The Great Happiness Space: Tale of an Osaka Love Thief
UK, 2006, 78 min, Japanese, English and Hebrew subtitles
 
Introduces an extraordinary hidden world of Japanese nightlife in Osaka''s Cafe Rakkyo. The denizens of this glamorous demi-monde, dedicated to partying till they drop, are captured by first time documentary producer/director, Jake Clennell with candid and poignant insight. Presided over by the charismatic, enigmatic Issei, the number one "host boy" in town, the club offers a new twist on the ancient geisha tradition. Glamorous host boys make beautiful young women laugh, feel good about their lives -- and pay handsomely for their pleasure. In this secret, outcast society of wealthy young people, money seems to mean easy gratification. But all these stylish players have to pay for their pleasures, and they can cost more than money.  
Director: Jake Clennel
Producer: Jake Clennel , Iris Jyoung
Cinematography: Jake Clennel
Editor: Hisayo Kushida
Original Music: Robert Coyne
Cinematheque 2, 03/04/2008, 24:00
Cinematheque 2, 11/04/2008, 24:00