaka, and sensing potential, he offers him a job at his exclusive establishment. At first, Ryo Morinaka is hesitant, feeling embarrassed about the prospect of working in a host bar, a world he barely understands. However, with some persuasion from his friend, he agrees to take on the challenge. As Ryo Morinaka begins working at Shizuka Mido's host bar, he is thrust into an unfamiliar environment. He is expected to cater to the needs of wealthy women, providing them with companionship, attention, and affection. At first, Ryo Morinaka struggles to adapt to this new role, feeling awkward and unsure of himself. However, with the guidance of Shizuka Mido and his colleagues, he slowly begins to find his footing. In the world of host bars, men are trained to be charming, attentive, and suave. They learn how to listen to women's problems, how to offer words of comfort, and how to make them feel special. Ryo Morinaka is a natural, and he quickly discovers that he has a talent for this line of work. As he becomes more confident in his role, he begins to feel a sense of purpose that he has been missing in his life. Working at the host bar also opens Ryo Morinaka's eyes to the world of high-end entertainment and the lifestyles of the wealthy. He encounters women from all walks of life, each with their own stories, desires, and needs. He learns about their problems, their fears, and their aspirations. And through his interactions with them, he develops a sense of empathy and understanding. However, Ryo Morinaka's newfound sense of purpose is not without its challenges. He struggles with the moral implications of his work, wondering if he is truly doing something wrong. He is torn between his desire to succeed and his feeling of shame about his profession. Despite these internal conflicts, he continues to work at the host bar, driven by a desire to make a living and be a good companion to the women who come to visit. Throughout the film, Ryo Morinaka's relationships with the women he interacts with are fraught with complexity. Some are pushy and demanding, while others are vulnerable and open. He learns to read them, to understand their needs, and to respond accordingly. And in doing so, he develops a sense of emotional intelligence that serves him well in his personal and professional life. Shizuka Mido, the enigmatic owner of the host bar, is a fascinating figure in the film. He is a master manipulator, using his charisma and charm to attract wealthy women to his establishment. Despite his cold exterior, he has a deep understanding of human nature, and he knows exactly what people want and need. He sees something in Ryo Morinaka that no one else does, and he takes him under his wing, teaching him the art of seduction and the importance of emotional connection. In the end, "Call Boy" raises important questions about the nature of masculinity, the expectations placed on men in modern society, and the complexities of human relationships. Through Ryo Morinaka's journey, the film offers a nuanced exploration of the world of host bars, revealing the intricate web of relationships that exist within this peculiar industry.